travel from london to berlin by train

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It's easy to travel from the UK to Germany by train. Take Eurostar from London to Brussels in 2 hours and switch to a high-speed ICE train to Cologne taking 1h57, then take another luxurious ICE train to Munich, Berlin, Hamburg or anywhere in Germany. London to Brussels starts at £52 one-way or £78 return, Brussels to Cologne at €18.90 each way, Brussels to Berlin or Munich at €27.90, city centre to city centre, no airports, no flights. Children under 4 go free, there's free WiFi and you can bring your own bottle of wine if you like. This page explains the best routes, times, & how to buy tickets.

Choose your destination: London to: Augsburg Berlin Bielefeld Bochum Bonn Bremen Colditz Cologne (Koln) Dortmund Dresden Duisburg Dusseldorf Essen Frankfurt Hamburg Hannover Heidelberg Koblenz Leipzig Mainz Mannheim (via Brussels) Mannheim (via Paris) Munich Neuschwanstein Castle Nuremberg Osnabruck Regensburg Saarbrucken Stuttgart Ulm Train times, fares & tickets

Train travel within Germany

International trains to & from germany, station guides, other useful information, interactive map : click a destination or route, useful country information, london to hannover & berlin, which route to choose.

Which option is cheapest? You have to go online and see, because each option involves several tickets and the price of each ticket varies like an air fare. However, at short notice, the ferry options are usually cheaper than Eurostar.

Can you go out one way, back another? Yes! Almost all European train fares are priced as one-way, so you can book one-way out on one route and one-way back on another. Eurostar is the exception where a return fare is cheaper than two one-ways, so book London-Paris or London-Brussels as a round trip if you can.

Can you stop off? Of course! Simply book trains either side of the stopover on whatever dates you want. Each part of these journeys is ticketed separately in any case (for example, the Eurostar and the sleeper train), so it's no problem to stop off on the way at any of the main interchange points.

What if you're not starting from London? See this advice about starting your journey from elsewhere in the UK .

Option 1, London to Berlin by daytime trains

This is the fastest & most direct option. Take a morning Eurostar to Brussels, a high-speed ICE3 train to Cologne, then a luxurious ICE2 train to Berlin, with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Treat yourself to lunch with a beer or glass of wine in the restaurant, I recommend the Erdinger Weissbier and DB's choice of German red wine. An overnight stop in Brussels or Cologne can make for a time-effective journey as shown by the shaded journeys in the timetable below.

Timetable outward 2024

Timetable inward 2024, notes for the timetables.

Always check these train times using int.bahn.de , as they can vary. About the 20-minute connection in Brussels .

t = Eurostar (formerly Thalys) , not ICE

How much does it cost?

London to Brussels by Eurostar starts at £52 one-way or £78 return in standard class, £97 one-way, £140 return standard premier (1st class).

How to buy tickets

Buy tickets from London to Berlin or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Anyone from any country can use www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com , in plain English, in €, £ or $, international credit cards accepted. There's a small booking fee.

You print your own ticket, or you can load the Eurostar ticket into the Eurostar app and show the DB ticket on your laptop or phone.

When does booking open?

Booking for Eurostar opens up to 6 months ahead, sometimes up to 11 months. Onward trains to Germany open up to 6 months ahead, less when the mid-December timetable change intervenes. Journeys involving a Brussels-Cologne Eurostar (formerly Thalys) open 4 months ahead. I recommend waiting until all trains are open before committing to a non-refundable Eurostar ticket. More about when booking opens .

Booking tips

It helps to specify Brussels as a via station if you want to see journeys with an easy same-station change in Brussels, rather than also seeing journeys via Paris. Using www.raileurope.com , click More options and enter Brussels (any station).

Is it a through ticket?

There are no through tickets from London to Germany, DB's Sparpreis London fares were discontinued in March 2020 . But www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com will seamlessly sell you a Eurostar ticket from London to Brussels plus an onward ticket from Brussels to anywhere in Germany. The connection between tickets in Brussels is protected by the Railteam Promise/HOTNAT .

One-way or round trip?

On most European trains, a return fare is simply two one-ways, but on Eurostar , return fares are cheaper than two one-ways so always book round trips involving Eurostar as a return. For more control over the booking, book London-Brussels as a return journey, add to basket, book Brussels to Berlin one way, add to basket, then Berlin to Brussels one-way, add to basket & check out.

Seat reservations

About that 20-minute connection at Brussels Midi

The slick 20-minute connection in Brussels between Eurostar and an ICE to Germany, sometimes 18 or 19 minutes, is a recognised connection. It's not usually a problem, especially if you use the Brussels Midi short cut between platforms , if it's open.

You are protected by the Railteam Promise/HOTNAT , so if the Eurostar is delayed you can travel on later onwards trains at no extra charge.

The system knows whether a connection is acceptable or too tight. If you plan to book your Eurostar & ICE tickets separately, first run a London-Cologne enquiry at int.bahn.de to check that the system recognises that Eurostar as connecting with that ICE, on that specific date.

Travelling from the UK regions: See the advice here .

Another way to buy tickets

This is a little more work, but there's no booking fee and int.bahn.de lets you select your seat from a seat map on German ICE & IC trains.

First check that your outward Eurostar & ICE are a recognised connection by running a London to Cologne enquiry at int.bahn.de and confirming that your chosen Eurostar & ICE appear together as one journey. See the bit about 20-minute connections in the previous section.

Step 1, book the Eurostar from London to Brussels (and back, if returning) at www.eurostar.com .

Eurostar return fares are significantly less than two one-ways, so if you're coming back, always book Eurostar as a round trip.

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead, sometimes more. You print your own ticket or can load it into the Eurostar app on your phone.

After booking you can use the Eurostar Manage Booking system to select an exact seat on Eurostar .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Berlin at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

A round trip is ticketed as two one-ways, so you can book one way at a time if that's easier.

You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone. I recommend registering when prompted so you can log in and check your bookings or re-print tickets at any time.

How to buy tickets by phone

Using an interrail pass.

Pass or point to point?

Let's be clear, a pass will not save money over the cheapest point-to-point advance-purchase fares you might see if you book a few months ahead. But when point-to-point fares are expensive (for example, at short notice) OR you want flexibility, for example the ability to change your mind, re-route or reschedule as necessary, a pass might be what you need.

If flexibility is what you want, buy the pass. If it's about saving money, you'll have to check point-to-point prices and do the maths.

It's worth doing the maths if you are under 28, if you have kids (kids get a free pass when accompanying an adult but still need to pay reservation fees) or if you live a long way from London (as a pass covers you from your home station to London). Passes are available in 1st & 2nd class.

How to use a pass for a trip to Germany

Step 1, buy a 4-days in 1-month Interrail pass from www.myinterrail.co.uk (if you live in the UK) or www.interrail.eu (any country) for €283 adult, €212 youth or €255 senior. You load the pass into the Railplanner app on your phone. See pass prices on the Interrail page .

A 4-day pass is enough to get from almost anywhere in mainland Britain to anywhere in Germany & back again.

A 4-day pass gives you unlimited train travel on any 4 dates you choose in an overall 1 month period. The first travel day can be any date you select in the 11 months after buying the pass, the overall 1 month period starts from that date. Learn about how Interrail passes work here .

Step 2, make a Eurostar passholder reservation from London to Brussels & back, €30 each way. See prices & how to make Eurostar passholder reservations online . Tip: Eurostar passholder availability is limited, so check availability before buying a pass .

Step 3, reservations between Brussels and Berlin are usually optional , but recommended. You can make seat reservations for around €5 each way at int.bahn.de by entering Brussels to Berlin and clicking the Book seat only link under the red search button.

By all means go out one way, back another, with an Interrail pass you can use almost any of the trains & routes to/from Germany shown on this page, find out how to reserve the relevant trains using the Interrail reservations guide .

Holidays & breaks

Railbookers are a train travel specialist who can arrange a tour or short break by train as a package, with rail travel, hotels & transfers. On their website you'll find suggested tours & holidays which can be customised to your own requirements. One of their most popular trips is a short break by train from the UK to Cologne & Berlin , customisable to add extra nights. Another top seller is their holiday to Berlin & Prague , also with travel to & from London by train. Finally, have a look at their Ultimate Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest - this is by train on the outward leg from the UK, but can easily be customised to include train travel from Budapest back to London.

Tailor Made Rail can also organise a trip to Berlin & Germany by train, with hotels and transfers. Call their dedicated seat61 phone line 020 3778 1461 and quote seat 61 when booking. From outside the UK call +44 20 3778 1461. Lines open 09:00-17:30 Monday-Friday. Their website is www.tailormaderail.com/destinations/germany .

Escorted tours: If you'd like to travel with a convivial group of travellers escorted by a professional tour guide, the operators to check are Great Rail Journeys ( www.greatrail.com , in the UK call 01904 527 120) and Rail Discoveries , www.raildiscoveries.com , 01904 730 727. Both have various escorted tours from the UK to Germany by train, with departures on a variety of dates.

What's the journey like?

1. London to Brussels by Eurostar

Eurostar trains link London & Brussels in just 2 hours, travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph). There are two bar cars, power sockets at all seats and free WiFi. Standard Premier and Business Premier fares include a light meal with wine (or breakfast, on departures before 11:00). There's a 30-minute minimum check-in at London St Pancras (45 minutes minimum at Brussels Midi) as all border formalities are carried out before you board the train. More about Eurostar & check-in procedure . St Pancras station guide . Brussels Midi station guide & short cut for changing trains in Brussels .

2. Brussels to Cologne by ICE3

Germany's superb ICEs have a bistro-restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. 50 minutes after leaving Brussels the ICE calls at Liège, where you can admire the impressive station designed by celebrity architect Santiago Calatrava. As you approach Cologne Hbf you'll see the twin towers of Cologne Cathedral on the right, next to the station. More about ICE3 . Brussels Midi station guide . Cologne Hbf station guide .

3. Cologne to Berlin by ICE2

ICE2 trains have a restaurant car, bar car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. Immediately after leaving Cologne Hbf , the train crosses the Hohenzollern bridge over the Rhine. It passes through the industrial Ruhr via Wuppertal & Hamm. After leaving Hannover, the train passes non-stop through Wolfsburg - look out for the original Volkswagen factory on the left, built in 1938. The train then travels at up to 280 km/h (174 mph) on the high-speed line to Berlin Hbf , where it arrives at the low-level platforms. More about ICE2 . Cologne Hbf station guide . Berlin Hbf station guide .

Option 2, London to Berlin by Eurostar & European Sleeper

This is shown on the European Sleeper page .

Option 3 , London to Berlin by Eurostar & Nightjet sleeper

From 10 December 2023 there are not one but TWO different sleeper trains from Brussels to Berlin, both running 3 times a week on different days, the existing European Sleeper ( see the European Sleeper page ) and a new Austrian Nightjet sleeper train , shown below. The Nightjet is expected to become daily from autumn 2024. So on 6 days a week you can hop on a lunchtime Eurostar to Brussels, have an early dinner, then sleep your way to Berlin.

London ► Berlin Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays

Eurostar has two cafe-bars, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Standard Premier & Business Premier fares include lunch with wine.

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet sleeper train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There's a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers. The train has a couchette car with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and an ordinary seats car. See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

There's no restaurant car, but in sleepers or couchettes you can order drinks, snacks and hot dishes from a room service menu, served in your compartment. The sleeper & couchette fares include a light breakfast with tea or coffee, served in your compartment.

