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Can I go to Germany? Rules for travelling from the UK

By Sarah James and Becky Lucas

In England , international travel for leisure has been permitted since Monday 17 May 2021. Germany was previously on the UK 's green list – but what are the rules for travelling there now? 

What are the entry requirements for Germany?

Fully vaccinated travellers – those who received their final dose at least 14 days before travelling – may enter Germany from the UK for any purpose. Anyone aged 12 or over must possess either proof of vaccination (find out the acceptable forms on the German government website ), proof of recovery from Covid for at least 28 days and no more than 90 days, or a negative Covid test prior to arrival. 

Those who are not considered fully vaccinated can only enter Germany if they are a resident or citizen, a spouse or other family member of a resident, serve in an important role or have ‘an urgent need to travel’, and they must have proof of a negative Covid test taken before entry (within 48 hours before departure for Germany if it's a PCR test, or 48 hours before the time of arrival if it's a rapid antigen test). Unvaccinated children up to the age of 11 are allowed to enter Germany from the UK, as long as they travel with at least one fully vaccinated parent. Children aged 12 to 17 can only enter if they are fully vaccinated, a resident (or the child of a resident), or have an urgent need to travel.

If you are fully vaccinated and have spent any of the previous 10 days in a country designated high-risk by the German government, you must complete pre-departure digital registration . If you have done so and are not fully vaccinated, you must quarantine for 10 days – with test and release available after five days. For more details, go to the UK government website . 

Can I travel to the UK from Germany?

As of 18 March 2022, there are no Covid travel rules in the UK, which means that anyone returning to the country does not need to test, quarantine or fill in a passenger locator form , regardless of their vaccination status. The government is also no longer managing any quarantine hotels in the UK, as of the end of March.

Germany Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from the United Kingdom to Germany

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces.

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Can I travel to Germany from the United Kingdom?

Most visitors from the United Kingdom, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Germany.

Can I travel to Germany if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Germany without restrictions.

Can I travel to Germany without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Germany without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Germany?

Visitors from the United Kingdom are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Germany.

Can I travel to Germany without quarantine?

Travellers from the United Kingdom are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Germany?

Mask usage in Germany is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Germany?

Restaurants in Germany are open. Bars in Germany are .

What are you looking for?

Coronavirus (covid-19).

Important information

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i receive a digital covid certificate/qr code.

No information is currently available about how those with a foreign vaccine card (e.g. from the US) can receive a digital COVID certificate which is recognized in Europe. Talks are currently underway regarding recognition of international vaccinations (i.e. received outside the EU ). As soon as such information becomes available, we will communicate on this site.

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Update April 12, 2024

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Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

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Travel Advisory May 1, 2024

Germany - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits

Exercise increased caution in Germany due to  terrorism .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups keep planning attacks in Germany. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They target tourist locations and transportation hubs. They also target markets/shopping malls and local government facilities. They target hotels, clubs, and restaurants. They also attack places of worship, parks, and major sporting and cultural events. They target schools, airports, and other public areas.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Germany.

If you decide to travel to Germany:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Germany.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Three months beyond planned date of departure from the Schengen area.

Not required for stays under 90 days.

 10,000€ (euros or equivalent).

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. EMBASSY BERLIN Clayallee 170 14191 Berlin Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Email: [email protected]

U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL FRANKFURT Giessener Str. 30 60435 Frankfurt am Main Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (69) 7535-0 Fax: +(49) (69) 7535-2252 Passport, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, and Citizenship:  [email protected]  All other questions:  [email protected]

U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL MUNICH Koeniginstrasse 5 80539 Munich Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (89) 2888-575  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(49) 89-2888-0 Fax: If you need to send a fax, please email first to obtain a one-time use fax number.  Email:  [email protected]

U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL DUSSELDORF Willi-Becker-Allee 10 40227 Duesseldorf Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (211) 788-8927 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Fax: +(49) (211) 788 - 8938 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Consulate in Frankfurt. 

U.S. Consulate General Hamburg Alsterufer 27/28 20354 Hamburg Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (40) 411-71-100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Fax: +(49) (40) 411-71-222 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.

U.S. Consulate General Leipzig Wilhelm-Seyfferth-Str. 4 04107 Leipzig Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (341) 213-84-0 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Fax: +(49) (341) 213-84-75 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Germany for information on U.S. - Germany relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• In Europe's  Schengen area , your passport generally must be valid for at least six months at the time of your entry. Although Germany only requires travelers to have three months of validity remaining beyond their intended departure date, airlines may still deny boarding for having less than six months validity, especially if transiting additional Schengen countries.
• If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.
• If traveling with prescription medication, review the information below regarding pharmaceuticals to avoid potential fines and confiscation.

Carry identification with you at all times.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to, or foreign residents of, Germany.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:   Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Europe. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.

Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack –including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:  

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, and celebratory gatherings)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists  
• Places of worship  
• Schools  
• Shopping malls and markets  
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)  

For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.  

