is Europe’s Nº 1 destination for train and bus tickets*
Official distributor
Search. Book. Travel.
Say hello to Your Account
All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.
Got a question? Our support team are on hand 24/7.
Search. Book. Travel.
No more fumbling in your pockets
Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.
All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.
Search. Book. Travel.
Looking for a cheap price?
Look no further. Compare tickets easily with our price calendar.
We’ll find you the cheapest day to travel.
Search. Book. Travel.
Say hello to Your Account
All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.
Got a question? Our support team are on hand 24/7.
Search. Book. Travel.
No more fumbling in your pockets
Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.
All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.
Search. Book. Travel.
Looking for a cheap price?
Look no further. Compare tickets easily with our price calendar.
We’ll find you the cheapest day to travel.
Search. Book. Travel.
Say hello to Your Account
All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.
Got a question? Our support team are on hand 24/7.
Search. Book. Travel.
No more fumbling in your pockets
Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.
All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.
Search. Book. Travel.
Looking for a cheap price?
Look no further. Compare tickets easily with our price calendar.
We’ll find you the cheapest day to travel.
What customers say about Trainline
Read real reviews from real users
Travel from Berlin to Munich by train in less than 4 hours
Thinking of spending some time in the Bavarian capital and want more information on taking the train from Berlin to Munich? Look no further!
If you can't wait to explore Germany’s third-largest city, you can get from Berlin to Munich in just 3 hours and 50 minutes on the fastest Deutsche Bahn services. As there are direct services available, you don’t need to worry about changing along the way either. You'll arrive at Munich Hbf.
Whether you’re traveling for Oktoberfest or just for a city break, there are plenty of things to see and do in Munich. If you’re not sure where to start, check out our guide to the best things to do in Munich, including visiting Theresienwiese and Marienplatz.
Every year, tourists from all over the world flock to Munich and Germany to eat, drink and be merry at Oktoberfest. If you’d like to find out more information, take a look at our comprehensive guide to Oktoberfest. Or read our guide if you want to find out more about where you can find the best German beer.
Ready to get going? Book cheap train tickets from Berlin to Munich in our Journey Planner today. Need more information first? Continue reading for information on:
- Today’s train times
- Train companies operating on this route
- Classes on board trains from Berlin to Munich
- Services on board trains from Berlin to Munich
- Getting from the airport to Berlin city center
- How to get to Berlin Central station
- Arriving in Munich
- Using public transport in Munich
- What to do in Munich
- Things to see and do in Germany
- Explore Europe with Eurail
- Traveling to the airport from Munich city center
Berlin to Munich by train
It takes an average of 5h 36m to travel from Berlin to Munich by train, over a distance of around 313 miles (504 km). There are normally 27 trains per day traveling from Berlin to Munich and tickets for this journey start from $20.43 when you book in advance.
| First train | 5:11 am | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 11:14 pm | |
| Departure station | Berlin | |
| Arrival station | Munich | |
| Journey time | From 4h 22m | |
| Distance | 313 miles (504 km) | |
| Frequency | 27 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From $20.43 | |
| Train and bus operators |
Deutsche Bahn and ICE (Intercity Express) trains from Berlin to Munich
Deutsche Bahn
ICE (Intercity Express)
The Deutsche Bahn Group is owned by the German State and controls the majority of rail traffic in Germany as well as in many border regions of the country. Every year, Deutsche Bahn transports several million passengers and many stations in Germany are served exclusively by DB trains, including the ICE, IC and EC fleet.
More information
The high-speed train of Deutsche Bahn, with a maximum speed of 205 mph (330 km/h), the ICE connects major cities and is also used for international travel to neighbouring countries such as Austria, France and Denmark. This train is equipped with air conditioning, a dining car, a children's compartment and power sockets. Passengers enjoy a free WiFi connection throughout the duration of the ICE trip.
More information
Intercity Express (ICE) classes from Berlin to Munich
Compare the different travel classes offered by Intercity Express (ICE) when traveling from Berlin to Munich.
Second Class
If you're traveling in ICE's Second Class, you'll get to enjoy free WiFi and a bistrò carriage where you can buy snacks and drinks.
