- Must visit
Museum Schloss Wilhelmsburg
Main local history museum in Schloss Wilhelmsburg, covering art, town history, and Reformation heritage in one of Thuringia’s finest castles.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin to Schmalkalden
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 11
- Cheapest price on Nov 11
- $42
- Average ticket price on Nov 11
- $101
- Fastest journey on Nov 11
- 3 h 36 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 11
- 4 h 23 m
- Trains on Nov 11
- 3
- Distance
- 287 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berlin to Schmalkalden is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Berlin to Schmalkalden will cost around $101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $42.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 11, we found 3 trains from Berlin to Schmalkalden, including 3 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 11 the direct trains cover the 287 km distance in an average of 4 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 36 m .
On Wed, Nov 11 the slowest trains will take 5 h 55 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
2:40 PM 5h55 Berlin 8:35 PM Schmalkalden $42 1 One-way 0 transfers
6:05 PM 3h36 Berlin 9:41 PM Schmalkalden $118 1 One-way 0 transfers9:05 AM 3h37 Berlin 12:42 PM Schmalkalden $142 1 One-way 0 transfers
6:05 PM 3h36 Berlin 9:41 PM Schmalkalden $118 1 One-way 0 transfers9:05 AM 3h37 Berlin 12:42 PM Schmalkalden $142 1 One-way 0 transfers2:40 PM 5h55 Berlin 8:35 PM Schmalkalden $42 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Berlin to Schmalkalden
GermanyGermany
Trains from Berlin to Schmalkalden run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $60 but you can travel from only $21 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:12, the last at 23:28. The fastest train covers the 178 miles (287 km) distance in 2h 49m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $21
Distance 178 miles (287 km) |
Average train duration 3h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $60 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 2h 49m |
First train 4:12 AM |
Last train 11:28 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 28 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $21
Frequently asked questions about your Berlin to Schmalkalden trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Berlin to Schmalkalden.
Train ticket prices from Berlin to Schmalkalden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $60, while the average price is around $125.
The train from Berlin to Schmalkalden takes 2h 49m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Berlin to Schmalkalden leaves at 4:12 AM.
The distance by train from Berlin to Schmalkalden is 178 miles (287 km).
The last train from Berlin to Schmalkalden leaves at 11:28 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Berlin to Schmalkalden.
Live departures
Berlin to Schmalkalden train times
The table below shows live departures for Berlin to Schmalkalden trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:05 AM Berlin | 3h37 | 12:42 PM Schmalkalden | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Berlin to Schmalkalden trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Berlin to Schmalkalden.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Berlin to Schmalkalden.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Berlin to Schmalkalden.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Berlin to Schmalkalden.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Berlin to Schmalkalden trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Berlin and Schmalkalden from $21. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Duration
2h 49m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$60
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Berlin and Schmalkalden
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a night train from Berlin to Schmalkalden.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
Complete guide to Schmalkalden
Things to do in Schmalkalden
Discover the best of Schmalkalden — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Schmalkalden trip today.
- Recommended
Reformation History Exhibition at Schloss Wilhelmsburg
Exhibition on the Schmalkaldic League and Reformation events that made the town historically important across Germany and Protestant Europe.
- Recommended
Historic State Rooms at Schloss Wilhelmsburg
Historic interior rooms and period displays inside the castle, offering a museum-like look at noble life, design, and ceremonial spaces.
- Must visit
Altmarkt
The main market square framed by ornate half-timbered houses and the town hall. It is the best place to experience Schmalkalden’s historic core.
- Must visit
Altstadt Schmalkalden
Atmospheric old town lanes with dense half-timbered architecture, small courtyards, and many of the city’s best preserved historic streetscapes.
- Recommended
Schlossberg
Castle approach and upper grounds with elevated views over roofs and hills. A rewarding walking area linking history, architecture, and scenery.
Thüringer Rostbratwurst
Thuringian grilled sausage seasoned with marjoram and cooked over charcoal. It is one of the region’s best-known street foods and a classic local bite.
Thüringer Schweinebraten
Roast pork with a dark beer gravy, often served with dumplings and red cabbage. A hearty Thuringian inn dish tied to local brewing and farmhouse cooking.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Thüringer Klöße
Large potato dumplings, usually served with roast meats and gravy. They are a staple side across Thuringia and central to festive Sunday meals.
Altmarkt 19
Historic brewery tavern in the old town serving regional Thuringian dishes and house-brewed beer in a traditional, casual atmosphere.
Restaurant Schloss Wilhelmsburg
Established castle-side restaurant known for refined regional cuisine and scenic surroundings. Good choice for a more special meal.
Gaststätte Zum Hirsch
Traditional German inn with hearty local fare, grilled meats, and a relaxed tavern feel. Popular for classic regional comfort food.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Dining and hotels are usually cheaper than in big cities, while local transport and daily essentials stay fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50-80 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, round up or add about 5-10%. For cafes and taxis, round up to the nearest euro for good service.
VMT Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.10
- Day pass
- €6.60
To the city center
Schmalkalden station -> Altmarkt, Schmalkalden
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in the VMT app or from ticket machines before boarding where available. On regional buses, onboard cash purchase is common; card or contactless acceptance is not guaranteed.
- Use VMT journey planning for bus connections from Schmalkalden station to Altmarkt and nearby stops. Validate any paper ticket if the machine instructs you to do so.
Plan your visit to Schmalkalden
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Schmalkalden.
The train journey from Berlin to Schmalkalden is moderately scenic, offering views of the Thuringian Forest, charming small towns, and picturesque countryside landscapes along the way.