Berlin ► London Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays

Fares vary like air fares, book early for the cheapest prices. Return fares are twice the one-way fare.

On the sleeper train, berths are sold individually, so one ticket means one bed, the other beds in your compartment will be sold to other passengers. For sole occupancy, simply book 1 ticket in a 1-berth sleeper or 2 tickets in a 2-berth sleeper or 4 tickets in a 4-berth couchette and so on.

Using www.thetrainline.com allows you to book all your tickets in one place, in €, £ or $, international cards no problem, small booking fee. Booking opens up to 6 months ahead, less than this when the mid-December timetable change intervenes . Child under 6? See here .

Tip: After booking you can use the Manage booking facility at www.eurostar.com to choose an exact seat from a seating plan, see tips on choosing a seat on Eurostar .

Eurostar trains link London & Brussels in just 2 hours, travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph). There are two bar cars, power sockets at all seats and free WiFi. Standard Premier and Business Premier fares include a light meal with wine (or breakfast, on departures before 11:00). There's a 30-minute minimum check-in as all border formalities are carried out before you board the train. More about Eurostar & check-in procedure . St Pancras station guide . Brussels Midi station guide . In Brussels, I recommend using the Pullman Hotel bar as your VIP waiting room .

2. Brussels to Berlin by Nightjet

Option 4, London to Berlin with overnight stop in Amsterdam

This is a long way round so much slower than option 1, but there's only one change of train, it can be cheaper and what's not to like about some time in Amsterdam? It also allows an after-work departure from London so is time-effective. Take Eurostar from London to Amsterdam Centraal in around 4h, often with keener pricing than between London & Brussels, stay overnight, then take a German Intercity train from Amsterdam Centraal to Berlin Hbf next day in 5h52.

London ► Berlin

Day 1, travel from London to Amsterdam by Eurostar , leaving London St Pancras at 18:04 daily except Saturdays, arriving Amsterdam Centraal 23:11.

Eurostar has two cafe-bars, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, see the London to Amsterdam by Eurostar page .

Stay overnight in Amsterdam . The Park Plaza Victoria Hotel is directly opposite the station and gets very good reviews. The Ibis Styles Amsterdam Centraal is also opposite the station for a relatively inexpensive for overnight stop, or try the Hotel Luxer .

Day 2, travel from Amsterdam Centraal to Berlin Hbf by Intercity train on any departure you like.

The 05:59 from Amsterdam arrives Berlin 11:51, or there's an 07:59, 09:59, 11:59 and so on, see the Amsterdam-Berlin timetable .

All have power sockets at all seats & a refreshment trolley. More about Amsterdam to Berlin trains .

Berlin ► London

Day 2, travel from Berlin Hbf to Amsterdam Centraal by Intercity train leaving Berlin Hbf at 16:06 & arriving Amsterdam Centraal at 22:00.

Or book an earlier train if you like, trains leave Berlin Hbf at 06:06, 08:06, 10:06, 12:06, 14:06, see the Berlin-Amsterdam timetable .

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam to London by Eurostar , leaving Amsterdam Centraal 07:47 Monday-Saturday, arriving London St Pancras 10:43.

Or on Monday-Fridays & Sundays you can leave Amsterdam Centraal at 13:47, arriving London St Pancras at 16:57.

Or spend a day in Amsterdam & take the afternoon Eurostar leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 16:47 daily except Saturdays, arriving London St Pancras 19:43, see the London to Amsterdam timetable here .

Eurostar has two cafe-bars, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

London to Amsterdam by Eurostar starts at £51 one-way or £98 return in standard class, £97 one-way or £168 return in standard premier (1st class).

Children under go 4 free, children under 12 pay a reduced fare.

Amsterdam to Berlin starts at €37.90 in 2nd class, €69.90 in 1st class.

Children under 6 go free, children under 15 also go free when accompanied by an adult.

Fares are dynamic, like air fares, so book ahead and avoid busy days such as Friday afternoons for the cheapest fares.

Step 1, buy a Eurostar ticket between London & Amsterdam at www.eurostar.com . You print your own ticket or can load it into the Eurostar app.

Step 2, buy tickets between Amsterdam & Berlin at the German Railways website int.bahn.de . You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone.

London to Cologne , Düsseldorf, Dortmund

Cologne, or Köln in German from its Roman name, Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium, was once the largest city in Germany. Its magnificent cathedral stands right next to Cologne's main station - the cathedral was consecrated in 1322, but its distinctive 512 feet high towers were only completed in 1880. You can climb them for a magnificent view over the city and the River Rhine. There are two good options for travel between the UK and Cologne or Düsseldorf.

Option 1, London to Cologne & Dusseldorf by high-speed train

Getting to Cologne from London is easy by train: Hop on a high-speed Eurostar train from London to Brussels in just 2 hours, then travel from Brussels to Cologne by high-speed ICE train in just 1h57 with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Frequent regional trains then link Cologne with Düsseldorf, Essen, Bochum & Dortmund. ICEs are run by Deutsche Bahn (German Railways).

Notes for the timetable

Buy tickets from London to Cologne, Düsseldorf or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

It can help to specify Brussels as a via station if you want to see journeys with an easy same-station change in Brussels, rather than also seeing journeys via Paris. At www.raileurope.com , click More options and enter Brussels (any station).

Step 2, book from Brussels to Cologne or Düsseldorf at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

Railbookers are a train travel specialist who can put together a tour or short break by train as a package, including rail travel, hotels & transfers. Their website has a range of suggested tours & holidays which can be customised to your requirements. One of their most popular trips is a short break by train from the UK to Cologne & Berlin , customisable to add extra nights, with train travel throughout.

Video guide: London to Cologne

Since I made this video, Eurostar has introduced new e320 trains, and the signage at Brussels Midi has been renewed. But the video still gives a good idea of the journey, and how to use the short cut from Eurostar platforms 1 & 2 to ICE platforms 3-6.

London to Bonn, Koblenz, Mainz

High-speed Eurostar trains link London with Brussels in just 2 hours. From Brussels, high-speed Eurostar (formerly Thalys) and ICE trains take 1h57 to reach Cologne - watch the London to Cologne video . Regular trains link Cologne with Bonn, Koblenz and Mainz.

How to check train times

Simply use the London-Cologne timetable above to find train times from London to Cologne, then use int.bahn.de to find connecting train times from Cologne to Bonn, Koblenz and Mainz.

Buy tickets from London to Bonn, Koblenz, Mainz or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Bonn, Koblenz or Mainz at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

London to Frankfurt

Option 1, by Eurostar to Brussels : This is the fastest and easiest option. Take a Eurostar to Brussels Midi in 2 hours, make a simple same-station change onto a high-speed high-speed ICE to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf in 3h15. Both Eurostar & ICE have power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. You arrive at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf in the heart of the city.

Option 2, by Eurostar to Paris : Take a Eurostar to Paris Nord in 2h20, it's then an easy 7-minute walk to Paris Est for a high-speed ICE to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf taking around 3h50. Apart from the 7-minute walk in Paris this is almost as easy as option 1, it takes only a little longer depending how the connections work. How about lunch in Paris ?

Option 3, by Stena Line overnight ferry from Harwich to Hoek van Holland : The ferry alternative! Leave London Liverpool Street by train at 18:45 or Cambridge at 19:47, sleep in a cosy private cabin on the Stena Line superferry from 21:00 to 08:00 with shower, toilet & satellite TV. Next day, take the metro to Rotterdam and onward trains to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf arriving at 14:31. This is a great option if Eurostar is expensive (for example, at short notice), if you live in East Anglia, or if you prefer a ferry to the Tunnel.

Option 5, by Eurostar to Brussels & the scenic Rhine Valley route . Similar to option 1, taking Eurostar to Brussels and an ICE onwards, but instead of staying aboard the ICE all the way from Brussels to Frankfurt, you change in Cologne onto a slower train running along the Rhine Valley to Frankfurt, past cliffs and castles and the fabled Lorelei Rock. It takes an hour longer, but it's worth it! If you want this option, use www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com , entering 'Koblenz' as a via station. To enter a via station at www.raileurope.com , click More options . See the Rails Down the Rhine page .

Option 1, London to Frankfurt via Brussels

Check these train times at int.bahn.de . About the 20-minute connection in Brussels

Brussels Midi station guide . London St Pancras station guide . Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station

Buy tickets from London to Frankfurt or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Frankfurt at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

2. Brussels to Frankfurt by ICE3

Germany's superb ICEs have a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. The train calls at Liège, where you can admire the impressive station designed by celebrity architect Santiago Calatrava, and at Cologne Hbf , where you'll see Cologne Cathedral to the right as you approach, right next to the station. Immediately after leaving Cologne Hbf , the train crosses the long Hohenzollern bridge over the Rhine before joining the 300km/h high-speed line to Frankfurt. More about ICE3 . Brussels Midi station guide . Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station guide .

Video guide: London to Frankfurt

Since I made this video, Eurostar has introduced ]new e320 trains, and signing at Brussels Midi has been renewed. But the video still gives a good idea of the journey, and how to use the short cut from Eurostar platforms 1 & 2 to ICE platforms 3-6.

Option 2, London to Frankfurt via Paris

Note for the timetable.

London to Paris by Eurostar starts at £52 one-way or £78 return in standard class, £97 one-way, £168 return standard premier (1st class).

How to buy tickets: Raileurope.com

The easiest way to buy London-Frankfurt train tickets is at www.raileurope.com .

Booking for the Paris-Frankfurt trains opens up to 6 months ahead, up to 6 months ahead for Eurostar & German domestic trains.

www.raileurope.com can book journeys to Frankfurt via both Brussels or Paris. If you want the Paris route, click More options and enter Paris Nord as a via station. It connects to both the French & German railways ticketing systems. There's a small booking fee.

Or buy using bahn.de & eurostar.com

It's also worth checking prices for the Paris-Frankfurt train on int.bahn.de , as this is the German reservation system so prices can vary from those on the French system. Furthermore there's no booking fee and child age limits are more generous: When booked through int.bahn.de , children under 6 go free and children under 15 can also go free if accompanied by an adult. Booking this way involves two websites, so do a dry run first on both sites to check prices and availability before booking for real.

Buy tickets by phone

1. London to Paris by Eurostar

Eurostar trains link London & Paris in 2h20, travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph). There are two bar cars, power sockets at all seats and free WiFi. Standard Premier and Business Premier fares include a light meal with wine (or breakfast, on departures before 11:00). There's a 30-minute minimum check-in at London St Pancras (45 minutes minimum at Paris Nord) as all border formalities are carried out before you board the train. More about Eurostar & check-in procedure . St Pancras station guide . Paris Gare du Nord station guide .

2. Paris to Frankfurt by ICE3

In Paris it's an easy 7 minute 500m walk from the Gare du Nord to the Gare de l'Est for the ICE to Frankfurt. The superb German ICEs have a bistro-restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. More about ICE3 . Paris Gare de l'Est station guide . Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station guide .

Video guide : Paris-Frankfurt by ICE

London to nuremberg.

