The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main
Cheapest price
$73
Average price
$165
Fastest journey
4 h 23 m
Average duration
4 h 31 m
Trains per day
30
Distance
424 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main will cost around $165 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.
Of the 30 trains that leave Berlin for Frankfurt am Main on Thu, Apr 02, 13 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Apr 02 the direct trains cover the 424 km distance in an average of 4 h 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 23 m .
On Thu, Apr 02 the slowest trains will take 4 h 47 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
FlixTrain6:57 AM5h03Berlin Hbf12:00 PMFrankfurt South station$731One-way0 transfers
FlixTrain7:06 AM4h54Berlin Südkreuz station12:00 PMFrankfurt South station$731One-way0 transfers
FlixTrain8:23 AM5h37Berlin Hbf2:00 PMFrankfurt South station$761One-way0 transfers
FlixTrain8:31 AM5h29Berlin Südkreuz station2:00 PMFrankfurt South station$761One-way0 transfers
FlixTrain+
FlixBus8:31 AM10h14Berlin Südkreuz station6:45 PMFrankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36)$851One-way1 transfer
FlixTrain12:04 PM4h23Berlin Südkreuz station4:27 PMFrankfurt South station$1261One-way0 transfers
FlixTrain4:04 PM4h24Berlin Südkreuz station8:28 PMFrankfurt South station$1631One-way0 transfers
FlixTrain11:57 AM4h30Berlin Hbf4:27 PMFrankfurt South station$1261One-way0 transfers
FlixTrain3:57 PM4h31Berlin Hbf8:28 PMFrankfurt South station$1631One-way0 transfers
FlixTrain11:40 AM4h47Berlin Spandau4:27 PMFrankfurt South station$1261One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Berlin to Frankfurt am Main
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $22, and a flight costs an average of $123.
Distance: 263 miles (424 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$44 Average price Cheapest | $45 Average price | $244 Average price |
4h 49m Average total duration 4h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 16m Average total duration 5h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 35m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Berlin to Frankfurt am Main train times
The table below shows live departures for Berlin to Frankfurt am Main trains for today, Wednesday, April 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixTrain | 4:57 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h03 | 10:00 AM Frankfurt South station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 4:57 AM Berlin Hbf | 9h28 | 2:25 PM Frankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36) | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain | 5:06 AM Berlin Südkreuz station | 4h54 | 10:00 AM Frankfurt South station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 5:06 AM Berlin Südkreuz station | 9h19 | 2:25 PM Frankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36) | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain | 6:23 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h37 | 12:00 PM Frankfurt South station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 6:23 AM Berlin Hbf | 10h22 | 4:45 PM Frankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36) | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 6:31 AM Berlin Südkreuz station | 10h14 | 4:45 PM Frankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36) | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain | 6:31 AM Berlin Südkreuz station | 5h29 | 12:00 PM Frankfurt South station | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1005 · ICE 1228 | On time 6:36 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h01 | 11:37 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1005 · ICE 1228 | On time 6:36 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h20 | 11:56 AM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 597 · S9 | On time 7:05 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h09 | 12:14 PM Frankfurt am Main Flughafen | 1 transfer | |
ICE 597 | On time 7:05 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h39 | 11:44 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 942 · ICE 1073 | On time 7:31 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h56 | 12:27 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 942 · ICE 1073 · S8 | On time 7:31 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h31 | 1:02 PM Frankfurt am Main Flughafen | 2 transfers | |
ICE 373+ 24344 | On time 7:54 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h12 | 1:06 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 373 | On time 7:54 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h50 | 12:44 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1007 · ICE 28 | On time 8:36 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h20 | 1:56 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1007 · ICE 28 | On time 8:36 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h01 | 1:37 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain | 1:40 PM Berlin Spandau | 4h48 | 6:28 PM Frankfurt South station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 1:57 PM Berlin Hbf | 4h31 | 6:28 PM Frankfurt South station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 2:04 PM Berlin Südkreuz station | 4h24 | 6:28 PM Frankfurt South station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Berlin to Frankfurt am Main by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Apr 01
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Why should you book Berlin to Frankfurt am Main trains with Omio?
