ICE and IC / EC
ICE is a long-distance train category used on many fast intercity routes. IC and EC also connect cities, including some cross-border services. Facilities, stopping patterns and travel times depend on the specific service.
RE, RB and S-Bahn
Regional-Express, Regionalbahn and S-Bahn services connect cities with surrounding towns and urban districts. Ticket validity depends on the fare and transport association. Do not assume a local or regional ticket is valid on ICE or IC services.
Seats and classes
First and second class are offered on many services. A travel ticket and a reserved seat are different things. Check the selected fare and train for reservation availability, accessible facilities, bicycles and luggage rules.
Read every leg of a mixed connection
One itinerary can combine an RE feeder and an ICE. A valid regional entitlement covers only the services accepted by that product; a long-distance ticket may include the feeder only when it is part of the booking. Read the operator, category and ticket coverage for each leg. Train category does not by itself promise a seat, luggage space or an exact journey time.
Questions about this guide
Can a regional ticket cover an ICE shown in my search results?
A displayed connection is not proof of ticket validity. ICE normally needs a long-distance entitlement; check each leg and any explicitly approved regional-fare exception.
Sources and current operator information
These official pages support the planning guidance above. Check current journey details and product conditions before travel.
