Discover stunning destinations in Germany by rail

Famous German rail trips, premium accommodations & self-guided tours

Experience Germany by rail on a luxurious and unforgettable adventure as you see majestic castles, lush vineyards, and snaking rivers from the comfort of your premium seat. Discover Germany’s rural villages, historic cities, and beautiful landscapes before retiring to your comfortable, top-rated accommodations at the end of each day. Travel in style through the German train stations on your route as you transition seamlessly between destinations, and start exploring the moment you arrive.

Our German rail routes

Germany Rail Routes

German rail travel and accommodation packages

Filter By

Historical christmas market of Vienna in front of the impressive castle
#WT-CODE 5816

European Christmas Market Tour

8 Day(s) 7 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Enjoy festive traditions with our European Christmas Market Tour through Zurich, Munich and Vienna by Rail Escape! Book your Xmas adventure now!

Explore
Christmas market with large tree and illuminated decorations at night in Augsburg
#WT-CODE 5818

German Christmas Market Tour

9 Day(s) 8 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Discover Germany´s Christmas traditions with our German Christmas Market Tour from Munich via Nuremburg to Cologne by Rail Escape.

Explore
Mountain lake with rocky shores under cloudy skies
#WT-CODE 4870

Scenary And Elegance: Swiss Train Tour

10 Day(s) 9 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Embark on a 10-day Swiss Train Tour from Munich to Milan. Experience breathtaking alpine vistas aboard iconic trains. Book your adventure today!

Explore
Facade of the German Bundestag with its glass dome
#WT-CODE 4906

Historic Heartland: Berlin to Budapest Tour

9 Day(s) 8 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Explore Europe’s cultural capitals on our 9-day Berlin to Budapest Tour. Enjoy immersive experiences. Book your adventure today!

Explore
Train passing along the Rhine River surrounded by scenic vineyards
#WT-CODE 4876

Rhine River Tour: Castles and Wine in Germany

12 Day(s) 11 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Discover castles and wine on our 9-day Rhine River Tour. Enjoy seamless rail travel through Germany’s enchanting landscapes. Book your adventure today!

Explore
Evening view of Prague's Charles Bridge over the Vltava River
#WT-CODE 4878

Eastern Gems: From Munich to Budapest

13 Day(s) 12 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Explore Eastern Gems on our 13-day rail tour from Munich to Budapest. Enjoy rich history, and vibrant cultures. Book your adventure today

Explore
People gather at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate during sunset
#WT-CODE 4890

Central Europe Tour: Berlin, Munich, Salzburg and Vienna

9 Day(s) 8 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Explore Central Europe on a 9-day rail tour. Discover iconic cities with ease and enjoy authentic cultural experiences. Book your Central Europe Tour today!

Explore
Berlin TV Tower at Alexanderplatz with station entrance
#WT-CODE 4896

Northern Highlights: Amsterdam, Hamburg, Berlin and Warsaw

9 Day(s) 8 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Discover Northern Highlights on a 9-day rail tour through Amsterdam, Hamburg, Berlin, and Warsaw. Reserve now your trip!

Explore
Siegestor or Victory Gate in Munich with detailed stone carvings and cloudy skies
#WT-CODE 4860

German History and Culture: Berlin to Munich

9 Day(s) 8 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Explore German history and culture on a 9-day rail tour from Berlin to Munich. Enjoy deep cultural and historical insights. Reserve now!

Explore
Aerial view of Neuschwanstein Castle in summer
#WT-CODE 4862

German Castle Tour on the Fairytale Road

10 Day(s) 9 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Explore Germany’s storybook castles on our 9-day German Castle Tour. Feel like centuries ago and book your enchanting journey today!

Explore
View of Hohensalzburg Fortress above gardens and trees on a cloudy day
#WT-CODE 4864

Alps Tour: Munich, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Zurich

9 Day(s) 8 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Embark on our 9-day Alps Tour from Munich to Zurich. Experience breathtaking alpine beauty and authentic culture with seamless rail travel. Book today!

Explore
Bright lights reflecting on the canal with arched bridges and buildings in Amsterdam
#WT-CODE 4866

Grand European Capitals Tour: Amsterdam to Paris

13 Day(s) 12 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Experience our Grand European Capitals Tour on a 13-day rail journey from Amsterdam to Paris. Enjoy seamless travel and iconic sights. Book your adventure now!

Explore
Boat cruising along the Grand Canal at sunset in Venice
#WT-CODE 4868

Art and Romance: Amsterdam to Rome and Venice

14 Day(s) 13 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Embark on a 14-day Art and Romance tour from Amsterdam to Rome and Venice. Enjoy iconic sights and unforgettable experiences. Reserve today!

