【German Train Guide】Know German Train Guide clearly in One Article!

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German trains, also known as Deutsche Bahn (DB), are one of the largest railway operators in Europe. Their network spans the entire country and connects with many regions across Europe. For travelers planning to visit Germany, Germany trains are one of the most convenient and comfortable modes of transportation.

There are many types of German trains, mainly divided into the following categories:

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German train carriages are primarily divided into First Class (1 Klasse) and Standard Class (2 Klasse). The carriages are clearly marked with large numbers "1" and "2," so be sure not to board the wrong carriage, as you might be fined😥.

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The specific differences between train carriages vary slightly depending on the type of the train.

ICE (Intercity Express)

1st Class: Spacious and comfortable seats equipped with adjustable chairs, foldable tables, personal reading lights, and audio-visual systems. Meal service is provided directly to your seat.

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2nd Class: Seats are more compact but still feature adjustable chairs and foldable tables.

IC (Intercity)& EC (Eurocity)& RE (Regional Express)

1st Class: Offering more comfortable seating.

2nd Class: Standard seat configuration.

RB (Regional Bahn)

2nd Class: Standard seat configuration, with no first-class carriages available.

German trains generally offer dining services, but the specific offerings vary depending on the type of the train too.

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ICE (Intercity Express)

1st Class: Offering a comprehensive dining service delivered to your seat, including hot meals, beverages, and snacks. Passengers can order meals to be served at their seats for a more convenient dining experience.

2nd Class: Passengers need to order from the dining car (Bordbistro) or restaurant car (Bordrestaurant).

Mobile Dining Car: Providing options ranging from coffee and desserts to full meals.

Vending Machines: Offering beverages and small snacks.

💶 Payment Methods: Cash, EC card, mobile payment.

IC (Intercity)

1st Class: Providing higher quality dining service, including hot meals and beverages.

2nd Class: Offering basic dining services; passengers need to order from the dining car or restaurant car.

💶 Payment Methods: Cash, EC card.

RE (Regional Express)

Simple Dining Car: Offeing beverages and small snacks.

Vending Machines: Providing beverages and small snacks.

💶 Payment Methods: Chip card only, app scanning.

RB (Regional Bahn)

Typically does not offer dining car services; some trains may have vending machines.

Ticket Purchase Channels 🎫

Official Website: Log in to the Deutsche Bahn official website, select departure location, destination, departure time, and purchase tickets.

Mobile App: Download the Deutsche Bahn official app for convenient train schedule inquiries and ticket purchases on mobile devices.

Train Station Ticket Office: Purchase tickets at the manned ticket counters in train stations.

Ticket Machines: Use the ticket machines available in train stations to buy tickets.

Ticket Purchase Process 🎫

1.Open the Deutsche Bahn official website or log into the official app.

2.Enter departure location, destination, departure time, etc.

3.Select passenger information (e.g., age, discount card status).

4.Choose seat class (first class or second class).

5.Select stopovers (optional).

6.Filter train types.

7.After confirming train details, choose a payment method (e.g., credit card, PayPal) to complete the payment.

Ticket Collection Methods 🎫

E-ticket: After purchase, you will receive a PDF e-ticket that can be printed or saved on a mobile device to show to staff when boarding.

Mobile Ticket: After purchase, you will receive a PNG file with a QR code that can be shown directly on a mobile device.

Ticket On Departure (TOD): After purchase, you will receive a collection code to input at a ticket machine or ticket window at the train station to print the ticket.

Paper Ticket: For those opting for postal delivery, the ticket will be mailed to the specified address.

Refund Policies 🎫

Flexible Fare (Flexpreis): Can be canceled with a full refund up to the day before departure; a €19 fee applies for same-day cancellations.

Saver Fare (Sparpreis): Can be canceled up to the day before departure with a €19 fee.

Super Saver Fare (Super Sparpreis): Non-refundable and non-exchangeable.

Refund Process 🎫

Online Refunds: Log into the Deutsche Bahn website or app, go to "My Bookings" or "Search your Order" page, enter the order number and related information, and select to cancel the ticket.

Train Station Refunds: Bring the ticket and identification to the ticket window at the train station for a refund.

Mail Refunds: Fill out a refund application form and mail it along with the ticket to the specified address.

Important Notes 🎫

Thanks to Germany's extensive railway network, we can explore several major cities along the train routes, starting from Berlin and passing through Hamburg, Cologne, Frankfurt, and finally reaching Munich. Here are some must-visit spots in these cities~

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🚩 Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate is a neoclassical sandstone structure and one of Berlin's iconic landmarks. Built between 1788 and 1791, it has witnessed nearly three centuries of Berlin's historical changes, making it a must-see attraction.

🚩 Berlin Wall Memorial

The Berlin Wall was a Cold War barrier symbolizing the division between East and West Germany, aimed at preventing East Germans from fleeing to the West. Today, most of the Berlin Wall has been dismantled, with a small portion preserved as a tourist attraction. Visiting the Berlin Wall to experience its historical significance is highly recommended!

🚩 Miniatur Wunderland

This is one of Hamburg's most popular attractions, showcasing miniature versions of famous landmarks from various countries. The impressive display is a must-see, especially for model enthusiasts!

🚩 Port of Hamburg

Hamburg is Europe's second-largest port city, also known as the "Water City." The port is a must-visit, offering boat tours of container terminals or historic sailing ships to experience Hamburg's charm as a city on the water.

🚩 Cologne Cathedral

A Gothic cathedral and landmark of Cologne, it combines grandeur and intricacy, serving as a model of Gothic architecture. The cathedral is free to enter without reservation, making it Cologne's top attraction!

🚩 Hohenzollern Bridge

Just a five-minute walk from Cologne Cathedral, this "Lovers' Bridge" spans the Rhine River and is adorned with countless love locks. It's also a popular filming location for TV series, making it a must-visit for those who enjoy romantic atmospheres.

🚩 Römer City Hall(Franfurter Römer)

Located at Römer Square, Frankfurt Römer City Hall is one of the city's landmarks. Its unique gabled roof is attractive, and the surrounding traditional German buildings add to the charm, narrating Frankfurt's illustrious history.

🚩 Frankfurt Cathedral

Known as the Imperial Cathedral, this religious landmark has hosted the coronations of numerous emperors. Its solemn atmosphere and exquisite architecture make it one of Frankfurt's most representative buildings.

🚩 Allianz Arena

If we mention German football, everyone will think of one team: Bayern Munich. Allianz Arena is the home stadium of Bayern Munich, hosting various matches. Whether you're a football fan or not, stepping into Allianz Arena will let you experience the allure of German football.

🚩 Marienplatz

Considered the heart of Munich, Marienplatz is surrounded by diverse European architecture, classic puppet shows, and people enjoying coffee outside cafes, all contributing to the vibrant and charming atmosphere of Munich.