Crime:  Violent crime is rare in Germany, but can occur, especially in larger cities or high-risk areas such as on large metropolitan subway systems and in train stations, primarily during late night or early morning hours. Most incidents of street crime involve the theft of unattended items and pickpocketing.  Theft and pickpocketing primarily take place at train stations, on public transportation, at tourist attractions, and at large public events.   Always pay close attention to your valuables! 

Be cautious and aware of your surroundings. 

U.S. citizens should exercise caution when congregating in known expatriate hangouts. 

Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. They are illegal to bring back into the United States, and you could also be breaking local law. 

Demonstrations:  Demonstrations occur regularly in Germany. Large, public demonstrations take place for a variety of political and economic issues. Demonstrations tend to take place on politically significant holidays like German Labor Day (May 1) and during international summits hosted in Germany.  Demonstration organizers must obtain prior police approval, and police routinely oversee participants.    

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable; avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Strikes may interfere with travel plans. We strongly encourage travelers to check transportation schedule information prior to travel.    

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Germany. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Most scammers pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help.

Tips to avoid scammers:

• Look for red flags like their location is far away, their profile was recently created or seems to be too good to be true, the pace of the relationship is moving too quickly, or they ask for money.
• Set up a phone call/video chat in the initial stages.
• Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.
• If they ask for help, you should refer to them to the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate so we can work with local authorities to assist.
• If you believe you have been scammed, report the incident to local law enforcement right away and stop all communications with the scammer.

Common scams include:

• Romance/online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent/relative targeting (kidnapping, arrested, medical emergency)
• Free Trip/luggage
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobiles Devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated and using virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S.-based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app, make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration. Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police: in an emergency dial 112 for ambulance and 110 for the police and contact the U.S Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate (see contact details above). 

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. 

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . 

We can: 

• Help you find appropriate medical care 
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys 
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States  
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation and support in Germany
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution 
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home 
• Replace a stolen or lost passport 

We also maintain information on our website on how to report  child abuse situations to the local authorities.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or the Consulates General in Frankfurt or Munich for assistance. Call 110 if you are in immediate danger.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally well regulated, and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities.

Germany sometimes experiences extreme weather conditions including floods, long periods of drought, and unusually harsh winters with vast amounts of snow even in urban areas. Numerous injuries and deaths occur every year in Germany’s Alpine and coastal regions. Most of the emergencies relate to the following sports:  skiing, hiking, snowboarding, mountain biking, sledding, rock and mountain climbing, paragliding, and swimming. Those engaging in Alpine sports are strongly encouraged to register with  German “Alpen Verein.”

In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.  

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate General immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Special Circumstances: Germany has strict customs regulations concerning:

• Temporary importation or exportation of firearms
• Military artifacts (particularly those of World War II)
• Medications/pharmaceuticals
• Business equipment

Under German law it is also illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or paraphernalia that glorifies fascism, the Nazi past, or the “Third Reich.”

Contact the  German Embassy in Washington  or one of the German consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Faith-Based Travelers : See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

International Volunteers:

LGBTQI+ Travelers : There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Germany. Same-sex marriage is available in Germany. LGBTQI+ persons are protected by federal anti-discrimination laws, and LGBTQI+ Pride events are officially encouraged by most large city governments, including those in Berlin, Cologne, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Munich. 

See   our page and section 6 of our   Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in Germany prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be limited in some older public transportation, lodging, and general infrastructure, especially outside major cities, but common in most urban infrastructure. Some older buildings and public transportation systems are less adapted to individuals with disabilities.

Check your hotel or destination to learn more about options to accommodate disabled traveler needs before visiting Germany.

The German National Tourist Board maintains  information about accessibility and disability-friendly travel .

All German airports and  Lufthansa  offer services for disabled travelers.

The German National Railway,  Deutsche Bahn , maintains a mobility resource webpage.

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Germany has generally high-quality medical care and facilities. Prescript ion and over-the-counter medicines are widely available although brands and drug names differ from those available in the United States.

For emergency services in Germany, dial 112.  

Ambulance services are widely available.  

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Germany.

• Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.
• Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)
• Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers, and Expatriates)
• General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)

The Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates general do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. If you are not a resident of Germany, doctors and hospitals will expect immediate payment in cash.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas or purchase travel insurance for this purpose. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our  webpage  for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

The Department of State strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices to ensure the medication is legal in Germany. Also read the information below regarding pharmaceuticals and the documentation required to enter Germany with prescription medication.

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the winter. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:

• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General maintain  lists of doctors and medical services in Germany . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery 

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on Medical Tourism.  
• Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Germany.  
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.   

