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ICE Trains by Deutsche Bahn

ICE Trains by Deutsche Bahn

ICE by DB tickets, key information and FAQs

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Popular ICE Routes

TrainJourney TimePrice
Berlin to Munich5h 34mBuy from NZD 43.69Book Now
Berlin to Hamburg1h 43mBuy from NZD 26.70Book Now
Cologne to Dusseldorf28mBuy from NZD 52.61Book Now

What is ICE?

What is ICE?

The Intercity Express (ICE) is Germany's leading high-speed train service, operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB). Launched in 1991, ICE trains have become the top choice for long-distance travel in Germany. With top speeds up to 330 km/h (approximately 205 mph), they offer a fast and reliable option for both domestic and international routes.

Known for their impressive speed and comfortable ride, ICE trains provide modern amenities like spacious seating, onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets, and dining services for a convenient and enjoyable travel experience. Frequently operating reliable services on major routes between large cities, ICE trains stand out among DB's competitors and their own offerings alike, becoming the preferred choice for many travellers.

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ICE Train Ticket Types

ICE trains offer various ticket types, including Sparpreis, Super Sparpreis, and Flexpreis, to meet different needs and preferences, ensuring a flexible and convenient travel experience for all travellers.
ICE Train Ticket Types

Sparpreis

Sparpreis tickets are an ideal choice for taking long-distance trains, especially for money-saving travellers and those with fixed travel plans. Booking early is advised to secure lower fares. Children aged 6-14 travel free, as long as they are with someone 15 or older. Please note that tickets can be cancelled for a fee.

Super Sparpreis

As the cheapest train ticket, Super Sparpreis is perfect for travellers looking to save money and those with fixed travel plans. Booking in advance is recommended to get the best fares and children aged 6-14 travel free with someone 15 or older. Furthermore, the tickets cannot be exchanged or cancelled.

Flexpreis

The Flexpreis ticket offers the greatest flexibility, allowing you to board any train on the day of travel for your given route. Children aged 6-14 travel free, as long as they are with someone 15 or older. Additionally, tickets can be changed or cancelled for free before the departure date, but fees will be charged for any changes or cancellations made after departure.

ICE On-Board Facilities & Services

ICE trains are renowned for being well-equipped and designed to ensure an enjoyable and comfortable journey for all passengers. The specific facilities and services vary depending on the type of train, but usually include:

  1. Free WiFi
  2. Comfortable seating
  3. Luggage storage
  4. Dining options
  5. Accessible facilities
  6. Power outlet
  7. Priority seats

ICE Train Types

ICE trains come in various models, each offering unique advantages to meet different travel needs, ensuring all passengers have an excellent travel experience.

  • ICE 1

    The ICE 1 is the original high-speed train model in Germany’s Intercity Express (ICE) fleet, debuting in 1991 as a groundbreaking advancement in rail travel. Known for enhancing servive quality and passenger comfort, the ICE 1 operates primarily on north-south routes. It offers a high seating capacity, complete with power outlets, electronic seat displays, spacious family compartments, and dedicated areas for wheelchair users and strollers.

    Despite being the original model, the ICE 1 has evolved many times across its lifespan to remain on the cutting edge. For instance, since 2020, the ICE 1 has been further modernized with several new features to improve convenience and comfort. These upgrades include expanded luggage space, redesigned restrooms, enhanced digital passenger displays, and refreshed family compartment decor, making it a more versatile and accessible choice for travellers.

  • ICE 2

    The ICE 2 is Germany's second-generation high-speed train, launched in 1996. The ICE 2 features six intermediate carriages, one driving trailer, and one power car. This configuration allows two trains to connect and form a double train, offering flexibility for both high and low-demand routes, which can split during the journey, heading to different destinations for more direct service.

    Additionally, the train's unique nose design reduces drag at high speeds, enabling it to reach speeds of up to 280 km/h (approximately 174 mph). Since 2011, all ICE 2 trains have undergone modernization, which includes improvements to the passenger information systems and the addition of new seat handles.

