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Travelling by train from London to Berlin
Planning to travel from London to Berlin by train? Start your journey with us.
There are lots of ways to get from London to Berlin by train. You'll most likely need to make 2 or 3 changes along the way during your journey, travelling via Amsterdam or Brussels. The main operators on this route are Eurostar and Deutsche Bahn – their trains offer comfortable seating, space for luggage and, on most services, free WiFi.
First Class travel from London to Berlin
If you want to travel in style, why not choose a First Class train ticket from London to Berlin?
Eurostar and DB's ICE trains have Business Premier and First Class tickets that offer wider, more comfortable seating, complimentary newspapers, drinks and snacks along the way (including a complimentary Michelin-starred gourmet meal on the Eurostar).
Want to find out more about First Class train travel in Europe? Check out our guide to First Class v Second Class on European trains. Feeling inspired? Keep reading to find train times, ticket prices and journey information.
If you're ready to book your train tickets from London to Berlin, just start a search in our Journey Planner at the top of the page. If you want to find out more about the journey, keep reading for:
- Today’s train times
- Train classes on this route
- Services on board trains from London to Berlin
- How do I get from London to Berlin by train?
- Eurostar luggage allowance
- Getting to London St Pancras International
- All about London St Pancras station
- Going through the Channel Tunnel
- Onward travel from Amsterdam or Brussels
- Arriving in Berlin from London
- Using public transport in Berlin
- Things to do in Berlin
- Popular places in Germany
- Explore Europe with an Interrail Pass
- Getting from Berlin city centre to the airport
London to Berlin by train
It takes an average of 11h 27m to travel from London to Berlin by train, over a distance of around 576 miles (927 km). There are normally 8 trains per day travelling from London to Berlin and tickets for this journey start from £83.79 when you book in advance.
| First train | 07:16 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 17:04 | |
| Departure station | London | |
| Arrival station | Berlin | |
| Journey time | From 8h 48m | |
| Distance | 576 miles (927 km) | |
| Frequency | 8 trains per day | |
| Changes | 2 changes | |
| Price | From £83.79 | |
| Train and bus operators | Regiojet, Deutsche Bahn, BlaBlaCar Bus, SNCF, Eurostar, ÖBB, Flixbus, WestfalenBahn, SBB CFF FFS |
FAQs about the train journey from London to Berlin
Want to know more about your journey from London 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 London to Berlin?
Are there any direct trains from London to Berlin?
How far is the train ride from London to Berlin?
Who operates the trains from London to Berlin?
Can I take a flight-free trip from London to Berlin?
What is the best way to travel to Berlin from London?
What time does the first train run from London to Berlin?
How late does the train from London to Berlin run?
How many trains go from London to Berlin per day?
When do tickets from London to Berlin go on sale?
Planning a round trip from London to Berlin?
Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn, SNCF and ÖBB trains from London to Berlin
Eurostar
Deutsche Bahn
SNCF
ÖBB
Eurostar is the exclusive high-speed train service that links London to Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and the rest of Europe at speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h). All Eurostar trains have modern, comfortable facilities, plenty of room for luggage, and onboard food and beverage carriage. There are three comfort classes on offer – Standard, Standard Premier (equivalent to Premium Economy, with light refreshments served), and Business Premier (equivalent to First or Business Class, with flexible travel options, priority boarding, lounge access and delicious food and drink included). On 1st October, 2023, Eurostar and Thalys joined forces and are now united under the Eurostar name. Eurostar now runs trains on more routes between France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. These trains, with their distinctive red colour scheme, have three classes: Standard, Comfort and Premium (equivalent to First Class, with lounge access included).
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.
More information
SNCF is the national train operator of France. It operates all domestic trains and routes across France, as well as international services to Spain and Germany. There are three different types of domestic trains that operate under the SNCF banner – TGV (high-speed, full-service trains that connect the major cities in France), Intercités (usually a more frequent stopping service, but with all the amenities), and TER (regional train services with basic onboard facilities).
More information
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.
More information
- ÖBB /
- Railjet /
- Nightjet /
- Trains in Austria
Eurostar, TGV INOUI, Intercity (IC) and ICE classes from London to Berlin
Compare the different travel classes offered by Eurostar, TGV INOUI, Intercity (IC) and ICE when travelling from London to Berlin.
Eurostar
TGV INOUI
Intercity (IC)
ICE
Eurostar Standard
In Eurostar Standard, you'll find comfortable seats, free WiFi and a large selection of drinks and snacks for sale in the onboard café-bar.
