Saver Fares: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to access cheaper long-distance train tickets in Germany by booking your journey in advance.
Saver Fares are discounted long-distance train tickets available to passengers who book their journeys ahead of time.
Who it's for
This scheme is available to all passengers. There are no specific income requirements or age restrictions to qualify for these lower prices; anyone traveling on long-distance routes can take advantage of them.
What you get
You can access much cheaper long-distance tickets by booking your travel well ahead of your departure date. These fares allow you to save money on rail travel compared to the standard prices you would find if you waited until the day of your trip to purchase a ticket.
What it costs you
To secure these lower prices, you must commit to booking your trip several weeks in advance. Because these are specialized discounted fares, you lose the ability to change your plans easily. You trade the convenience of last-minute flexibility for a lower price point.
The catch to know
The most important thing to understand is a rule called "Zugbindung." This is a strict requirement that means you must take the specific train you originally booked. Unlike standard tickets that might allow you to take a different train if there is a delay, these fares tie you to your specific scheduled departure.
How to apply
- Determine your intended travel route and your desired departure date.
- Search for long-distance train availability well in advance of your trip.
- Look for the specific discounted fare options during the selection process.
- Complete your booking through the official rail provider's website or mobile application.