Prague to Berlin train with Deutsche Bahn (EC,ICE,IC,RB,RE)

Prague to Berlin by Train: A Relaxing Ride Through the Stunning Elbe Valley

Introduction

After attending an event in Prague, I needed to head back to Denmark, and the first step was getting to Germany. The comfortable EuroCity train from Prague to Berlin was the perfect choice. The journey takes around 4 hours and offers the chance to travel on either a brand-new train or a more retro one. In this article, I’ll share my experience and some practical tips, including which side to sit on for the best views through the scenic Elbe River Valley.

Route Overview

The Prague–Berlin train is jointly operated by Czech and German railways, using a mix of new ComfortJet trains and older but well-kept carriages. The 388-kilometer journey runs roughly every two hours and takes about 4 hours. Buses from Prague to Berlin are also available on Omio, but they’re slower and less comfortable. On the bus, you’ll also miss out on enjoying the scenic Elbe Valley, so the train is the way to go!

Transportation Experience

Booking train tickets on Omio is quick and easy. Best of all, the tickets are sent straight to your phone. Prague Main Station (Praha Hlavní nádraží) is on the edge of the historic old town and is well-connected by metro and tram. Boarding is easy: find the platform, hop on, and choose a seat — that’s it.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Prague's Main Railway Station features both a beautifully preserved Art Nouveau building and a more modern structure from the '70s. Many visitors often miss the chance to experience the grandeur of the old station building. If you would like to check it out, simply look for the sign to the left of the main departure board.

Berlin Hauptbahnhof is one of Europe’s newest central stations, which opened in 2006. It’s a modern hub in the heart of the city, with many connections and within walking distance from the Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate.

Schedule & Frequency

From Prague to Berlin, trains run approximately every two hours with up to 9 daily departures.

I took the 06:28 EC 178, which took 4 hours and 15 minutes. All trains pass through Bad Schandau and the stunning Elbe Valley.

Onboard Experience & Services

My train was one of the older ones, but the EC178 has since been upgraded to the brand-new ComfortJet. I traveled in First Class for an extra €10. This is a good idea for solo travelers because of the solo seats and more space.

Standard Class offers six-seat compartments and open-plan seating.

Onboard the train, I found power outlets, tables, and free Wi-Fi (although it's spotty). There’s also a cozy dining car serving snacks and meals.

New ComfortJet trains are gradually being introduced. They have better bike storage and accessibility, but they no longer offer compartment seating, and the dining car has been downgraded to a smaller Bistro.

A Railjet train (similar to the new ComfortJet) and a Hungarian EuroCity train (similar to the older carriages) also operate this route once per day.

Try a Czech food classic, like Svíčková — just be sure to order while still in Czechia to avoid higher German prices.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

Ticket prices vary based on demand, but the earlier you book, the cheaper the fare. Here’s what I paid:

• Standard Class: €29.90 (booked 1 month early)
• First Class upgrade: €10 - Seat reservation (mandatory June–August): from €3 - Svíčková + Pepsi in dining car: €10.20 Tickets can be as low as €19.90 if booked well in advance.

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

• Don't miss the beautiful old station building—its cozy cafés and elegant architecture are far more charming than the modern one.
• Sit on the right for the best Elbe Valley views.
• Grab a meal in the retro dining car.
• In summer, seat reservations are mandatory — book early!
• Order food while the train is in Czechia—most dishes are 35 to 40% cheaper.

Conclusion

The train from Prague to Berlin is a no-brainer: it's a calm, comfortable, and affordable way to travel between these two cities. For the best scenery, sit on the right-hand side in the direction of travel through the Elbe Valley. Need to make the same journey? Then skip the bus and enjoy a relaxed ride with great views and tasty food instead.

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.