Germany railway info
The German Railways, Deutsche Bahn AG or DB operate a rail network of 40,000 kilometres. More than 33,000 trains run in Germany every day (1,200 of which are long-distance trains) and carry more than 4 million passengers. Such a dense and intricate network makes it possible for the passengers to reach any destination comfortably and on time.
The InterRail Pass is also valid on various private companies (see pdf-document for complete list).
InterRail Passes for Germany
- InterRail Global Pass
valid in 30 countries, incl. Germany - InterRail One Country Pass Germany
German train network
Long-distance and local traffic are perfectly co-ordinated with each other, offering the best possible connections. Many airports are also included in this system.
With the most modern standard of comfort, maximum speeds up to 186 mph (300 km/h), special amenities and innovative technology, the famous InterCityExpress (ICE) trains are setting new standards for high speed transport between major German cities and selected destinations in Switzerland, the Netherlands, Belgium and Austria.
Travel times
Average domestic travel times in hours:
| Cities | Berlin | Munich | Frankfurt | Hamburg | Cologne |
| Berlin | - | 5:45 | 4:10 | 1:35 | 4:20 |
| Munich | 5:45 | - | 3:10 | 5:40 | 4:40 |
| Frankfurt | 4:10 | 3:10 | - | 3:40 | 1:20 |
| Hamburg | 1:35 | 5:40 | 3:40 | - | 4:00 |
| Cologne | 4:20 | 4:40 | 1:20 | 4:00 | - |
International travel times in hours:
- Frankfurt - Paris: 4:30
- Frankfurt - Amsterdam: 4:00
- Frankfurt - Bern: 3:55
- Berlin - Amsterdam: 6:10
- Hamburg - Copenhagen: 4:40
- Berlin - Warszawa: 6:05
- Berlin - Prague: 4:35
- Munich - Prague: 6:05
- Munich - Vienna: 4:10
- Munich - Venice: 7:05
Railway Service
All carriages have air-conditioning, offer a choice between individual compartments and saloon carriages.
In some trains special scenic lounges are located in the end carriages, offering a clear and unique view of the route. During the journey travelers can enjoy a meal, have a snack or just a refreshing drink in the BordRestaurant, BordBistro or at the seat. nearly all the day trains reservations are not required, which is a guarantee for flexible travel in Germany.
Reservation fees
There are some trains within and to Germany that require an additional reservation fee. You can make reservations during your trip at most international train stations. For details see the pages:
- fees for domestic trains (ICE / IC / EC, Thalys)
- fees for international day trains (Berlin-Warszawa Express, Eurocity, ICE, TGV, Thalys)
- making reservations
Railway company
Visit the website of the German rail company Deutsche Bahn (DB):
English version / German.
Related pages about Germany
Prepare your train trip