Pharmaceuticals 

• If traveling with prescription medication, visit the  German customs website  to ensure the medication is legal in Germany.  For medications that Germany classifies as narcotics, you may only carry a 30-day supply.  A comprehensive list of these medications can be found   here.   If your medication is on that list, there is an additional requirement for your doctor to complete a  certification form .  You will see part E asks for the endorsement of an “issuing authority.”  As there is no such authority in the United States, travelers may have the doctor self-certify the form and enter the information of his or her practice in part E, ideally with a stamp or seal from their office.  Due to Germany’s strict customs regulations, you are not allowed to receive prescription medication by mail without special permission.  Always carry your prescription.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.  Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.   
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States.  Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States.  Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States.  Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.    

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy   

If you are considering traveling overseas to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .  

• All surrogacy arrangements, as well as IVF procedures involving the use of donated eggs, are illegal in Germany. For additional information, see  this webpage of the German Foreign Ministry  (German language only).

Adventure Travel: Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions in general are excellent but can differ from those in the United States, but driver error is a leading cause of accidents involving U.S. citizen motorists in Germany.

If you hold a valid U.S. driver’s license, you can drive in  Germany for up to six months  without acquiring a German driver’s license. Many German traffic laws and traffic signs differ significantly from those in the United States. For more information, please visit the U.S. embassy’s webpage on  driving in Germany .

Speed limits are posted on large stretches of the highway, on the Autobahn in urban areas, and when the road has many curves. Although high speeds are permitted on the Autobahn, adverse weather conditions and unfamiliar road markings pose significant hazards. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Use of seat belts is mandatory in front and back seats. Do not park on bike paths or sidewalks. Your vehicle registration, insurance policy, a first-aid kit, a reflective vest, and a reflective triangle must be in your vehicle at all times. In snowy or icy conditions, your vehicle must have snow tires or all-season tires (indicated by M+S marking) or you will be subject to a fine.

Bicycles: German streets and sidewalks have dedicated bike lanes. Bicycles have priority use of bike lanes over pedestrians and automobiles. Bicyclists also have priority over cars when turning onto side streets. If you are driving, check whether a bicyclist is approaching from either direction before attempting to enter side streets, even when the light is in your favor. You will be held responsible for any injury or damage caused if you turn into a side street and hit a bicyclist using a marked bike lane. If you are walking, watch for bicyclists before crossing or stepping into bike lanes. 

Traffic Laws:  If you are involved in a traffic accident in Germany, even a minor fender-bender, you MUST stay with your vehicle and not leave the scene until police arrive to take a report. It is illegal to use your cell phone while driving in Germany. Except on priority roads, vehicles coming from the right have the right-of-way. It is generally illegal in Germany to pass vehicles on the right. Germans strictly observe the ‘slower traffic keep right’ rule. It is illegal to operate a vehicle if your blood alcohol level is 0.05% or higher. You may be fined, and your driver’s license may be suspended for specified periods of time, depending upon the gravity of each violation. 

Public Transportation: Germany has an extensive and safe public transportation network consisting of buses, streetcars, trains, and subways. Metered taxis are also prevalent throughout Germany. Uber and other rideshare companies are available in most cities in Germany. Use common sense safety practices such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings on all public transportation. 

Strikes in Germany may disrupt public transportation and travel plans.  We strongly encourage travelers to check transportation schedule information prior to travel.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of Germany’s  Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMVI) , the national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Germany’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Germany’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page . 

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Germany should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Germany . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.”

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What are you looking for?

1. entry into the united kingdom for germans, 1a. what effects do brexit and the end of the transition period have in terms of entering and staying in the united kingdom.

Since 1 January 2021, new rules apply to EU citizens not already resident in the United Kingdom who wish to enter or stay in the United Kingdom.

All information on UK visa requirements for foreign nationals can be found on the UK government website .

1b. Do I need a visa for visits and/or business trips to the United Kingdom?

German citizens generally still do not need a visa for visits or business trips lasting up to 6 months.

Find out more, particularly on the distinction between a business trip (no visa required) and a stay where you undertake paid work (visa required): Visiting the UK after Brexit

1c. As an EU citizen, am I still allowed to move to the United Kingdom?

Freedom of movement between the EU and the United Kingdom ended on 31 December 2020. Anyone wanting to move to the United Kingdom after that date, for example in order to work or study in the United Kingdom or join family already living there, must apply for a visa beforehand. Certain set criteria must be met in order for a visa to be issued.

Find out more: Visas and Immigration

1d. What does the end of the transition period (31 December 2020) mean for German students?

EU students who had already taken up residence in the United Kingdom before 31 December 2020 had to submit an application under the EU Settlement Scheme to secure the rights associated with settled status or pre-settled status. They had to have taken up residence and been able to prove their physical presence.

EU students moving to the United Kingdom after 31 December 2020 to study must apply for a student visa (for which a charge applies) beforehand , even if their course started in 2020. It is not possible to enter the United Kingdom to begin a course of study without having obtained a visa in advance; EU students must apply (in advance) for a student visa if they are planning to stay for longer than six months. In these cases it is not possible to enter the United Kingdom to begin a course of study without having obtained a visa in advance. There have already been cases of students being turned back at the border or put on a flight back to Germany A student visa gives you considerably fewer rights than people who have acquired settled status or pre-settled status.