High-speed Eurostar trains link London with Brussels in just 2 hours. From Brussels, ICE high-speed trains run to Frankfurt in around 3h05, watch the video guide . Change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf for Nuremberg ( Nürnberg in German), taking just 2h05. Eurostar has a cafe-bar, ICEs have a bistro-restaurant car, and both Eurostar & ICE come with power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

Always check times for your date using int.bahn.de . About the 20-minute connection in Brussels

London St Pancras station guide . Brussels Midi guide . Cologne Hbf station guide . Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station guide . Munich Hbf station guide

Buy tickets from London to Nuremberg at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Nuremberg at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

Nuremberg rail museum & rally grounds

London to osnabrück & hamburg, option 1, london to osnabrück, bremen, hamburg by train.

You can easily travel by train from London to Osnabrück, Bremen or Hamburg in a day, using Eurostar, a high-speed Eurostar (formerly Thalys) or ICE train to Cologne, then a comfortable German InterCity train from Cologne to Osnabrück, Bremen or Hamburg. For more information, read on.

You can check these train times at int.bahn.de . About the 20-minute connection in Brussels .

London St Pancras station guide Brussels Midi station guide & advice on changing trains Cologne Hbf station guide . Hamburg Hbf station guide

Buy tickets from London to Osnabruck, Hamburg or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Osnabruck, Bremen or Hamburg at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

Step 3, reservations between Brussels and Hamburg are usually optional , but recommended. You can make seat reservations for around €5 each way at int.bahn.de by entering Brussels to Berlin and clicking the Book seat only link under the red search button.

Railbookers : For holidays or short breaks to Germany by train call rail specialists Railbookers. They offer custom-made holidays & tours to Germany with trains, transfers & hotels sorted for you in one place. As they're selling you a package they'll look after you if anything happens such as a strike or major delay. The trips you see online are examples which can be customised to include train travel to & from the UK with no flying necessary, or to add extra nights, just call them.

Germany's superb ICEs have a bistro-restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. More about ICE3 . Brussels Midi station guide . Cologne Hbf station guide .

London to Stuttgart & Munich

There are several good options for travel between the UK and Stuttgart or Munich:

Option 1, by Eurostar & TGV via Paris : Take Eurostar to Paris, it's an easy 7 minute 500m walk from the Gare du Nord to Gare de l'Est, then take a direct 320 km/h double-deck TGV Duplex from Paris to Stuttgart or Munich. This is the fastest option.

Option 2, by Eurostar & ICE via Brussels : Take Eurostar to Brussels, a Eurostar (formerly Thalys) or ICE high-speed train to Cologne, then a high-speed ICE train from Cologne to Munich. This is the most frequent option with a range of services every day. It involves two easy same-station changes of train.

Option 3, by Eurostar & Nightjet sleeper train . A time-effective option, using either the Paris-Munich or Brussels-Munich sleepers.

Option 1: London to Stuttgart & Munich via Paris

London St Pancras station guide Paris Gare du Nord station guide Paris Gare de l'Est station guide Munich Hbf station guide

Buy tickets at Raileurope.com

The easiest way to buy London-Munich or London-Stuttgart train tickets for journeys via Paris is at www.raileurope.com .

www.raileurope.com can book journeys to Stuttgart or Munich via both Brussels or Paris. If you specifically want the Paris route, simply click More options and enter Paris Nord as a via station. There's a small booking fee.

Booking for Eurostar opens up to 6 months ahead, sometimes longer, booking for Paris-Munich TGVs opens up to 4 months ahead, but I'd wait until all your trains are open for booking. More about when booking opens .

Other ways to buy tickets

It's worth checking prices for the Paris-Munich train on int.bahn.de , as this is the German reservation system so prices vary from those on the French system used by www.raileurope.com . In addition, there's no booking fee and child age limits are more generous: Using bahn.de, children under 6 go free, and children under 15 also go free if accompanying a fare-paying adult.

Booking this way involves two websites, so do a dry run first on both sites to check prices and availability before booking for real. Booking for Eurostar opens up to 6 months ahead, sometimes longer, booking for Paris-Munich TGVs opens up to 4 months ahead, but I'd wait until all your trains are open for booking. More about when booking opens .

The results will show cheap Sparpreis fares (if available). You pay by credit card and simply print out your own ticket. Easy!

Tip: In the westbound Munich to Paris direction, I recommend changing Transfer time from Normal to at least 30 minutes before running the enquiry. That will avoid tight 7-minute connections into a Stuttgart-Paris train that only runs every 2-3 hours.

How to buy tickets by phone

See the Interrail pass section below

2. Paris to Munich by TGV Duplex

In Paris it's an easy 7 minute 500m walk from the Gare du Nord to the Gare de l'Est for the TGV to Germany. Sit back with a glass of red and enjoy the ride - book an upper deck seat for the best views. The train is equipped with power sockets for laptops & mobiles at all seats in both classes, and a cafe-bar serves drinks, snacks & microwaved hot dishes. The train soon leaves the Paris suburbs behind and speeds across a vast wide open plateau of woods & farmland at up to 320 km/h (199 mph), past picturesque French villages of the Champagne region. An hour or two later, the train leaves the high-speed line and slowly meanders through pretty wooded hills, the countryside eventually flattening out towards Strasbourg. On leaving Strasbourg, look out for Strasbourg cathedral on the left with its famously missing second tower. Minutes afterwards you rumble across the river Rhine into Germany, before heading on to Stuttgart & Munich. Paris Gare de l'Est station guide . Munich Hbf station guide . More about TGV Duplex . See TGV video guide .

Option 2: London to Stuttgart & Munich via Brussels

It's easy to travel by train from London to Munich in a day, using a morning Eurostar to Brussels, a high-speed ICE3 train to Frankfurt, then another luxurious high-speed ICE to Munich, all with power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Treat yourself to lunch with a beer or some wine in the ICE restaurant car. Alternatively, an overnight stop in Brussels can make it more time-effective, as shown by the shaded journeys in the timetable below.

Stuttgart, Ulm, Augsburg : You can travel to Stuttgart, Ulm or Augsburg on the same departures from London, with a different connection from Frankfurt. For simplicity, I only show the Munich times in the timetable below, but a journey to Stuttgart, Ulm or Augsburg is booked in exactly the same way as to Munich.

Buy tickets from London to Munich or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Stuttgart or Munich at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

Step 2, make a Eurostar passholder reservation from London to Paris or Brussels & back, €30 each way. See prices & how to make Eurostar passholder reservations online . Tip: Eurostar passholder availability is limited, so check availability before buying a pass .

Step 3 if going via Brussels: Reservations between Brussels and Munich are optional, but recommended. You can make seat reservations for around €5 each way at int.bahn.de by entering Brussels to Munich and clicking the Book seat only link under the red search button.

Step 3 if going via Paris: Reservations on Paris-Germany trains are compulsory, seat reservations cost around €18 each way and can be made using the official Interrail reservation service .

Railbookers : Rail specialists Railbookers offer custom-made holiday & tour packages to Germany by train, with rail travel, transfers & hotels sorted for you. The trips you see on their website can be customised to your requirements, just give them a call.

Escorted tours: If you'd like to travel with a convivial group of travellers escorted by a professional tour guide, check Great Rail Journeys ( www.greatrail.com , call 01904 527 120) and Rail Discoveries , www.raildiscoveries.com , 01904 730 727. Both have various escorted tours from the UK to Germany by train, with departures on a variety of dates.

2. Brussels to Frankfurt & Frankfurt to Munich by ICE

Germany's superb ICEs have a bistro-restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. The Brussels to Frankfurt train calls at Liège, where you can admire the impressive station designed by celebrity architect Santiago Calatrava, and at Cologne Hbf , where you'll see Cologne Cathedral to the right as you approach, right next to the station. Immediately after leaving Cologne Hbf , the train crosses the long Hohenzollern bridge over the Rhine before joining the 300km/h high-speed line to Frankfurt. More about ICE3 trains . Brussels Midi station guide . Cologne Hbf station guide . Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station guide . Munich Hbf station guide .

Option 3, London to Munich by sleeper

ÖBB (Austrian Railways) run an excellent Nightjet sleeper train from Brussels to Munich 3 times a week, final destination Vienna, and another from Paris to Munich Ost on the same days of the week, also en route to Vienna (the Brussels-Vienna & Paris-Vienna trains are combined into one train between Mannheim and Vienna). ÖBB expect to make these trains daily from autumn 2024. It's a comfortable and time-effective option if you don't mind the early arrival.

London ► Munich (via Brussels)

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet sleeper train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There are toilets & a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers. The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu. The train has couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats. A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment. See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

London ► Munich (via Paris)

Munich ► london (via brussels), munich ► london (via paris).

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There's a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers. The train has a couchette car with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and an ordinary seats car. See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

Tip: If you have a ticket for a sleeper, you can use the ÖBB lounge at Vienna Hbf with complimentary tea, coffee, snacks & WiFi.

How to buy a connecting ticket from other UK towns & cities: See the advice on special add-on tickets here .

1. London to Paris or Brussels by Eurostar

Eurostar trains link London & Brussels in just 2 hours, London & Paris in 2h20, travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph). There are two bar cars, power sockets at all seats and free WiFi. Standard Premier and Business Premier fares include a light meal with wine (or breakfast, on departures before 11:00). There's a 30-minute minimum check-in at London St Pancras as all border formalities are carried out before you board the train. More about Eurostar & check-in procedure . St Pancras station guide . Brussels Midi station guide . Paris Gare du Nord station guide .

2 . Brussels or Paris to Munich by Nightjet sleeper train

London to Leipzig & Dresden

There are several good options for travel from the UK to Leipzig or Dresden:

Option 1 , London to Leipzig or Dresden by daytime trains

This is the cheapest option, London to Leipzig or Dresden in a single day. Or break up the journey with an overnight stop in Brussels or Cologne if you like.

London ► Leipzig, Dresden

Option 1, leave London St Pancras by Eurostar at 07:04 on Mondays-Fridays, change at Brussels Midi & Frankfurt (Main) Hbf and arrive Leipzig Hbf 17:10 & Dresden Hbf 19:38.

Option 2, leave London St Pancras by Eurostar at 09:01 every day, change at Brussels Midi & Frankfurt (Main) Hbf and arrive Leipzig Hbf 19:10 & Dresden Hbf 21:38.

Option 3, leave London St Pancras by Eurostar at 11:04, change at Brussels Midi & Frankfurt (Main) Hbf and arrive Leipzig Hbf 21:10 or (change again at Leipzig) Dresden Hbf 23:38.

Option 4, with overnight stop in Brussels

Day 1, travel from London to Brussels on any afternoon or evening Eurostar you like. The last one leaves London St Pancras at 19:34, arriving Brussels Midi at 22:38, but by all means book an earlier one for more of an evening in Brussels.

Stay overnight in Brussels . I recommend the excellent Pullman Hotel Brussels Midi which is an integral part of Brussels Midi station itself, or the inexpensive Ibis Brussels Midi just across the road.

Day 2, travel from Brussels to Leipzig in around 6h58, or to Dresden in 8h11. Find times that suit you at int.bahn.de .

Option 5, with overnight stop in Cologne

Day 1, travel from London to Cologne on any of the services shown in the London to Cologne section . You can leave London St Pancras at 15:04 daily, change at Brussels Midi and arrive Cologne Hbf at 20:15.

Stay overnight in Cologne . The good & inexpensive Ibis Hotel Köln-am-Dom is ideal as it's part of Cologne Hbf itself, with an entrance to the left of the main station entrance - many of its rooms have a cathedral view.

Day 2, travel from Cologne Hbf to Leipzig in as little as 4h23, or to Dresden in 5h42. Find times that suit you at int.bahn.de .

