Login/Create Account
Your Guide to Using Public Bike-Sharing in Germany (Call a Bike & Nextbike)
As sustainable mobility continues to grow in Germany, public bike-sharing has become a key part of everyday life in major cities. These services offer a flexible, eco-friendly, and healthy way to travel short distances—especially if you want to avoid traffic or enjoy a ride outdoors. Among the best-known bike-sharing systems in Germany are Call a Bike and Nextbike.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to use these services confidently and easily.
What is Call a Bike?
Call a Bike is operated by Deutsche Bahn and is one of the largest public bike-sharing services in Germany. It is mainly available in cities such as Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Stuttgart.
It often works with a “flexible parking” concept, meaning you can rent a bike from designated locations and return it at approved public spots or stations within the defined service area.
What is Nextbike?
Nextbike is an international bike rental network active in more than 60 German cities.
It typically works with a station-based system, which means you must return the bike to an approved station or designated point after use. This system is widely available in cities such as Leipzig, Cologne, Bonn, and Dresden.
How to register and use the service
Step 1: Registration
Download the Call a Bike or Nextbike app.
Register your personal details and add a payment method (credit card or bank account).
Sometimes a small registration fee (around €1) is charged to verify payment details.
Step 2: Find a bike
Use the app’s interactive map to locate nearby bikes or stations.
Select an available bike and tap “Rent” (Mieten).
Step 3: Unlock the bike
You will receive a code to unlock the bike manually.
On some newer bikes, the lock may open automatically via Bluetooth when you are close.
Step 4: Start riding
You can ride freely within the allowed city/service area.
Make sure to follow traffic rules and respect bike lanes.
Step 5: End the trip
Call a Bike: You can park the bike at any approved public spot within the service area.
Nextbike: You must return it to a designated station/point.
After locking the bike, always end the ride in the app to avoid extra charges.
Pricing
The first 30 minutes are usually low-cost (about €1–€1.5).
After that, each additional 30-minute block is charged.
Monthly or annual subscriptions are often available for regular users (for example, a monthly package around €10 that may include a certain amount of free riding time per day).
Benefits
Eco-friendly and emission-free.
Flexible and often faster—especially during rush hours.
A great way to explore the city and visit tourist attractions.
Practical tips
Check the bike’s condition before riding (brakes, tires, seat).
Don’t forget to lock the bike and end the trip in the app.
Follow bike lanes and local rules to avoid fines.
Keep your phone charged, since the app is needed throughout the ride.
Summary
Whether you want an alternative for commuting or a fun and healthy way to explore city streets, Call a Bike and Nextbike give you freedom and flexibility whenever you need it.
Enjoy sustainable mobility that combines comfort, fitness, and environmental awareness.
Disclaimer: The website’s writers and editors aim to provide accurate information through extensive research and by consulting multiple sources. However, some errors may occur or certain details may be unconfirmed. Please treat this information as initial reference and always consult the relevant authorities for verified details.
