Deutsche Bahn
Germany has an extensive rail network that covers almost every part of the country. The trains are reliable, safe and comfortable. Long-distance trains are meticulously coordinated with local services, offering excellent connections. A nationwide rail network enables visitors to reach even the smaller historical towns and the holiday regions with ease. InterCity (IC) and InterCity Express (ICE) trains run every hour, connecting more than 50 German towns. The high-speed ICE trains reach speeds of up to 300km/h. Regional trains connect the smaller towns. Many of these trains are also used by commuters, so it's best to avoid travelling in the early morning or late afternoon if possible. It is generally advisable to reserve seats on all trains, particularly at peak periods and at holiday times. Reservations can be made for a small charge until shortly before departure. All information, including timetables, is available online on Deutsche Bahn's website. Tickets are often cheaper if purchased several days before travel. However, the tickets are then only valid for travel on one particular service i.e. the outward and return journeys are booked for a specific train. Children under 14 travelling with a parent or grandparent go free.

Deutsche Bahn Rail

The German Autobahn
Germany's autobahns cover a distance of approx. 11,000km and form an ultra-modern and efficient transport network. More than 700 filling stations, service areas and hotels are open around the clock. There are no tolls on Germany's autobahns. In the event of an accident or breakdown, the German Automobile Association (ADAC) can provide assistance throughout the country. Members of an international partner organisation receive free assistance. Drivers are required to carry a valid driver's licence, the vehicle registration documents and proof of insurance. Vehicles from other countries which do not have a European registration plate incorporating the country code are required to display a sticker showing their country of origin. Leaded petrol is no longer available in Germany. Besides normal diesel, bio-diesel is also available. Germany also has an increasing number of gas filling stations.

Public Transportation
Many destinations within the towns and cities and around the regions can be quickly and easily reached by underground or local suburban railway. The larger cities have night buses that run until late into the night. For all public transport and shorter trips by train, tickets must be bought from a machine prior to travel. Ticket prices vary according to distance, divided into so-called "tariff zones". For longer stays, day or week passes are better value than individual tickets. The penalty for travelling without a valid ticket is a fine of at least 30 euros on all buses and trains.

Map of Autobahn

Public Transportation
Many destinations within the towns and cities and around the regions can be quickly and easily reached by underground or local suburban railway. The larger cities have night buses that run until late into the night. For all public transport and shorter trips by train, tickets must be bought from a machine prior to travel. Ticket prices vary according to distance, divided into so-called "tariff zones". For longer stays, day or week passes are better value than individual tickets. The penalty for travelling without a valid ticket is a fine of at least 30 euros on all buses and trains.