Nuremberg

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Ticketing

Details about how to buy and use tickets for public transport in Nuremberg, including digital options.

Sections

1. Types of Tickets Available

VGN offers a variety of ticket options to suit different travel needs. Here are the main types:

Single Tickets (Einzelfahrkarten):

  • Adult Single Ticket: Valid for one trip in a specific zone. You can transfer between modes of transport (e.g., bus to U-Bahn) as long as you stay within the validity period and zones.
  • Child Single Ticket: Discounted tickets for children aged 6โ€“14. Children under 6 travel for free.

Day Tickets (TagesTickets):

  • Solo Day Ticket (TagesTicket Solo): Unlimited travel for one person within the selected zones for a day.
  • Group Day Ticket (TagesTicket Plus): Unlimited travel for up to 6 people (maximum 2 adults; children count as 0.5 each) within the selected zones for a day. Ideal for families or small groups.

Short-Trip Ticket (KurzstreckenTicket):

  • For short distances (up to 4 stops on buses/trams or 2 stops on the U-Bahn/S-Bahn). Cheaper than a regular single ticket.

Weekly and Monthly Tickets:

  • 7-Day Ticket (7-Tage-MobiCard): Unlimited travel for one person for 7 consecutive days.
  • Monthly Ticket (MobiCard): Unlimited travel for one person for a month. Can be transferred to another person when not in use.

Season Tickets:

  • For long-term residents, there are annual passes and job tickets (JobTicket) for commuters.

Special Tickets:

  • Night Ticket (NachtTicket): For travel during late-night hours (valid from 7 PM to 6 AM the next day).
  • Bayern Ticket: A regional ticket valid for unlimited travel across Bavaria, including Nuremberg, on regional trains and public transport.

2. Ticket Costs

Ticket prices depend on the number of zones you travel through. Nuremberg is in Zone A, and the VGN network is divided into multiple zones. Below are approximate costs (as of 2023):

  • Single Ticket (Zone A): โ‚ฌ3.30 (adult), โ‚ฌ1.70 (child).
  • Short-Trip Ticket: โ‚ฌ1.80.
  • Day Ticket Solo (Zone A): โ‚ฌ8.10.
  • Day Ticket Plus (Zone A): โ‚ฌ12.30.
  • 7-Day Ticket (Zone A): โ‚ฌ27.60.
  • Monthly Ticket (Zone A): โ‚ฌ70.10.

For travel beyond Zone A, prices increase based on the number of zones. You can calculate exact fares using the VGN fare calculator on their website or app.

3. How to Purchase Tickets

Tickets can be purchased through several convenient methods:

Ticket Machines:

  • Found at all U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and tram stations.
  • Machines have multilingual options (including English).
  • Accept cash, debit cards, and sometimes credit cards.

Onboard Purchase:

  • Tickets can be purchased directly from bus drivers (cash only, exact change preferred).
  • Not available on trams or U-Bahn trains.

Mobile App:

  • Download the VGN Fahrplan & Tickets app (available for iOS and Android).
  • Purchase and store digital tickets on your phone.
  • The app also provides real-time schedules and route planning.

Online:

  • Tickets can be purchased on the VGN website and printed at home.

Retail Outlets:

  • Tickets are available at VGN service centers, kiosks, and some convenience stores.

4. Validation and Usage

  • Validation: Tickets purchased from machines or kiosks must be validated before boarding. Look for the blue or yellow validation machines at station entrances or on buses/trams. Insert your ticket to stamp it with the date and time.
  • Pre-validated Tickets: Tickets bought via the app or online are already validated and ready to use.
  • Inspection: Public transport in Nuremberg operates on a proof-of-payment system. Random ticket inspections are conducted, and traveling without a valid ticket incurs a fine of โ‚ฌ60.

5. Local Considerations

  • Zones: Familiarize yourself with the VGN zone map to determine how many zones your trip will cover. Most tourist attractions in Nuremberg are within Zone A.
  • Punctuality: Public transport in Nuremberg is highly punctual. Arrive at your stop/station a few minutes early.
  • Accessibility: All U-Bahn stations and most buses/trams are wheelchair accessible.
  • Bicycles: Bikes are allowed on S-Bahn trains and some U-Bahn trains during off-peak hours. A separate bike ticket may be required.
  • Night Travel: Public transport operates late into the night, but schedules are less frequent. Check the VGN app for night routes and times.

6. Tips for Visitors

  • Day Tickets: If you plan to make multiple trips in a day, a Day Ticket is more economical than buying multiple single tickets.
  • Group Travel: The Group Day Ticket is a great value for families or small groups.
  • Tourist Pass: Consider the Nรผrnberg Card, which includes free public transport in Nuremberg and Fรผrth, as well as free entry to many attractions. It costs โ‚ฌ33 for 2 days.
  • Language: While ticket machines and apps have English options, bus drivers may not speak fluent English. Have your destination or ticket type written down if needed.

By understanding the ticketing system and planning your travel accordingly, you can easily navigate Nurembergโ€™s public transport network. Let me know if you need further assistance or specific recommendations!