Berlin to Munich train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)

Onboard the ICE Sprinter from Berlin to Munich: Germany’s Fastest Train Service!

Introduction

Connecting Germany’s largest city, Berlin, with the Bavarian capital and third-largest city, Munich, are multiple daily ICE services. Many of these are ICE Sprinters, the fastest type of train on Germany’s rail network. These services make only a few stops and whisk you from north to south in no time. In this article, I’ll share my experience taking an ICE Sprinter from the heart of Berlin down to Munich, with only one intermediate stop in Nürnberg.

Route Overview

Connecting the two cities, about 620 kilometers apart, are roughly one to two ICE trains every hour, operated by Deutsche Bahn. Among these are the special ICE Sprinter services, which differ slightly from regular ICE trains by making even fewer stops.

Transportation Experience

Taking the ICE train in under 4 hours from Berlin to Munich could not have been easier. You just rock up to the station shortly before departure, then head to the platform. Pick an empty seat, and whoosh, you’ll be whisked south to Munich in no time. While traveling over various high-speed railways, the train reaches an impressive 300 km/h. You’ll arrive right in the heart of Munich, just a quick 10-minute walk from a cold beer in one of the city’s famous beer gardens!

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Most trains from Berlin to Munich depart from Berlin Hauptbahnhof, one of Europe’s newest central stations and an impressive glass structure. With trains running on three different levels, it can be slightly confusing to navigate. There are plenty of signs to guide you to your platform, but if you’re unfamiliar with large stations, it’s a good idea to arrive a little early.

Inside the station, you’ll find a wide range of shops, restaurants, restrooms, and a large ticket office and information center. However, since I used the easy-to-use Omio app to purchase my train ticket and have it delivered straight to my phone, I was able to head directly to the lower-level platforms and board my train without delay.

Most ICE services to München will also call at Berlin-Südkreuz. Some may also stop at Spandau or Gesundbrunnen, which could be more convenient, depending on where you’re staying in the city.

All ICE trains will arrive at Munich Hauptbahnhof. It's very convenient since the station is just a 10-minute walk away from the heart of the city.

Schedule & Frequency

There are one to two direct ICE services from Berlin to Munich every hour. A few of these are the faster Sprinter type, Deutsche Bahn’s quickest trains, which make very limited stops. I took the 08:11 service, one of the fastest between the two cities, completing the journey in just 3 hours and 51 minutes. Most other services take around 4 hours and 10 minutes.

There are also plenty of buses to Munich and flight options, all of which are easy to compare on Omio. But for me, the fast ICE service is simply the quickest and easiest way to travel from city center to city center.

Onboard Experience & Services

My train was operated by one of DB’s ICE 3 high-speed trains - fun fact: this was Germany’s first 300 km/h high-speed train model. Some slower services may also use the ICE 4 model. The passenger experience is largely the same on both, but the ICE 4 does offer the additional ability to bring a bike onboard.

ICE 3 trains offer both First and Second Class, with most seats arranged in open, airline-style layouts. However, you’ll also find a few seats around tables and in compartments in both classes. One of the coolest features of the ICE 3 is the ability to look out through the driver’s window, at the very front or rear of the train, thanks to a glass partition behind the cab. That said, it may be frosted over if the driver prefers privacy, so don’t count on it.

Every seat has access to free but very spotty Wi-Fi and a power outlet. You will also find a bistro onboard, serving hot and cold drinks, as well as light snacks, sandwiches, and German specialties, like currywurst.

I chose to travel First Class, as the price difference was just €12 for this service. First Class is a nice treat, with wider seats, more legroom, and the presence of solo seats. These are my favorite seats on board, as they offer a little more privacy for solo travelers and give direct access to both the window and aisle. Another benefit of First Class is that you can order from the bistro straight to your seat. Simply use the QR code in front or flag down a member of staff.

I chose to try a new menu item: the Egg Drop (sandwich). It was delicious and great for a little early-lunch snack. However, I found the €7.20 price was on the higher end.

Our train travels over a mix of upgraded conventional lines and three different high-speed railways. While much of the high-speed track runs through tunnels, don’t miss the moments when the train occasionally emerges onto elevated viaducts — offering some great views of the changing landscape, especially between Erfurt and Nürnberg.

German ICE trains are elegant and comfortable. It feels like you're traveling in style, dropping you off right in the heart of Munich, ready to continue your travels after arrival. However, it’s not uncommon for ICE trains to experience lengthy delays of around 30 minutes, so I recommend you always have a backup plan for onward connections.

To really experience what it's like aboard the ICE Sprinter from Berlin to Munich, check out this short video I made, showcasing the seat and onboard experience in great detail.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

Fares in both classes vary dynamically, depending on demand and time of booking. Second Class starts from €17.99 and First from €23.99.

I booked a First Class ticket for €55, which I thought was great value for this Sprinter ICE service. In addition, I got the sandwich for €7.20 and added an optional seat reservation for €5.90.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• First Class Ticket: €55
• Sandwich: €7.20
• Seat Reservation: €5.90
• Total: €68.10

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

• Check the price difference between classes, as it's sometimes only around €10.
• Sit at the very front or back of the ICE 3 for a chance to look out the driver’s window.
• Treat yourself to a beer or light snack while watching the landscape change. This is a great way to pass the time!

Conclusion

German ICE trains are comfortable and stylish, easily one of the best ways to get between Berlin and Munich. The relaxing atmosphere, good service, and fast travel times make the train a clear winner. Book early on Omio to grab the lowest fare and enjoy one of Europe’s finest high-speed rail journeys.

About the Author: Simon Andersen

• Job Title: Train travel content creator

• Bio: Train travel content creator with a degree in Mobility and Transportation from the Danish Technical University. I create content showcasing unique and memorable train journeys across Europe and beyond.