Tübingen Hbf to Linz Hbf train with Deutsche Bahn

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.

Intercity is a widely recognized brand for express train services that connect cities over longer distances, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "Intercity" originated in the United Kingdom in 1966 with British Rail's electrification of the West Coast Main Line, becoming a brand for their main-line passenger routes. Today, Intercity services vary across Europe, with some countries like Switzerland offering modern, high-standard trains, while in others, they may be older compared to newer high-speed options. Many European countries use "InterCity" as an official brand name for regular, long-distance train services meeting specific speed and comfort criteria. For example, PKP Intercity is a major Polish rail operator connecting cities and tourist resorts within Poland and across Europe. Trenitalia's Intercity trains in Italy offer an affordable and widespread means of rail transport, connecting various cities and towns. These trains typically offer Standard and First Class services, with amenities like power sockets and sometimes catering.

Westbahn is a train company based in Austria, offering services throughout the country. It operates a fleet of modern, comfortable trains, including the EuroCity, InterCity, and RailJet. The EuroCity is a high-speed train that connects major cities in Austria, while the InterCity is a regional train that stops at smaller towns and villages. The RailJet is a luxurious train that offers a range of onboard amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a restaurant car. Westbahn offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Passengers can also purchase tickets online or at the station. The most popular routes for Westbahn include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. All of these routes offer frequent departures throughout the day, making it easy to find a convenient time to travel.