Dresden, Leipzig ► London

Option 1, leave Dresden at 06:10 daily or Leipzig at 07:33, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf & Brussels Midi arriving London St Pancras at 18:57.

Option 2, leave Dresden at 10:10 or Leipzig at 11:33 Mondays-Fridays & Sundays, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf & Brussels Midi arriving London St Pancras at 21:57.

Option 3, with overnight stop in Brussels

Day 1, travel from Dresden or Leipzig to Brussels, check times at int.bahn.de . For example, you can leave Dresden at 12:10 or Leipzig at 13:33, arriving Brussels Midi at 21:35.

Stay overnight in Brussels. I recommend the Ibis Brussels Midi , just across the road from Brussels Midi station, or the Pullman Hotel Brussels Midi which is part of the station itself.

Day 2, travel from Brussels to London on any Eurostar you like.

The first one leaves Brussels Midi at 07:56 Mondays-Saturdays, arriving London St Pancras 08:59 or at 08:52 Sundays arriving 09:57.

Buy tickets from London to Leipzig, Dresden or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Leipzig or Dresden at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

Step 3, reservations between Brussels and Leipzig or Dresden are usually optional , but recommended. You can make seat reservations for around €5 each way at int.bahn.de , by setting up an enquiry and clicking the Book seat only link under the red search button.

Escape to Colditz?

Colditz has become part of WW2 folklore and it's well worth a visit. A train leaves Leipzig every hour for Grossbothen (or on some departures, Grimma) where a bus connects for Colditz. Journey from Leipzig about 1 hour 7 minutes. You can check train and bus times at int.bahn.de . In 1992, I made the whole journey from Leipzig to Colditz by train, as did many of the PoWs. See the Escape to Colditz page for more information .

2. Brussels to Frankfurt & Frankfurt to Leipzig or Dresden by ICE

Germany's superb ICE (InterCity Express) high-speed trains have a bistro-restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. The ICE3 train from Cologne to Frankfurt calls at Liège, where you can admire the impressive station designed by celebrity architect Santiago Calatrava, and at Cologne Hbf , where you'll see Cologne Cathedral to the right as you approach, right next to the station. Immediately after leaving Cologne Hbf , the train crosses the long Hohenzollern bridge over the Rhine before joining the 300km/h high-speed line to Frankfurt. The train from Frankfurt to Leipzig & Dresden will be an ICE-T . More about ICE trains . Brussels Midi station guide . Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station guide .

Option 2, London to Dresden by European Sleeper

Option 3 , london to dresden by czech sleeper.

This is the most time-effective way from the UK to Dresden. From the timetable change on 11 December 2022, a new overnight service with sleeping-car & couchettes links Zurich with Prague, routed via Karlsruhe & Dresden. From London you can pick this new sleeper up in Karlsruhe. It's a comfortable option, some sleepers have an en suite toilet & shower, breakfast included.

London ► Dresden

The sleeper train has a Czech air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin, and three 1, 2 & 3 bed deluxe compartments with en suite shower & toilet. There are toilets and a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in regular sleepers. There are also 4 & 6-berth couchettes. A light breakfast with tea or coffee is included in the sleeper fare.

Dresden ► London

This 320 km/h double-deck high-speed train has a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Book an upper deck seat for the best views, any seat number >60 is upper deck.

Alternatively, if you don't fancy the 5am arrival at Karlsruhe and don't mind a later arrival in London .

You can book the sleeper from Dresden to Basel instead, it arrives at Basel SBB at the much more agreeable hour of 07:20. The 10:34 TGV-Lyria from Basel SBB reaches Paris Gare de Lyon at 13:40, cross Paris by metro and take the 17:03 Eurostar from Paris Nord to London.

How to much does it cost?

Step 1, book London to Karlsruhe at www.thetrainline.com or www.raileurope.com , both easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee. Using one of these sites means you can book everything easily in one place. About Raileurope . About Thetrainline .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead for each of these trains, see more about when bookings open . I recommend waiting until all trains have opened for booking and times are confirmed before buying a non-refundable Eurostar ticket.

Tip: You can book from London to Karlsruhe all in one go if you like, but for more control over the connection in Paris, I'd book London-Paris first, add to basket, then book Paris-Karlsruhe and add to basket, ensuring at least an hour between trains. That way you can allow a more robust connection than the system would give you, and you can see if earlier Eurostars have cheaper prices.

Tip: If you are making a round trip, London-Paris return fares are significantly cheaper than two one-ways so it's cheaper to book this as a return. All other trains are one-way ticketed so it makes no difference how you book, and it can be easier to book one way at a time.

Alternatively, you can book the Eurostar at www.eurostar.com , then book the Paris-Karlsruhe TGV at int.bahn.de . This is more work and prices should be the same, but there's no booking fee.

Step 2, book the Karlsruhe-Dresden sleeper at the Czech Railways website www.cd.cz . Booking opens 2 or 3 months ahead .

Leave 2nd class selected. Do not select 1st class even if you want a deluxe sleeper, if you do the sleeper train won't show up.

The train will appear in the search results twice , both marked No transfers . The first appearance is the seats carriages marked EC (EuroCity), ignore this. Click the buy button against the second appearance of this train, with a sleeper & couchette symbol marked EN for EuroNight, and continue. Use the modify & edit features to adjust the type of couchette & sleeper. You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone. You can also try booking at the Austrian Railways site www.oebb.at .

What is the sleeper train like?

It has one modern Czech sleeping-car with 9 standard compartments with washbasin and 3 deluxe compartments with a compact en suite toilet & shower. Each compartment can be sold with 1, 2 or all 3 beds in use, as single , double and T3 . There are toilets and a shower at the end of the corridor, and each compartment converts from beds to a private sitting room for the daytime parts of the journey. There is a power socket for laptops and mobiles. All necessary bedding and towels are provided. The doors have card-key locks like hotels. A very safe, civilised and comfortable way to travel! Do not obsess about getting a deluxe - In the standard compartments the beds and the decor are exactly the same as the deluxe ones, the only difference is that the compartment floor space is a fraction smaller (though not so you'd notice) and there's a washbasin instead of an en suite toilet & shower. You can of course use the shower at the end of the corridor - you access it using the same card key that opens your compartment door. This train also has couchettes, basic bunks with rug & pillow, you can book a bunk in either a 6-berth or less crowded 4-berth compartment.

London to other destinations in Germany

You can get to just about anywhere in Germany by train from London. If your destination is a small place close to one of the big cities shown on this page such as Berlin, Hamburg or Munich, use the train times on this page to that city then use the German Railways website int.bahn.de to find train times onwards from that city to your final destination. The German Railways website will also give fares and sell tickets for journeys within Germany.

London to anywhere in Germany

If your destination isn't listed here , for example, London to Heidelberg, Regensburg or Konstanz to name just three, use this booking process to search for journeys:

Buy tickets from London to anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Anyone from any country can use www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com , in plain English, international credit cards accepted and fares shown in multiple currencies. There's a small booking fee.

You print your own ticket, or you can load the Eurostar ticket into the Eurostar app, and show the DB ticket on your laptop or phone.

Tip: It can help to specify Brussels as a via station if you want to see journeys with an easy same-station change in Brussels, rather than also seeing journeys via Paris. At www.raileurope.com , click More options and enter Brussels (any station).

About those 20-minute connections at Brussels Midi

The slick 20-minute connection in Brussels between Eurostar and an onward ICE , sometimes less than this, is usually a recognised connection which lots of people make. It's not usually a problem, especially if you use the Brussels Midi short cut between platforms .

Even though the system sells you separate tickets either side of Brussels, you are protected by the Railteam Promise/HOTNAT so if there's a delay and you miss the connection you will be allowed to travel on later onwards trains at no extra charge.

The system is programmed to know which connections are recognised/acceptable and which are too tight - if you intend booking your Eurostar and ICE tickets separately (which I often do to check prices for Eurostar and onwards trains separately, and to retain more control over the booking) it's wise to run a London-Cologne enquiry first just to check that the system does indeed recognise that specific Eurostar as connecting with that specific onward ICE, on that specific date.

How to buy a connecting ticket from other UK towns & cities : See the advice on special add-on tickets here .

Neuschwanstein : Bavaria's fairytale castle

See the Neuschwanstein page for a guide to reaching Bavaria's fairytale castle, including how to make an inexpensive DIY day trip from Munich by train, with photos of a visit to the castle.

By Harz steam railway to the Brocken

See the Harz railway page .

Escape to Colditz

See the Escape to Colditz page . Now part of WW2 folklore and well worth a visit! Colditz is easy to reach from Leipzig, or you can do it as a day trip from Berlin or Dresden.

Berchtesgaden, Obersalzberg & Eagle's Nest

Another site from WW2 which can be visited, the site of Hitler's country house, the Berghof, can still be seen at Obersalzberg on the mountain above Berchtesgaden, where Göring, Bormann, Speer and others also had houses. The ruins of the Berghof were demolished in 1952, all that can be seen now is an overgrown site with a large retaining wall. Hitler's impressive mountain-top tea house, the Eagle's Nest, is still standing and can be visited in summer. First, travel to Munich as shown above .

Travel from Munich Hbf to Berchtesgaden by regional train, these leave every hour through the day with one simple change at Freilassing, total journey time 2h35. int.bahn.de will give train times an sell you a train ticket - look for all-train departures that don't involve a bus. The regular fare is around €43 each way, so it's cheaper to buy a Bayern Ticket for €29 for the first passenger + €10 for each additional passenger, this gives unlimited travel for the day on regional trains after 09:00 on weekdays, any time at weekends so will cover a same-day round trip.

Although you can buy on the day at the station, buying online at int.bahn.de saves time and the system automatically shows the Bayern Ticket for journeys where this is cheaper than the regular fare.

Roughly hourly buses then link Berchtesgaden with Obersalzberg, journey time only 12 minutes, from where tourist shuttle buses go up to the Eagle's Nest. The bus operator is www.rvo-bus.de . Or take a tour - Eagles Nest Historical Tours ( www.eagles-nest-historical-tours.com ) do an Obersalzberg tour and an Eagles Nest tour, leaving from the tourist information centre directly across the roundabout from the station.

London to Germany via Harwich - Hoek

The ferry alternative! If Eurostar is expensive, especially at short notice, the ferry can be cheaper. If you live in East Anglia, the ferry can be more convenient, there's even a direct train from Cambridge to Harwich which connects with the night boat. If you want to avoid the Channel Tunnel or if there are strikes in France, this is also the route for you. Or you may simply prefer a leisurely cruise across the North Sea in a cosy private cabin with toilet, shower & satellite TV, after an excellent dinner in the ship's restaurant. The route via Harwich & Hoek of Holland is one of those shown in dark blue on the route map above . There are two departures a day, the day boat and the night boat.

Using the night boat

A convenient evening departure from central London by train and a good night's sleep in a cosy private cabin with toilet, shower & satellite TV on board the rock-steady 63,000 ton Stena Line superferry. Next morning, take onward trains to anywhere in Germany.

London, Cambridge & Harwich ► Germany

At Harwich, the station is right next to the ferry terminal and you walk off the train into the terminal, check in at the Stena Line desk and walk straight onto Stena Line's luxurious overnight superferry Stena Hollandica to Hoek van Holland.

The ferry sails at 23:00 and arrives at Hoek van Holland at 08:00 next morning, Dutch time.

