
Traveling by train from Munich to Hamburg is a convenient and scenic way to see Germany's countryside. The train journey typically takes around 6 hours.
You can take a direct train from Munich Hauptbahnhof to Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, or a train with a changeover in cities like Stuttgart or Frankfurt.
The Deutsche Bahn (DB) operates multiple daily trains on this route, offering various classes of service, including first class and second class.
The train ride offers stunning views of the German countryside, including the Alps and the North Sea coast.
Traveling by Train
The train journey from Munich to Hamburg is a convenient and comfortable way to explore Germany. Over 20 trains operate daily from Munich Hbf to Hamburg.
You'll have a wide range of departure times to choose from, with trains running throughout the day. The fastest journey times are under six hours.
The train passes through several towns and cities, including Pasewalk, Neustrelitz, Ludwigslust, Uelzen, Hannover, and Wolfsburg. You'll get to see the beautiful countryside and stunning landscapes of Bavaria and Northern Germany.
You can board the train at Munich Hauptbahnhof, an iconic landmark with a grand entrance and modern architecture. The arrival point is Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, where you can find the beautiful Elbe River, the stunning Rathaus, and the enchanting Elbphilharmonie music venue.
The train journey from Munich to Hamburg is an experience like no other. You'll get to immerse yourself in the beauty of German countryside and discover its hidden gems.
Route Information
If you're planning a trip from Munich to Hamburg by train, you'll have a variety of options to choose from.
There are 19 trains per day available on this route, so you can pick the one that suits your schedule best.
The journey time can range from 5 hours and 20 minutes, depending on the train you choose.
You can travel directly from Munich Hbf to Hamburg, with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB, and Flixbus offering train and bus services on this route.
The first train from Munich Hbf to Hamburg leaves at 12:00 am, while the last train departs at 10:52 pm.
Here's a summary of the train schedule:
The distance between Munich and Hamburg is approximately 381 miles (613 km).
Journey Details
The train journey from Munich to Hamburg is a popular route with plenty of options. The average travel time is 6 hours 2 minutes, covering a distance of 613 km.
You can expect to find 19 trains per day running on this route, which is great news for those who prefer more frequent departures.
Direct trains are available from Munich to Hamburg, so you can enjoy the journey without having to change trains.
You can choose to travel with ICE, DB, or ÖBB, the main rail operators on this route, which offer modern and comfortable seating. They also provide plenty of space for luggage as standard.
Advance tickets start from $18.35, so booking early can help you save money.
Planning Your Trip

The train from Munich to Hamburg is a convenient way to explore Germany, with over 20 trains operating daily from Munich Hbf to Hamburg.
You can expect the fastest journey times to be under six hours, making it a great option for those short on time.
The main stations for this journey are Munich Hauptbahnhof and Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, which are both iconic landmarks in their own right.
From Munich Hauptbahnhof, you'll depart with a grand entrance, modern architecture, and a vast concourse, setting the tone for a comfortable journey.
You'll pass through several towns and cities along the way, including Pasewalk, Neustrelitz, Ludwigslust, Uelzen, Hannover, and Wolfsburg, offering a glimpse into the charming small towns of Germany.
The train journey from Munich to Hamburg is an experience like no other, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of German countryside and discover its hidden gems.
DB Bahn Guide
Booking early is a great way to save on your ticket price, as online bookings open 6 months ahead of the travel date on OBB and 3 months ahead on DB Bahn.
You can book your ticket for the train that departs from Munchen Hbf at around 22:50 and arrives in Hamburg Hbf shortly after 09:00.
This train also calls at Hannover, Hamburg Hbf, and Hamburg Dammtor, so it's worth considering which of these stations suits your needs best.
The train has different types of compartments, including compartment seats, couchettes with 4 and 6 berths, and standard sleeping cars with 3, 2, and 1 cabins.
There are also deluxe sleeping cars with showers, which is a great option if you want to travel in style.
If you're a rail pass user, you can reserve your seat in advance on the OBB website without paying booking fees.
Here's a quick rundown of the different types of trains and compartments:
Keep in mind that rail pass users must reserve their seat before boarding, and these can be booked in advance on the OBB website.
Travel Tips
As you start planning your trip, consider the time of year and how it might affect your travel plans.
Be sure to research the local weather and climate of your destination to avoid traveling during peak hurricane season or extreme heat waves.
Some destinations have specific dress codes or cultural norms, so it's essential to learn about these beforehand to avoid any cultural faux pas.
Packing light can be a game-changer for travelers, but don't forget to include essentials like a portable charger and a universal power adapter.
If you're traveling internationally, check the entry requirements for your destination and ensure you have all necessary visas and travel documents.
Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected trip cancellations or medical emergencies.
Make sure to leave a copy of your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member, including your flight numbers and accommodation details.
Munich to Hamburg
You can travel from Munich to Hamburg by train, and there's a choice between taking a sleek ICE train during the day or a Nightjet through the night.

Adults can bring up to four children aged 14 and under on a discounted 'Sparschiene' ticket at no additional cost, as long as they're travelling in First or Second class with an adult aged 15 and over.
If you're planning a trip to Germany, it's worth knowing that there are options for discounted tickets and bringing children along.
Sources
- https://www.thetrainline.com/en-us/train-times/munich-hbf-to-hamburg
- https://austrianrails.com/en/train/munich/hamburg
- https://www.thetrainline.com/en-us/train-times/munich-to-hamburg
- https://showmethejourney.com/train-travel-info/journeys/from-munchen-munich-to-hamburg-by-train/
- https://www.gopili.com/en-us/train/route/train-from-munich-to-hamburg-t15152-16792.html
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