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ICE In brief
ICE stands for Inter City Express – the high speed passenger trains operated by Deutsche Bahn, (DB) the Germany state railway company. The ultra-modern ICE trains are amongst the most technologically advanced and comfortable trains in Europe. They travel at up to 300 km ph.
ICE trains offer International connections include Switzerland, Austria and the Netherlands. Within Germany, frequent ICE trains connect Germany’s major cities, such as Cologne, Hanover, Berlin, Munich and Stuttgart.
ICE trains offer not only high speed train comfort, some also use tilting technology to maintain speed on bends. On these trains, you’ll find a viewing gallery behind the driver’s compartment, meaning you can experience every twist and turn with a bird’s eye view.
The ICE Network
Within Germany, ICE trains connect 32 major cities. Example travel times are given below:
| Journey | Travel time |
|---|---|
| Zurich – Stuttgart | 2h 42 |
| Frankfurt – Munich | 3h 10 |
| Frankfurt – Hamburg | 3h 36 |
| Cologne – Berlin | 4h 16 |
In addition, ICE trains connect Germany with France, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium and the Netherlands, amongst others.
Our Tips
Whilst onboard ICE train, it’s possible to pre-book porters or taxis to meet you on arrival.


Before you board
The Stations
ICE trains First Class ticket holders can use the DB lounges in Berlin, Hamburg and Munich, where they will enjoy newspapers and magazines, free drinks and internet access.
Check-in & Boarding
Tickets can be pre-booked up to 90 days in advance.
There is no check-in aboard ICE trains; if you’re travelling to an international destination, your ticket and passport will be checked once onboard.
Onboard
| 1st Class | 2nd Class | |
|---|---|---|
| Access to DB lounges in Berlin, Hamburg and Munich | √ | |
| Larger seats with more legroom | √ | |
| In-seat video screens, integral audio system | √ | |
| Power sockets at your seat | √ | |
| Drinks and meals served at your seat upon request | √ | |
| Reserved quiet zones | √ | |
| Comfortable seats | √ | |
| Access to the self-service bistro and traditional restaurant | √ | |
| Snacks and drinks available at your seat | √ |
Your experience on board ICE train is designed to be as straightforward as possible. All announcements are made in German and English.
It’s easy to keep track of the ICE train’s progress. Next to the carriage door you’ll see a display showing the train number, its destination, calling points and carriage number.
Information displays inside each carriage also show the ICE train’s destination, carriage number, calling points, the next station stop and the train’s speed.
All carriages are air-conditioned and non-smoking.
Your Rail Europe ticket includes a seat reservation in ICE train for your peace of mind.
For a small deposit (returnable on departure), your luggage can be locked away.
If you’re travelling with children aboard ICE trains, make the most of the small play area in the dedicated Parent & Child compartment. There are also dedicated changing facilities for younger children.
Disabled travellers should request a seat in one of the two specially adapted Standard Class carriages on each ICE train. Extra wide sliding doors, wheelchair spaces and seats for companions, as well as disabled toilets, make your trip easier.
Highlights on
See train travel from an entirely new point of view!
Aboard the latest generation of ICE trains (ICE 3, ICE T and ICE TD) you will benefit from a panoramic lounge at the end of the train: discover the countryside from another perspective and in style and comfort. ICE high-speed trains will help you have a completely different travel experience!
Music, video and news
Whether you are in 1st or 2nd class, the ICE trains offer an audio connection integrated into the seats. You can choose between three radio stations, the children’s channel and ICE musical programmes. Upgrade to 1st class! Some first class coaches aboard ICE trains feature individual video screens at your seat.
Eat at anytime of the day, you are on holidays!
Aboard all ICE trains you will find a Bordbistro and/or Bordrestaurant. For breakfast, lunch or dinner, the Bordrestaurant gives you the choice between different set menus or “à la carte” main dishes, consisting of German and European specialities. The Bordbistro serves snacks and a wide selection of beverages to be consumed at your seat or in the Bordbistro. In ICE trains 1st class coaches you can benefit from an “at your seat” service for a selection of beverages and meals from the menus.

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