Train Types in Germany
All 13 Deutsche Bahn train types at a glance: Technical data, amenities, routes and travel tips.
ICE
Intercity-Express
Der ICE ist das Flaggschiff der Deutschen Bahn. Mit Geschwindigkeiten bis zu 330 km/h verbindet er die wichtigsten Städte Deutschlands.
View all ICE →
IC/EC
Intercity & EuroCity
Intercity und EuroCity verbinden große Städte in Deutschland und Europa mit Komfort und vielen Direktverbindungen.
View all IC/EC →
Regionalzüge
RE, RB & S-Bahn
Regionalzüge verbinden Städte und Gemeinden in der Region. Mit dem Deutschland-Ticket unbegrenzt nutzbar.
View all Regionalzüge →
Nachtzüge
Nightjet & EuroNight
Nachtzüge bringen Sie über Nacht ans Ziel. Schlafwagen, Liegewagen oder Sitzwagen - Sie haben die Wahl.
View all Nachtzüge →
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 |
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.