7 Best Day Trips By Train From Berlin
Hop on a train and take a fun-filled day trip from Berlin! Discover some easy day trips by train from Berlin that I’ve personally taken while living in Germany’s capital city.
This list of easy-to-reach spots will liven up your day. Just relax on the train, and boom, you’re there! No complicated plans, just fun adventures waiting for you. So if you’re wondering where to go from Berlin by train, hang tight.
I am sharing my favourite day trips from Berlin by train focusing on locations that are nearby making it feasible to do in one day. My cap was less than 2 hours. Where available, I’ve included links to my detailed city guides to simplify your day trip planning even further.
Table of Contents
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you decide to book. Please check out my privacy policy and disclosure for more information.
Day Trips by Train from Berlin in Less Than 1 Hour
1. Spandau
Although technically a district in Berlin, it was once its own city before the borders of Berlin expanded. It still has its village charm and you’ll forget that you’re still in Berlin (technically). Famous for the Spandau Citadel, a medieval fortress, and its picturesque Old Town. I loved coming here to stroll the cobbled streets and visit the market square for its daily local farmers market.
From Berlin to Spandau by train in 20 minutes
Departure Station: Berlin Hauptbahnhof, the main train station in Berlin
Train Line: Board a regional train, commonly an RB (Regionalbahn) or RE (Regional Express) heading towards Potsdam Hauptbahnhof
Distance: Approximately 15 km (9 miles)
Arrival Station: Spandau train station at the city center
Travel tips: Welcome to Berlin Card that includes transit zones ABC allows you to travel to Spandau for free using the S3 or S9 lines from Hackescher Markt (travel time 33 minutes)
2. Potsdam
Potsdam, an elegant city near Berlin, is known for its stunning palaces. Famous for the Sanssouci Palace and Park. Potsdam will transport you back to Prussian royalty. This UNESCO-listed city is a must-visit. If you were only to choose one day trip from Berlin, this is it!
From Berlin to Potsdam by train in 24 minutes
Departure Station: Berlin Hauptbahnhof, the main train station in Berlin
Train Line: Board a regional train, commonly an RB (Regionalbahn) or RE (Regional Express) heading towards Potsdam Hauptbahnhof
Distance: Approximately 24 km (15 miles)
Arrival Station: Potsdam Hauptbahnhof, the central train station in Potsdam
Travel tips: Welcome to Berlin Card that includes transit zones ABC allows you to travel to Potsdam for free using the S5, S7 or S9 lines (travel time 40 minutes)
3. Wittenberg
Wittenberg surprised me! A town steeped in history, it’s renowned for being the birthplace of the Protestant Reformation. Famous for its association with Martin Luther, you can explore landmarks like Luther’s House and the Castle Church, where the 95 Theses were posted making it a UNESCO Heritage site. Beyond its religious significance, it’s simply a charming German town worth visiting.
From Berlin to Wittenberg by train in 43 minutes
Departure Station: Berlin Hauptbahnhof, the main train station in Berlin
Train Line: Board the RE (Regional Express) heading towards Wittenberg
Distance: Approximately 90 km (56 miles)
Arrival Station: Lutherstadt Wittenberg station, the main train station in Wittenberg
4. Brandenburg an der Havel
Brandenburg an der Havel is one day trip from Berlin where you won’t find a lot of tourists. This underrated German city is quiet, with no real attractions per se, but is a gem in my opinion. Come here and stroll its old town, see its town hall and visit the main draw of the Cathedral of Brandenburg. Just like Spandau, there is a river nearby making it a scenic spot for a walk.
From Berlin to Brandenburg by train in 44 minutes
Departure Station: Berlin Hauptbahnhof, the main train station in Berlin
Train Line: Board the Inter-city Express train (ICE) bound for Köln Hbf. Alternatively, you can take the RB (Regionalbahn) or RE (Regional Express) train heading towards Brandenburg an der Havel (adding approximately 10 minutes)
Distance: Approximately 70 km (43 miles)
Arrival Station: Brandenburg Hauptbahnhof, the main train station in Brandenburg
Day Trips from Berlin by Train in 1 to 2 Hours
5. Leipzig
Leipzig is such a dynamic city, celebrated for its culture. Famous for its music legacy from some of the greatest classical composers to historical landmarks like the iconic St. Thomas Church. It’s got such a good vibe to the city- offering a great coffee culture, diverse food, bookshops and even Art Nouveau architecture.
From Berlin to Leipzig by train in 70 minutes
Departure Station: Berlin Hauptbahnhof, the main train station in Berlin
Train Line: Board an Intercity-Express (ICE) or Intercity (IC) train heading towards Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
Distance: Approximately 190 km (118 miles)
Arrival Station: Leipzig Hauptbahnhof, the central train station in Leipzig
Is Leipzig worth visiting? Find out why I think it’s the city for every type of traveller!
6. Hamburg
Visit one of Germany’s coolest cities- Hamburg! A city that stands out for its posh style in fashion, food, and architecture. The cityscape is incredibly scenic nestled along the Elbe River with numerous canals often referred to as Germany’s Venice. While Hamburg is perfect for a weekend getaway, don’t let that stop you from planning a day trip. There’s a lot you can see and do in a day that makes it worthwhile.
From Berlin to Hamburg by train in 1 hr 45 minutes
Departure Station: Berlin Hauptbahnhof, the main train station in Berlin
Train Line: Board an Intercity-Express (ICE) or Intercity (IC) train heading towards Hamburg Hauptbahnhof
Distance: Approximately 290 km (180 miles)
Arrival Station: Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, the central train station in Hamburg
7. Dresden
Dresden is one of my favourite cities. If you love Baroque architecture, you’ll want to visit the historic city centre. The iconic Zwinger Palace and the stunning Frauenkirche. The city’s meticulously restored landmarks, vibrant museums, and charming river views along the Elbe make it the perfect destination for a day trip from Berlin.
From Berlin to Dresden by train in 1 hr 50 minutes
Departure Station: Berlin Hauptbahnhof, the main train station in Berlin
Train Line: Board an Intercity-Express (ICE) or Intercity (IC) train heading towards Hamburg Hauptbahnhof
Distance: Approximately 200 km (124 miles)
Arrival Station: Dresden Hauptbahnhof, the central train station in Dresden
FAQ: One Day Trip from Berlin
What is the most popular day trip by train from Berlin?
The most popular day trip destination from Berlin by train is Potsdam. Not only is it a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it is only a 24 minute train ride from Berlin.
How do I purchase train tickets for day trips from Berlin?
You can easily purchase train tickets online through the official Deutsche Bahn website or at the train station on the day of your trip.
Can I use the Berlin Welcome Card for these day trips?
The Berlin Welcome Card covers transportation within the ABC fare zones, which include Potsdam and Spandau. However, for trips to cities like Dresden or Leipzig, separate train tickets are required.
What can I expect to pay for a day trip from Berlin by train?
The cost of a train trip from Berlin for day excursions depends on factors like duration, distance, and demand. Typically, for train travel lasting 1 to 2 hours, anticipate spending around 20 to 35 euros for a ticket.
As a Holidaymaker
I hope this list of 7 places to visit near Berlin by train has inspired your trip planning. If you are looking for more, perhaps day trips from Berlin by car I have the perfect article for you to read – road trip in Germany to 9 UNESCO city gems – many of these make for great weekend trips from Berlin by train.
To access additional trip planning resources or explore my adventures in Berlin, please visit my Travel Guide to Germany, where you can find a comprehensive list of my full articles.