All passengers travel in cosy private cabins with en suite toilet & shower & satellite TV. Deluxe Comfort class & Captains class cabins are also available, and there's free WiFi in the lounges, restaurants & bars on 9 deck. You can get on board the ferry around 9pm, have a late dinner in the restaurant and settle into your cabin.

German Intercity trains link Amsterdam Centraal with Osnabrück, Hanover & Berlin Hbf every 2 hours, change at Osnabrück for Hamburg.

For example, you can leave Amsterdam Centraal at 11:59 and arrive Berlin Hbf at 17:51, see the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train page .

Germany ► Harwich, Cambridge & London

Day 1, take a train from anywhere in Germany to Amsterdam or Utrecht.

You can check train times & buy tickets from any German station to Amsterdam or Utrecht at int.bahn.de .

Coming from Berlin, Hamburg, Bremen, Hannover or Osnabruck it's easiest to go via Amsterdam. For example, the 10:06 Intercity train from Berlin Hbf arrives Amsterdam Centraal at 16:00.

Coming from Munich, Stuttgart, Nuremberg, Frankfurt, Cologne or Düsseldorf it's quickest to go via Utrecht. The ICE train leaving Frankfurt (Main) Hbf at 13:29, Cologne Messe/Deutz 14:50 & Düsseldorf 15:12 arrives Utrecht Centraal at 16:59.

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam or Utrecht to London by Stena Line Rail & Sail .

Take the 18:35 train from Amsterdam Centraal to Schiedam Centrum or the 17:48 train from Utrecht Centraal to Rotterdam Alexander to connect with the frequent metro train to Hoek van Holland Haven. By all means take an earlier train/metro, there are departures every 15-30 minutes and the ferry starts boarding at 19:30.

At Hoek, the station is right next to the ferry terminal. Check in at the Stena Line desk and walk up the gangway onto the ferry and sail overnight in a snug private cabin to Harwich

The ferry sails from Hoek van Holland at 22:00 and arrives at Harwich International at 06:30 next morning (day 2), UK time.

All cabins have shower, toilet & satellite TV. At Harwich the station is integrated with the ferry terminal.

On day 2, Take a train from Harwich to London Liverpool Street arriving around 08:56, or from Harwich to Cambridge arriving 09:41 (10:39 on Sundays). See the Stena Line Rail & Sail page for full details .

Step 1, book from London or any Greater Anglia station to Hoek van Holland at www.stenaline.co.uk/rail-and-sail/to-holland .

This is a special Stena Line Rail & Sail ticket, see the Stena Line Rail & Sail page for more tips & information on how to buy one.

You buy the metro ticket from Hoek van Holland to Schiedam or Rotterdam at the metro station using the ticket machines or simply by touching in & out with any contactless bank card.

Step 2, now book trains from Schiedam Centrum or Rotterdam Alexander to anywhere in Germany at German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead . You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone. I recommend registering when prompted, so you can log in at any time and check or reprint tickets.

Step 1, London to Holland by train & ferry

A train takes you from London's Liverpool Street station directly to the ferry terminal at Harwich. You walk off the train, into the terminal, get your boarding card & cabin key at the Stena Line check-in desk and walk straight onto the overnight ferry to Hoek van Holland. The superferry Stena Britannica is the largest ferry of its kind in the world. Have a late dinner in the restaurant, retire to bed in a private cabin with en suite toilet & shower and satellite TV. At Hoek van Holland, you walk off the ship, through passport control and straight onto the station for the frequent metro train to Schiedam & Rotterdam. Change at Schiedam Centrum for a Dutch Railways (NS) train to Amsterdam Centraal (if heading for Hannover or Berlin), or at Rotterdam Alexander for a Dutch Railways train to Utrecht (if heading to Düsseldorf, Cologne, Frankfurt & southern Germany). The journey from London to Holland is explained in detail on the Stena Line Rail & Sail page . See the video .

The Stena Britannica at boarding at Harwich, a floating hotel with private cabins, restaurant, bar, lounges, shop & kennels.

Above left, a standard outside cabin. Larger photo . 360º photo . Above right, the Stena Plus lounge with complimentary red & white wine, tea, coffee & snacks.

Above left, the bar on 9 deck. Above right, a Captain's Class cabin with complimentary minibar, toilet & shower.

Step 2, Holland to Germany by ICE high-speed train or comfort InterCity (IC) train

You can pick up a German Railways ICE train to Dusseldorf, Cologne & Frankfurt either at Amsterdam Centraal (where they start) or at Utrecht Centraal (a bit quicker). More info about ICE trains . If you're heading for Hannover or Berlin, go to Amsterdam Centraal to catch an InterCity train there. More info about Amsterdam-Berlin InterCity trains .

Using the day boat

It's an early start from London, but Stena Line's Harwich to Hoek van Holland daytime crossing connects nicely with the 3-times-a-week European Sleeper from Rotterdam to Berlin, making this a good option for Berlin, Leipzig or Dresden if the days and times suit you.

London & Harwich ► Berlin, Dresden

Step 1, travel from London to Harwich by train.

You leave London Liverpool Street at 06:00 Mondays-Fridays, 06:36 Saturdays or 06:44 Sundays, check train times at www.nationalrail.co.uk .

At Harwich, the station is right next to the ferry terminal. You walk off the train and into the terminal, check in at the Stena Line desk and walk onto Stena Line's luxurious superferry to Hoek van Holland.

Step 2, cruise from Harwich to Hoek van Holland with Stena Line.

On Mondays-Saturdays the ferry sails at 09:00 arriving 17:15. On Sundays she sails at 09:00 arriving at 18:00.

The ferry has a bar, self-service restaurant, lounges, a premium Stena Plus lounge, children's play area & free WiFi. A private cabin is optional (but half price) on the day crossing, all cabins come with toilet & shower & satellite TV.

Step 3, hop on the metro from Hoek van Holland to Rotterdam.

On arrival at Hoek van Holland, walk off the ferry into the terminal and go through passport control. Walk out of the terminal to the adjacent metro station and hop on the metro from Hoek van Holland Haven to Eendrachtsplein in downtown Rotterdam, the metro leaves every 20-30 minutes, journey time around 30 minutes, see metro network map . Buy a ticket using the ticket machines or simply touch in and out with any contactless bank card.

From Eendrachtsplein it's an 850m 11-minute stroll to Rotterdam Centraal , see walking map , or you can change at Beurs onto metro line D or E and go 2 stops to Rotterdam Centraal .

You've time for dinner in Rotterdam, try Kaapse Maria ( www.kaapsebrouwers.nl ) for craft beer and good pub food, half way between Eendrachtsplein & Rotterdam Centraal, see location map . Check opening hours, it's open Monday & Friday but closed Wednesdays. Alternatively, Le Nord ( lenord.nl ), La Cazuela & Dunya are all good bistros 5 minutes walk north of the station, see walking map .

Step 4, travel from Rotterdam to Berlin or Dresden by European Sleeper .

The European Sleeper leaves Rotterdam Centraal at 21:21 on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, arriving Berlin Hbf 06:18 & (from 25 March 2024 onwards) Dresden Hbf 08:29.

The train has 4 & 6 berth couchettes & a sleeping-car with 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin . A light breakfast is included in sleepers, extra in couchettes. More about the European Sleeper .

For Leipzig, change in Berlin. I'd allow at least 1 hour between trains, check times at int.bahn.de .

Dresden, Berlin ► Harwich & London

Step 1, travel from Dresden or Berlin to Rotterdam by European Sleeper .

The European Sleeper leaves Dresden Hbf at 20:30 & Berlin Hbf at 22:56 on Tuesdays, Thursdays & Sundays, arriving Rotterdam Centraal at 07:32 next morning. The train is extended to serve Dresden from 26 May 2024 onwards.

If you're coming from Leipzig, check times at int.bahn.de . I'd want at least 1 hour between trains in Berlin.

Step 2, hop on the metro from Rotterdam to Hoek van Holland.

Walk from Rotterdam Centraal to Eendrachtsplein metro station, 850m, 11 minutes, see walking map , or take metro line D or E 2 stops to Beurs. Then take metro line B from Beurs or Eendrachtsplein to Hoek van Holland Haven, it runs every 20-30 minutes, journey time 33-35 minutes, see metro network map .

Buy a ticket using the ticket machines or simply touch in and out with any contactless bank card. The ferry terminal is right next to Hoek van Holland Haven metro station. Walk into the terminal and check in at the Stena Line desk. You'll need to leave downtown Rotterdam around 12:00 Monday-Friday or 11:30 Sundays, allowing for travel time and ferry check-in.

Step 3, cruise from Hoek van Holland to Harwich with Stena Line.

The ferry sails at 14:15 Monday-Saturday or 13:45 on Sundays, arriving Harwich at 19:45.

Step 4, travel from Harwich to London by train.

Step 2, book the sleeper from Rotterdam to Berlin or Dresden at www.europeansleeper.eu .

1. London to Rotterdam by train & ferry

A train takes you from London Liverpool Street station directly to the ferry terminal at Harwich International. You walk off the train and into the terminal, get your boarding card at the Stena Line check-in desk and walk straight onto the ferry to Hoek van Holland. The superferry Stena Hollandica is the largest ferry of its kind in the world. There's a self-service restaurant, bar, lounges, a premium Stena Plus lounge, children's play area & free WiFi. At Hoek van Holland, you walk off the ship, through passport control and out of the terminal to the adjacent metro station for the frequent metro train to Rotterdam. See the Stena Line Rail & Sail page for full details, photos & travel tips .

The Stena Hollandica at Hoek van Holland, a floating hotel with restaurant, bars, lounges, shop, cabins & kennels.

Above left, the bar on 9 deck. Above right, the Stena Plus lounge with complimentary red & white wine, tea, coffee, soft drinks & snacks.

Above left, a Captain's Class cabin with complimentary minibar, toilet & shower. Above right, fresh sea air aft on 9 deck.

2. Rotterdam to Berlin by European Sleeper

Launched by two sleeper-loving entrepreneurs in May 2023, the European Sleeper has a sleeping-car with 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin, couchette cars with 4 and 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats. A light breakfast is included in sleepers, available at extra cost in couchettes. Light snacks and drinks can be ordered from the attendant, but there's no restaurant car so bring a picnic and maybe a bottle of wine! More about European Sleeper . Berlin Hbf station guide .

Above, the European Sleeper calls at Amsterdam Centraal. This is a 5-berth couchette car, beyond it is the stainless steel sleeping-car.

The European Sleeper arrived at Berlin Hbf .

Scotland & the North to Germany

If you live in the North of England or Scotland, option 1 is to take a train up to London and travel from London to Germany as described above. This may well be the quickest & easiest option. Here's some advice on buying connecting train tickets to London . If you live in Scotland, the Caledonian Sleepers will get you up to London in time for a morning Eurostar & onwards trains to Germany.

But consider option 2, by-passing London by taking a luxurious overnight cruise ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam run by DFDS Seaways or a similar overnight ferry from Hull to Rotterdam run by P&O Ferries , then onward trains to Germany. There are direct trains from Holland to Osnabruck, Hannover, Berlin, Cologne & Frankfurt. So why not by-pass London by taking the overnight ferry to Holland, perhaps spend some time in Amsterdam, then hop on a train to Germany?

Scotland & North of England ► Germany

Day 1, take a train to either Hull or Newcastle, whichever is most convenient for where you live.

In Hull, transfer to P&O ferry terminal and sail overnight from Hull to Rotterdam by P&O cruise ferry, with bus/train connection to Amsterdam Centraal. The ferry has bars, restaurants & cosy en suite cabins.