- Power outlets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Entertainment pass
- Dining car
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- In-seat meal service
- Fast track access
- Quiet area
First Class
In addition to all the perks available in Second Class, you'll get more legroom, an in-seat meal service, Fast Track in some stations and free access to DB lounges.
- Power outlets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Entertainment pass
- Dining car
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- In-seat meal service
- Fast track access
- Quiet area
Onboard services on Intercity Express (ICE)
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Berlin to Munich.
You can take as much baggage as you like for free without making a reservation.
Baggage items include briefcases, laptops, rucksacks, trolley bags or suitcases. You can also take pushchairs, folding bikes, scooters, skis and surfboards.
Baggage should be stored under the seat or in the overhead baggage rack. The standard dimensions of baggage racks are 70 x 50 x 30 cm (27.5 x 19.6 x 11.8 inches). Larger items of baggage such as suitcases can be stored in the large baggage racks by the doors.
When traveling with ICE, you can enjoy an extensive menu in the on-board restaurant, or you can grab a snack from the bistro carriage. If you choose the latter, you can enjoy your food and drink in the bistro or take it back to your seat.
Upgrade to First Class and you will be served complimentary food and drink at your seat.
DB change their menu every three months, but you will always find a wide variety of locally sourced food and drink, including a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
If you’re traveling on an ICE train, you can connect to the free WiFi and catch up on some work or your favorite TV show.
You can also connect to the ICE portal, where you’ll find a wide range of entertainment, such as films, television, audiobooks, games, newspapers and magazines.
On DB’s ICE trains, kids under 5 years old travel for free and don’t need a ticket. Children up to 14 years old travel for free if they are accompanied by a person who is at least 15 years old.
You can also book family areas and children compartments on all ICE trains.
With ICE, you need a bicycle ticket and reservation to take a bicycle onboard. The reservation for your bike is included in the price.
Generally, bike storage spaces are located in second class carriages. Please note that your seat and bike storage space might be located in different carriages.
You can travel with your pet on all ICE trains. You do not need an extra ticket If you have a small dog and they can travel in a transport box. If your dog or pet is bigger than the size of a house cat, you will need an additional ticket, which costs 50% less than a standard ticket. Dogs not traveling in a transport box must be on a lead and wear a muzzle.
Assistance dogs travel free of charge and do not have to wear a muzzle on the train.
DB’s Mobility Service can assist you with boarding, disembarking or changing trains. Also, staff are happy to answer any questions or assist with any queries to make your journey easier.
Cheap train tickets from Berlin to Munich
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Berlin to Munich by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
Traveling from the airport to central Berlin
If you’re starting your European trip flying into Germany’s capital, you’ll be flying into Berlin Brandenburg Airport. You’ll need to travel from the airport to the city center – find out more about your travel options below.
Berlin has one major airport: Berlin Brandenburg Airport. This is located around 11 miles away from the city center, so you’ll need to get a transfer to your accommodation. Luckily, there are plenty of public transport options available:
Getting from the airport to the city center by train
Getting from the airport to the city center by bus
Other options
How to get to Berlin Central station from central Berlin
Berlin Central station (Berlin Hauptbahnhof in German) is Berlin’s main train station. This is where your journey from Berlin to Munich will start. Need to know how to get here? We’ve got you.
If you’re looking to use public transport to get to Berlin Hauptbahnhof, there are a number of options:
- S-Bahn: Local trains S3, S5, S7 and S9 serve Berlin’s main train station.
- U-Bahn: The subway line U5 terminates at Berlin Central station.
- Trams: Lines M2, M5, M8 and M10 stop at Berlin Hauptbahnhof.
- Buses: Buses 120, 123, 142, 147, M41, M85, N5, N20 and N40 stop at Berlin Central station. ‘N’ indicates a night bus service that runs through the night.
Everything you need to know about Berlin Central station
What’s available at Berlin Hauptbahnhof?
At Berlin’s central station, you’ll find a range of amenities in case you need to pick something up before you travel, including:
- Cafés such as Costa Coffee, Starbucks and Dunkin’
- Food outlets such as bakeries and fast food restaurants
- Tourist information center
- Clothing stores
- Pharmacies.
