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Just over 100km from Berlin, the German city of Dessau is often overlooked. However, delve deeper and you’ll discover that it’s equally rich in history as the German capital.
The train from Berlin to Dessau takes just an hour and ten minutes. Ideal for day trips, weekends away, or for business commuting, the Deutsche Bahn network offers quick and efficient services.
Arriving into Dessau station, you’re within walking distance of all the key attractions. This includes the famous Bauhaus Dessau building and museum, and local zoo – a favourite with children.
Ready to travel? Read on for lots of useful information, including train times and FAQs.
First train | 00:29 | |
---|---|---|
Last train | 23:14 | |
Departure station | Berlin | |
Arrival station | Dessau Hbf | |
Journey time | From 1h 12m | |
Distance | 68 miles (109 km) | |
Frequency | 39 trains per day | |
Changes | Direct trains available | |
Price | From £20.95 | |
Train and bus operators |
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.
An express train running on German domestic routes, the Intercity is a little slower than the ICE and is also used for long distance trips. The integrated circuit covers long distances with a maximum speed of 125 mph (200 km/h). In recent years, trains of the new generation "Intercity 2" run on some lines at 100 mph (160 km/h) only – these trains, however, offer extra legroom and extra space for toddlers. They are also equipped with air conditioning, a food carriage and wheelchair parking spaces.
Enjoy comfy seats with power sockets, fold-down tables and free WiFi in Second Class. Some IC trains are double decker trains (IC2) too.
Upgrade to First Class and you'll get to enjoy Fast Track in some German stations and free access to DB lounges.
You can take as much luggage as you like for free without making a reservation.
Luggage items include briefcases, laptops, rucksacks, trolley bags or suitcases. You can also take pushchairs, folding bikes, scooters, skis and surfboards.
Luggage should be stored under the seat or in the overhead luggage rack. Generally, the standard dimensions of luggage racks are 70 x 50 x 30 cm. Larger items of luggage such as suitcases can be stored in the large luggage racks by the doors.
You will find an extensive menu in the on-board restaurant, or you can grab a snack from the bistro carriage. If you opt for the latter, you can enjoy your food and drink in the bistro or take it back to your seat.
If you upgrade to First Class, you will be served complimentary food and drink at your seat.
Although the menu changes every three months, you will always find a wide variety of locally sourced food and drink, including a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Currently, free WiFi is available on certain IC trains. Deutsche Bahn are gradually installing free WiFi on all their IC trains.
On IC trains, children under 5 years old travel free of charge and don’t need a ticket. Kids up to 14 years old travel for free if they are accompanied by a person who is at least 15 years old.
On board, you will find family and children areas which are bookable.
You need a bicycle ticket and reservation to take a bicycle on a IC train. The reservation for your bike is included in the price.
Bike storage spaces are usually located in second class carriages. Please note that your seat and bike storage space might be located in different carriages.
With IC, you can travel with your pet. If you have a small dog or pet, you do not need an extra ticket and they can travel for free 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 travelling 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.
Deutsche Bahn offer the Mobility Service, where staff will help you board, disembark or change trains. Staff will also answer any questions or assist with any queries to make your journey easier.
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 Berlin to Dessau Hbf by booking early.§
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.
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!
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.
The average journey time by train between Berlin and Dessau Hbf is 1 hour and 31 minutes, with around 39 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
The fastest journey time by train from Berlin to Dessau Hbf is 1 hour and 12 minutes.
Train ticket prices from Berlin to Dessau Hbf can start from as little as £20.95 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Berlin to Dessau Hbf without having to change trains. There are 19 direct trains from Berlin to Dessau Hbf each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
The first train from Berlin to Dessau Hbf leaves at 00:29. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
The last train from Berlin to Dessau Hbf leaves at 23:14. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
Trains travelling from Berlin to Dessau Hbf cover a distance of around 68 miles (109 km) during the journey.
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Dessau Hbf to Berlin.