What is IC train in Germany?

Usually abbreviated as IC, German Intercity trains are fast, long-distance services between major cities within Germany . Although IC trains reach speeds of up to 200km/h and are quicker than regional trains, ICs are generally not as sleek as the newer ICE trains.



In Germany, IC stands for InterCity, which represents the second-highest tier of long-distance service offered by Deutsche Bahn (DB), sitting just below the high-speed ICE (Intercity-Express). While the ICE is built for speeds up to 300 km/h on dedicated tracks, the IC typically operates at speeds of 160 to 200 km/h on conventional rail lines. IC trains usually consist of traditional locomotive-hauled carriages rather than the integrated "bullet train" sets of the ICE. In 2026, the IC network is essential for connecting medium-sized cities that lack high-speed infrastructure. A modern variant, the IC2, features double-decker coaches for increased capacity. While IC trains are slightly slower, they offer a high level of comfort, including first and second-class sections, power outlets, and often a "Bistro" car. They are frequently used by commuters and budget-conscious travelers, as IC tickets are generally cheaper than ICE fares, yet they still provide much faster and more direct service than the regional (RE/RB) trains that stop at every station.

People Also Ask

The ultra-modern InterCity Express provides two travel classes: ICE First Class and ICE Standard Class. Plus, all ICE carriages are equipped with power sockets at every seat, plenty of space for luggage, air conditioning, seats with tables, Wi-Fi, disabled facilities, a Children's play area, and a coffee bar.

MORE DETAILS

ICE trains are the flag-ship trains of Deutsche Bahn. They are the fastest (up to 300km/h) and most comfortable trains. There are international ICE services to most neighboring countries. IC trains are often older, slightly less comfortable long-distance trains.

MORE DETAILS

Where a trolley service is available, it is limited to hot and cold drinks and a range of snacks. Many Intercity trains have a bistro or buffet car that offers cold and hot snacks, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, usually with the option to sit down at a table. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car.

MORE DETAILS

ICE fares are fixed for station-to-station connections, on the grounds that the trains have a higher level of comfort. Travelling at speeds up to 320 km/h (200 mph), they are aimed at business travellers and long-distance commuters and marketed by Deutsche Bahn as an alternative to flights.

MORE DETAILS

Power sockets, WiFi & toilets IC trains are being fitted with WiFi, although not all cars have it yet. Every car has at least one toilet.

MORE DETAILS

The difference between an Intercity and an Intercity Direct train is that the Intercity Direct trains go directly to another city without stopping at any of the other cities it passes, however, you will have to pay an extra fee to make use of an Intercity Direct.

MORE DETAILS

Note: If you want to use an ICE train with your IC/EC ticket, you will need to buy an upgrade. The price of the upgrade is equal to the difference between the IC/EC fare and the ICE fare for the route of your ticket.

MORE DETAILS

Transrapid. Germany has developed the Transrapid, a maglev train system. The Transrapid reaches speeds up to 550 km/h (342 mph).

MORE DETAILS

Riding any train in Germany, including the ICE, requires a valid ticket or pass for the specific journey and class of service. Failure to have a valid ticket can result in penalties, such as fines or being asked to leave the train at the next station.

MORE DETAILS

ICE - InterCity Express - is the brand name for Deutsche Bahn's (German Railways) premier high-speed trains.

MORE DETAILS

Wifi is available on board all of our ICE trains, on some of our IC trains and on selected regional trains.

MORE DETAILS

Can you sit anywhere on a train? If the train company does not offer seat reservations on the train you are travelling on, the reservation ticket will specify the date and time of travel. In this case, you may sit in any available seat on the specified train, appropriate to the class of your ticket.

MORE DETAILS

On most ICE and some IC trains, reservation info appears on a small electronic display. All trains in Germany have toilets, and most intercity trains come with bistro and restaurant cars serving hot meals, snacks and beverages. There's no issue with bringing your own food and drink.

MORE DETAILS

Bringing Your Food Aboard You may bring your own food and beverages onboard for consumption at your seat or private Sleeping Car accommodations. However, you can only consume food and beverages purchased in Dining and Lounge Cars in those cars.

MORE DETAILS