Frankfurt am Main to Berlin train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RB,RE)

Frankfurt to Berlin on Germany’s ICE High-Speed Train

Introduction

Getting across Germany is really easy, thanks to its expansive ICE high-speed train network. Traveling from Frankfurt, the country’s financial hub, to Berlin, the vibrant capital, is both quick and comfortable, with frequent ICE departures throughout the day. In this article, I’ll share my experience onboard the newer ICE 4 model, taking the scenic southern route to Berlin in about 4 hours

Route Overview

There are two main train routes between Frankfurt and Berlin:

• Northern route via Hanover
• Southern route via Erfurt

Both take around 4 hours and 10 minutes and offer scenic views, passing over viaducts and speeding through tunnels. You don’t need to worry too much about which route to choose, as they are equally interesting!

Transportation Experience

Catching a train in Germany is simple. With convenient e-ticketing available via travel platforms like Omio, you can just go to the station and hop on board. Deutsche Bahn (DB) handles the journey smoothly with modern ICE trains.  

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Most trains to Berlin depart from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, the city’s main station, which features a range of shops and food outlets inside its impressive historic hall.

Some services to Berlin only stop at Frankfurt Süd or Frankfurt Airport, reachable by a quick S-Bahn ride. Always double-check your departure station.

In Berlin, all ICE trains stop at Berlin Hauptbahnhof, which is centrally located near main landmarks like the Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate.  

Trains taking the southern route generally stop at Berlin Südkreuz, Gesundbrunnen, and sometimes Spandau. Those using the northern route usually stop at Spandau first, then continue along the elevated Stadtbahn through the heart of the city. Before arriving at Ostbahnhof, you’ll see many excellent views of several Berlin landmarks.  

Schedule & Frequency

There’s at least one direct train per hour between Frankfurt and Berlin, alternating between the two routes. Some services branded ICE Sprinter skip many intermediate stops and are slightly faster.

Onboard Experience & Services

I took a midday service operated by a modern ICE4 train. I departed Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof at 12:18, heading via Erfurt and Leipzig on the southern route. The journey was scheduled for 4 hours and 18 minutes.

The ICE 4 features:

• Power outlets at every seat  
• Free Wi-Fi  (very spotty)
• A dining car offering hot meals, snacks, and a large selection of beverages.  
• In First Class, you can order food to your seat via QR code or staff service.

There are loads of space for luggage throughout the train and no limits, so you can generally bring as much as you are able to carry yourself.

I highly recommend trying the currywurst with fries, perhaps pairing it with a cold drink. I think it's very delicious!

You may also encounter the ICE 3neo, as well as older ICE 1 and 2 trains on this route. All offer similar amenities and comfort, but the ICE 3neo and ICE 4 are the only ones with dedicated bike space.

The most scenic stretch on the southern route is between Fulda and Erfurt, where the train passes through an area with small hills and cute towns on conventional tracks at a calm pace. This is quite the contrast from the 250+ km/h high-speed line the train joins after Erfurt.

Unfortunately, on my trip, track works delayed us by 30 minutes in Leipzig, resulting in a 25-minute late arrival in Berlin. Delays like this are not uncommon on ICE services, so build in a time buffer.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

Fares are dynamic, so book your train tickets early on Omio for the best deals.    Sample starting prices:

• Second Class: from €17.99  
• First Class: from €23.99

Sometimes, the price difference is as little as €5-€10, making First Class a great deal.

Here’s what I paid:

• First Class ticket: €39.99  
• Currywurst and fries: €10.90  
• Beer: €5.20  
• Total: €56.09

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

• Check your departure station in Frankfurt — some trains leave from the airport or Süd.
• If you're bringing a bike — look for ICE 4 or ICE 3neo services on the DB website. 
• If you get hungry — visit the bistro or order from your First Class seat.
• Compare class prices — upgrading to First Class can be cheap! 

Conclusion

No matter which ICE train you choose from Frankfurt to Berlin, you’re guaranteed a fast and comfortable ride with great onboard amenities. While flying may seem competitive on paper, once you factor in airport transfers, the train is the fastest and most convenient city-center-to-city-center option. Ready to plan your journey on Omio? Compare fares and times now.

About the Author: Simon Andersen

• Job Title: Train Travel Content Creator

• Bio: Train travel content creator with a degree in Mobility and Transportation from the Danish Technical University. I create content showcasing unique and memorable train journeys across Europe and beyond.