When you see a white ICE (Intercity Express) train pull into the station, it looks like the future.
Sleek, silent, and incredibly fast (up to 320 km/h), the ICE is the pride of Deutsche Bahn (DB). It connects all major German cities (Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg) and neighboring countries.
For comfort, it is arguably the best train in Europe. For punctuality… well, that’s another story.
Here is the honest truth about traveling by ICE in Germany.
The Comfort (Why We Love It)
Inside, the ICE feels more like a business jet than a train.
- Space: Even in 2nd Class, the legroom is excellent.
- Dining: The Bordrestaurant is legendary. It’s a proper sit-down restaurant with real plates, beer on tap (Bitburger or Erdinger), and hot meals (try the Chili con Carne or Currywurst).
- Quiet Zones: Look for carriages marked with a “Silence” symbol (Ruhebereich). Germans take this seriously. No phone calls allowed.
- Views: In the ICE 3 model, there is a glass wall behind the driver’s cabin. You can actually see out the front window at 300 km/h!
1st Class vs. 2nd Class
- 2nd Class: Perfect for 90% of travelers. Free Wi-Fi (can be spotty).
- 1st Class: Wider leather seats, seat reservation included, and waiters will take your food order at your seat.
- Tip: Sometimes 1st Class “Saver Fares” are only €10 more than 2nd Class. Always check!
The Punctuality Problem (The Truth)
Germany has a reputation for efficiency, but do not trust tight connections.
Due to massive construction works, ICE trains are frequently delayed by 10-20 minutes.
- Golden Rule: If you have to switch trains, leave at least 30-45 minutes buffer time. Do not book a 6-minute connection in Frankfurt or Cologne. You will miss it.
Top Scenic Route: Cologne to Frankfurt
Most high-speed lines are boring (tunnels). But the line between Cologne (Köln) and Frankfurt Airport is a rollercoaster. It runs parallel to the Autobahn and blasts through hills at top speed. It’s thrilling.
Summary
The ICE is a masterpiece of comfort. Grab a wheat beer in the bistro, find a seat in the Quiet Zone, and enjoy the ride across Germany. Just don’t be surprised if you arrive 15 minutes late.
Ready to ride? Book directly on Trainline or the DB Navigator app.
