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- Berlin 29-Euro Ticket Holders Get Free Upgrade to Deutschlandticket
Berlin 29-Euro Ticket Holders Get Free Upgrade to Deutschlandticket
Current subscribers will keep paying €29 while getting nationwide travel coverage, with the state of Berlin covering the price difference.
What seemed like concerning news about the Berlin 29-euro ticket has turned into an unexpected win for current subscribers, at least in the short term. While new subscriptions are no longer available as of December 10th, existing subscribers aren't just protected from immediate price increases – they're actually getting an upgrade. Here's everything you need to know about what happens next.
The Future of Your 29-Euro Ticket
The Berlin 29-euro ticket program – introduced in 2023 as Berlin's answer to affordable public transportation – is coming to an end. While this initially caused worry among subscribers about potential price hikes, the transition plan announced by the Berlin Senate has turned out to be more generous than expected. Current ticket holders will be automatically transferred to the Deutschlandticket, which normally costs 58 euros per month. However, the Senate will ensure you continue paying just 29 euros monthly until your original contract ends by covering the difference through your transport provider.
The switch to Deutschlandticket expands your travel possibilities significantly. While your Berlin 29-euro ticket was valid only within Berlin AB zones, you'll soon be able to use local transport anywhere in Germany. And yes, you'll still pay just 29 euros monthly until your original contract ends.
Your Next Steps? Sit Back and Relax
Here's the best part: you don't need to do anything. Your transport provider will handle everything, including the price difference arrangements with the state of Berlin. You can continue using your current ticket until you receive your new Deutschlandticket, which transport companies will start distributing in early 2025.
If you've been thinking about canceling your subscription, this transition period offers a perfect opportunity to do so. The usual twelve-month commitment has been waived, and you can cancel without any penalties or additional costs. Soon, you should receive an email from your transport company with instructions on how to cancel.
Now vs. Later: The Bittersweet Reality
The end of the Berlin 29-euro ticket program brings mixed news for Berlin's commuters. In the short term, it's a clear win – you're getting nationwide coverage for the same price you're paying now, making your 29 euros stretch further than ever, with no extra paperwork needed from you. However, once your original contract expires, you'll face a price change: continuing with the Deutschlandticket will mean paying the full price of €58 monthly, while a regular Berlin-Abo is even less appealing at €71.40 monthly for just the AB zones. But at least you have until the end of your current contract to plan for this change.
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