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All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.
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No more fumbling in your pockets
Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.
All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.
Search. Book. Travel.
Looking for a cheap price?
Look no further. Compare tickets easily with our price calendar.
We’ll find you the cheapest day to travel.
Search. Book. Travel.
Say hello to Your Account
All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.
Got a question? Our support team are on hand 24/7.
Search. Book. Travel.
No more fumbling in your pockets
Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.
All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.
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Looking for a cheap price?
Look no further. Compare tickets easily with our price calendar.
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Take the train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin in 3 hours 48 minutes
If you want to travel from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin by train, you've come to the right place.
You can expect the journey from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin by train to take around 5 hours 5 minutes. If you want to get there as quickly as possible, it can take as little as 3 hours 48 minutes on the fastest services. You'll usually find around 49 trains per day running on this route, which spans 424 km. There's no need for any changes along the way, as there are direct trains available to Berlin. ICE, SNCF or DB are the main rail operators on this route, all of which offer modern trains with plenty of space for luggage and comfortable seating.
Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to search for cheap ticket prices and we'll show you how much you can save. Tickets from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin start from $13.05 when you book in advance.
If you want to know more about the journey, keep reading for train schedules, tips on finding cheap tickets and FAQs, including first and last train times. Want to go straight to booking? Start a search with us today!
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin by train
It takes an average of 5h 5m to travel from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin by train, over a distance of around 263 miles (424 km). There are normally 49 trains per day traveling from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin and tickets for this journey start from $13.05 when you book in advance.
| First train | 12:47 am | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 11:15 pm | |
| Departure station | Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | |
| Arrival station | Berlin | |
| Journey time | From 3h 48m | |
| Distance | 263 miles (424 km) | |
| Frequency | 49 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From $13.05 | |
| Train and bus operators |
FAQs about the train journey from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin
Want to know more about your journey from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How fast can trains travel from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin?
Are there any direct trains from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin?
How far is the train ride from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin?
Who operates the trains from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin?
Can I take a flight-free trip from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin?
What is the best way to travel to Berlin from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf?
What time does the first train run from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin?
How late does the train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin run?
How many trains go from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin per day?
When do tickets from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin go on sale?
Planning a round trip from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin?
Deutsche Bahn, ICE (Intercity Express), FlixTrain and ÖBB trains from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin
Deutsche Bahn
ICE (Intercity Express)
FlixTrain
ÖBB
The Deutsche Bahn Group is owned by the German State and controls the majority of rail traffic in Germany as well as in many border regions of the country. Every year, Deutsche Bahn transports several million passengers and many stations in Germany are served exclusively by DB trains, including the ICE, IC and EC fleet.
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The high-speed train of Deutsche Bahn, with a maximum speed of 205 mph (330 km/h), the ICE connects major cities and is also used for international travel to neighbouring countries such as Austria, France and Denmark. This train is equipped with air conditioning, a dining car, a children's compartment and power sockets. Passengers enjoy a free WiFi connection throughout the duration of the ICE trip.
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Operating alongside its sister coach company FlixBus since 2018, FlixTrain provides cheap intercity connections using 100% green energy. The main routes served by FlixTrain are Cologne-Hamburg, Aachen-Cologne-Berlin, and Berlin-Stuttgart. The network will expand in future to include more routes to Munich and Leipzig. FlixTrain carriages are fitted with free WiFi and power outlets or USB charge points. Plus, every ticket comes with a seat reservation, guaranteeing you a seat for the journey.
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ÖBB is the major railway company for Austria, subdivided into several subsidiaries, responsible for certain areas of transport, such as long distance and local transport, the operation of postal buses and the transport of goods. Railjet is ÖBB's high-speed train, which travels at speeds of up to 143 mph (230 km/h) and connects the main Austrian cities with Germany, Hungary, Switzerland, the Czech Republic and Italy.
Intercity Express (ICE), FlixTrain and ÖBB ICE classes from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin
Compare the different travel classes offered by Intercity Express (ICE), FlixTrain and ÖBB ICE when traveling from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin.
Intercity Express (ICE)
FlixTrain
ÖBB ICE
Second Class
If you're traveling in ICE's Second Class, you'll get to enjoy free WiFi and a bistrò carriage where you can buy snacks and drinks.
- Power outlets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Entertainment pass
- Dining car
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- In-seat meal service
- Fast track access
- Quiet area
First Class
In addition to all the perks available in Second Class, you'll get more legroom, an in-seat meal service, Fast Track in some stations and free access to DB lounges.
- Power outlets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Entertainment pass
- Dining car
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- In-seat meal service
- Fast track access
- Quiet area
Standard Class
Although Flixtrain have only one class (Standard), they offer plenty of amenities on board, including free WiFi, power outlets and a bar car supplying snacks and drinks.
- Free WiFi
- Power outlets
- Dining car
- Baggage storage
Economy
The Economy Class on ÖBB's ICE trains comes with plenty of amenities, including WiFi, generous baggage allowance and a restaurant and bistro car.
- Free WiFi
- Dining car
- Power outlets
- Baggage storage
- Air conditioning
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- More legroom
- In-seat meal service
First Class
Want to travel in style? Upgrade to First Class and enjoy more legroom, adjustable seats and an in-seat meal service.
- Free WiFi
- Dining car
- Power outlets
- Baggage storage
- Air conditioning
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- More legroom
- In-seat meal service
Onboard services on Intercity Express (ICE), FlixTrain and ÖBB ICE
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin.
Intercity Express (ICE)
FlixTrain
ÖBB ICE
You can take as much baggage as you like for free without making a reservation.
Baggage items include briefcases, laptops, rucksacks, trolley bags or suitcases. You can also take pushchairs, folding bikes, scooters, skis and surfboards.