Further information on the situation as of 1 January 2021 from the UK Council for International Student Affairs can be found here and here and from Study UK/British Council here .

List of links relating to Brexit and higher education on the website of the London office of DAAD

1e. As an EU citizen, can I work as an au pair in the United Kingdom?

Since 1 January 2021, EU citizens are no longer permitted to take up work as an au pair in the United Kingdom.

1f. As an EU citizen, can I do a German university mandatory internship in the United Kingdom?

You may apply for a Temporary Worker - Government Authorised Exchange visa (T5) provided you meet the criteria. However, since 1 January 2021, it is virtually impossible in practice for EU citizens to do a German university mandatory internship in the United Kingdom.

1g. As an EU citizen, can I do a legal internship (administrative or elective stage) in the United Kingdom?

Under the British immigration legislation applicable to EU citizens since 1 January 2021, it is generally also no longer possible for Germans to undertake part of their legal training (“Referendariat”) in the United Kingdom.

1h. As an EU citizen, can I still enter the United Kingdom using my national identity card or passport after Brexit?

Since 1 October 2021, EU citizens are only able to enter the UK with a valid passport. This also applies to travellers in transit.

If you have settled status or pre-settled status, you are generally still able to enter the country using your national ID card. To provide extra proof of your status at border control, your national ID card should be linked to your immigration status online. From 2026, the British government is free to make biometric documents compulsory. Some airlines will only accept a passport (rather than a national ID card).

Find out more: Visiting the UK after Brexit

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Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, 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 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.raileurope.com (click Rail passes and select Europe ) or www.interrail.eu 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 .

Back to top

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

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.

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.

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 .

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 .

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.

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.

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 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).

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 .  If the onwards train from Brussels is a German Railways ICE , you'll normally get a Eurostar ticket plus a through ticket from Brussels to Germany.

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.

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 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

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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Driving from UK to Germany: Best Routes, Costs & Tips

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income.

Planning a holiday in Germany and considering driving there from the UK? As Germany boasts beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and bustling cities just a few hours’ drive from Calais, taking the road less traveled can add an extra element of adventure and discovery to your holiday.

We’ve spent the last four years full-time traveling in Europe and have driven to Germany from the UK more times than we can remember! In this driving from UK to Germany guide, we’re sharing the best routes, costs, and tips to help you have the best trip to Germany.

Germany Route Planner

Whether you’re driving from UK to Germany by car or motorhome, or riding a motorbike, proper planning and preparation will help your road trip from the United Kingdom to Germany go well, so you can arrive relaxed and unstressed.

Be ready to take in the picturesque countryside, history-rich landmarks, and vibrant German cities, all while enjoying the flexibility and freedom that driving affords.

Crossing the English Channel

There are a number of ferry routes to Germany from UK;

• The Dover-Calais ferry takes around one hour and 30 minutes to cross, loading can be time-consuming but you’ll have time on the boat for a meal and be able to rest from driving.
• The Eurotunnel from Folkestone-Calais is the most frequent channel crossing. As with the ferries, the Channel Tunnel queue can be horrendous in peak season and at peak times. This is a good option if you’re traveling with pets or are happy not to leave your vehicle. 
• Check out the slightly more obscure routes which are a little longer but often cheaper and with more special offers to tempt you away from the more well-known routes. Try departing from Newhaven for example, or arriving at Dieppe or Le Havre , although this has you further away from the German border, so you may lose any savings in fuel.
• The Stena Line Harwich-Hook of Holland route operates daily at 9am, with the crossing taking around seven hours. 
• If you cross from Hull to Rotterdam with P&O, their daily crossing departs at 20.30pm and takes around eleven hours, meaning you arrive refreshed and ready for a full day’s drive the following morning.
• The DFDS Newcastle to Amsterdam crossing is also overnight but takes nearly 16 hours and is a bit more expensive, although ideal for those starting their German tour in the north of England or Scotland .

We recommend finding the best deals and crossings with Direct Ferries, who make it easier to compare timings, routes and costs in one place.

Getting to germany.

Once you’re on the continent, there are a number of routes to Germany, depending on your destination. All route statistics and costs are based on driving a 2.5l diesel car from the port of entry. Find your own personalized costs with Via Michelin here .

The Brussels Route

• Distance 379km
• Drive Time 4 hours
• Toll Costs €0
• Fuel Costs €39.11

The most cost-effective and fastest way from Calais to Germany by car is the A16, E40, and E42 route via Brussels, crossing into Germany near Winterspelt.

Places to see along the route include the fabulous city of Bruges, known as the ‘Venice of the North’, the foodie city of Brussels, Belgium’s lively capital, the medieval Wallonia city of Liège, and the wide open spaces of the Parc Naturel Hautes Fagnes-Eifel.

The Luxembourg Route

• Distance 451km
• Drive Time 4.7 hours
• Fuel Costs €46.70

From Calais, the second fastest route is the A25, E42, and E411 through Luxembourg, crossing the German border at Langsur near Trier.