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Luggage storage
- Power sockets
- Complimentary meal at seat
- Catering at your seat
- Gourmet menu
- Lounge access
Eurostar Plus
As well as all the facilities you'll find in Eurostar Standard, in Eurostar Plus you'll also get a light meal served at your seat for trips to and from London. Though you won't get a meal at your seat for trips solely in Europe, you'll get to sit back and relax in comfier seats.
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Luggage storage
- Power sockets
- Complimentary meal at seat (1)
- Catering at your seat
- Gourmet menu
- Lounge access
- (1) A meal at your seat is only provided on trains travelling to or from the United Kingdom.
Eurostar Premier
Eurostar Premier gives you the freedom to travel in your own time, with same-day boarding guaranteed and Eurostar's exclusive lounges (where available) where you can relax before your trip. In Eurostar Premier, you'll also benefit from complete comfort, including a free meal and free drinks at your seat.
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Luggage storage
- Power sockets
- Complimentary meal at seat
- Catering at your seat
- Gourmet menu (1)
- Lounge access
- (1) A gourmet hot meal is exclusive to trains to and from the United Kingdom; on trains in Europe, you'll have a cold meal served at your seat.
Second Class
In Second Class, TGV INOUI allows you to travel comfortably while enjoying the onboard services, such as free WiFi, power sockets and more.
- Free WiFi
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Luggage storage
- Reading light
- More legroom
- Quiet area
First Class
Want to travel in style? Upgrade to First Class and you’ll enjoy all the benefits of Second Class as well as some additional perks.
- Free WiFi
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Luggage storage
- Reading light
- More legroom
- Quiet area
Second Class
Enjoy comfy seats with power sockets, fold-down tables and free WiFi in Second Class. Some IC trains are double decker trains (IC2) too.
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Air-conditioning
- Luggage storage
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- Fast track
- Quiet area
First Class
Upgrade to First Class and you'll get to enjoy Fast Track in some German stations and free access to DB lounges.
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Air-conditioning
- Luggage storage
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- Fast track
- Quiet area
Second Class
If you're travelling in ICE's Second Class, you'll get to enjoy free WiFi and a bistrò carriage where you can buy snacks and drinks.
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Entertainment portal
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- Catering at your seat
- Fast track
- Quiet area
First Class
In addition to all the amenities in Second Class, in First Class you'll get more legroom, a catering service, Fast Track in some stations and free access to DB lounges.
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Entertainment portal
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- Catering at your seat
- Fast track
- Quiet area
Onboard services on Eurostar, TGV INOUI, Intercity (IC) and ICE
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from London to Berlin.
Eurostar
TGV INOUI
Intercity (IC)
ICE
Although there's no weight limit for your luggage on Eurostar trains, you must be able to carry your bags safely by yourself.
Each bag must be clearly labelled and must be no longer than 85 cm (for trains to and from the United Kingdom) or no larger than 75 x 53 x 30 cm (for trains in Europe).
Are you travelling to or from the United Kingdom? In Eurostar Standard, choose from a wide selection of drinks and snacks at the Eurostar Café, the onboard café-bar in the middle of the train. Cards and cash (Euros or pounds) are accepted. If you're travelling in Eurostar Plus, a light meal and a drink will be served at your seat.
Travel in Eurostar Premier and you'll be treated to a gourmet meal, as well as a continuous drinks service throughout your journey.
For all other Eurostar trains (red trains, formerly Thalys), head to the bar car and choose from a wide range of hot and cold drinks as well as sweet and savoury snacks.
In Eurostar Premier on European routes, you'll get a free meal served directly to your seat.
Eurostar doesn't have an onboard entertainment portal. However, there is free WiFi available, as well as UK and EU plug sockets at your seat so you can charge your devices while travelling.
Children under 4 can travel free on Eurostar trains, as long as they're sitting on an accompanying adult's lap. Alternatively, buying a child ticket guarantees them their own seat.
You'll find changing tables on all Eurostar trains, as well as family-oriented seating (4 seats facing one another) where available.
Currently, only certain Eurostar trains running between London and Brussels can transport fully assembled bikes - contact Eurostar for more information. You can, however, take a foldable bike on board Eurostar trains to and from the UK provided that it's no more than 85 cm long and it fits in a protective bag that covers the whole bicycle. Folded bikes are treated as standard luggage.
