Germany is one of the most efficient rail systems in the world. Trains in Germany are more popular than other modes of transport. All regions of the country are covered by a dense railway network. The German train system is very extensive. Trains are suburban, regional and mainline. Most of the routes are heavily trafficked. The largest stations in the country operate around the clock, while the smaller ones are closed at night.
Train tickets in Germany are not cheap. Having understood the complex system of tariffs, tourists can move around the country, saving money. Basic fares are used here, which allow you to make stops of your choice and ride any train on the desired route. These rates are expensive. If you buy tickets in advance, then Sparpreis tickets (discounted) become available. They are on pre-sale for all routes. By planning your trip in advance, you can buy tickets much cheaper. Discount offers are available for long distance and regional lines. On weekends, Wochenende-Ticket tickets appear on sale, which allow unlimited travel around the country on regional trains.
Types of trains
The German railways provide medium, short and long haul transportation. The main high-speed trains run on long-distance routes. This is ICE or Inter City Express, which has a maximum speed of 320 km / h. As a rule, they move at an average speed of 160 km / h. Each carriage is equipped with a climate control system and an on-board radio. For passengers of first class cars, there are displays for watching on-board television programs. These trains are equipped with amplifiers to ensure high-quality mobile communication.
Inter City Night trains run in Germany at night. They run between Hamburg and Munich, Berlin and Bonn, Berlin and Munich. Trains are equipped with 4 and 2-seater compartments, seating, restaurant and bar.
170 Inter City trains run between the economic and industrial centers of the country, which run every hour. Large and medium-sized German cities are linked by Inter Regio trains every two hours.
How to buy a ticket
Train timetables in Germany are available on specialized sites. Tickets can be ordered by phone or online. When ordering online, customers are given, first of all, budget and discount options. Railway tickets can be purchased at the station at the box office or at the ticket machine. Some passengers buy tickets from the conductor on board the train. But the fare increases by 10%.
