Germany's national rail operator Deutsche Bahn is shaking up its ticketing offer with the launch of a brand-new last-minute pricing scheme for long-distance travel.
Starting 9 May, passengers will be able to book discounted tickets every Saturday and Sunday for journeys departing in the following week, with fares starting as low as €6.99. Children travel free, and BahnCard holders can stack their usual discount on top.
The pilot scheme runs for six months, with the option to extend, and is designed to attract a new generation of spontaneous travellers who may not have considered the train as their first choice.
Deutsche Bahn is introducing last-minute tickets for long-distance travel: every Saturday and Sunday, journeys on trains departing in the following week can be booked at a discount.
"From 9 May, our customers will be able to book last-minute prices for the first time," said Michael Peterson, Head of Long-Distance Services, in a statement to the Funke Mediengruppe newspaper group. The offer will initially run for six months, with the option to be extended.
Tickets are available from €6.99, with BahnCard discounts applicable on top where eligible. Children travel free of charge.
Peterson described the initiative as a "completely new offer for long-distance trains," one that provides "security and affordable mobility." He added: "We also want to use this initiative to reach new customer groups who don't immediately think of the train and who are more flexible in their travel planning."
Like other discounted fares, the last-minute prices are subject to availability, Peterson explained. This ensures the offer is only bookable on trains that still have seats available.
The chances of securing a bargain are therefore highest outside of peak travel periods. With this offer, Deutsche Bahn is also responding to an existing demand among travellers. For those who are able to plan further ahead, the company continues to recommend booking tickets early.
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