Heidelberg

๐ŸŽซ

Ticketing

Sections

1. Types of Tickets Available

The RNV offers a variety of ticket options to suit different needs, whether you're a tourist, a commuter, or a resident. Here are the main types:

Single Tickets (Einzelfahrschein)

  • Description: Valid for one journey in a specific zone or across multiple zones, depending on the ticket purchased.
  • Duration: Typically valid for 90 minutes from the time of validation.
  • Cost:
    • Within Heidelberg (1 zone): Approx. โ‚ฌ2.80 for adults, โ‚ฌ1.80 for children (6โ€“14 years).
    • Multi-zone tickets cost more, depending on the distance.

Day Tickets (Tageskarte)

  • Description: Unlimited travel within the selected zones for one day.
  • Options:
    • Single Day Ticket: For one person.
    • Group Day Ticket (Tageskarte Gruppe): Valid for up to 5 people traveling together.
  • Cost:
    • Single Day Ticket (1 zone): Approx. โ‚ฌ6.90.
    • Group Day Ticket (1 zone): Approx. โ‚ฌ10.50.
    • Prices increase for additional zones.

Weekly and Monthly Tickets

  • Description: Ideal for residents or visitors staying for an extended period. These tickets allow unlimited travel within the selected zones.
  • Cost:
    • Weekly Ticket (1 zone): Approx. โ‚ฌ20โ€“โ‚ฌ25.
    • Monthly Ticket (1 zone): Approx. โ‚ฌ70โ€“โ‚ฌ80.
  • Note: These tickets are personalized and may require proof of identity.

Short-Trip Tickets (Kurzstreckenfahrschein)

  • Description: For very short journeys (up to 3 stops on buses/trams or 1 stop on regional trains).
  • Cost: Approx. โ‚ฌ1.80.

Tourist Passes

  • HeidelbergCARD:
    • Includes unlimited travel on public transportation within Heidelberg and discounts on attractions.
    • Cost:
      • 1-day card: โ‚ฌ17.
      • 2-day card: โ‚ฌ19.
      • 4-day card: โ‚ฌ24.
    • Available for individuals or groups.

Regional Tickets

  • Rhein-Neckar-Ticket: Covers the entire Rhine-Neckar region, including Heidelberg, Mannheim, and Ludwigshafen.
  • Baden-Wรผrttemberg Ticket: A state-wide ticket valid for unlimited travel on regional trains, buses, and trams across Baden-Wรผrttemberg.
    • Cost: โ‚ฌ25 for one person + โ‚ฌ7 per additional person (up to 5 people).

2. Where to Purchase Tickets

Tickets can be purchased through several convenient methods:

Ticket Machines

  • Found at tram stops, bus stations, and train stations.
  • Machines accept cash (coins and small bills) and sometimes debit/credit cards.

Onboard

  • Single tickets and short-trip tickets can often be purchased directly from bus or tram drivers. Note that drivers may not accept large bills or cards.

RNV Online Shop and App

  • Download the RNV app (available for iOS and Android) to purchase and store digital tickets.
  • The app also provides real-time schedules and route planning.

Customer Service Centers

  • Visit the RNV service center at Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof (main train station) for assistance and ticket purchases.

Retail Outlets

  • Some kiosks, convenience stores, and newsstands sell RNV tickets.

3. How to Use Tickets

  • Validation: Most tickets (except those purchased via the app) must be validated before use. Look for the blue or yellow validation machines at tram/bus stops or inside vehicles. Insert your ticket to stamp it with the date and time.
  • Digital Tickets: If purchased via the app, no validation is required. Simply show the ticket on your phone during inspections.
  • Inspections: Random ticket checks are conducted. Traveling without a valid ticket can result in a fine of โ‚ฌ60.

4. Discounts and Special Passes

  • Children: Reduced fares for children aged 6โ€“14. Children under 6 travel for free.
  • Students: University students in Heidelberg often receive a semester ticket (Semesterticket) as part of their enrollment. This ticket allows unlimited travel within the RNV network.
  • Seniors: Discounts are available for seniors, but eligibility depends on specific conditions. Check with the RNV service center.
  • Tourists: The HeidelbergCARD is highly recommended for visitors, as it combines transportation with discounts on attractions.

5. Local Considerations and Tips

  • Zones: The RNV network is divided into zones. Heidelberg itself is one zone, but traveling to nearby cities like Mannheim or Schwetzingen will require multi-zone tickets.
  • Punctuality: Public transportation in Heidelberg is generally punctual. Arrive at stops a few minutes early.
  • Bikes: Bicycles are allowed on trams and trains, but you may need an additional ticket for your bike during peak hours.
  • Night Travel: Night buses (marked with an "N") operate on weekends and holidays. Regular tickets are valid for these services.
  • Language: Ticket machines and the RNV app are available in English, making it easier for non-German speakers to navigate the system.

6. Sample Itineraries and Ticket Suggestions

  • Day Trip in Heidelberg: Purchase a Single Day Ticket (โ‚ฌ6.90) for unlimited travel within the city.
  • Group Outing: A Group Day Ticket (โ‚ฌ10.50) is cost-effective for up to 5 people.
  • Exploring the Region: Use the Baden-Wรผrttemberg Ticket (โ‚ฌ25 for 1 person) to visit nearby cities like Stuttgart or Freiburg.

By understanding the ticketing system and planning ahead, you can easily navigate Heidelberg's public transportation network and enjoy the city's many attractions. If you have further questions or need help planning your routes, feel free to ask!