Explore
Night view of Charles Bridge in Prague
#WT-CODE 4904

Eastern Europe Tour: Munich to Warsaw

9 Day(s) 8 Night(s)
No Size Limit

Discover the rich cultures on this Eastern Europe Tour. Enjoy hassle-free rail travel from Munich to Warsaw. Reserve your journey now!

Explore

Why did we select these destinations?

Our package destinations feature famous German rail trips that connect you with well-known and off-the-beaten-track attractions while experiencing authentic German culture and cuisine.

Hohenschwangau Castle perched on a hill with leafy trees and blue skies

Cultural highlights

Disembark in Germany’s most exciting cities and explore their many attractions, including historic landmarks, scenic nature reserves, WWII museums, gothic cathedrals, and medieval architecture. Ready for time out? Take a day trip to an enchanting countryside castle. 

Christmas market with red stalls in front of Cologne cathedral at night

Comfort and convenience

Our packages feature direct train routes with easy connections, allowing you to enjoy premier destinations without the hassle of airport queues, car hire, or long drives. With modern amenities, spacious seating, and reliable schedules, your journey is stress-free and comfortable.  

Scenic view of Heidelberg, surrounded by hills and the Neckar River

Picturesque routes

Traveling Germany by rail takes you through some of the most scenic train routes in Europe. From the vast northern plains to sheer cliffs along the Rhine River, and rolling hills throughout Bavaria, enjoy awe-inspiring landscapes from the comfort of your seat.  

Famous German rail trips

Experience the best of Germany’s landscapes and historic sites on these famous German rail routes. For astonishing views, marvels of railway engineering, and cultural attractions, book a ride on one of them by customizing your Rail Escape adventure:

Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle

Admire the undulating landscape and quaint villages on a trip through the dreamy Bavarian countryside from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle, perched among the staggering Bavarian Alps. Wake up to extraordinary views and an outdoor swimming pool when you stay at a hotel near the castle. Take this trip as part of our German Castle Rail Package, or customize your package for more fairytale routes.

Cologne to Mainz

The scenic route through the Rhine Valley towards Mainz passes dramatic cliffs, vineyard-covered hills, and ancient castles, making it one of Germany’s most popular. Enjoy the striking scenery from the left side of the train when traveling south. Stop in Koblenz for its scenery, charming old town, and historic fortress. For more information, browse our Rhine River Tour: Castles and Wine in Germany.

Konstanz to Offenburg

Travel from the shores of Lake Constance to Offenburg, where the Black Forest’s rolling hills and dense woodlands unfold in splendor. This picturesque rail line passes through Donaueschingen, source of the mighty Danube River, and over the Hornberg Viaduct, with beautiful views over the surrounding valleys.

Freiburg im Breisgau to Donaueschingen

Take a rail adventure through the Black Forest, a dramatic ride that traverses the vast Dreisam River valley, with panoramic vistas of valleys and villages, followed by an ascent from 900 to nearly 3,000 feet, with magnificent views 131 feet above Ravena Gorge.

Key features of German railways

Deutsche Bahn (DB), Germany’s national railway company, operates Europe’s largest network. Its high-speed trains make rail travel in Germany efficient and effortless.

Central stations link destinations at home and abroad

Major stations like Berlin, Munich, Cologne, and Frankfurt link Germany’s larger cities and serve as gateways to international destinations. They offer various amenities, including shopping malls and lounges.

High-speed trains for fast connections

Germany’s rail system features high-speed trains that shorten travel times between major cities and other destinations. The InterCity Express (ICE) travels at almost 200 miles (320 km) per hour.

regional train Germany

Regional trains for shorter distances

Germany’s regional trains service short and medium-distance routes. With either single or
double-storey carriages, some also have express services and premium seating.

How to navigate German train stations

German train stations are generally straightforward, but some are larger and more complex to navigate.

Follow these tips for a smooth, stress-free experience.

Check your departure station

Cities like Berlin and Munich often have multiple train depots. Check the location in advance and arrive between 15 and 30 minutes early, depending on the size of the station. Some stations have numerous levels and platforms, so allowing extra time is recommended.

Confirm your departure platform

Check the display in the concourse for departure platform details. The final destination displayed may differ from your journey’s end. Reconfirm by checking the train number and departure time on your electronic ticket. 

