Long-Distance Rail (Fernverkehr)
Long-distance rail includes ICE, IC, and EC trains and long-distance buses — NOT included in the Deutschlandticket, which covers only local and regional transit.
What is Long-Distance Rail?
Long-distance rail (Fernverkehr) includes all transport connections beyond regional routes — primarily ICE (InterCityExpress), IC (InterCity), EC (EuroCity), and long-distance buses (FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus). These connections are not included in the Deutschlandticket.
Long-Distance vs. Local/Regional Transit
| Feature | Local Transit (ÖPNV) | Long-Distance Rail |
|---|---|---|
| Deutschlandticket valid? | Yes | No |
| Vehicles | Bus, tram, U-Bahn, S-Bahn, RE, RB | ICE, IC, EC, long-distance buses |
| Speed | Up to 160 km/h | Up to 300 km/h (ICE) |
| Single ticket price | From €2–5 | From €20–200 |
| Booking | Deutschlandticket (€63/month) | Single tickets from DB, FlixBus etc. |
What is NOT Included in the Deutschlandticket?
The Deutschlandticket covers only local and regional transit. The following are not included:
- ICE (InterCityExpress) — DB high-speed trains up to 300 km/h
- IC (InterCity) — DB intercity trains
- EC (EuroCity) — International express trains
- Long-distance buses — FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus etc.
- Thalys, Eurostar — International high-speed trains
Important: If you board an ICE, IC, or EC, you need a separate ticket — even if you have a Deutschlandticket. Exceptions apply only for IRE (Interregio-Express) and RE/RL — these are local transit trains and included.