For all other Eurostar trains in Europe, a limited number of non-foldable bikes can be brought on board, provided that the wheels are taken off and the whole bicycle is stored in a suitable cover (max. size 135 x 85 x 30 cm). Foldable bicycles are also allowed and count towards standard luggage limits.
The rules around travelling with your pets depend on whether you're travelling across the Channel or not, so check before you travel:
Eurostar trains to and from the United Kingdom:
- Pets are not permitted on board.
- Guide dogs and assistance dogs can travel, but they must be accompanied by their owner. You must also reserve a ticket for your assistance dog at least 48 hours before travel, by filling out Eurostar's contact form.
Trains in the rest of Europe:
- Small dogs and other pets weighing less than 6 kg can travel for free. They must travel in a cage or carrier (max. dimensions 45 x 30 x 25 cm).
- If your dog is larger than this, you must buy them a dog ticket (generally the price is fixed at €30, around £26), and the dog must travel on your lap or on the ground, on a lead and with a muzzle.
- Guide dogs and assistance dogs, whatever their size, travel for free.
If you need help getting on or off the train, you should contact Eurostar directly before your trip. To use Eurostar's special assistance program, fill in the contact form at least 48 hours before your journey so that the team can help you.
If you're travelling to/from the United Kingdom:
- Arrive at least one hour before your train's scheduled departure time, then head to the Eurostar Assist desk or ask a member of staff.
- If you have a wheelchair, you must reserve a wheelchair space in either Eurostar Plus or Eurostar Premier - you'll only pay for a Eurostar Standard ticket. Someone can travel with you at a discounted rate.
If you're travelling on red trains in the rest of Europe:
- Wheelchair users travel in Eurostar Premier on routes in Europe.
- Wheelchairs can be transported as long as they're no bigger than 70 cm long and 120 cm high. The wheelchair's turning circle must be no larger than 150 cm in diameter. The combined weight of the wheelchair, passenger and any luggage must not exceed 300 kg.
- Please note that combustion engine-powered wheelchairs are not permitted on board. However, electric wheelchairs are allowed.
Specific restrictions for trains to/from the United Kingdom:
Liquids:
- There's no restriction on liquids. However, there are restrictions on alcohol: you can take 4 bottles/cans of beer or 1 bottle of wine per person to enjoy on the journey, but large bottles of spirits are not permitted. If you're travelling with large quantities of alcohol, you should contact a courier service.
Sports equipment:
- You can travel with a golf bag as long as it's no larger than 120 x 35 x 35 cm.
- You can bring tents or other shelters if they're stored in bags or cases less than 85 cm long.
- Camping gas or butane bottles are not permitted on board.
- Camping utensils or tools such as pocket knives and Swiss army knives are permitted provided the blades are less than 75 mm long. Folding knives where the blade locks into place are prohibited.
- You can bring bats, snooker or pool cues and darts on board if they're stored in a protective case.
On board TGV INOUI trains, you can take up to 2 pieces of luggage measuring no more than 70 x 90 x 50 cm, plus one hand luggage measuring no more than 40 x 30 x 15 cm. If you are bringing an XL baggage (maximum 90 x 130 cm), it will replace one of the two 70 x 90 x 50 cm pieces of luggage authorised.
All your luggage must be labelled before entering the train.
All TGV INOUI trains are equipped with a café-bar carriage offering a range of food and drink to suit you at any time of day. The Bar is always situated in carriage 4 or 14 of the train. There's a range of local and responsibly sourced products on offer to whet your appetite.
TGV INOUI trains have free WiFi on board for you to use throughout your journey, allowing you to stay connected, reply to emails or even relax and enjoy what's offered on the TGV INOUI entertainment portal.
Children under 12 can get a half price ticket on TGV INOUI trains. Children under 4 travel free when they travel on your lap.
If you've got a foldable bicycle, you can take it on the train as hand luggage, so long as it's no larger than 130 x 90 cm once folded. Or, if you can dismantle your bike, you can transport it in a cover or case no larger than 130 x 90 cm. You can still travel with a bike that cannot be folded or dismantled - you'll need to reserve a bike space on the train when you buy your ticket. Bike tickets cost €10 per bike, per journey.
Small pets are allowed on board TGV INOUI trains provided they weigh less than 10kg. They must travel in a carrier no larger than 45 x 30 x 25 cm. Tickets for small pets cost €7. Larger dogs can also travel on TGV INOUI services, provided they are wearing a muzzle and are kept on a lead. Tickets for larger dogs cost €20. Guide dogs and assistance dogs travel free of charge on all SNCF trains.
