Split-ticketing is a proven strategy for saving money on Deutsche Bahn. Instead of one direct ticket, you book two or more segment tickets — and often pay significantly less. This guide explains how it works and when it pays off.
How Does Split-Ticketing Work?
Deutsche Bahn calculates Saver fares per route segment. On heavily booked long-distance routes, cheap Saver fare contingents sell out quickly — while segments of the same route often still have cheap Saver fares available.
The principle: Split your journey at a hub station into two (or more) segments and buy a separate ticket for each. If the sum of the segment tickets is cheaper than the direct ticket, you have saved money.
Example: Berlin → Munich via Nuremberg
Direct ticket
Berlin → Munich
from €59.90
Split ticket
Berlin → Nuremberg + Nuremberg → Munich
from €39.90 + €12.90 = €52.80
* Prices are examples and vary depending on booking time and availability. As of April 2026.
Step by Step: How to Use Split-Ticketing
- 1
Find a split station
Choose a major hub station on your route as the split point. Good split stations are Hanover, Nuremberg, Erfurt, Frankfurt or Stuttgart. The train must stop at this station.
- 2
Compare prices
Look up the direct ticket price and compare it with the sum of the segment tickets. Use our partner price comparison to search each segment separately.
- 3
Book the same train
Book both tickets for the same train where possible. You can stay seated at the split station — no need to change trains. Check that both Saver fares apply to the same train (train binding).
- 4
Carry both tickets
Keep both tickets readily available. During ticket inspection, show the valid ticket for the current segment.
Example Savings
Here are typical examples where split-ticketing can pay off. Actual prices depend on booking time and availability.
| Route | Split station | Direct | Split | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Berlin → Munich | Nuremberg | €59.90 | €39.90 + 12.90 = 52.80 | -€7.10 (12%) |
| Hamburg → Munich | Hanover | €69.90 | €19.90 + 39.90 = 59.80 | -€10.10 (14%) |
| Berlin → Cologne | Hanover | €49.90 | €19.90 + 22.90 = 42.80 | -€7.10 (14%) |
* Price examples based on Saver fares. Actual prices vary by availability.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Up to 30% cheaper tickets possible
- Completely legal and accepted by Deutsche Bahn
- No need to change trains if the train stops at the split station
- BahnCard discount applies to both segments
- Especially worthwhile on long-distance routes (300+ km)
Limitations
- Train binding: both tickets must apply to the same train
- Delay risk: passenger rights apply per ticket
- More effort: two separate bookings and tickets
- Not always cheaper: the saving depends on Saver fare availability
- Seat reservation must be booked separately for each segment
Best Routes for Split-Ticketing
Long-distance ICE routes with major intermediate stations are best for split-ticketing. Here are the top candidates:
Pro Tips
Book early: Saver fares for segments are often available longer than for the full route. Book 2–4 weeks in advance for the best prices.
Combine with BahnCard: The BahnCard 25 or 50 discount applies to both segments, so you save twice over.
Flex fare as fallback: If one segment is only available as a Flex fare, split-ticketing may not save money. Always compare with the direct price.
Try multiple split points: Test different hub stations. Sometimes a less obvious split station gives a better price than the most convenient one.
Try Split-Ticketing Now
Compare prices for your next journey. Search the segments separately and check whether split-ticketing saves you money.
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