There’s free WiFi available at the station. There’s also a left baggage locker service, so if your train is later in the day and you want to see a little more of Berlin before you catch your train, you can leave your bags locked away at the station.
Arriving at Munich Central station
Munich Central station (or München Hauptbahnhof, as you’ll see it written in German), is the city’s main train station. This is where you’ll arrive at the end of your journey from Berlin to Munich.
From Munich’s central station, you’re a stone’s throw from the city center, so it’s easy to get out and about straight away. There are left baggage lockers available in the station – perfect if your hotel check-in time is a little later and you want to start exploring as soon as you can!
If you’re feeling peckish and want to grab something quick before you head out into the city, there are plenty of shops here too, including Starbucks, Dunkin’ and McDonalds.
Using public transport in Munich
Munich is served by many forms of public transport:
- S-Bahn: These commuter trains run across the city from east to west and can be useful for getting about while in Munich.
- U-Bahn: The U-Bahn is an underground metro system which can take you to key places in Munich, such as Theresienwiese.
- Trams: To begin exploring, why not hop on a tram? They stop at Munich’s central station and can take you across the city.
- On foot: One of the best ways to get to know a European city has to be by walking through it – why not check out the Old Town, which is a 15-minute walk from the train station?
What to do in Munich
Searching for inspiration about must-see attractions in Munich? Look no further!
Stuck for ideas of what to do in Munich? We’ve rounded up some of the places we think you should check out – all accessible by public transport or on foot!
- Marienplatz: This is the largest public square in Munich, and it’s a hub of activity day and night. If you’re looking to sit back and grab a beer, or marvel at the city’s architecture, Marienplatz is the place to be.
- Englischer Garter (English Garden): This huge park in Munich’s city center is perfect for a leisurely lunchtime stroll. Admire the park’s many international buildings, including the Japanese Teahouse and the Chinese Tower.
- Viktualienmarkt: This permanent open-air market, open Monday to Saturday, is a foodie’s dream. Grab a bite to eat as you take a break from seeing the sights – if you get lost amongst the market’s many stalls, you can always agree to meet at its famous Maypole!
Things to see and do in Germany
If you’re looking to see more of Munich or travel across Germany, take a look at some of our suggestions here:
Explore Europe by train with a Eurail pass
After visiting Munich, why not continue exploring Europe by train? With a Eurail Pass, you can travel across 33 European countries as much as you want on participating European train networks for a set amount of travel days. Check out our guide to the Eurail Pass in Germany for more info.
You can use a Eurail Pass if you’re not a European citizen or resident. If you're a European citizen or a non-European who is an official legal resident of a European country, you can use an Interrail Pass instead.
Traveling to the airport from Munich city center
If Munich is the last stop on your European trip, then you’ll need to get to the airport to catch your flight home to the States. Find out how to get there by public transport here.
Munich has one airport: Munich Franz Josef Strauss Airport (often referred to as simply Munich Airport). You may also see it written as ‘Muenchen Airport’ or ‘München Airport’ - these are all the same place. It’s Germany’s second-busiest airport and is around 18 miles outside of Munich city center, so you’ll need to get a transfer there before you catch your flight.
Read more about trains to and from Munich Airport.
Getting to the airport from the city center by train
Getting to the airport from the city center by bus
FAQs for Berlin to Munich
Want to know more about your journey from Berlin to Munich? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How long does the train from Berlin to Munich take?
The average journey time by train between Berlin and Munich is 5 hours and 36 minutes, with around 27 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between Berlin and Munich by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Berlin to Munich is 4 hours and 22 minutes.
How much does the train from Berlin to Munich cost?
Train tickets from Berlin to Munich can start from as little as $20.43 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
Is there a direct train from Berlin to Munich?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Berlin to Munich without having to change trains. There are 21 direct trains from Berlin to Munich each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Berlin to Munich leave?
The first train from Berlin to Munich leaves at 05:11. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Berlin to Munich leave?
The last train from Berlin to Munich leaves at 23:14. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Berlin and Munich by train?
Trains travelling from Berlin to Munich cover a distance of around 313 miles (504 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Munich to Berlin.
* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.