Traveling with children on German trains can be relaxed and affordable. We explain what discounts are available, what children cost and how to plan your family trip optimally.
Traveling with Children: The Essentials
- Children 0-5 years: Free with adult supervision
- Children 6-14 years: 50% discount on all ticket types
- Teenagers 15-17: Youth BahnCard 25 for 10 EUR/year
- Strollers: Can be taken for free
1. Prices by Age Group
0-5 Years
Free
- No ticket required
- Travels with adult supervision
- Can sit on lap or use own seat
- Strollers free of charge
6-14 Years
50% Discount
- Pays Saver Fare or Flex Fare
- Automatically receives 50% discount
- Own seat required
- Additional discounts possible with BahnCard
15-17 Years
Full Price
- Pays full Saver Fare or Flex Fare
- Youth BahnCard 25 for 10 EUR/year
- Pays for itself after 40 EUR annual spending
- 25% discount on all ticket types
2. Example: Family with 2 Children
Berlin to Munich (504 km, 3h 55m)
2 Adults + 2 Children (8 & 10 years)
- Adult 1: 17.90 EUR (Saver Fare)
- Adult 2: 17.90 EUR (Saver Fare)
- Child 1 (8 years): 8.95 EUR (50% discount)
- Child 2 (10 years): 8.95 EUR (50% discount)
- Total: 53.70 EUR
With BahnCard 50 (Adults)
- Adult 1: 8.95 EUR (50% discount)
- Adult 2: 8.95 EUR (50% discount)
- Child 1 (8 years): 8.95 EUR (50% discount)
- Child 2 (10 years): 8.95 EUR (50% discount)
- Total: 35.80 EUR
- + BahnCard 50: 255 EUR/year
Tip: For frequent family trips, a BahnCard 50 can quickly pay for itself, as you receive a 50% discount on all ticket types.
3. Tips for Relaxed Family Trips
Book Early
Book early to get cheap Saver Fares. Family trips are often more expensive, so early booking is especially worthwhile.
Reserve Family Compartment
Reserve seats in the family compartment when available. Here children have more space to play.
Pack Luggage Practically
Pack toys, snacks and change of clothes within easy reach. One backpack per child makes organization easier.
Choose Travel Times
Avoid very early or very late departure times. Midday or afternoon trains are often more pleasant for children.
Bring Food
Bring snacks and drinks. This saves money and you have your children's favorite foods with you.
Plan Entertainment
Tablets, books, games or audiobooks help pass the travel time. WiFi on the train also enables streaming.
4. Family Compartments on Trains
Many ICE trains have special family compartments with more space and play areas for children.
- More Space: Larger gaps between seats
- Play Area: Space to play and move around
- Child-Friendly: Relaxed but not too quiet
- Reservation: Can be selected when booking seats
Note: Family compartments have limited availability. Reserve early, especially during peak times and on weekends.
5. Youth BahnCard 25
For Young People Aged 15-26
10 EUR
per year
- 25% discount on all ticket types
- Pays for itself after 40 EUR annual spending
- Valid until 27th birthday
Example:
4x Berlin to Munich (17.90 EUR)
Without BahnCard: 71.60 EUR
With Youth BC 25: 53.70 EUR
Savings: 17.90 EUR
The BahnCard has already paid for itself after 4 trips!
6. Practical Tips for the Journey
Before the Trip:
- Book early for cheap prices
- Reserve family compartment (if available)
- Pack snacks and drinks
- Prepare entertainment (books, games, tablet)
During the Trip:
- Plan regular breaks (during connections)
- Store stroller at luggage rack
- Use WiFi for streaming (free on ICE)
- Be considerate of other passengers
7. Changing Facilities on Trains
German long-distance trains are well-equipped for traveling with babies and toddlers.
- Changing Tables: Available in accessible toilets on ICE and IC trains
- Accessible Toilets: Larger space for changing and nursing
- Hot Water: Available in the restaurant car for warming bottles
- Family Compartment: More privacy for nursing mothers
Tip: Look for the wheelchair symbol on the train car - these cars have the largest toilets with changing facilities.
Notice: All information is provided without guarantee. Schedules and availability may change at any time. For current and binding information, please visit the official provider websites. This website is not affiliated with Deutsche Bahn AG or other railway companies.
Last update: December 2025
Sources & More Information:
- Deutsche Bahn – Official Deutsche Bahn website
- DB Navigator – Official DB Navigator App
- Children & Family – Information on children's prices and family offers
- Youth BahnCard – Information on the Youth BahnCard