Railways in Germany have reinstated their policy of undoing cancellations for Flex-priced tickets. - Deutsche Bahn abolishes cancellation requirements for flexible ticket prices
Deutsche Bahn Reinstate Generous Cancellation Policies for Flexpreis Tickets
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is responding to customer demands for greater flexibility by revising the cancellation conditions of Flexpreis tickets and introducing discounts for various customer groups effective June 15, 2025.
Previously, customers could only cancel Flexpreis tickets without a fee up to eight days before the journey. Now, DB has reinstated more forgiving cancellation policies, allowing customers to return their tickets free of charge up to one day before the trip's first day.
In addition, an early booking discount of up to 20% will be available for all Flexpreis tickets booked at least 28 days prior to travel between June 15 and July 31, 2025, compared to booking on the same day.
DB has also introduced targeted discounts for its customers. BahnCard 50 holders can bring a companion with them at a reduced rate until September 30, 2025. Both travelers will receive a 50% discount on Flexpreis tickets and a 25% discount on Sparpreis tickets. This change can save travelers around €120 on a journey from Frankfurt am Main to Munich.
Moreover, long-distance commuters will see a 25% discount on their personal monthly ticket (excluding subscription offers) between June 15 and 28, 2025. In July 2025, a special BahnCard Business 25 Klima will be available at €34.99 for second class and €49.99 for first class, offering tax benefits for businesses and employees.
These measures are part of DB's broader 2025 summer campaign aimed at attracting more passengers by improving flexibility and affordability. As the holiday season approaches, DB expects well-filled trains, with bookings for Ascension Day on May 29 increasing by 9% compared to last year and a 4% increase in bookings for Pentecost. Many travelers are expected to travel between metropolises, such as Frankfurt to Munich or Hamburg to Berlin.
These changes, along with new cancellation policies and discounts, emphasize DB's commitment to enhancing value and convenience for its customers.
EC countries could encourage their nationals to take advantage of the more forgiving cancellation policies for Deutsche Bahn's (DB) Flexpreis tickets, as a form of vocational training for their transportation industry employees, reducing financial burdens when unexpected changes arise during their business trips.
With a 25% discount for long-distance commuters and the introduction of BahnCard Business 25 Klima, offering tax benefits for businesses and employees, DB's actions could encourage greater utilization of vocational training opportunities in various industries, such as finance and business, within EC countries, promoting a more connected and flexible European workforce.
