Those who reserve their ICE seat not directly with Deutsche Bahn but with the Czech provider České dráhy (ČD) pay around 3.10 euros instead of 5.50 euros (2nd class) or 6.90 euros (1st class), according to a Merkur report. The ticket itself remains a DB ticket – only the reservation runs via cd.cz.
Quick overview
This report is primarily relevant for rail travelers because it can have concrete impacts on planning, connections, or infrastructure. The focus is on Deutsche Bahn, ICE, seat reservations, ČD, travel tips, rail traffic, and long-distance services. The key points are summarized below.
Key points
- Seat reservations on ICE are also possible via České dráhy (ČD) at cd.cz – price: 75 crowns (approx. 3.10 euros) instead of 5.50 euros (2nd class) or 6.90 euros (1st class) at DB.
- Procedure: Note the connection and carriage/seat number on bahn.de, then book under “Reservations only” on cd.cz; the train staff cannot tell the difference.
- ČD allows exchanges/refunds up to 15 minutes before departure; DB does not offer this.
- The trick is especially worthwhile for direct connections – for transfers, double reservation fees apply and not all routes are enabled.
- ÖBB has already adjusted its cheap reservations for domestic German ICE routes to DB’s level – an end to the ČD route is possible according to the report.
What this means for travelers
For travelers, it is worth taking a close look at the time period, route, and booking conditions. It is crucial whether the report already triggers concrete timetable changes or initially describes a political or strategic development.
Context
The Merkur article, structured as a consumer tip, explains a booking detour via the Czech state railways České dráhy to obtain an ICE seat reservation cheaper than through DB. In addition, a PayPal cashback promotion by DB until 13.09.2026 is mentioned.
What to watch now
- Only check concrete timetable or construction notices once travel dates are set.
- Allow more generous connection times for international trips.
- Monitor the source and operator information in case dates are still provisional.