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Want to spend some time in the German capital and looking for more information on how to travel from Munich to Berlin by train? You’ve come to the right place!
Generally, the train journey from Munich to Berlin takes around 4 hours and 32 minutes, but can take just 3 hours and 37 minutes on the fastest Deutsche Bahn (DB) services. With around 26 direct trains each day, you don’t need to worry about changing along the journey.
When travelling on this route, you’ll board a high-speed DB ICE train at München HBF station and enjoy the onboard amenities, including quiet zones, family areas and seats for children. Then, you’ll head for the capital, reaching speeds in excess of 180mph before arriving at Berlin Südkreuz station, one of Berlin's 6 major train stations. Fancy treating yourself? Upgrade to First Class and take advantage of free newspapers, hot and cold drinks and unlimited WiFi.
Boasting excellent nightlife and unique architecture, Berlin is a fantastic place for a few days of exploration. Once you’ve stepped off the train, you can make your way to the city’s iconic landmarks. For more inspiration, check out our guide to the best of Berlin on a budget. We've even got a rundown of Berlin's boutique hotels where you can rest up after a busy day of sightseeing, as well as the best places in Berlin for currywurst. Perhaps you'll even want to explore further afield and plan a day trip from Berlin by train?
Eager to book? If you'd like flexibility check out our guide to the Eurail Pass in Germany. Or if you're looking for trains at certain times, start your search for cheap train tickets from Munich to Berlin today. Just head to our Journey Planner at the top of the page and we’ll highlight the cheapest fares. Looking for more information about the journey? Keep reading for our timetable, ticket prices and FAQs.
It takes an average of 5h 44m to travel from Munich to Berlin by train, over a distance of around 313 miles (504 km). There are normally 29 trains per day traveling from Munich to Berlin and tickets for this journey start from $20.43 when you book in advance.
First train | 3:56 am | |
---|---|---|
Last train | 10:52 pm | |
Departure station | Munich | |
Arrival station | Berlin | |
Journey time | From 4h 14m | |
Distance | 313 miles (504 km) | |
Frequency | 29 trains per day | |
Changes | Direct trains available | |
Price | From $20.43 | |
Train and bus operators |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Munich to Berlin by booking early.§
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.
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!
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.
The average journey time by train between Munich and Berlin is 5 hours and 44 minutes, with around 29 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.
The fastest journey time by train from Munich to Berlin is 4 hours and 14 minutes.
Train tickets from Munich to Berlin 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.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Munich to Berlin without having to change trains. There are 22 direct trains from Munich to Berlin each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
The first train from Munich to Berlin leaves at 03:56. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
The last train from Munich to Berlin leaves at 22:52. 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.
Trains travelling from Munich to Berlin cover a distance of around 313 miles (504 km) during the journey.
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Berlin to Munich.