For details of schedule, fares & tickets from Hull, see the Hull to Rotterdam page .

In Newcastle, transfer to the DFDS ferry terminal at North Shields and sail overnight from Newcastle to Amsterdam by DFDS Seaways cruise ferry. The ferry has bars, restaurants & cosy en suite cabins.

For details of schedule, fares & tickets from Newcastle, see the Newcastle to Amsterdam page .

Day 2, travel by train from Rotterdam Centraal or Amsterdam Centraal to anywhere in Germany.

Use the German Railways website int.bahn.de to check train times & fares from Amsterdam to anywhere in Germany and buy tickets online.

For example, the 13:59 Intercity train from Amsterdam Centraal arrives Berlin Hbf at 19:51, or there are later trains.

A 12:38 ICE train from Amsterdam Centraal arrives Cologne Messe/Deutz at 15:09 & Frankfurt (Main) Hbf at 16:26, or there are later trains too. if you'd like to spend some time in Amsterdam.

Or you could spend the day in Rotterdam or Amsterdam, have dinner, then take the 3-times-a-week European Sleeper overnight to Berlin.

Germany ► Scotland & North of England

Day 1, take a train from Germany to Rotterdam Centraal (for P&O to Hull) or to Amsterdam Centraal (for DFDS to Newcastle).

You can check train times & fares from anywhere in Germany to Amsterdam & buy tickets online at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

For example, the 08:06 Intercity train from Berlin Hbf arrives at Amsterdam Centraal at 14:00.

The 09:29 ICE train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf & 10:50 from Cologne Messe/Deutz arrives Amsterdam Centraal at 13:29, or there are other trains. By all means travel earlier and have more time in Amsterdam.

Or you could take the 3-times-a-week overnight European Sleeper from Berlin to Amsterdam (for Newcastle) or Rotterdam (for Hull), spend the day there, then take the overnight ferry home.

Day 1, if going to Hull: Transfer by P&O bus from Rotterdam Centraal to Rotterdam Europoort and sail overnight from Rotterdam to Hull with P&O Ferries ( www.poferries.com ), arriving next morning (day 2). In Hull, transfer from the ferry terminal to Hull station by taxi or shuttle bus.

For details of schedule, fares & tickets, see the Hull to Rotterdam page .

Day 1, if going to Newcastle: Transfer from Amsterdam Centraal to IJmuiden ferry terminal by DFDS transfer bus and sail overnight from IJmuiden to Newcastle with DFDS ( www.dfds.com ), arriving next morning (day 2). In Newcastle, transfer from ferry to station by bus or taxi.

For details of schedule, fares & tickets see the Newcastle to Amsterdam page

Day 2, take a train home from Hull or Newcastle.

Fares & how to buy tickets

Step 1, start with the ferry. Go to www.dfds.com for Newcastle-Amsterdam, www.poferries.com for Hull-Rotterdam.

Step 2, now for the train from Amsterdam to Germany.

Book from Amsterdam Centraal (if you're arriving from Newcastle by DFDS) or from Rotterdam Centraal (if you're arriving at Rotterdam Europoort with P&O) to anywhere in Germany using the German Railways website int.bahn.de . Allow plenty of time for the port-station transfer.

Step 2, then check train times and buy train tickets to Hull or Newcastle as shown on the UK page or using www.nationalrail.co.uk . Allow plenty of time for the transfer from station to port, and for the ferry check-in.

Step 1, Newcastle to Amsterdam (DFDS) or Hull to Rotterdam (P&O) by overnight cruise ferry, with private en suite cabins, restaurants, bars, cinema, a floating hotel. If travelling with DFDS from Newcastle, a transfer bus takes you from IJmuiden ferry terminal to Amsterdam Centraal station next morning. If travelling with P&O from Hull, a transfer bus takes you from Rotterdam Europoort ferry terminal to Rotterdam Centraal , from where frequent Dutch trains run to Utrecht or Amsterdam.

Step 2, take an ICE train from Amsterdam or Utrecht to Germany. More info about ICE trains .

Holidays & tours to Germany

Railbookers, railbookers.co.uk.

Railbookers can custom-make a flight-free holiday or short break to Germany for you, with train travel & hotels, for however long you like, leaving on any date you like. If you tell them what you want, they'll advise you on the best trains, routes & hotels and sort it all out for you. They get a lot of repeat business! For example:

Short breaks to Cologne with train travel & hotel, check their website for prices.

Short breaks to Berlin, with train travel both ways & 2 or more nights hotel.

7-night holiday to Berlin & Prague by train.

Christmas Markets - Railbookers are experts in Christmas Market breaks by train

Byway, byway.travel

Byway ( Byway.travel ) is a new UK-based eco-holiday firm with a 5-star TrustPilot rating . If you're nervous about booking train travel yourself, they'll book a holiday to Germany for you as a package, including train travel from the UK and hotels, starting from any British station you like.

They can build a trip to your requirements, email them or use the contact form . Please say you heard about them from Seat 61.

Byway includes package protection, a 100% Covid refund guarantee, free disruption & re-planning and on-demand WhatsApp support while you're away.

Rail Discoveries, raildiscoveries.com

Rail Discoveries offers several train-based escorted tours to Germany, with 3* hotels and travel by Eurostar and onwards high-speed train. For example, they offer a 5-day tour to the Rhine Valley, or a 6-day Rhine cruise. Check prices & departure dates at www.raildiscoveries.com , then book online or call 01904 730 727.

Great Rail Journeys, greatrail.com

Rhine valley cruises.

There are two ways to cruise the wonderful Rhine Valley - as an inexpensive day trip on a scheduled KD Lines cruise, or as a multi-day trip on a full-blown cruise ship which you use as a floating hotel, staying on board in en suite cabins.

A day cruise down the Rhine Valley, an inexpensive short break

Buy train tickets from London to Koblenz, as explained above .

Buy a ticket for around €35 for the daily scheduled cruise from Koblenz to Rüdesheim run by the Köln-Düsseldorfer Line, www.k-d.com . Their scheduled day cruises run between April and October, there's usually a sailing from Koblenz around 09:00 arriving Rüdesheim around 15:15. You may also find an afternoon departure, leaving Koblenz around 14:00 and arriving Rüdesheim around 20:15. The cruise will take you past the Hostile Brothers' castles and the legendary Lorelei Rock. They have various other scheduled cruises starting as far north as Cologne and going as far south as Mainz, see www.k-d.com (select English top right then click ''KD Scheduled Cruises' top left).

Treat the timetable as a guide, and don't book any tight connections, the Rhine boats can run late!

Luxury Rhine cruises

River cruisers with private cabins, restaurants and bars cruise the Rhine on multi-day trips where you live on board and visit locations along the way.

Riviera Travel , www.rivieratravel.co.uk , offers 8-day Rhine cruises from Koblenz to Switzerland with train travel by Eurostar to and from London, from around £1,199 per person. The trips cover Koblenz, the Rhine Gorge and Lorelei Rock, Strasbourg, the Black Forest, Interlaken and Lucerne.

European Rail Timetable & maps

Traveller's Railway Map of Europe - buy online

Rail Map Europe is the map I recommend, covering all of Europe from Portugal in the west to Moscow & Istanbul in the east, Finland in the north to Sicily & Athens in the south. Scenic routes & high-speed lines are highlighted. See an extract from the map . Buy online at www.europeanrailtimetable.eu (shipping worldwide) or at www.amazon.co.uk (UK addresses).

Make sure you take a good guidebook. For independent travel, the best guidebook is either the Lonely Planet or Rough Guide. Both guidebooks provide an excellent level of practical information and historical and cultural background. You won't regret buying one!

Click the images to buy at Amazon.co.uk

Or buy the Lonely Planets from the Lonely Planet website , with shipping worldwide. Alternatively, you can download just the chapters or areas you need in .PDF format from the Lonely Planet Website , from around £2.99 or US$4.95 a chapter.

Recommended hotels

Here are my suggested hotels conveniently located for arrival by train in key German cities, all with good or great reviews. You are unlikely to be disappointed by any hotel scoring over 8.0 out of 10 on Booking.com .

In Frankfurt

If you walk out of Hamburg Hbf's main eastern exit, you'll find a row of good hotels lined up in front of you on the opposite side of the Kirchenallee. The pick of these is the excellent 4-star Hotel Reichshof Hamburg , across the road and to the left with art deco-based design and great reviews. It has its own restaurant for lunch or dinner, although I'd still be tempted to try the beer & traditional German food at Nagel's bar, 150m south along the Kircheallee, restaurant-kneipe-hamburg.de .

The Hotel Europaischer Hof is another good choice and directly in front of you across the road when you walk out of the station. Other hotels next to Hamburg Hbf with good reviews include the 5-star Hotel Continental Novum (to the right of the Europaischer), Hotel Furst Bismarck (to the right of the Continental Novum), and the Hotel Atlantic Kempinski .

If you'd prefer a hotel right in the city centre, the Henri Hotel Hamburg Downtown is 5 minutes walk from the station on the city side, and gets really great reviews.

If you're on a budget, private rooms in the A&O Hotel start at around £33 for one person or £49 for two people booked at www.hostelworld.com . The A&O is an 11-minute 900m walk south of Hamburg Hbf, see walking map . Also try the innovative Cab20 capsule hotel , a 550m 6-minute walk from the station, see walking map .

Affordable hotels right next to Munich Hbf with good or great reviews include the reliable Eden Hotel Wolff or the NH Collection München , both directly across the road from the station's north side exit, ideal for an overnight stop between trains. I've used the Hotel Wolff myself.

Also consider the more upmarket 25 Hours Hotel The Royal Bavarian , Excelsior by Giesel or Mercure München City Center , all a stone's throw from the station with great reviews.

If you want to push the boat out, the luxurious 5-star Sofitel Munich Beyerpost is right outside the station's south side exit, located in the former Royal Bavarian Post Office building dating from 1896-1900. It comes complete with a spa with massage service and sauna.

If you're on a budget, the Wombat's Hostel Munich is close to the station's south side exit with private rooms & dorm beds, with good reviews.

Booking.com for hotels

I generally use Booking.com for hotels for 3 reasons:

(1) It keeps all my hotel bookings together in one place;

(2) I've come to trust Booking.com 's review scores;

(3) Booking.com usually offers a clearly-marked Free cancellation option.

Free cancellation means you can secure hotels risk-free even before trains open for booking, and if necessary change those bookings if your plans evolve.

If I'm only staying a night or two, I look for a hotel near the station to make arrival & departure easy. You can enter the station name (e.g. Berlin Hbf ) as search location. If staying longer, I look for a hotel close to the sights, entering the name of a city attraction as the search location, then using map view.

I then look for a hotel with a review score of 8.0 or over, any hotel scoring over that won't disappoint.

AirBnB: Airbnb.com

www.airbnb.com began in 2008 when two designers who had space to share hosted three travellers looking for a place to stay. AirBnB is a platform which connects hosts with guests, so you can now book a room in people's homes, or an apartment, flat or house which people want to rent out. It can be nicer than a hostel, cheaper than many hotels.

Backpacker hostels: Hostelworld.com

www.hostelworld.com : If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels. Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in Paris and most other European cities at rock-bottom prices.

Compare 50 different car hire companies: www.carrentals.co.uk

The award-winning www.carrentals.co.uk compares many different car hire companies including Holiday Autos, meaning not only a cheapest price comparison but a wider choice of hire and drop off location.

