Why put yourself through the stress of flying when the journey from London to Germany by train can take as little as four hours? From the buzz of Berlin to the beer festivals of Munich, Germany's diverse cities are surprisingly accessible by rail. Travelling by train is the perfect way to see the European countryside speed by as you kick back and relax.
The journey typically starts with a Eurostar from London's St Pancras International, whizzing you under the Channel to major hubs like Brussels or Paris in just a couple of hours. From there, Germany's excellent high-speed ICE train network connects you to destinations across the country.
London to Cologne
As one of the closest major German cities to the UK, Cologne is a natural arrival point. You'll certainly not be short of things to see and do. The city's cathedral is perhaps its most iconic sight; tackle the 533 steps up the South Tower to be rewarded with panoramic views across the city and the River Rhine. Afterwards, recharge at the ultra-modern Chocolate Museum for a journey through the history of cocoa.
Journey Time: Around 4 hours
Route: Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels-Midi, then change to a high-speed Deutsche Bahn (DB) ICE or Eurostar (formerly Thalys) service direct to Köln Hbf.
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London to Frankfurt
Frankfurt isn't all about business and banking. If you're into museums, the Museum Embankment has 12 separate institutions to choose from. For a different perspective, head to the observation deck of the Main Tower skyscraper. Or, for a quieter spot, the Palmengarten botanical gardens are perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Journey Time: Around 5 hours 30m
Route: A simple change in Brussels is all that's needed. Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels-Midi, then connect to a direct DB ICE service to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.
London to Berlin
It's easier than you might think to reach Germany's historic capital by train. A natural starting point for many is Checkpoint Charlie, the famous symbol of a divided city. Nearby, you can see one of the largest preserved sections of the Berlin Wall at the Topography of Terror exhibition. For one of the best views in the city, book a free visit to the roof terrace of the Reichstag parliament building.
Journey Time: From 9 hours
Route: The most common route is via Brussels. Take the Eurostar to Brussels-Midi, an ICE to Cologne, and then another ICE across Germany to Berlin Hbf. Other routes via Amsterdam or Paris are also possible.
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London to Munich
A short stroll from Munich's main station brings you to Marienplatz, the city's main square. It's the perfect place to relax with a coffee, but don't miss the chiming of the famous Glockenspiel clock. On a sunny day, there's no better place than the elegant English Garden, 900 acres of shady paths and mature trees where you can grab a pretzel and a large glass of beer and watch the world go by.
Journey Time: Daytime from ~9 hours, or travel overnight.
Route: For a long-distance journey like this, the sleeper train is a fantastic option. Take an afternoon Eurostar to Brussels or Cologne and connect to the ÖBB Nightjet service, arriving refreshed in Munich the next morning. Daytime routes via Paris or Brussels are also available.
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London to Stuttgart
This southern German city was officially named the least-stressed place in the world in a recent survey. It's the centre of the German car industry, and both Porsche and Mercedes-Benz have impressive visitor centres. Back in town, take an evening walk through the Schlossplatz to see the ornate fountains lit up against the backdrop of the former Royal Palace.
Journey Time: From 6h 30m
Route: This is one of the most scenic routes, with just one change in Paris. Take the Eurostar to Paris Gare du Nord, make the short transfer to Gare de l'Est, and board a direct TGV or ICE train that whizzes through the Champagne region to Stuttgart.