Places on the route to see include the moving Menin Gate at Ypres, one of four memorials to the missing of World War I in Belgian Flanders, the pretty city of Lille with its Flemish influences and historic center, and the characteristic Belgian city of Charleroi.

Further along the route is the small European country of Luxembourg, home to the Ardennes forest, the rocky gorges of the Mullerthal, and the Moselle River valley. Its capital, Luxembourg City, is famed for its fortified medieval old town perched on sheer cliffs which dominate the skyline.

The Scenic Route

• Distance 525km
• Drive Time 5 hours
• Toll Costs €47.5
• Fuel Costs €53.34

A longer, more scenic, and more expensive route from Calais takes you through France on the A26 and A4 via Reims and Metz, crossing the French border into Germany at Saarbrücken.

Places to see as you travel include the WWI battlefields of Hauts-de France and the delightful Champagne region of Grand Est and its royal capital city of Reims. You can also explore the vine-covered slopes of the Moselle Valley between Metz and Nancy, and the gardens and leafy promenades of Metz itself.

For the best experience, allow more time, set your sat nav to avoid the motorways and you’ll find yourself driving through rolling countryside dotted with vineyards, medieval French towns and villages full of half-timbered houses and splendid cathedrals, and in summer, fields of sunflowers.

If you take this route, you will need a Certificats qualité de l’air , known as a Crit’Air sticker, which allows you to enter the low-emission zone in Reims. You can find out more about Urban Access Regulations in Reims here .

The Netherlands Route

• Distance 171km
• Drive Time 2 hours
• Fuel Costs €18.47

From Rotterdam, one of the Netherlands best cities to visit , it’s an easy two hour drive to the German border west of Dusseldorf, although once into Germany this route does mean negotiating the busy road network around the industrial and built-up cities of the Rhine before you can continue your onward journey.

Places to see on the route include the hip up-and-coming city of Rotterdam, known for its bold and modern architecture, Arnhem, the site of the infamous WW2 Battle of Arnhem, and the Roman and Hanseatic city of Nijmegen.

Doing this route from Amsterdam will add 6km to your journey, and from the Hook of Holland, add 27km to your drive.

Is this your first time visiting Germany? Get all the information you need in our Germany Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Travelling to Germany After Brexit

Although the UK left the EU at the beginning of 2020, because the pandemic came swiftly on its heels, many of us are still getting used to how it affects traveling in Europe. Here are a few frequently asked questions and answers;

Do I need a visa for Europe?

Nothing changes with your passport, but from 2024, the EU will introduce the  ETIAS  (European Travel Information and Authorisation System), which will be an additional entry requirement for visa-exempt travelers and will involve the traveler registering their details online before traveling, mainly for security purposes.

How long can I stay in Europe?

UK citizens can only stay in the Schengen Area (a zone in Europe where countries have no internal borders and allow the free and unrestricted movement of people) for  90 days in every 180 days  in the Schengen Area. 

The 90 in 180 day rule works on a rolling basis and it can be difficult to work out whether you are within the rules or not, especially if you have visited the Schengen area on several occasions in the preceding 180 days. Use the Schengen calculator to work out your allowance.

What food can I take in my vehicle to Germany?

The European Commission says the following;

• Travelers are not allowed to bring in  meat ,  milk, or their products .
• such products do not require refrigeration before opening.
• that they are packaged proprietary brand products for direct sale to the final consumer, and
• the packaging is unbroken unless in current use.
• For  fishery products  (including fish and certain shellfish such as prawns, lobsters, dead mussels, and dead oysters), travelers are allowed to bring in up to 20kg or the weight of one fish if this is higher.
• For  other animal products , such as honey, live oysters, live mussels, and snails, travelers are allowed to bring in up to 2kg.

Can I use my mobile data in Germany?

It very much depends on who your mobile phone contract is with and when you started the contract. All UK providers now limit data usage in the EU in some way or another, and it’s best to check with your provider to make sure you don’t run up a big bill.

You can find lots of information in our guide to the best SIM cards in Europe , especially if you’re planning to be away for more than a few weeks.

Can I take a pet to Germany in my vehicle?

Yes, you can take dogs, cats, and ferrets to Germany. You’ll need to book a pet-friendly cabin or kennels on the ferry or travel via the tunnel.

Your pet will need a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination and an animal health certificate (AHC) if your pet is registered in the UK, and a pet passport if your pet is registered in the EU.

It can take some time to get all the documents together and the vaccines organized, so make sure you start the process well in advance. You can find out more about traveling with pets on the Gov.UK website .

Documents and Insurance

When traveling to Germany your passport must be;

• issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
• valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

UK Driving Licence & International Driving Permit

While traveling in Germany, a full, valid driving license is required.

It’s a good idea to check if an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required as well. An IDP is not a compulsory document for UK drivers in Germany but may be required for citizens of other non-EU third countries. You can check whether you need an IDP for Germany here .