For disabled passengers or those with reduced mobility, you can request assistance through 'Accès Plus'. With this service, a member of staff will meet you at the station and help you get to your seat on the train. To book assistance, contact Accès Plus after you book your tickets (and no later than 48 hours before your train is due to depart).
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.
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.
When travelling 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 travelling on a ICE train, you can connect to the free WiFi and catch up on some work or your favourite 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 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.
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.
Cheap train tickets from London 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 London 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.
How do I get from London to Berlin by train?
There’s a couple of ways you can get to Berlin from London by train. Lost? Don’t be. We’ll help explain it all.
Your trip from London to Berlin will start at London St Pancras International, as your first train will be a Eurostar train. From London, you’ll likely either travel to Amsterdam or Brussels. From Amsterdam, you can get a direct train to Berlin. From Brussels, you’ll need to hop on a train to Frankfurt or Cologne, and from there transfer to a Berlin-bound train.
So generally, your trip will either look like this:
London → Brussels → Cologne or Frankfurt → Berlin
Or like this:
London → Amsterdam → Berlin
It’s possible to do the trip from London to Berlin in one day, or you can choose to break up the journey by stopping overnight in Amsterdam or Brussels. Take a look at the options below.
I want to travel to Berlin in a single day
I want an overnight stopover on the way to Berlin
Is there a night train?
How many bags are allowed in the different Eurostar classes?
The first part of your journey, whether you’re headed to Berlin via Amsterdam or Brussels, will be with Eurostar. Find out more about Eurostar’s luggage allowance below.
Standard/Standard Premier
- 2 pieces of luggage up to 85cm long for rucksacks, suitcases, golf clubs or ski equipment
- 1 hand luggage, e.g. handbag, laptop bag or briefcase
Business Premier
- 3 pieces of luggage up to 85cm long for rucksacks, suitcases, golf clubs or ski equipment
- 1 hand luggage, e.g. handbag, laptop bag or briefcase
Children (for all classes)
- 1 piece of luggage up to 85cm long
- 1 hand luggage, e.g. backpack or laptop bag
How to get to London St Pancras International station
Before your journey to Berlin, you’ll need to make your way to London St Pancras International station to hop on the Eurostar to either Amsterdam or Brussels. Continue reading for more information on how to get there.
Located in the heart of the capital, London St Pancras International station is conveniently located in the King’s Cross area and is easy to reach by National Rail, London Underground, bus services or car.
Taking the Tube to King’s Cross St Pancras Underground station is easy because it’s served by six London Underground lines, including Victoria (light blue line), Northern (black line), Metropolitan (purple line), Circle (yellow line), Hammersmith & City (pink line) and Piccadilly (dark blue line).
From most places across the city, there are various buses available to London St Pancras International station. If you’re planning to travel by train, you can take the train from Euston, Victoria and Paddington stations to London St Pancras International station in around half an hour.
Hoping to drive? At the station, you’ll find a 24-hour Click and Park car park with 315 spaces and staff on hand. If you’re going to cycle to the station, there are plenty of spaces to store your bike safely.
Everything you need to know about London St Pancras International station
After you’ve arrived at London St Pancras International station, you’ll need to check-in for your Eurostar. Read on for more information on checking in, station facilities and First Class lounges.
How far ahead of time do you need to arrive?
Where are Eurostar check-in gates?
How does Eurostar check-in work?
What’s on offer at London St Pancras International?
Which facilities are in the Eurostar Departure Lounge?
Which facilities are in the Business Premier Lounge?
Going through the Channel Tunnel
Does the Eurostar train go underwater?
Trains from London to Brussels and from London to Amsterdam do go underwater. In fact, the Channel Tunnel (or “Chunnel” if you prefer its nickname) is just over 31 miles (50 km) in length and is the longest continuous underwater tunnel in the world. At a maximum speed of 100 mph (160 km/h) in the Chunnel, it takes a Eurostar train around 35 minutes to travel this underwater stretch.
How long is the Chunnel?
In length, the Channel Tunnel is 31.3 miles (50.56 km) and it takes a Eurostar train approximately 35 minutes to travel its full length. In total, the fastest journey time from London to Brussels is 1 hour and 56 minutes, while the fastest journey time from London to Amsterdam is 1 hour and 57 minutes.
