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Is Germany known for trains?

German trains are clean, comfortable, reliable and fast. Between the downtown areas of most German cities the travel time by train is as fast or faster than the travel time by plane, when you calculate in the time it takes to get to and from the airport.



Germany is world-renowned for its extensive, efficient, and technologically advanced railway system, which serves as the literal and metaphorical backbone of the country's infrastructure. The national railway company, Deutsche Bahn (DB), operates a massive network that includes the iconic ICE (Intercity-Express) high-speed trains, which can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph). Germany is famous for the "Taktfahrplan," a coordinated clock-face schedule where trains arrive and depart at regular, predictable intervals, making transfers between long-distance and local S-Bahn trains remarkably seamless. Culturally, the train is the preferred mode of transport for millions of Germans, perceived as a more sustainable and relaxing alternative to the Autobahn. While the system has faced some criticism in recent years regarding punctuality and infrastructure aging, it remains a global gold standard for engineering and connectivity. From the ultra-modern Berlin Hauptbahnhof to the scenic "Black Forest Railway," Germany's commitment to rail travel is evident in its continuous investment in new tunnels, bridges, and hydrogen-powered regional trains for a greener future.

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Monthly travel cards usually cost around €80 to €90. High-speed trains between major cities can be pricey, for example a Berlin to Munich train, especially if you book on the day or travel early in the morning. However, advance off-peak tickets can be purchased for as little as €20 between two major cities.

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InterCity Express (ICE) trains are the most popular trains in Germany and connect major cities. They travel at top speeds of up to 200 mph (320 kph).

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Deutsche Bahn (DB), in partnership with Siemens Mobility, has developed the world's first fully automated driverless train in Germany.

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The offer aimed at reducing energy use amid the 2021–2022 global energy crisis. Another aim was to ease the cost of living crisis. The 9-euro ticket was valid in the second class, throughout Germany for all local public transport and on regional trains.

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Last year, a third of all long-distance trains operated by Germany's national railway company Deutsche Bahn ran late, the worst showing in 10 years, deepening an existential crisis in a country where failing to show up on time is verboten.

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Tardiness is not the only problem. The company has been consistently posting losses in recent years and is currently more than €30 billion ($32.6 billion) in debt. Passengers routinely complain of overcrowded trains and expensive tickets.

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Luxury wherever your eyes can see, dashing and beautiful landscapes. Everything that means the Orient Express.

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