Baggage should be stored under the seat or in the overhead baggage rack. The standard dimensions of baggage racks are 70 x 50 x 30 cm (27.5 x 19.6 x 11.8 inches). Larger items of baggage such as suitcases can be stored in the large baggage racks by the doors.
When traveling with ICE, you can enjoy an extensive menu in the on-board restaurant, or you can grab a snack from the bistro carriage. If you choose the latter, you can enjoy your food and drink in the bistro or take it back to your seat.
Upgrade to First Class and you will be served complimentary food and drink at your seat.
DB change their menu every three months, but you will always find a wide variety of locally sourced food and drink, including a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
If you’re traveling on an ICE train, you can connect to the free WiFi and catch up on some work or your favorite TV show.
You can also connect to the ICE portal, where you’ll find a wide range of entertainment, such as films, television, audiobooks, games, newspapers and magazines.
On DB’s ICE trains, kids under 5 years old travel for free and don’t need a ticket. Children up to 14 years old travel for free if they are accompanied by a person who is at least 15 years old.
You can also book family areas and children compartments on all ICE trains.
With ICE, you need a bicycle ticket and reservation to take a bicycle onboard. The reservation for your bike is included in the price.
Generally, bike storage spaces are located in second class carriages. Please note that your seat and bike storage space might be located in different carriages.
You can travel with your pet on all ICE trains. You do not need an extra ticket If you have a small dog and they can travel in a transport box. If your dog or pet is bigger than the size of a house cat, you will need an additional ticket, which costs 50% less than a standard ticket. Dogs not traveling in a transport box must be on a lead and wear a muzzle.
Assistance dogs travel free of charge and do not have to wear a muzzle on the train.
DB’s Mobility Service can assist you with boarding, disembarking or changing trains. Also, staff are happy to answer any questions or assist with any queries to make your journey easier.
When traveling with Flixtrain, you can take the following baggage for free: 1x carry-on bag with max dimensions 42 x 30 x 18 cm and 7kg (16.5 x 11.8 x 7 inches and 15.4 pounds) and 1x checked bag with max dimensions 80 x 50 x 30 cm and 20kg (31.4 x 19.6 x 11.8 inches and 44 pounds).
For safety reasons, you must stow your carry-on bag beneath your seat, or in the overhead compartment above your seat.
Currently, FlixTrain does not offer a food and drink service. However, you may bring food and drink with you to enjoy on the train.
On FlixTrain services, you can connect to the free WiFi to surf the internet, chat with friends, check your emails and more.
If you’re worried about your battery life, you can charge your devices by connecting to the power sockets or USB outlets at your seat.
Children up to 6 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Children between 6 and 14 years old can travel alone with a declaration of consent from their parent or guardian. Keep an eye out for special discounts, as FlixTrain offer cheap tickets for children less than 15 years old.
All FlixTrains are equipped with reservable bicycle storage. Bikes must be standard size and not exceed 20kg (45 pounds). To bring your bicycle on board, you must reserve a space with FlixTrain.
In Germany, passengers may take pets that are up to the size of a house cat carried in a secure container at no cost. If you want to take a dog with you on the train which is larger than a house cat, provided it is on a leash and wearing a muzzle, you can purchase an extra ticket at the child's price. Guide and assistance dogs travel for free.
In Sweden, pets may not be transported on trains. The only exception is for guide and assistance dogs.
Passengers with limited mobility who require assistance with boarding and embarking should contact FlixTrain to book one of the designated seats provided. FlixTrain transport foldable wheelchairs, walking aids and other mobility devices for free.
You can take your luggage free of charge onboard all ÖBB ICE trains, provided that it is stowed in the luggage racks above or below your seat or in the areas provided for hand luggage.
The pieces of luggage must not exceed the maximum dimensions of 90 x 60 x 40cm. These dimensions can only be exceeded if you’re travelling with skis and snowboards, ski and hiking poles, wind, string or plucked instruments, wheelchairs, or strollers.
A restaurant carriage is available on most ÖBB ICE trains and offers a wide range of snacks and drinks. Vegan and vegetarian options are available too. If you upgrade to First Class, your meal of choice will be served straight to your seat.
Unfortunately, ÖBB ICE trains do not offer an entertainment portal on board. Also, WiFi is not always available.
If you’re travelling with your child, you’ll get a discounted ticket. Children aged 0-5 travel for free on ÖBB ICE trains, while those aged 6-14 get a half-price ticket. Kids aged 15 or over need a full-price ticket.
Many ÖBB ICE trains offer special compartments for children in Economy Class – they come with 6 seats and can be booked for any route. Breastfeeding compartments are available too – they have curtains that block the view for more privacy. These seats can’t be booked.
You can travel with your bike for free on all ÖBB ICE trains, provided that it can be folded and is not larger than 90 x 60 x 40cm. You won’t need to book a space for your bike. If you can’t fold your bike, you’ll need to buy a bike ticket to reserve your space. You can book your ticket up to 6 months in advance from ÖBB Ticketshop online.
If possible, we recommend you print out your bike reservation and attach it to your bike where it is clearly visible to the ticket inspector.
Small pets can travel for free on ÖBB ICE trains if they’re placed in a carrier or cage. If you can’t carry them in a carrier or cage, you’ll need to buy a ticket for them. They must also be kept on a leash and equipped with a muzzle.
Guide and assistance dogs are allowed on all trains at no additional cost and don’t need to wear a muzzle.
ÖBB ICE trains come with accessible toilets. Depending on the type of coach, several wheelchair bays including one seat for an accompanying person can be booked free of charge.
On many trains, the wheelchair bays are in First Class. However, passengers with wheelchairs and the person accompanying them can travel in First Class with their Second Class tickets and can also make use of the at-seat meal service on offer there.
Cheap train tickets from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Berlin by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.