Access Germany's privatized national railway, the Deutsche Bahn (better known as 'the DB'), online (see Resources). You can register on the site, then book and print your tickets. Save your reservation preferences, and your profile will be stored for changes or bookings the next time you travel.
Use ticket vending machines. Almost all train stations in Germany have self-service ticket vending machines that can be used minutes prior to departure. You can book tickets and seat reservations in 5 different languages.
Obtain your ticket at the counter. Customer service agents at the Dresden train station ticket counter can help you with the purchase of your ticket, as well as provide assistance with reservations, special offers, discounts and timetable information.
Call Deutsche Bahn customer service. To speak with a customer service agent, call 011 (+49) 1805 996633 from the U.S. and Canada, or call 00 (+49) 1805 996633 from elsewhere outside of Germany. You can have your ticket sent to you by mail, or you can pick it up at any touch-screen ticket vending machine located at Dresden Station.
Buy a ticket on the train. You may obtain your ticket onboard for a small extra fee from the train attendant.
Use a credit card to pay online, by phone or at the ticket counter. Note, however, that credit cards are not always accepted at ticket vending machines. Look for signs that include the word 'kreditkarten' (credit cards) or bear the card's logo to find a ticket vending machine that accepts credit cards.
Get a rail pass. The Eurail Pass, the German Rail Pass, Bahn cards and other special fares come with restrictions, but offer discounts and unlimited travel. These passes must be purchased prior to your departure, either online at the Deutsche Bahn Web site or through a travel agent.
