Trains in Germany
Routes, journey times, and fares for trains serving Germany
Trains in Germany: What to Know
Popular Train Routes
Amsterdam to Berlin
Berlin to Prague
Paris to Berlin
Berlin to Munich
Warsaw to Berlin
Frankfurt am Main to Berlin
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Buy Train Tickets in Germany?
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is the main rail operator. You can buy tickets through the DB Navigator app, at ticket machines in stations, or at DB service counters. Booking in advance online typically offers better rates than buying on the day. The app is useful since it handles mobile tickets, real-time departure info, and platform changes, all in English.
What Types of Train Tickets Are Available in Germany?
Deutsche Bahn offers several fare tiers. Saver fares are cheaper but locked to a specific train. Flex tickets cost more but let you take any train on that route the same day. For regional day trips, the Länder-Tickets cover unlimited regional train travel within a single state. Group and family discounts are also available, check the DB website or app for current options.
What Is the Difference Between Ice, Ic, and Regional Trains in Germany?
ICE trains are the fastest, connecting major cities like Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Frankfurt at high speed with onboard Wi-Fi and a bistro car. IC/EC trains are long-distance but slightly slower, also covering international routes. Regional trains (RE and RB) serve shorter distances and smaller towns. Regional trains accept day passes and state tickets; ICE and IC generally require separate reservations.
Do I Need a Seat Reservation on German Trains?
Seat reservations are optional on most Deutsche Bahn services but strongly recommended on ICE trains during peak hours, weekends, and holidays. Without one you can still board. But you may have to stand. Reservations can be added when booking or purchased separately for a small fee. Reserved seats are marked with a display above the seat showing the reserved segment.
Are There Luggage Limits on German Trains?
There are no strict luggage limits or weight checks on Deutsche Bahn trains. You can bring what you can carry and store yourself. Overhead racks and luggage areas near doors are available, though space fills up quickly on busy routes. Large suitcases fit in the designated luggage zones between carriages. Bikes require a separate bike ticket and reservation on long-distance trains.
How Do I Get from German Airports to the City Center by Train?
Frankfurt Airport has its own long-distance train station with direct ICE connections across Germany. Munich Airport connects to the city via S-Bahn regional trains running frequently throughout the day. Berlin Brandenburg Airport links to central Berlin by S-Bahn and regional express. Düsseldorf Airport has a SkyTrain monorail to its regional train station. Check the DB Navigator app for current connections from your arrival airport.
Is the Bahncard Worth It for Tourists Visiting Germany?
The BahnCard gives percentage discounts on Deutsche Bahn fares. A BahnCard 25 offers 25 percent off, while a BahnCard 50 gives half off. For short trips of a week or two, the discount may not offset the card cost. However, DB occasionally offers trial BahnCards at reduced rates. If you plan multiple long-distance journeys, compare the card price against your expected ticket costs using the DB app.