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

You should take out travel insurance with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover from a reliable insurer. It should cover trip cancellation and loss of cash & belongings up to a reasonable limit. These days, check you're covered for covid-19-related issues, and use an insurer whose cover isn't invalidated by well-meant but excessive Foreign Office travel advice against non-essential travel. An annual policy is usually cheapest even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself. Don't expect travel insurance to bail you out of every missed connection, see the advice on missed connections here . Here are some suggested insurers, I get a little commission if you buy through these links, feedback always welcome.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a European mobile data package and stay connected. Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list . There's no need to buy a physical SIM card! Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate then add a foreign transaction fee on top. A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month as I write this. The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards. And you can get a Curve card for free.

How it works: 1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android . 2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses. 3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card. 4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app. You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader. The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than getting a card out). I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great. See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing. Why you need a VPN

When travelling you may use free public WiFi which is often insecure. A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi. It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply. See VPNs & why you need one explained . ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using this link you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription. I also get some commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, hotel bookings and Interrail or Eurail passes are often now held on your mobile phone. You daren't let it run out of power, and you can't always rely on the phone's internal battery or on being near a power outlet. I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over. Buy from Amazon.co.uk or Buy from Amazon.com .

Touring cities? Use hill walking shoes!

One of the best things I've done is swap my normal shoes for hill-walking shoes, in my case from Scarpa. They're intended for hiking across the Pennines not wandering around Florence, but the support and cushioning for hiking works equally well when you're on your feet all day exploring foreign cities. My feet used to give out first and limit my day, now the rest of me gives up before they do!

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Find train tickets from London to Berlin

Good to know, faqs when traveling from london to berlin by train, what train companies travel from london to berlin.

There are different train companies operating between London and Berlin. Eurostar and European Sleeper are the most booked train companies.

Book Multiple carriers tickets from London to Berlin (one-way)

Search by stops, popular train routes to berlin.

Trains from Hamburg to Berlin from $52

Popular train routes from London

Trains from London to Paris from $146
Trains from London to Amsterdam from $67
Trains from London to Manchester from $80
Trains from London to Liverpool from $72
Trains from London to Rotterdam from $159

train tickets

London to Berlin by train

Travel from London (United Kingdom) to Berlin (Germany) by train (930km): schedule and information to the train connection. Compare fares and buy your ticket.

To travel by train from London in the United Kingdom to Berlin in Germany you have two main routes. First you travel to London. There you change to the Eurostar train to either Paris (France) or Brussels (Belgium). From Paris (France) or Brussels (Belgium) continue by ICE/TGV/Thalys train to Berlin in Germany. Sometimes Germany Railways Deutsche Bahn offers special price tickets from London to destinations in Germany. Buy them via the given booking link of Deutsche Bahn.

There are two main routes. Compare them and decide which one feeds your needs best.

1 London (United Kingdom) - Paris (France) - Berlin (Germany)

2 london (united kingdom) - brussels (belgium) - berlin (germany).

The following links could be interesting for you.

train connections : popular connections travelled by other users

The route consist of more than one step. You have to buy several train tickets.

1a Travelling from London (United Kingdom) to Paris (France)

The Eurostar train from London to Paris is the fastest train connection with a travel time of 2.5 hours. You can buy cheap train tickets from 50 euros. There are up to 18 train connections daily. You can find the exact timetable and ticket prices for the Eurostar high-speed-train by clicking on the booking links. If you want to travel cheaper, you can travel by bus. The journey time takes considerably longer with about nine hours. But the tickets are much cheaper and start at 14 EUR. Companies like Flixbus offer several bus connections daily - also as a overnight trip. You can get the bus tickets via the booking links.

Where to buy a ticket from London to Paris?

Cheap train tickets! Buy your train ticket online on Omio. The easy to use booking system with very good prices and e-tickets.

Cheap international train tickets Official online shop of Netherlands railways (NS International). International train tickets for Europe including overnight trains. Buy your saver fare tickets easily and securely here.

train types: Train types you are likely to travel with. Eurostar (EST)

ferry: Ferry connections that might be helpful. Dover - Calais

train connections: popular connections travelled by other users Paris - London

search for train schedules here: Online timetable information, on which you can find relevant, up-to-date connections. rail.cc Deutsche Bahn

1b Travelling from Paris (France) to Berlin (Germany)

Travel from Paris to Berlin by ICE, Thalys and TGV INOUI high-speed-trains. The ticket price starts at 39 EUR. The journey times is 8:30 hours. There are at least five train connections per day with only one change of trains. If you want to include an overnight train, travel the following route: - Paris to Basel by TGV Lyria train. The ticket price starts at 29 EUR. The journey time is three hours. - Basel to Berlin by ÖBB nightjet overnight train. The ticket price starts at 29 EUR. The journey time is 11 hours. Find the exact train schedules and buy your ticket via the given booking links.

Where to buy a ticket from Paris to Berlin?

Official saver fares! Official online shop of German railways (Deutsche Bahn). Train tickets for Germany and to bordering countries. Buy your saver fare tickets easily and securely here.

Interrail/Eurail celebrates its 50th anniversary. Get 10% discount now! --> Make your journey easier: buy only one Interrail or Eurail pass instead of several train tickets. Save your time and money!

train types: Train types you are likely to travel with. Intercity (IC) / IntercityExpress (ICE) / ICE Alleo Germany - France (ICE Alleo) / TGV Alleo France - Germany (TGV Alleo)

train connections: popular connections travelled by other users Berlin - Paris

By saver fare train ticket from Germany to France

A train journey from france to germany in first class, the direct thalys train or as option by ice/ic/ter trains (interrail/eurail), with the comfortable transeuropean express., world class city in a nutshell, take the night train to cornwall., travel by high-speed train or slower and cheaper by bus., across the north sea with europe's longest ferry., 2a travelling from london (united kingdom) to brussels (belgium).

Travel from London to Brussels by direct Eurostar high-speed-train. The journey time is 1:50 hours. The train ticket price starts at 57 EUR. There are at least 8 train connections daily. If you want to travel cheaper use a bus. The journey time is 6 hours. The bus ticket price starts at 16 EUR. Find the exact train and bus schedules and buy your ticket via the given booking links.

Where to buy a ticket from London to Brussels?

train connections: popular connections travelled by other users Brussels - London

2b Travelling from Brussels (Belgium) to Berlin (Germany)

Travel from Brussels to Berlin by ICE high-speed-train. The journey time is 6:50 hours. The ticket price starts at 29 EUR. There are up to 10 daily train connections with one change of trains in Cologne. 2022: a new overnight train service will be introduced in 2022, connecting Brussels with Berlin in a comfortable and environmental friendly way of travel. Find the exact train schedules and buy your ticket via the given booking links.

Where to buy a ticket from Brussels to Berlin?

train types: Train types you are likely to travel with. IntercityExpress (ICE) / THALYS (THY)

train connections: popular connections travelled by other users Berlin - Brussels

By Caledonian Sleeper from London to Inverness

Introducing three travel classes, a video documentation of 1st class travel, need a cheap place to sleep we recommend booking.com, find a cheap flight compare prices on kiwi.com.

Do you have questions about the connection between London and Berlin? Does something not work as it should? Just ask in our forum and get competent answers from our rail travel experts.

Eurail: if you want to travel this route by Eurail instead of train tickets, have a look here for reservation fees and further information.

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Find train tickets from London to Berlin

Good to know, faqs when traveling from london to berlin by train, what train companies travel from london to berlin.

There are different train companies operating between London and Berlin. Eurostar and European Sleeper are the most booked train companies.

Book Multiple carriers tickets from London to Berlin (one-way)

Search by stops, popular train routes to berlin.

Trains from Munich to Berlin from £61
Trains from Hamburg to Berlin from £41
Trains from Amsterdam to Berlin from £82

Popular train routes from London

Trains from London to Paris from £111
Trains from London to Manchester from £434
Trains from London to Lille from £117
Trains from London to Liverpool from £45

London to Berlin by overnight train

London to berlin by train is a well-traveled route, guaranteed to throw up a mix of backpackers, commuters, german businessmen and those on their way to eastern europe and beyond., tickets & schedules, latest inspiration.

Free Walking Tour Berlin

When: Every day 10am & 12pm every day Where: The meeting point is in front of the ehemaliges Kaiserliches Postfuhramt Berlin, Oranienburger Straße, 10117 Berlin, Germany, next to the entrance. Price: Free

How to Travel from London to Berlin: A Comprehensive Guide

by Original Berlin Tours | Mar 7, 2024 | Original Berlin

Exploring the Possibility of a Direct Train

Many travelers often wonder if there is a direct train that connects London to Berlin. While it would be convenient to hop on a train in one city and arrive directly at your destination, unfortunately, there is no direct train from London to Berlin at the moment. However, that doesn’t mean you cannot travel between these two vibrant cities by rail. In this article, we will explore the various options and routes available to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable.

1. Eurostar from London to Brussels

The Eurostar high-speed train service offers regular departures from London St Pancras International station to Brussels Midi station. This journey takes approximately 2 hours and connects you to the extensive European rail network. Brussels serves as an excellent transfer point for onward travel to Berlin.

Loading the Appropriate Rail Pass

If you plan to make multiple stops along the way or explore other countries besides Germany, it may be worth considering a rail pass such as the Interrail Pass or Eurail Pass. These passes allow you to travel flexibly across multiple countries and are particularly useful for longer trips.

2. Brussels to Berlin: ICE and IC Trains

Once you arrive in Brussels, you can continue your journey to Berlin via Deutsche Bahn trains. The most convenient options are ICE (InterCity Express) trains and IC (InterCity) trains.

ICE trains are known for their speed, comfort, and reliability. They provide a direct connection from Brussels to Berlin with a travel time of around 6 hours. The trains offer a range of amenities including comfortable seating, onboard catering, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets to keep you connected during your journey.

If you prefer a more scenic route, you can opt for the IC trains. While they may take a bit longer, they offer a more leisurely travel experience, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way. These trains also provide a direct connection from Brussels to Berlin with a travel time of approximately 9 hours.

3. Booking Your Tickets

When it comes to booking your train tickets from Brussels to Berlin, it’s best to plan and book in advance to secure the best fares. Websites like Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, and Rail Europe offer easy online booking platforms where you can compare prices, check for special deals, and make your reservation ahead of time.

Ticket Flexibility

It’s important to note that ticket fares can vary depending on factors such as travel dates, class of service, and how early you book. If you prefer flexibility, you may opt for a fully flexible ticket that allows changes and cancellations without incurring additional fees. However, these tickets tend to be more expensive compared to non-flexible tickets.

4. Border Crossing and Passport Control

Since you will be traveling between countries, it’s essential to carry your passport with you. As you journey from Brussels to Berlin, you will pass through the border between Belgium and Germany. Expect passport control checks at the respective border stations. It’s advisable to arrive at the stations with ample time to go through these formalities smoothly.

5. Arrival in Berlin

Upon arrival in Berlin, you will get to experience the rich history, vibrant culture, and modern attractions this fascinating city has to offer. From the iconic Brandenburg Gate to the historic Berlin Wall, there is something for everyone in this captivating metropolis. Make sure to plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your time in Berlin.

Public Transportation

Getting around Berlin is a breeze with its efficient public transportation system. The city offers a well-connected network of trams, buses, and trains. Consider purchasing a Berlin WelcomeCard, which not only gives you unlimited access to public transportation but also provides discounts to various attractions and museums.

