The word “Hauptbahnhof” means “central station”, and is abbreviated as “Hbf”. This is typically the best-connected station in the town or city. The word “Flughafen” means “airport” and usually trains will connect from the airport station to the main Hbf station.

Germany is very well-connected by trains (Bahn), and the German train system has a comprehensive website to help you plan your travels around Germany. You will even find international connections and schedules.

• Frankfurt: Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
• Munich: München Hbf
• Nuremberg: Nürnberg Hbf
• Stuttgart: Stuttgart Hbf
• Berlin: Berlin Hbf

• Intercity-Express (ICE)
• Intercity/Eurocity (IC/EC)
• Interregional (IR)
• Interregional-Express (IRE)
• Regional-Express (RE)
• Regionalbahn (RB)
• Night trains (NZ, EN, D-Zug, UEX, CNL)
• International trains: Thalys, Eurostar
• Local public transport: urban rapid transit (S-Bahn), underground (U-Bahn)

Depending on your destination, you have many options. Typically, longer distances between major cities are the ICE trains, which may even offer a first class department and include on-train food services. All stops are serviced on the Regionalbahn (RB) train, and oftentimes you may take one of these to reach a smaller town. When researching your train travel online, click on the abbreviation in the “Products” column for a complete description of the types of trains offered for your preferred route.

It is a good idea to check on the German Rail Operator’s website www.bahn.de to see if your train allows bikes, and if so, how many. On some trains, a bike reservation may be required due to limited space.

• Taxis: Taxis can easily be found outside airports and train stations. It is good practice to ask for an approximate fare before the ride and pay meter start. Keep in mind that the cost may vary depending on traffic in the city. You can round up to add a tip.
• Rental Car: If you decide to rent a car, we suggest arranging this from the U.S. – it’s cheaper. Be sure to find out the exact address of the location to pick up your rental car, (preferably at your arrival airport). It’s best to make these arrangements in advance, and if you wish to go through a German company, we suggest Sixt Car Rental.
• Bus: Germany has an extensive domestic bus network although most travelers stick with the more convenient rail network unless they want to get to smaller towns, particularly in the Bavarian Alps and along the Romantic Road. International buses are a popular alternative to the train with services to destinations throughout both eastern and western Europe. Central bus stations (Busbahnhof) are usually located near the main train station (Hauptbahnhof) in most big towns and cities. However, some smaller bus companies, such as those serving eastern European destinations, operate from their own terminals.