Train Types in Germany
All 18 Deutsche Bahn train types at a glance: Technical data, amenities, routes and travel tips.
ICE
Intercity-Express
The ICE is Deutsche Bahn's flagship train. At speeds up to 330 km/h it connects the major cities of Germany and crosses into France, Belgium, Switzerland and Austria.
View all ICE →
IC/EC
Intercity & EuroCity
Intercity and EuroCity connect large cities in Germany and across Europe with comfortable through-trains and many direct connections.
View all IC/EC →
Regional trains
RE, RB & S-Bahn
Regional trains connect cities and towns within a region. Included in the Deutschland-Ticket for unlimited travel.
View all Regional trains →
Night trains
Nightjet & EuroNight
Night trains take you to your destination overnight. Choose between sleeper cars, couchette cars or seated coaches.
View all Night trains →
International trains
International long-distance & high-speed
International trains connect Germany with its European neighbours. High-speed and long-distance trains from Spain, Portugal and beyond.
View all International trains →
All Train Types at a Glance
| Train Type | Series |
|---|---|
| ICE 4 | 412 |
| ICE 3 | 403/406/407 |
| ICE T | 411/415 |
| ICE 1 | 401 |
| ICE 2 | 402 |
| Intercity 2 | 4110 |
| Intercity (klassisch) | Diverse Wagen |
| EuroCity | Diverse |
| Regional-Express (RE) | Diverse |
| Regionalbahn (RB) | Diverse |
| S-Bahn | Diverse |
| Nightjet | Diverse |
| EuroNight | Diverse |
| AVE | S-103 / S-100 / S-112 |
| Alvia | S-130 / S-730 |
| Talgo | S-102 / S-112 / diverse |
| Alfa Pendular | Série 4000 |
| Intercidades | Série 2240 / Série 592 |
Deutsche Bahn Train Types
Deutsche Bahn operates a diverse train system with different train types for every need. From the high-speed ICE at up to 330 km/h to comfortable Intercity trains to regional and night trains – here you'll find all information about amenities, comfort and the best routes.
ICE – The High-Speed Train
The Intercity-Express (ICE) is Deutsche Bahn's flagship. At speeds up to 330 km/h, it connects Germany's most important cities. Different series like ICE 1, ICE 3 or ICE 4 offer varying amenities and speeds.
IC & EC – Classic Long-Distance
Intercity and EuroCity trains offer comfortable long-distance connections, often international. They're a good alternative to the ICE, often at lower prices with good amenities.
Regional Trains – Travel with the Deutschland-Ticket
Regional Express (RE), Regional Train (RB) and S-Bahn form the backbone of local transport. With the Deutschland-Ticket, you can use all regional trains without limits.
Night Trains – Overnight to Your Destination
Nightjet and EuroNight take you environmentally-friendly overnight to your destination. With sleeping, couchette or seat cars, you save time and hotel costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between ICE and IC?
The ICE (Intercity-Express) is the fastest train at up to 330 km/h with modern amenities like WiFi and power outlets at every seat. The IC (Intercity) runs at up to 200 km/h and offers classic comfort. ICE journeys are usually more expensive but faster.
Which trains can I use with the Deutschland-Ticket?
With the Deutschland-Ticket, you can use all regional trains: RE (Regional-Express), RB (Regional Train) and S-Bahn. ICE, IC and EC are not included in the Deutschland-Ticket and require a separate ticket.
Which ICE is the fastest?
The ICE 3 (Series 403/406/407) is the fastest ICE at 330 km/h top speed. It's mainly used on the high-speed line Cologne-Frankfurt, where it actually reaches this speed.
What's the difference between sleeping and couchette cars?
The sleeping car offers real beds in private compartments (1-3 beds), often with ensuite bathroom/WC. In the couchette car, you share a compartment with 4-6 beds (bunk beds). The seat car is the cheapest option with regular seats.