Vehicle Insurance & Green Card

Having at least 3rd party car insurance is mandatory when driving in Germany. It is crucial to check your insurance policy to ensure it covers you when driving abroad. If not, you may need to purchase an extension or a separate policy for your European road trip.

A green card is not required where the country in which your vehicle is registered is a member of the green card scheme – this includes the United Kingdom and all EU countries.

Breakdown Cover & Travel Insurance

European breakdown cover is highly recommended when driving from the UK to Germany. This cover provides roadside assistance and vehicle recovery if you experience a breakdown or an accident during your journey.

Even if you have an EHIC or GHIC card, you’ll also want a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Carefully check the policy details to make sure they cover all your activities and belongings while you’re away from home.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Germany . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Preparing Your Vehicle

Required equipment.

Before embarking on your journey from the UK to Germany, ensure that your vehicle is equipped with the necessary items. It is compulsory to carry the following when driving in Germany:

• Warning triangle.
• Reflective jacket (for the driver and all passengers).
• Spare wheel and the tools to change a wheel or a tire repair kit.

It’s also a good idea to carry a fire extinguisher and first aid kit which may come in handy in case of emergencies.

UK Stickers & Headlamp Beam Deflectors

When driving on German roads, you must display a UK sticker (GB stickers are no longer allowed) with the Union flag on the rear of your vehicle. This will help inform other drivers and the traffic police about the origin of your vehicle.

If your car is right-hand drive, make sure to fit headlamp beam deflectors to your vehicle’s headlights, or switch them electronically, as this will prevent the beam from dazzling other road users when driving on the right side of the road.

Winter Tyres

When planning a road trip to Germany, especially during the winter months, it’s essential to consider the type of tires on your car.

Germany has specific winter tire regulations that require all vehicles, including motorhomes, towing caravans and motorbikes to be equipped with suitable tires for the weather conditions. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and delays and will make you unsafe in snowy or icy conditions.

Germany Driving Tips

When planning a drive from the UK to Germany or other EU countries, it’s important to familiarise oneself with the local driving rules and regulations.

Differences in Driving Rules and Etiquette

Driving in Germany may be quite different from driving in the UK, so it’s essential to understand these differences to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Some key differences include:

• Driving on the right side of the road, rather than the left as in the UK.
• Overtaking is done on the left side, unlike in the UK where it’s done on the right.
• Roundabouts follow a clockwise direction in Germany, whereas they are counter-clockwise in the UK.
• Vehicles on a roundabout have right of way unless signs indicate they don’t.
• Traffic coming from the right takes priority at all crossroads and junctions.

Speed Limits and the Autobahn

Germany is known for its autobahn, a high-speed motorway network where some sections don’t have a speed limit.

It’s important to know that whilst there are no enforced speed limits on certain parts of the autobahn, a recommended speed limit of 130 km/h (80 mph) is advised in those areas for safety reasons.

Make sure to observe and follow signage where there are speed limits, for example in urban or built-up areas.

For those driving outside the Autobahn, the following speed limits apply:

• Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
• Non-urban roads: 100 km/h (62 mph)

Other Driving Rules in Germany

• Children under 12 years old or under 1.5m tall need to use an approved child seat.
• Any use of a mobile phone, such as making and receiving calls without a hands-free kit, rejecting a call, texting and reading news, searching for data online, or using maps, is forbidden when driving a vehicle in Germany.
• If you have a GPS navigation system that shows you where any fixed-speed cameras are, you must deactivate this function. It’s illegal to carry or use any radar detection equipment when driving through Germany.
• You must wear a crash helmet if you’re riding a moped or motorcycle. Motorcycles on the road must have their passing lights on at all times, even in daylight
• The maximum level of alcohol in the blood for private drivers is 0.05%. For newly qualified drivers with less than two years’ experience and young drivers aged under 21, the limit is 0%.

Tolls in Germany

There are no general tolls for cars, motorhomes, and motorbikes in Germany making autobahn routes through the country a really cost-effective way to access Austria , Italy , and most easterly parts of Europe.

If you are traveling in a massive motorhome camper that is over 7,500kg, like an RV, overland truck , or converted lorry, then we believe that you are exempt from the tolls placed on lorries over this weight. You can find out more in our guide to motorhoming in Germany .

Low Emission Zones in Germany

There are currently 58 u mweltzonen or low-emission zones in more than 70 cities and built-up areas in Germany.

You need an umweltplakette (sticker) on the windscreen which shows the level of your vehicle’s emissions to drive into these areas in your vehicle.

You must be able to evidence that the vehicle meets the Euro 4 standards for a green sticker, by providing copies of the V5C for newer vehicles (manufactured after January 2006), or a Certificate of Conformity provided by the manufacturer.

A yellow sticker only allows you to enter the LEZ of Neu-Ulm in Bavaria and, from 2021 red stickered vehicles are not permitted into any LEZ.

