What is the difference between EC and ICE trains in Germany?

Faster than regional trains, IC and EC trains connect major cities, reaching speeds of 200 km/h. Both Intercity and Eurocity trains run frequently, either every hour or two hours depending on the destination. Intercity trains run exclusively in Germany, while Eurocity trains reach neighbouring European countries.



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The ICE (InterCity Express) is a high-speed train that connects all major cities in Germany. With speeds up to 300km/h, this is one of the fastest ways to travel between cities such as Berlin, Hamburg and Cologne.

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The types of train service: (2) IC trains – long distance express trains that tend to be slower than ICE trains because they rarely use the high speed lines.

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Reservation is compulsory on the ICE trains to and from Paris, and tickets on the Paris route always come with the necessary seat reservation included, free of charge. On other ICE routes seat reservation is usually optional with a small extra charge of around €4.90 if you want one.

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Each passenger may take the following luggage on board: two items of regular luggage such as a suitcase, rucksack, travel bag or trolley with maximum dimensions of 85 x 85 x 85 cm and one item of hand luggage, or: one item of oversized luggage, one item of regular luggage and one item of hand luggage.

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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.

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EC stands for Executive Chair Car and CC stands for Chair Car. Both EC and CC are train classes that have air conditioning and offer seats for passengers to sit.

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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.

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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.

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