  • ICE 3

    The ICE 3, known fondly as "Mr. Speedy," has a regular top speed of up to 300 km/h, making it the fastest train in Germany. The ICE 3 is a true multi-unit train, with its drives distributed across eight carriages, and it can be coupled with other trains, enhancing its operational flexibility and efficiency.

    Currently, the ICE 3 includes three models: the 403 model for domestic routes within Germany, and the 406 and 407 models which primarily connect Brussels, Amsterdam, and France.

  • ICE 3neo

    The ICE 3neo is a new high-speed train operating between North Rhine-Westphalia to Frankfurt (M) and Stuttgart to Munich. International routes from Frankfurt (M) to Amsterdam and Brussels are set to open soon.

    The ICE 3neo offers enhanced comfort with features like power outlets, coat hooks, and tablet holders at every seat, as well as time-of-day lighting control and contactless restroom facilities. Passengers can benefit from clearer information displays, spacious luggage racks, and ample floor storage. Additionally, window panes allow radio waves to enhance signal reception on the train, keeping passengers connected throughout their journey.

  • ICE T

    Introduced in 1999, the ICE T comes in five-unit and seven-unit versions, both of which can be linked and operated as a double train, and features tilting technology for improved curve handling. The five-unit class 415 has a bistro car, while the seven-unit class 411 offers a dining area. At each end of the ICE T, there is a unique compartment with a glass wall separating it from the driver, allowing passengers to observe the driver's operations.

    In 2013, the ICE T fleet was modernised with new exterior paint, carpets, and the European Train Control System (ETCS), enabling operation on the Halle/Leipzig - Erfurt high-speed line, saving up to 50 minutes. The ICE T also offers direct services between Frankfurt and Vienna.

  • ICE 4

    The new ICE 4 is a modern upgrade for Germany's high-speed transport, combining eco-friendly and customer-friendly features. It uses efficient drive technology and aerodynamic design to enhance environmental performance. The ICE 4 includes a modern passenger information system, bicycle spaces, intelligent daytime lighting, and the latest WiFi and telecommunications technology. Moreover, each carriage offers ample luggage space with large racks and floor storage.

    Additionally, the seats are ingeniously designed to move into the seat frame rather than backwards when adjusted, minimising disruption to passengers seated behind. The ICE 4 also excels in accessibility, providing wheelchair spaces, elevators and a tactile guidance system for passenger convenience.

ICE FAQs

  • How much does it cost for children to travel on ICE trains?

    Children under five travel for free. Additionally, children aged 6-14 can travel for free when accompanied by someone 15 or older and must be specified during the booking. Each ticket can include up to four children.

  • Are pets allowed on ICE trains?

    Yes, pets are allowed on ICE trains. Small dogs and other small pets in suitable containers travel for free. Larger dogs require a ticket for 50% of the individual fare. Dogs without a transport box must be leashed and wear a muzzle. Guide dogs and assistance dogs travel for free without a muzzle.

  • How can you tell if a seat is reserved on an ICE train?

    There is usually a small electronic display screen above each seat, displaying reservation information. If a seat has been reserved, the display screen typically shows the starting and ending station names of the reservation.

  • Are ICE trains more expensive?

    Yes, tickets for ICE trains are generally more expensive when compared with other types of trains. This is because they offer faster speeds, a higher level of comfort, and more convenient facilities.

  • Can I take bikes on ICE trains?

    Yes, Bicycles can be taken on selected ICE trains, but a reservation for the bicycle space is required in advance.

  • What is the difference between ICE and IC trains?

    The main differences between ICE and IC trains are speed, comfort, amenities, and ticket prices. ICE trains are faster, more comfortable, and offer more amenities, serving major cities and international routes at higher prices. However, IC trains are slower, less comfortable, with fewer amenities, and cover a broader network including smaller cities and towns, making them more economical.

  • What are the different types of ICE trains?

    There are several main types of ICE trains, including ICE 1, ICE 2, ICE 3, ICE 4, ICE T, and ICE 3neo.

  • Can you travel internationally with ICE trains?

    Yes, ICE trains operate on several international routes, connecting major cities in Germany with destinations in countries like Austria, Switzerland, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. This makes ICE trains a convenient option for cross-border travel in Europe.

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