Electric vehicles also require an umweltplakette , which is blue and called an e-sticker. In many German cities, there are advantages for electric vehicles which include the use of bus lanes and free parking.

Head to the Umwelt-Plakette.de website for more information and to get your sticker – you will need to do this at least six weeks before departure to give it time to be processed and arrive in the post. Currently, there are no digital options to replace the physical sticker.

If you hire a vehicle in or close to a German low-emission zone, it will almost always have an emissions sticker. If in doubt or if you hire from a place with no low-emission zone in the vicinity, check with your car hire company.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to France.

Destinations in Germany

Germany offers a diverse range of holiday experiences, from bustling cities rich in history and culture to picturesque landscapes and charming small towns. When driving from the UK to Germany, there are a few destinations that stand out as popular choices for travellers.

One such destination is Cologne, a city known for its stunning Gothic architecture and vibrant arts scene. Only a few hours’ drive from Calais, visitors can marvel at the impressive Cologne Cathedral or stroll along the Rhine River promenade.

Düsseldorf, another popular stop, offers a blend of historic charm and modern innovation. With its sophisticated shopping streets and art galleries, it’s a haven for culture enthusiasts and fashion-conscious visitors alike.

For travelers seeking a more laid-back experience, Heidelberg is a favorite among history buffs. Famous for its stunning Castle and Old Town, it can be reached in under seven hours from Calais by car. The town’s picturesque location along the Neckar River makes it perfect for leisurely strolls, while its charming market square offers an array of shops and eateries.

Germany is also famous for its breathtaking countryside, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and road trippers. The picturesque Black Forest and the fairytale-like Romantic Road are must-visits, showcasing Germany’s idyllic landscapes and charming villages.

No matter what type of holiday or German road trip you’re looking for, driving from the UK to Germany offers an unforgettable journey through some of Europe’s most captivating destinations. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure and enjoy the open road!

Can’t decide? Check out these German travel ideas…

Beautiful Cities in Germany: 27 Picturesque Cities to Visit

Deutsche Märchenstraße: Germany’s Fairy Tale Road

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Romantic Road Germany: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Motorhoming in Germany: Your Complete Touring Guide for 2024

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Autumn in Europe: 23 Stunning Destinations for Fall

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24 Hours in Hamburg – Itinerary, Map & Travel Tips

Visit Zugspitze Germany – Find Out How!

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, or get our top Europe road trip routes for inspiration.

Are you looking for more incredible road trips? Check out these top posts…

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Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to Visit Nigeria in May for Invictus Games Talks

Prince Harry will be joined by wife Meghan Markle in Nigeria following his return to the U.K. next month.

The couple accepted an invitation from Nigeria’s chief of defense staff, according to reports. The visit will highlight the Invictus Games , which previously welcomed hundreds of athletes from 21 countries in Germany last year, including Nigeria.

“The visit is to consolidate Nigeria’s strong hold at the game and the possibility of hosting the event in later years,” Nigeria’s acting director of defense information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau , noted in a statement.

Minister of Defense Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar Badaru attended the 2023 games in Germany, where Nigeria competed as a new entrant, and has expressed interest in hosting the tournament someday.

Related: Prince Harry’s Military Career: From Enlistment to Invictus Games

Harry, 39, and Meghan, 42, spent time with Nigerian athletes at last year’s event. “Now, I’m not saying we play favorites in our home, but since my wife discovered she’s of Nigerian descent, it’s likely to get a little bit more competitive this year,” the duke teased in his opening speech.

The Invictus Games were first held in 2014 for wounded, sick or injured servicemen and women and veterans. Harry and Meghan’s trip to Nigeria comes shortly after he’s set to mark an important milestone for the organization in London.

“The Invictus Games Foundation will celebrate 10 years of changing lives and saving lives with a ‘Service of Thanksgiving’ at St Paul’s Cathedral on May 8th,” read a social media message shared by the official Invictus Games account on Sunday, April 28, confirming Harry’s attendance.

Along with the prince, Billions alum Damian Lewis will be on hand at the service to read the Invictus poem. Representatives from participating countries are expected to attend, with other supporters, beneficiaries and members of the community taking part in the service.

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Related: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Charitable Work Throughout the Years

Harry has made a handful of visits across the pond since he and Meghan relocated to California in the wake of their 2020 exits as senior working royals. He traveled for the funeral of his grandfather Prince Philip in April 2021 and was joined by Meghan in September 2022 for the late Queen Elizabeth II ‘s memorial. Earlier this year, Harry flew to the U.K. after news broke that his father, King Charles III , was diagnosed with a form of cancer.

“I love my family,” Harry said on Good Morning America in February. “The fact that I was able to get on a plane and go and see him and spend any time with him, I’m grateful for that.”

Harry did not provide specifics about the king’s condition, but at the time, he hinted that he’d hopefully have time to see his father again in the near future. “I’ve got other trip plans that will take me through the U.K., or back to the U.K.,” he said. “So, I’ll stop in and see my family as much as I can.”