Final Thoughts

While there may not be a direct train from London to Berlin, traveling between these two cities by rail is still an enjoyable and convenient option. Making a stop in Brussels and taking either the ICE or IC trains from there allows you to experience the charm of multiple destinations along the way. Remember to plan ahead, book your tickets, and allow enough time for border control formalities. So, why not consider exploring Europe by train on your next adventure from London to Berlin?

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Traveling by train: A new European Express?

Train rides offer a unique opportunity to experience firsthand not only your journey’s destination, but also the journey itself. While you relax, the landscape glides past the window and lets you dream of the adventures that await you.

While international train rides were easily a hassle in the past, the future looks bright thanks to new routes all across Europe.

Traveling by train was never more tempting

It's time to book your tickets, pack your bags, and embark on a journey across Europe by train as the European Commission makes traveling a little easier! Supporting ten pilot projects, their goal is to enhance interconnectivity between major European cities for travelers and holiday makers alike, ensuring easier access to more routes and destinations.

Over the next few years, various measures will be implemented , with a substantial focus on expanding the European railway network with the financial assistance of the European Union. Exciting new connections are in store, with some even launching before the summer season. Among the planned routes are trains from Munich to Rome and journeys from Amsterdam to London. This expansion of the rail network is set to connect Europe like never before, providing seamless travel options for anyone looking to explore the diverse and vibrant cities across the continent.

10 exciting new routes

London, Milan, Brussels, Vienna, Madrid… Better start planning your next journey now, because the number of possible destinations is enormous! With these new routes Europe is not only making a big step towards a more sustainable future, but also enabling many people to travel and get to know other countries and cultures.

Here are a few examples of what awaits you:

Amsterdam – Brussels – Lille – London

To foster a better connection between Europe and Great Britain, the Dutch railway operator Spoorwegen plans to expand the route between Amsterdam and London. The European Commission's model envisions stops in the Belgian capital of Brussels and Lille in Northern France. Travelers can reach this new route from Cologne, Germany, with two connections.

Amsterdam – Barcelona (night train)

Imagine embarking on a thrilling night journey from the bustling city of Amsterdam, crossing through captivating landscapes across the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, and finally waking up to the vibrant energy of Barcelona.

Starting in spring 2025, travelers will be able to journey comfortably while they sleep, traversing incredible European countries until they reach the enchanting shores of the Mediterranean Sea in Spain. Further enhancing the convenience of this service, a stop in Brussels has been planned, allowing those traveling from North Rhine-Westphalia to utilize the same trains connecting to London.

Stockholm – Malmö – Kopenhagen – Hamburg – Berlin

The introduction of a new night train connecting Stockholm to Berlin has further strengthened Germany's ties to Scandinavia, offering an increasingly efficient and eco-friendly mode of transport. This exciting new route is a product of a collaboration between the Deutsche Bahn, Sweden's state-owned railway company SJ, and Malmö's train service provider Snälltaget.

According to the European Commission, the train will make stops in key cities including Malmö, Copenhagen, and Hamburg, with options to further extend journeys to other popular European destinations such as Prague. Those traveling from North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) can also hop aboard the Intercity Express (ICE) to either Berlin or Hamburg, connecting them to this remarkable network of travel opportunities.

Paris – Venice (night train)

Exciting news for travelers seeking to explore the charming cities of Europe: the European Commission has announced the establishment of a new night train route between France and Italy. This upcoming route will enable passengers to embark on a journey from Paris, passing through the bustling city of Milan, all the way to the enchanting canals of Venice.

For those in North Rhine-Westphalia, ICE and TGV connections to Paris are readily available, making it incredibly convenient for them to access this nocturnal train adventure. Germany, too, offers nighttime rail travel to Venice, with a 12-hour night train operating from Stuttgart. Similar overnight train routes from Stuttgart take passengers to Zagreb and Rijeka in Croatia, as well as to Budapest–further enriching the options for European escapades.

Start planning now!

While it might take a while longer to establish these new routes, this is just perfect to start planning your next trip through Europe and dream from all the new places you will see.

Traveling by train: A new European Express?

IMAGES

London to Berlin by Train (Summer, 9 Days) by Contiki
London to Berlin By Train Trip
London to Berlin by high-speed trains
London to Berlin by Train (Winter, 9 Days) by Contiki
Guide to traveling by train London Berlin Prague
Berlin to London on a Shoestring in Germany, Europe

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Berlin Travel guide

COMMENTS

London to Berlin train tickets from £61.12
The cheapest tickets we've found for trains from London to Berlin are £61.12. If you book 30 days in advance, tickets will cost around £163, while the price is around £280 if you book 7 days in advance. Booking on the day of travel is likely to be more expensive, so it's worth booking ahead of time if you can, or check our special offers and ...
London → Berlin by Train from £84.50
London to Berlin by train. It takes an average of 13h 32m to travel from London to Berlin by train, over a distance of around 576 miles (927 km). There are normally 13 trains per day travelling from London to Berlin and tickets for this journey start from £84.50 when you book in advance. First train. 06:16.
London to Berlin
Night bus, bus • 22h 15m. Take the night bus from London Victoria to Bruges N824. Take the bus from Bruges to Berlin central bus station N1360b. €92 - €132.
London to Berlin by Train from $106.16
London to Berlin by train. It takes an average of 13h 32m to travel from London to Berlin by train, over a distance of around 576 miles (927 km). There are normally 13 trains per day traveling from London to Berlin and tickets for this journey start from $106.16 when you book in advance. First train. 06:16. Last train. 19:34. Departure station.
London to Germany by train
London to Germany by train. It's easy to travel from the UK to Germany by train. Take Eurostar from London to Brussels in 2 hours and switch to a high-speed ICE train to Cologne taking 1h57, then take another luxurious ICE train to Munich, Berlin, Hamburg or anywhere in Germany. London to Brussels starts at £52 one-way or £78 return, Brussels to Cologne at €18.90 each way, Brussels to ...
Train London to Berlin from €190
London. Berlin. The average train between London and Berlin takes 11h 29m and the fastest train takes 8h 58m. The train service runs several times per day from London to Berlin. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays; use the search form on this page to search for a specific travel date.
London to Berlin train tickets from $88 (€76)
Trains from London to Berlin cover the 577 miles (931 km) long trip taking on average 11 h 45 min with our travel partners like Deutsche Bahn or Eurostar. Normally, there are 3 trains operating per day. While the average ticket price for this trip costs around $819 (€708), you can find the cheapest train ticket for as low as $819 (€708).
London to Berlin train tickets from £69
Deutsche Bahn or Eurostar. Trains from London to Berlin cover the 577 miles long route taking on average 11 h 45 min with our travel partners like Deutsche Bahn or Eurostar. Normally, there are 3 trains operating per day. You can get the cheapest train tickets for this route for as low as £637, but the average price of train tickets is £637.
Find train tickets from London to Berlin
Find train tickets from London to Berlin. Round-trip. 1 adult. Wed 5/1. Wed 5/8. Search. Trains. Berlin.
From London to Berlin by Train from €47.00
2a Travelling from London (United Kingdom) to Brussels (Belgium) Travel from London to Brussels by direct Eurostar high-speed-train. The journey time is 1:50 hours. The train ticket price starts at 57 EUR. There are at least 8 train connections daily.
Find train tickets from London to Berlin
Trains from Amsterdam to Berlin from £82. Trains from London to Paris from £111. Trains from London to Manchester from £435. Trains from London to Lille from £117. Trains from London to Liverpool from £45. Find London to Berlin trains on null, null, and null. Search trains to Berlin, compare times and prices, and find the best deal on KAYAK.
London to Berlin by overnight train
Travelers can catch a 4pm Eurostar from London's St Pancras, be in Paris by 7.15pm, walk a gentle ten minutes from Gare du Nord to Gare de l'est and jump aboard the 8.05 (8.20 at weekends) to Berlin. And for those with a bit of a penchant for Paris, there is always the option of taking an earlier Eurostar and doing some shopping en route.
London to Berlin Hbf by Train from £157.30
It takes an average of 12h 39m to travel from London to Berlin Hbf by train, over a distance of around 575 miles (926 km). There are normally 15 trains per day travelling from London to Berlin Hbf and tickets for this journey start from £157.30 when you book in advance. First train. 06:01.
How to Travel from London to Berlin: A Comprehensive Guide
These passes allow you to travel flexibly across multiple countries and are particularly useful for longer trips. 2. Brussels to Berlin: ICE and IC Trains. Once you arrive in Brussels, you can continue your journey to Berlin via Deutsche Bahn trains. The most convenient options are ICE (InterCity Express) trains and IC (InterCity) trains.
London to Berlin from £69
Flight • £78 • 7 h 10 min. Popular travel companies. FlixBus or Norwegian Air Shuttle. Travel 577 miles by coach or flight to Berlin from London. If speed is a priority, then a flight is the best option with an average duration of 7 h 10 min; whereas, if saving money is more important, then a coach is the best option with prices starting ...
London to Berlin from $88 (€76)
Travel Information between London and Berlin. Travel 577 miles (931 km) by bus or flight to Berlin from London. If speed is a priority, then a flight is the best option with an average duration of 7 h 10 min; whereas, if saving money is more important, then a bus is the best option with prices starting as low as $64 (€55).
Berlin to London
British Airways, KLM and two other airlines fly from Berlin Hbf to London Bank DLR every 4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train from Berlin Hbf to London King's Cross via Köln Hbf, Bruxelles Midi, and Brussel-Zuid / Bruxelles-Midi in around 10h 5m. Airlines.
Berlin → London by Train from £78.04
Berlin to London by train. It takes an average of 14h 56m to travel from Berlin to London by train, over a distance of around 576 miles (927 km). There are normally 22 trains per day travelling from Berlin to London and tickets for this journey start from £87.36 when you book in advance. First train. 00:22.
Berlin to London train tickets from $75 (€65)
Trains from Berlin to London cover the 577 miles (931 km) long route taking on average 11 h 24 min with our travel partners like Deutsche Bahn or FlixBus. Normally, there is 1 train operating per day. You can get the cheapest train tickets for this route for as low as $561 (€486), but the average price of train tickets is $585 (€506).
London to Berlin Hbf by Train from $198.17
It takes an average of 12h 39m to travel from London to Berlin Hbf by train, over a distance of around 575 miles (926 km). There are normally 15 trains per day traveling from London to Berlin Hbf and tickets for this journey start from $198.17 when you book in advance. First train: 06:01. Last train: 20:01. Departure station:
Traveling by train: A new European Express?
Over the next few years, various measures will be implemented Among the planned routes are trains from Munich to Rome and journeys from Amsterdam to London. Travelers can reach this new route from ...
Berlin to Helsinki without using a plane
DW reporter Benjamin Bathke traveled 36 hours to find out. The journey started with a 6-hour train ride from Berlin to Warsaw on a sunny winter morning Image: DW/B. Bathke. Advertisement. Ernest ...
Trains to Berlin
Cheap tickets. Cheap Train Tickets in Germany. Take the train to Berlin, Germany's capital, and you'll most likely arrive into Berlin Hauptbahnhof, the major train station of the city's five. Regular services operated by Deutsche Bahn connect Munich to Berlin in 3h 52m, Hamburg to Berlin in 1h 43m and Leipzig to Berlin in 1h 05m.