Find your carriage

The Rail Escape team books premium seating on all high-speed trains when you travel through Germany on our rail tours. You can identify 1st vs 2nd class on German trains by a ‘1’ or ‘2’ on the side of the carriage near the carriage numbers. 1st class carriages are at the front of the train.

Locate your seat

Rail Escape reserves seats with the best possible view. Once onboard, find your booked seat by checking the seat numbers displayed above each seat in your carriage.

Download the local German rail app

While not required for Rail Escape trips, the DB Navigator app includes features such as self-check-in, departure times, and platform details to keep track of schedules and stations en route. We also recommend checking the displays at each station to verify platform numbers and departure details before boarding. 

Why choose Rail Escape for your German adventure?

Germany’s vast rail system adds complexity to trip planning. Our experienced English-speaking team manages all train tickets and hotel bookings and recommends things to do and see to help you plan your leisure activities.

Expertly curated journeys

Experience the best of Germany with one of our exclusive travel packages for your next train trip across Europe. Our trips feature carefully chosen destinations, scenic routes, and superior accommodations. Packages include airport transfers for extra convenience.

Create a self-guided itinerary

There are no large groups or fixed activity schedules with Rail Escape rail tour packages. We manage your bookings for rail tickets and premium accommodations, allowing you to customize your dining and sightseeing experiences to suit your interests.

Worry-free luxury rail travel

We provide top-tier train tickets delivered electronically for your comfort and convenience. Our team supports you with your rail travel and accommodation arrangements, and we are available to assist you throughout your trip.

Upscale lodgings

We book your hotel stay in superior properties, generally in 4+ star luxury hotels. Breakfast is provided for your convenience and enjoyment.

German rail travel expertise

Our train travel experts provide local tips, insights and suggestions for each German rail route and destination in your Welcome Pack. We recommend unmissable attractions and suggest self-guided itineraries to help you design your outings.

Travel for all ages

Rail Escape rail and hotel packages cater to families with children of all ages, couples, adventure-seekers, seniors, and those who prefer traveling at a more leisurely pace.

Travel like the locals do

Trains are a popular mode of transport in Germany, taking you anywhere from bustling cities to the lush countryside. Travel Germany by rail and see the country the way locals do.

Responsible travel

Long-distance electric and select regional trains in Germany travel on 100% renewable power, giving environmentally conscious travelers a responsible transport option.

Adjustable packages

Interested in extending your trip? Rail Escape can modify your train travel and accommodation package to add extra nights and destinations to suit your preferences.

60,000 miles of experience

Our team’s in-depth knowledge of Germany’s rail systems and other top European train destinations allows us to create exceptional premium rail travel and hotel packages based on our personal experience.

Frequently asked questions about traveling Germany by rail

Browse popular questions and answers about our German rail adventures.

What’s the difference between 1st vs 2nd class on German trains?

When traveling with Rail Escape, we book 1st class seats on high-speed trains like ICE. 

The difference between 1st vs 2nd class on German trains is notable. 1st class is a luxe experience, with three seats per row, more legroom, unlimited WiFi, and DB lounge access. In 2nd class, seating is four per row with no at-seat meal service.

Most regional trains have 1st class carriages with quieter environments and more comfortable seats, but food and drink service is generally not offered.

Some German trains provide specialized carriages, including quiet zones, family areas, and spaces for passengers with disabilities. Long-distance trains offer open saloon seating or compartments. Our travel experts arrange seating in advance tailored to the needs of your group.

Children under six travel for free, and also between six and 14 when accompanied by an adult. This option is valid for rail travel within Germany only. Seniors discount is not offered on flexible fares in Germany. Our bookings are always for flexible fares, so Senior’s discount does not apply.

Most long-distance trains feature a bistro car for dining or take-away, with at-seat delivery available in premium class. Regional trains do not generally include a food service, but you can bring food and drink on board.

Absolutely! Lounge access is included with your travel package booked through Rail Escape, so you can relax in style and comfort while waiting for your train. Many central stations offer premium lounges with food and beverage service. Other stations have regular lounges with fewer services provided.

Travel Germany by rail: Choose Rail Escape for comfort and style

Experience exciting cities, fascinating history, and diverse and picturesque landscapes on one of our famous German rail trips. Travel in style to top destinations and relax in luxury accommodations. Rail Escape designs premium rail and hotel packages for your pleasure and comfort. Our dedicated team of experts meticulously handles booking details for you, freeing up your time to plan activities and dining at each stop. Choose your favorite German rail route and book your unforgettable adventure today! To speak with our team directly, contact our experienced rail travel specialists.

We use Zendesk Customer Management to enhance your user experience.