Onward travel from Amsterdam or Brussels to Berlin
Whether you’ve chosen to do the whole journey in one day, or you’re breaking up the trip with an overnight stay, you’ll probably arrive from London in either Amsterdam or Brussels. Here’s what you can expect in these two places.
What to know about travelling via Amsterdam Centraal station
When travelling with Eurostar, your train will arrive at Amsterdam Centraal station, right in the heart of the Dutch capital.
Here, you’ll find a range of amenities, including cafés, shops and toilets (with baby-changing facilities).
From Amsterdam Centraal station, you can catch a high-speed InterCity train direct to Berlin. Simply arrive at the station in time for your train’s scheduled departure time and head to the correct platform (check the departure boards for more info). Find a seat, sit back and enjoy the views – you’re off to Berlin!
What to know about travelling via Brussels Midi station
When travelling to Brussels with Eurostar, your train will arrive at Brussels Midi station. You may also see this written as Bruxelles-Midi or Brussels-Zuid.
Brussels Midi station has various facilities including coffee shops, cash machines, a bureau de change and toilets (with baby-changing facilities).
Make sure you get to the train station with enough time to find the right platform for your train and go through any potential security checks. Security staff may need to check your ticket, ID and luggage before you board.
After that, you’re ready to board your train! Sit back and relax as the train whisks you through Europe towards Cologne, where you can transfer to your final train towards Berlin.
Arriving in Berlin
Whichever route you choose to travel from London to Berlin, you’ll arrive at Berlin’s main train station, Berlin Hauptbahnhof.
What’s available at Berlin Hauptbahnhof?
At Berlin’s central station, you’ll find a range of amenities in case you need to pick something up when you arrive, including:
- Cafés such as Costa Coffee, Starbucks and Dunkin’
- Food outlets such as bakeries and fast food restaurants
- Tourist information centre
- Clothing shops
- Pharmacies.
There’s free WiFi available at the station. There’s also a left luggage locker service, so if your train arrives earlier in the day and you want to see some of Berlin before you can check into your hotel, you can leave your bags locked away at the station.
Using public transport in Berlin
Once you’ve arrived in Berlin, you’ll want to start exploring as soon as you can. You can use public transport to get around the city. Find out more here.
If you’re looking to use public transport to travel onward from Berlin Hauptbahnhof, there are a number of options:
- S-Bahn: Local trains S3, S5, S7 and S9 serve Berlin’s main train station.
- U-Bahn: The subway line U5 starts at Berlin Central station.
- Trams: Lines M2, M5, M8 and M10 stop at Berlin Hauptbahnhof.
- Buses: Buses 120, 123, 142, 147, M41, M85, N5, N20 and N40 stop at Berlin Central station. ‘N’ indicates a night bus service that runs through the night.
Things to see and do in Berlin
Want some ideas for what you should check out first in Berlin? We’ve got you covered.
- Berliner Dom: If you’re a fan of gorgeous architecture, look no further! Berlin’s cathedral, or Dom in German, is a 19th Century building full of old-world charm. It’s even got an observation deck: from here, you can see across the whole city – if you can cope with 270 steps up first!
- Brandenburg Gate: An iconic feature of Berlin’s landscape, this historic gate is even older than the Berliner Dom, dating back to the 1700s.
- Berlin Wall Memorial: Part of the historic Berlin Wall still stands today. Commemorating the structure that split Berlin in two for much of the 20th century, there’s also a permanent exhibition where you can learn about the history behind the Berlin Wall.
Popular places in Germany
So you’ve seen Berlin, but you still fancy getting to know Germany a little better. We’ve got some suggestions for you.
Explore Europe by train with an Interrail Pass
Once you’ve finished exploring Berlin, why not continue exploring Europe by train? With an Interrail Pass, you can travel across 33 European countries as much as you want on participating European train networks for a set amount of travel days.
If you're a European citizen or a non-European who is an official legal resident of a European country, you can use an Interrail Pass. If you’re an American or Canadian citizen, you can use a Eurail Pass instead.
Getting to the airport from Berlin city centre
If you’re ending your European trip in Berlin, you may be flying out of Germany from Berlin Brandenburg Airport. You’ll need to travel to the airport from the city centre – find out more about your travel options below.
Berlin has one major airport: Berlin Brandenburg Airport. This is located around 11 miles away from the city centre. Luckily, there are plenty of public transport options available.