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Train strikes in May 2024: Full list of dates and lines affected

Rail lines are set for disruption in the week following the first May bank holiday as train drivers at 16 rail companies strike on different days.

Wednesday 1 May 2024 09:08, UK

Train drivers will stage a fresh wave of strikes and overtime bans in May, causing disruption to the rail network.

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay.

Members of Aslef union at 16 rail companies will walk out on different days from 7 to 9 May.

Additionally, all members will refuse to work any overtime from 6 May to 11 May.

Here is a full list of the services affected by strikes and when.

Rail strike dates

Tuesday 7 May

Strikes will affect c2c, Greater Anglia, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern, Gatwick Express and South Western Railway.

Wednesday 8 May

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway and West Midlands Trains.

Thursday 9 May

Strikes will affect LNER, Northern Trains and TransPennine Express.

Overtime ban dates

From Monday 6 May to Saturday 11 May union members will not work overtime.

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, means some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

How do strikes and overtime bans affect services?

Strikes tend to mean services on lines where members are participating are extremely affected or cancelled entirely, whereas overtime bans often lead to reduced services.

Are there strikes on the Tube too?

There have been regular strikes on London Underground too recently, and while there aren't any planned walkouts for drivers, customer service managers will refuse to work overtime on the following days:

Monday 29 April

Tuesday 30 April

Wednesday 1 May

Tuesday 2 May

Wednesday 3 May

Thursday 4 May

Friday 5 May

The Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) says the action by its members is likely to cause Tube stations to close at the last minute, including on the Saturday following the strike (27 April), while TfL has said on its website "some stations may need to close at short notice".

Despite the warning, a TfL spokesperson has said they aren't expecting significant disruption.

This action follows strike action taken by the same workers on 10 April, which the TSSA said had a "real impact" with "many stations shut at short notice".

They say they are "extremely concerned" about TfL's 'Stations Changes' proposals.

"We have made it clear that our union will not accept the continued threats to our members' roles, locations, terms, and conditions to stand unchallenged," a TSSA spokesperson said.

"We will continue to take sustained action until London Underground is prepared to negotiate with us in good faith."

Commenting on the impending strikes, a TfL spokesperson said: "We are disappointed that TSSA is continuing with this strike action following a consultation process.

"While we don't expect this action will cause significant disruption, we urge TSSA to continue to work with us to help find a resolution.

"There are no planned job losses as part of these vital changes which will improve the service we provide to customers at our stations."

How can I stay in the loop?

You can use the National Rail's journey planner to see when trains are running.

Be sure to check it close to when you plan to travel, as it will be updated regularly.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Why are the strikes still happening?

Aslef rejected a two-year offer of 4% in 2022 and another 4% this year, saying it is way below inflation, and is linked to changes in terms and conditions.

Aslef said train drivers have not had an increase in salary for five years, since their last pay deals expired in 2019.

The union said after its members voted overwhelmingly in February to continue taking industrial action, it asked the train operating companies to hold talks.

General secretary Mick Whelan said the year-old pay offer of 4% and another 4% was "dead in the water".

Related Topics

• London Underground
• Rail strikes

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad

Travelling to the EU and Schengen area

You do not need a visa for short trips to the EU or countries in the Schengen area if both of the following apply:

• you’re staying for 90 days or less in a 180-day period
• you’re visiting as a tourist or for certain other reasons

Other reasons include:

• studying a short course
• getting medical treatment
• travelling for business for your UK employer, for example to attend a business meeting or conference
• journalism or other media activities

Check the entry requirements of the country you’re visiting to find out what you can and cannot do during your stay.

These rules do not apply to travelling and working in Ireland .

Travelling to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period

You can travel to more than one country in a 180-day period. How long you can stay in each country depends on whether or not it’s in the Schengen area.

The countries in the Schengen area are:

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Your total stay in the Schengen area must be no more than 90 days in every 180 days. It does not matter how many countries you visit. The 180-day period keeps ‘rolling’.

To work out if your stay is within the 90 day limit, use the following steps.

Check the date you plan to leave the Schengen area on your next trip.

Count back 180 days from that date to get the start of the 180-day period.

Add up the number of days you have already spent in the Schengen area in that 180-day period (you can use the dates stamped in your passport showing when you entered and left a country).

Work out how many days you will spend in the Schengen area on your next trip. Add this number to the number of days you worked out in step 3.

Check that the total number of days is not more than 90.

Travelling to EU countries that are not in the Schengen area

Bulgaria, Cyprus and Romania are not in the Schengen area. You can stay up to 90 days in a 180-day period in each of these countries without a visa.

Any time you spend in the Schengen area does not affect the number of days you can spend in these countries.

When you may need a visa

​​You may need a visa or permit if you want to either:

• stay for more than 90 days

If you’re travelling for work, check the rules for the country you’re visiting .

If you’re travelling for another reason or staying longer than 90 days, check the entry requirements for the country you’re visiting .

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