RJ 173 Train Seat Reservations? May 13 Berlin-Dresden, May 15 Dresden-Prague

Understanding Seat Reservations for Your Germany Train Journeys: Berlin-Dresden and Dresden-Prague

Traveling through Germany by train offers a convenient and scenic way to explore the region. However, navigating the seat reservation system can sometimes be confusing, especially when using digital platforms like the DB Navigator app. If you’re planning trips such as Berlin to Dresden and Dresden to Prague, here’s a comprehensive overview to help you better understand your options and address common concerns about seat reservations.

Overview of Your Booked Train Trips

You’ve scheduled two key journeys:

• May 13: Berlin to Dresden via RJ 173
• May 15: Dresden to Prague via RJ 173

While you’ve successfully booked your tickets through the DB Navigator app, there have been some uncertainties regarding seat reservations.

Understanding Seat Reservation Functionality in the DB Navigator App

When attempting to reserve seats, the app indicates that it will automatically assign the “best seats” available, rather than allowing you to manually select specific seats. This automatic assignment is standard for many regional and long-distance trains in Germany, especially when seats are in high demand or when the system’s algorithms prioritize optimal distribution for passenger comfort.

For your May 13 trip, you have not yet secured a seat reservation. Since Berlin is a major hub with a high volume of travelers, arriving early at the station to find two adjacent seats may be a practical approach. However, doing so doesn’t guarantee you’ll find seats together, especially during busy travel times.

On the May 15 journey from Dresden to Prague, the app assigned seats numbered 94 and 98. These seats are not adjacent—there’s a gap between them—which might affect your comfort if you’re hoping to sit together. To confirm their exact seating positions, you can usually check seat maps within the app or the train operator’s website.

Can You Manually Choose Seats?

In many cases, particularly with regional trains like those operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB), manual seat selection may be limited or unavailable. The system often relies on automated seat allocation to streamline boarding and manage capacity efficiently.

If selecting specific seats is important for your comfort or convenience, consider the following options:

• Revisit the reservation process closer to your travel date, as seat availability and system capabilities may change.
• Contact DB customer service for assistance or to inquire about the possibility of manually selecting seats.
• Arrive early at the station on your travel day to inquire at the ticket counter about securing seats together.

Should You Reserve Seats for Both Trips?

While automatic seat assignments