Popular day trips by train from Schmalkalden include Erfurt, Leipzig, Eisenach, Meiningen, Bad Salzungen.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Schmalkalden, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing in crowded areas and exercise caution when using public transportation or ATMs. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting visitors, but travelers are advised to remain vigilant when dealing with street vendors or accepting unsolicited offers. Overall, Schmalkalden is considered a safe destination with standard precautions recommended.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Trains from Berlin to Schmalkalden
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berlin to Schmalkalden by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Schmalkalden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Berlin to Schmalkalden.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Berlin to Schmalkalden
Most Berlin to Schmalkalden trains use the Berlin Hbf to Schmalkalden station pair, with some services arriving at Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule. Use this guide to compare Berlin and Schmalkalden train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Berlin
Arrival train stations in Schmalkalden
Which Berlin station do trains to Schmalkalden leave from?
Trains from Berlin to Schmalkalden leave from Berlin Hbf. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Berlin city centre at Europaplatz 1, 10557 Berlin, Germany.
Berlin HbfEuropaplatz 1, 10557 Berlin, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Berlin Hbf from Berlin city centre
Berlin Hbf is 2 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb23, Re2, Rb14, Re7, Fex · 5m · $4 · every ~6 min
U5 · 8m · $4 · every ~25 min
BusN40, 142 · 12m · $3 · every ~8 min
170, 270, 170A, 157A, 157 · 18m · $2
TramM8 · 13m · $4 · every ~12 min
Berlin Hbf train station facilities and services
Berlin Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: backWERK, Burger King, Costa Coffee, Dunkin' Donuts, Einstein Kaffee, Le Crobag, McDonald's, Hans im Glück, Pret A Manger, Starbucks, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi (30 minutes limit). ATMs are available at Berlin Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Berlin Hbf. Information desks are located on the ground level near the Europaplatz exit.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on Level 1 near Platforms 13/14.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Berlin Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Berlin Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Hbf: Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Contact the Mobility Service Center at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Motel One Berlin Hauptbahnof.
Berlin-LichtenbergBerlin-Lichtenberg, Weitlingstr. 22, 10317 Berlin
City-centre transport
Getting to Berlin-Lichtenberg from Berlin city centre
Berlin-Lichtenberg is 6 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainU5 · 12m · $4 · every ~25 min
Re2 · 13m · $3
S7, S5, S75 · 20m · $4 · every ~28 min
BusN5 · 17m · $4 · every ~1 min
240 · 27m · $4 · every ~10 min
Berlin-Lichtenberg train station facilities and services
Berlin-Lichtenberg has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: AVCI Bistro, Restaurant Athos, Yoko Sushi, Payamlino Bistro
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Berlin-Lichtenberg. ATMs are available at Berlin-Lichtenberg.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Berlin-Lichtenberg. Information desks are available at Berlin-Lichtenberg.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Berlin-Lichtenberg. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Berlin-Lichtenberg: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Berlin-Lichtenberg: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin-Lichtenberg.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Nova, Pension Adamshof, Pension Zum Lichtenberger.
Berlin SüdkreuzBerlin Südkreuz, General-Pape-Straße 1, 12101 Berlin
City-centre transport
Getting to Berlin Südkreuz from Berlin city centre
Berlin Südkreuz is 6 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainFex, Re20, Re4, Re5, Re3 · 7m · $2 · every ~18 min
S26, S25, S2 · 13m · $4 · every ~25 min
Bus025, N67, N44, 065, 032 · 25m · $2
248 · 34m · $4 · every ~11 min
Berlin Südkreuz train station facilities and services
Berlin Südkreuz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Biertempel 2, McDonald's, Eis Bär, Cafe Mon Cherie
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Berlin Südkreuz. ATMs are available at Berlin Südkreuz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Berlin Südkreuz. Information desks are available at Berlin Südkreuz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Berlin Südkreuz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Berlin Südkreuz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Berlin Südkreuz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Südkreuz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Appartements Eisemann.
Which Schmalkalden station do trains from Berlin arrive at?
Trains from Berlin to Schmalkalden most often arrive at Schmalkalden. Some services arrive at Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Schmalkalden arrival station.
SchmalkaldenSchmalkalden, Westendstraße 3, 98574 Schmalkalden
City-centre transport
Getting to Schmalkalden from Schmalkalden city centre
Bus445, 446 · 3m · every ~1 min
Schmalkalden train station facilities and services
Schmalkalden has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Zur Krone, Eiscafé Bella Vita, Heval Grill, Eiscafé König
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Schmalkalden. ATMs are available at Schmalkalden.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Schmalkalden. Information desks are available at Schmalkalden.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Schmalkalden. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Schmalkalden: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Schmalkalden: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Schmalkalden.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Grünes Tor”, Stadthotel Patrizier.
Schmalkalden-FachhochschuleSchmalkalden Fachhochschule, Blechhammer 17, 98574 Schmalkalden
City-centre transport
Getting to Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule from Schmalkalden city centre
Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule is 1 km from Schmalkalden city centre. Check local transport options before travel.
Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule train station facilities and services
Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Zur Krone, Heval Grill, Gaststätte Walperloh, SchlossCafé
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule. ATMs are available at Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule. Information desks are available at Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Schmalkalden-Fachhochschule.
Train stations for Berlin to Schmalkalden
Check train stations information for Berlin and Schmalkalden, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Berlin that goes to Schmalkalden is Berlin Hbf, which connects to Schmalkalden.
More options for your journey from Berlin to Schmalkalden
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Schmalkalden and Berlin
Most popular train connections to Schmalkalden
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