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain or Österreichische Bundesbahnen to find the best option for your trip from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main.
Berlin to Frankfurt am Main by trainNonstop from Berlin to Frankfurt: Onboard Germany’s Iconic ICE High-Speed Train
By Simon Andersen
Germany is known for its expansive network of high-speed ICE trains, connecting major cities quickly and comfortably. This is also true for the Berlin to Frankfurt route. In this article, I’ll share my experience with the once-daily nonstop ICE service that completes the trip in less than 4 hours and tell you why you might want to start your journey from Berlin-Ostbahnhof rather than one of the city's other main stations.

View of Berlin's Stadtbahn
Route overview
Deutsche Bahn (DB) runs frequent ICE trains between Berlin and Frankfurt. Trains can take two general routes, either via Hanover or Erfurt. The travel time between Berlin and Frankfurt is about 4 hours and 10 minutes, varying a bit throughout the day. Slower but cheaper alternatives like FlixTrain and long-distance buses exist, but I'd pick the ICE. It's the fastest and most comfortable option.
Transportation experience
Booking my Berlin to Frankfurt train journey on Omio was fast and convenient. Taking the ICE is even easier: you can board right up until the last minute before departure, find your reserved seat or any available one (check the reservation screens), and enjoy the high-speed ride.
Departure station
ICE trains from Berlin to Frankfurt usually stop at one or more of the following stations: Ostbahnhof Hauptbahnhof Südkreuz Spandau While convenience matters, I recommend boarding at Berlin-Ostbahnhof. I’ll explain why further down in the article. In Frankfurt, most trains stop at Frankfurt (Main) Hauptbahnhof. However, some stop only at Frankfurt Flughafen (Airport) or Frankfurt Süd, which requires a short S-Bahn ride to the city.
Schedule & frequency
There's at least one direct train every hour. Most have a few stops, but from Monday to Saturday, there's a special nonstop ICE departing Berlin-Ostbahnhof at 15:46, stopping only at: Berlin-Ostbahnhof Berlin-Hauptbahnhof Berlin-Spandau Then it runs nonstop to Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof in just 3 hours and 44 minutes. That’s the one I took!
Onboard experience & services
I recommend starting your trip from Berlin-Ostbahnhof for two reasons: Easier station experience Ostbahnhof is much smaller and more relaxed than the huge Hauptbahnhof, but it still has everything you need: two supermarkets, several food outlets, and great local transit connections. Scenic ride through central Berlin Trains departing from Ostbahnhof travel the full length of Berlin’s Stadtbahn, an elevated railway line that cuts through the heart of the city. You’ll pass several landmarks like the TV Tower and Berliner Dom and enjoy a unique view that you’d otherwise miss. It’s the perfect send-off from the city. My train was operated by one of the older ICE2 sets. Other trains on the route include: ICE1 ICE3neo ICE4 All of them are broadly similar in terms of comfort, but only the ICE3neo and ICE4 offer dedicated bike space. All ICE trains feature: Free Wi-Fi (I found this was very spotty) Power outlets at every seat An onboard bistro Comfortable seating in both classes Plenty of space for luggage throughout the train. (There are no luggage restrictions on DB, so you can generally bring as much as you are able to carry yourself.) In Second Class, the seats are mostly in airline-style rows, with a few table and compartment options. First Class offers the same but with: Wider seats and more legroom Solo seat options (ideal for solo travelers) A quieter environment, often with people working After Berlin, the train joins the high-speed line via Hanover and Fulda, Germany’s first true high-speed corridor. Expect impressive viaducts and views of rolling hills. One word of caution: my train ran 30 minutes late. This is a common occurrence in Germany. If you have a tight connection in Frankfurt, I'd build in extra time just in case.

