Comparison

Train vs. Plane: Which Transport Mode is Worth It?

Compare train and plane for German routes: prices, time, CO2 emissions, comfort, and when each mode makes sense.

On German routes, you face the choice: ICE or Plane? Both transport modes have their pros and cons. We'll show you when each option makes sense.

ICE Train

  • Cheaper (Saver fares at low prices)
  • 5-10x more environmentally friendly
  • More comfort (WiFi, power outlets)
  • Longer on routes over 600 km

Plane

  • Faster on long routes
  • Often cheaper last-minute
  • More expensive (often €100-300)
  • 5-10x more CO2 emissions

Detailed Comparison

Criterion ICE Plane
Price (booked early) Cheap (at low prices Saver) More expensive (often €100-300)
Price (last-minute) More expensive (Flex fare €50-150) Often cheaper (€50-150)
Travel time (incl. check-in/transfer) 3-6 hours (direct) 4-8 hours (with check-in)
CO2 emissions 30-50g CO2/km 200-300g CO2/km
Comfort More legroom, WiFi, power outlets Tight seats, limited luggage
Flexibility Flex fare: any train, rebookable Often cancellable, but expensive
Luggage Generous (suitcases, bicycle possible) Limited (extra charge for extra luggage)
Availability Daily, including weekends Limited, fewer connections

Example Routes: ICE vs. Plane

Route ICE Plane
Berlin → Munich
4h 15min
at low prices
5-6h (with check-in)
expensive
Hamburg → Frankfurt
4h
at low prices
4-5h (with check-in)
expensive
Cologne → Berlin
4h 20min
at low prices
4-5h (with check-in)
expensive
Munich → Hamburg
6h 30min
at low prices
5-6h (with check-in)
expensive

When to Choose Which?

Choose ICE when...

  • You can book early (Saver fares)
  • The route is under 500 km
  • You value sustainability
  • You need flexibility
  • You have a lot of luggage

Choose Plane when...

  • The route is over 800 km
  • Time is the most important factor
  • You're traveling last-minute
  • You have little luggage
  • You don't need flexibility

Environmental Impact: ICE is Clearly Better

30-50g CO2/km
ICE (Germany)
200-300g CO2/km
Plane (short-haul)

The train is 5-10x more environmentally friendly than the plane. On a trip from Berlin to Munich (504 km), you save about 100-150 kg CO2 per person by taking the ICE.

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: December 2025

Sources & More Information:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the train cheaper than flying?

On German routes, the train is often cheaper, especially when booked early. Saver fares at low prices are significantly cheaper than flight tickets. For last-minute travel, flights can sometimes be cheaper.

Is the train faster than the plane?

On routes under 500 km, the train is often faster since no check-in time and airport transfer are needed. On longer routes (over 600 km), the plane is usually faster.

Which transport mode is more environmentally friendly?

The train is significantly more environmentally friendly: ICE emits about 30-50g CO2 per person/km, while planes emit 200-300g CO2 per person/km. The train is thus 5-10x more climate-friendly.

When is the train worthwhile?

The train is especially worthwhile on routes under 500 km, when booking early (Saver fares), when you need flexibility, and when you value comfort and sustainability.

When is flying worthwhile?

Flying is worthwhile on very long routes (over 800 km), when time is the most important criterion, and for last-minute travel when train tickets are expensive.

Are there direct ICE connections?

Yes, many major German cities have direct ICE connections. Examples: Berlin-Munich (4h), Hamburg-Frankfurt (4h), Cologne-Berlin (4h).

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