The Hamburg-Berlin route is one of Germany's busiest train connections. In under 2 hours, the ICE connects the two largest German cities - faster than driving and more convenient than flying.
Distance
286 km
Fastest
from 1:45 h
Connections
30+/day
Ticket
at low prices
CO₂ vs. Car
-84%
Connection Types
ICE Sprinter
- Fastest connection
- No intermediate stops
- Premium service
ICE
- Many connections
- Flexible stops
- Standard ICE
IC/EC
- Cheaper alternative
- More intermediate stops
- More relaxed
RE/IRE
- Regional trains
- Germany-Ticket valid
- Many stops
*RE/IRE can be used with Germany-Ticket (€58/month).
Stations in Hamburg and Berlin
H Hamburg
Main station - all trains
Trade fair, University access
Western districts
B Berlin
Main station - centrally located
Western entry point
Southern transfer, BER Airport
Tip: Berlin-Spandau is the first stop in Berlin and ideal if you're heading to the west of the city. You save 15-20 minutes compared to continuing to Berlin Hbf.
Best Travel Times
Occupancy varies significantly by time of day. Here's how to find the best train:
| Time | Occupancy | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00-8:00 | 🟡 Medium | Business travelers, Saver fares available |
| 8:00-10:00 | 🔴 Busy | Peak time, reserve early |
| 10:00-14:00 | 🟢 Quiet | Best time for relaxed travel |
| 14:00-17:00 | 🟡 Medium | Good balance of price and space |
| 17:00-20:00 | 🔴 Busy | Rush hour traffic, reserve! |
| 20:00-23:00 | 🟢 Quiet | Late trains often cheaper |
How to Save on This Route
Ticket Prices (2nd Class)
- Super Saver: at low prices
- Saver fare: affordable
- Flex fare: ~€80
- BahnCard 25: 25% off Flex fare
- BahnCard 50: 50% off Flex fare
1st Class Prices
- Super Saver: affordable
- Saver fare: affordable
- Flex fare: ~€130
- Benefits: More space, quieter
- At-seat service: Included
Book 2-3 weeks ahead
Most Super Saver fares are still available then. Booking too early rarely pays off.
Save up to 80%Travel Tuesday-Thursday
Monday, Friday and Sunday are the most expensive days. Mid-week is significantly cheaper.
Save up to 30%Choose off-peak times
Trains between 10:00-14:00 and after 20:00 are usually the cheapest and quietest.
Save up to 20%Consider BahnCard
BahnCard 25 costs €62.90/year. Worth it after just 4 one-way trips on this route.
25% on all faresBook round-trip together
Booking outbound and return at the same time often yields better Saver fare prices.
Better availabilitySkip seat reservation
Reservation costs €4.50 extra. Often not necessary during the week on this route.
Save €4.50Train vs. Car vs. Flight
| Transport | Travel Time | Price | CO₂ | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚄 ICE Train | 1:45-2:00 h | from €18 | ~8 kg CO₂ | Fastest, most comfortable option |
| 🚗 Car | 2:30-3:30 h | ~€50 (fuel) | ~50 kg CO₂ | Traffic risk on A24 |
| ✈️ Airplane | ~3:00 h* | from €80 | ~90 kg CO₂ | Slower with check-in, transfers |
| 🚌 Long-distance Bus | 3:00-4:00 h | from €10 | ~20 kg CO₂ | Cheap but slow |
*Flight including check-in, security and transfer. CO₂ per person/one way.
Tips for Your Journey
Seat Selection
- Window seat: View of the landscape
- Table seat: Ideal for working
- Quiet zone: No phone calls allowed
- Family area: Children welcome
On the Train
- WiFi: Free (WIFIonICE)
- Power outlets: At every seat
- Restaurant car: Coffee, snacks, meals
- DB Navigator: Live journey info
Arrival Tips
- Berlin-Spandau is first stop in Berlin
- Save 15-20 min if heading west
- Berlin Hbf: Best connections
- Südkreuz: BER Airport connection
Book Hamburg-Berlin Tickets
Saver fares at low prices - compare the best connections now.
More Popular Routes
Notice: All information is provided without guarantee. Schedules and availability may change at any time. For current and binding information, please visit the official provider websites. This website is not affiliated with Deutsche Bahn AG or other railway companies.
Last update: January 2025
Sources & More Information:
- Deutsche Bahn – Official Deutsche Bahn website
- DB Navigator – Official DB Navigator App
- DB Timetable – Timetables and prices from Deutsche Bahn