Travel by train across Berlin: ideas and practical advice

Want to explore Germany's capital? You're in luck—Berlin is very easy to reach by train from France! Here's our guide to enjoying a 100% train-based city trip.

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How to reach Berlin by train?

From Paris, To get to Berlin, you can:

take a night train European Sleeper, departing from Paris-Nord (several times a week, via Brussels and Hamburg),

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or a daytime train which connects the two capitals in about 8 o'clock, via Strasbourg, Karlsruhe, and Frankfurt.

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From Strasbourg, you're right on the Paris–Berlin daytime train route, with no transfers.

From Lyon, first take a TGV to Strasbourg, then transfer to the train to Berlin (expect the trip to take a full day, including the transfer).

From Lille, heading to Brussels, then Cologne, before arriving in Berlin: a trip with two transfers that can be completed in a single day.

From Marseille, Bordeaux, or any other major city, the easiest way is still to take the TGV to Paris, then transfer to a night or day train to Berlin.

What to do by train in Berlin?

In Berlin, there's no shortage of things to do. In the neighborhood of Mitte, you'll find the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag, whose glass dome offers a breathtaking view of the city (reservations recommended). Right next door, the Einstein Café on Unter den Linden carries on the tradition of Viennese coffee and serves a schnitzel that has made its reputation.

If you only have a few hours, it's best to set your priorities:

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What to do in Berlin in a day?

But if your stay ends up lasting a little longer, you'll have plenty to fill your time with—from historic sites to alternative neighborhoods and nightlife:

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On the Museum Island, off to the Neues Museum to admire the bust of Nefertiti (a safe bet while the Pergamon is closed for renovations through 2027).

Want to get off the beaten path? Prenzlauer Berg is home to its bohemian cafés and vintage shops, but Berlin also has its share of hidden gems, far from the tourist buses:

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When it comes to dining, Berlin has also become a go-to destination for those with a sweet tooth and veggie-lovers:

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The city’s atmosphere constantly shifts between modern vibrancy and traces of the past, creating a lovely contrast around every corner. And it’s easy to explore it all on foot or by public transportation! It’s also a great opportunity to choose the right place to stay: