Affordable Unified Ticketing System: Exploring the €29 Deutschlandticket Features
In a recent announcement, the €29 ticket in Berlin has been discontinued as part of the city's austerity measures[4]. This popular public transport option, which provided affordable travel on regional trains, S-Bahns, U-Bahns, trams, and buses in Berlin's A and B-zones, will no longer be available to commuters.
The €29 ticket, technically a subscription, had a one-year minimum period, after which it could be cancelled or renewed monthly[2]. However, with the discontinuation, Berlin commuters will now have to either pay the increased Deutschlandticket price or consider alternative fare options.
The Deutschlandticket, currently priced at €49, will rise to €58 per month starting January 1st, 2025[1]. Previously, the €29 ticket coexisted temporarily with the national Deutschlandticket. Now, with Berlin withdrawing its own version, the Deutschlandticket will be the only available option for affordable travel across the city.
For those who are still waiting for their physical Deutschlandticket or €29 plastic chip card, it is advised to show the ticket order confirmation, a valid photo-ID, and your old ticket when asked[6]. As of Wednesday, December 11th, no new €29 ticket subscriptions can be purchased[7].
However, there are some positive changes accompanying the discontinuation. All existing €29 ticket holders will automatically have their tickets upgraded to the nationwide Deutschlandticket for the rest of their subscription length, with no extra charge[8]. The upgrade also provides access to specific IC connections between Berlin Hauptbahnhof and Elsterwerda, Potsdam Hauptbahnhof and Cottbus, and Berlin Südkreuz and Prenzlau[3].
In addition, the VBB-Umweltkarte remains an option for those seeking more flexible zones, offering travel in chosen specific zones, but at a higher cost of €66.90 per month[5].
Deutsche Bahn has also made some changes, no longer being required to refund delayed trains in cases of extreme weather conditions or events beyond their control[9]. Commuters should be aware that if a delay or cancellation results in reaching your final destination between midnight and 5am, you may be eligible for a refund for the cost of a speed train ticket[6].
As the landscape of Berlin's public transport system evolves, commuters are encouraged to stay informed and plan their travel accordingly.
Berlin commuters, previously benefiting from the affordable €29 ticket, will now need to consider the Deutschlandticket or explore more flexible options like the VBB-Umweltkarte. With the discontinuation of the €29 ticket, the Deutschlandticket becomes the only remaining alternative for budget-friendly travel around the city.