View of Berlin's Stadtbahn
Ticketing advice & budget breakdown
Berlin to Frankfurt train ticket prices vary by demand and booking time: From €17.99 (Second Class) From €23.99 (First Class) For my trip, it worked out to: €45.99 First Class ticket (booked 5 weeks in advance) I found excellent value for a quiet, fast, and comfortable journey.
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €17.99 |
| Food & drinks | € |
| Travel to departure station | € |
| Travel from arrival station | € |
| Total | € 17.99 |
Top tips & recommendations
- Start at Berlin-Ostbahnhof for fewer crowds and scenic city views.
- Seat reservations are optional . You can use the DB website to check expected train occupancy.
- If ICE is too pricey, check on Omio for FlixTrain or last-minute deals.
Conclusion
If you’re heading from Berlin to Frankfurt, hopping on Deutsche Bahn's ICE train is one of the easiest and most comfortable ways to do it. You get a relaxed start at Berlin-Ostbahnhof, then cruise through the serene German countryside at high speed. It’s smooth and quiet, not to mention far less stressful than flying. Just keep in mind that delays can happen, and the earlier you book on Omio, the better the price.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main?
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main

Journey information
Overview: Train from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main
Trains from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main run on average 40 times per day, taking around 4h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) if you book in advance.
There are 16 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 263 miles (424 km) distance in 3h 56m.
Distance 263 miles (424 km) |
Average train duration 4h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 (€18) |
Trains per day 40 |
Direct trains 16 |
Fastest train 3h 56m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Österreichische Bundesbahnen from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Österreichische Bundesbahnen trains will get you between Berlin and Frankfurt am Main from $22 (€18). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
FlixTrain
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
FAQs: Trains from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Frankfurt am Main, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main
- Mon - Sat: 07:00 - 22:00
- Sun: 08:00 - 22:00
- Free WiFi (30 minutes limit).
- Luggage lockers are located on Level 1 near Platforms 13/14.
- backWERK
- Burger King
- Costa Coffee
- Dunkin' Donuts
- Einstein Kaffee
- Le Crobag
- McDonald's
- Hans im Glück
- Pret A Manger
- Starbucks
- & many more
- Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Contact the Mobility Service Center at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof
- IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof
- Motel One Berlin Hauptbahnof
- Located on the ground level near the Europaplatz exit.
- Monday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Saturday: 10:00 - 17:30
- Sunday: 10:00 - 17:30
- Biertempel 2
- McDonald's
- Eis Bär
- Cafe Mon Cherie
- Appartements Eisemann
- Monday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Saturday: 10:00 - 17:30
- Sunday: 10:00 - 17:30
- Unvernunft
- Taverna Teloneio
- Burger King
- Hasir
- Hotel Benn
- Hotel Herbst
- Hotel Lindenufer
- Hotel Ibis Berlin Spandau
- Mon - Fri: 07:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 09:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
- Luggage lockers are located in the main hall.
- asiagourmet
- Burger King
- Ciao Bella
- Coffee Fellows
- Crepes de France Express
- dean&david
- Starbucks
- Uddin's Sky Sportsbar
- McDonald's
- Dunkin Donuts
- & many more
- Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- Hotel Cristall
- Grand Hotel Empire
- Hotel Carlton
- Located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7, accessible via Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 parking areas.
- Restaurant Käfer's
- McDonald's
- Asia Snack Box
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps.
- €1
- Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel
- Hilton Frankfurt Airport
- Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport
- Cost €6
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for long-distance and regional trains
- Hall 2: connection to Terminal 1 of the airport
- Hall 3: connection to Terminal 2 of the airport
- S-Bahn: Lines S8, S9
- Bus: Several lines available
- Long-distance buses: Available at the airport
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
- Restaurant Käfer's
- McDonald's
- Asia Snack Box
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- €1
- Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel
- Hilton Frankfurt Airport
- Steigenberger Airport Hotel
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-3 for regional and S-Bahn trains
- Hall 2: access to airport terminals
- S-Bahn: Lines S8, S9
- Regional trains: RE2, RE3, RE59
- Bus: Several lines available
More options for your journey from Berlin to Frankfurt am Main
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