Kurzstrecke

Kurzstrecke is a fare category in many German-speaking public transport networks. It refers to a short-distance ticket designed for brief urban journeys and is typically cheaper than a standard single ticket while being valid only for a limited distance or number of stops within a defined tariff area.

The exact conditions vary by city and Verkehrsverbund (transport association): a Kurzstrecke ticket is commonly valid for travel within a single tariff zone or for a small number of stops on routes serving that zone. It often excludes journeys that cross zones or exceed the allowed distance. It is usually usable on buses, trams, U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines that share the same fare structure, and can be purchased at ticket machines, on mobile apps or at counters.

Because the limits differ, passengers must check the local rules. If a trip exceeds the Kurzstrecke limit, a larger ticket is required; fare violations may incur penalties. The concept aims to simplify and lower the cost for very short trips, while preserving more expensive tickets for longer rides.

In practice, Kurzstrecke is used for short, direct urban trips, for example between neighboring stops within the city core. The exact limits depend on the local tariff authority and may change over time.