Tickets & Fares
May I use the Deutschlandtickt (63 € Ticket) on the KIELIUS bus?
No, the Deutschlandticket (63 €-Ticket) is not valid on KIELIUS bus.
KIELIUS is like any other long-distance busses or trains not part of local transport.
Can I reserve a seat on a KIELIUS bus? Do I have to?
No, seat reservations are not yet possible on KIELIUS. If you are travelling with a group of 10 or more people, however, we kindly ask you to notify us in advance by calling +49 (0) 431 666 222 or by filling out our contact form. Groups must also be at the stop 15 minutes before departure; otherwise we may give their seats away to another party.
Can my tickets be used freely or are they tied to a specific date?
The tickets for the outward and return journeys can be used freely and are not tied to a specific date. The return journey ticket does not have to be used on the day of the outward journey, either; you can use it freely. However, you should consider that there may be price changes when the new fare system is introduced.
Validity: Online tickets are valid for two years from the date of purchase. KIELIUS tickets purchased on the bus are generally valid for three years from the date of purchase.
There are two exceptions:
- Our monthly passes are an exception to this rule. These are valid for a fixed calendar month and are not available in the online shop. You can pick one up directly from your KIELIUS driver or through DB Vertrieb on a subscription basis. Here you can find more information about the subscription monthly ticket.
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Another exception are the saver fare tickets (available only in the online shop). These are bound to a date. Also the bulky luggage ticket, which you can book in the online shop if required - you will be automatically asked for it before completing the purchase.
How are the saver price tickets staggered?
The saver fare tickets are only available in the online shop. Each price level is available on the possible routes (e.g. Kiel—Hamburg Airport or in the opposite direction Hamburg Airport—Kiel) in a limited ticket contingent. Saver fares are only offered for a single journey, i.e. not as a combined outward and return journey ticket.
The following price levels are offered - if a price level is sold out, the next higher price level is displayed:
- 15,00 Euro (EUR 16,00 from March 1, 2026)
- 18,00 Euro (EUR 19,00 from March 1, 2026)
- 20,00 Euro (EUR 21,00 from March 1, 2026)
Are Rail&Fly tickets recognised?
Yes, Rail&Fly tickets are valid for KIELIUS. For further information, see DB's website on Rail&Fly. You can obtain information and the conditions for using your Rail&Fly ticket on a KIELIUS bus from your travel agency.
Are special offer tickets such as the Schleswig-Holstein group ticket or weekend family ticket accepted on KIELIUS services?
No, tickets from the Schleswig-Holstein tariff system and weekend family tickets are not valid on KIELIUS services. The DB Schönes-Wochenende-Ticket is not valid on KIELIUS services, either. An overview of all available ticket types can be found on our Tickets & fares page.
Are DB season tickets and subscriptions valid on KIELIUS services?
Holders of DB season tickets and subscriptions (weekly, monthly or annual tickets) receive a 50% discount on the regular fare (single journey adult fare) for the route specified on the season ticket.
This discount is not available in the online shop. Please present your valid proof to the driver and purchase your ticket directly on the bus using cash payment.
Important information regarding BahnCards:
- The BahnCard 100 has no longer been accepted on KIELIUS services since 01 May 2023.
- All other BahnCards (e.g. BahnCard 25 or BahnCard 50) have also no longer been accepted since 01 January 2026.
There is no general discount for holders of DB season tickets, subscriptions or BahnCards.
Are discounts available?
Yes, discounts are available for KIELIUS services:
- Students travel at a reduced rate if they present their student ID and a valid photo ID.
- Holders of DB season tickets and subscriptions (monthly or annual season tickets) are granted a 50% discount on the standard fare (single journey ticket for adults). This is only valid for the specified route.
You can find an overview of all fares and discounts in our table of prices. The online shop also has a limited supply of discounted single journey tickets – it pays to be quick!
Do disabled passengers travel free of charge?
No, travellers with disabilities require a conventional ticket for KIELIUS services. An accompanying person travels free of charge if the mark B is present in the severely handicapped pass.
Are there university student/ college student tickets?
Proof of Eligibility
Students from all universities – including those from abroad – can book the “Student” discount option and travel at the reduced price.
We accept all types of proof of student status.
This includes, for example:
✅ Student ID cards in plastic card format
✅ Digital student IDs (apps, wallets, PDF files, screenshots, etc.)
✅ Paper certificates and confirmations from universities
✅ International Student Identity Cards (ISIC)
✅ Any other documents proving student status
All certificates without a photo must be supplemented by a valid official photo ID (e.g. identity card, passport, driver’s license).
There are currently no restrictions on specific formats or documents.
Please note that discounts are only available for university or college students. Unfortunately, school pupils are not eligible for a student discount.
Can those with state-wide semester tickets travel for free?
No, the state-wide semester ticket does not entitle you to travel for free on KIELIUS services.
From what age do children need a ticket?
Children aged 0-5 travel for free when accompanied by someone paying the full fare (adult ticket). Children's tickets cover the ages of 6-14. You can find an overview of all fares in our table of prices.
Transport of Animals
Dogs:
A child ticket is required for dogs. They may only be brought along under the supervision of a suitable accompanying person. Dogs that could endanger or unsettle other passengers must wear a muzzle.
Guide dogs and therapy dogs (with the "B" mark in the disability ID) are transported free of charge and without restrictions.
Small pets and small dogs (up to the size of a house cat):
May only be transported in suitable, closed containers (e.g., pet box, cage, or special carrying bag). This is considered bulky luggage and costs €5.00. The ticket can be purchased online or from the onboard staff.
Important notes:
Animals are not allowed on seats. The onboard staff may refuse transportation of animals if they pose a danger or significant nuisance to other passengers.