High-speed trains in Germany

During the journey you can leave your luggage in one of the ICE lockers in the vestibules, e.g. when visiting the BordRestaurant. The deposit will be returned to you when you remove your luggage. The service crew on the train also takes orders for taxis or porters. The taxi or porter will then be waiting for you when you reach your destination.

Some first class coaches feature individual video screens at the seat. Almost all 1st and 2nd class seats have an integrated audio connection. You can choose between three radio stations and the ICE programs which feature classical music/jazz, rock/pop and the children’s channel.

There is a bord bistro and/or on-board restaurant on all ICE trains. Depending on the time of the day, you can choose from various breakfast menus to suit any taste or from à la carte main dishes. In addition to the standard dishes, the menu often features German and European regional specialities. The Bordbistro serves snacks and a wide selection of beverages which you can consume there or take back to your seat. In 1st class coaches a selection of beverages and meals from our menus can be served at your seat on request. Snacks and beverages are also available at your seat in 2nd class.

On top of our ICE network the ICE Sprinter trains offer practically non-stop connections between major German cities. The Berlin-Frankfurt and Hamburg-Köln ICE Sprinters cut down travel time by roughly one hour, saving you precious time. Another Sprinter service is available from Hamburg to Frankfurt. The ICE Sprinter is perfect for business travel or commuters seeking to maximize their time in both cities. Fees are minimal; only 11.50 euros more in 2nd or 1st class, making the sprinter a convenient choice for your next trip.

The reason for an ICE with tilting technology

The first two ICE generations were only able to achieve their short journey times, which met with an excellent response on the market, when travelling on a purpose-built track. However, there is also a demand for ICE connections on routes where the construction of dedicated ICE tracks is unacceptable for economic reasons owing to the comparatively low demand. In order to offer shorter journey times combined with tried-and-tested ICE comfort and convenience on such routes too, DB introduced the ICE with tilting technology (ICE T) on 30 May 1999. This system, which has been in successful operation in Italy for decades, means that the train tilts inwards by up to 8° when travelling through curves, in much the same way as a motor cyclist. This allows it to travel at 30% higher speeds in curves. Needless to say, this in no way impairs safety or comfort for the passengers.