Train Spotting in Germany
Your complete guide to Germany's best train spotting locations. Find rare trains, track schedules, and join the enthusiast community.
Top Train Spotting Locations
Frankfurt (Main) Hauptbahnhof
Trains Per Day: 1,100+ (Germany's busiest)
Best Platforms: 4-7 (ICE arrivals from south)
Peak Times: 7-9 AM, 5-7 PM
What to See:
- • ICE 1, 2, 3, 4 (all variants)
- • International trains to Amsterdam, Paris
- • Freight traffic on outer tracks
Best time: Late afternoon when international trains arrive. Platform 7 offers views of incoming ICE trains from Munich/Stuttgart. Check timetables for schedules.
Fulda Station
Trains Per Day: 300+ ICE trains
Best Spot: Platform 2/3 (main line)
Special: ICE at 300 km/h through station
What to See:
- • High-speed ICE pass-throughs
- • North-South main line traffic
- • Rare ICE variants
The ICE high-speed line passes through Fulda. Many trains don't stop, allowing spectacular 300 km/h pass-through shots.
Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
Platforms: 23 (most in Germany)
Architecture: Historic terminus hall
Best Platforms: 10-15 (through tracks)
What to See:
- • East-West corridor traffic
- • Regional train variety
- • Historic station architecture
Europe's largest terminus station. The historic facade and multiple platforms offer incredible variety and photo opportunities.
Hannover Hauptbahnhof
Special: ICE maintenance depot nearby
Best Platforms: 8-12 (ICE line)
Bonus: Test trains occasionally
What to See:
- • New ICE 4 trains
- • Maintenance transfers
- • North-South express trains
Major ICE maintenance facility. Sometimes see brand new or prototype trains during testing phases.
Train Types to Spot
ICE 4 (Latest Generation)
Introduced: 2017
Newest ICE with distinctive flat nose design. Look for train numbers 9001-9200. Often on Munich-Hamburg and Frankfurt-Berlin routes.
ICE 1 (Classic)
Introduced: 1991
Original ICE with power cars at both ends. Becoming rarer as they're retired. A must-see for enthusiasts before they're gone!
ÖBB Nightjet
Routes: Hamburg/Berlin to Austria
Dark blue Austrian night trains. Pass through Germany on overnight routes. Best spotted early morning or late evening.
Freight Locomotives
Common: Class 185, 189, 152
Colorful freight locos in DB Cargo red, private operator liveries. Best seen on outer tracks at major stations.
Spotting Tips & Etiquette
Essential Equipment
- Notebook/App: Log train numbers, types, and times
- Camera: Optional but great for documentation
- Timetable App: DB Navigator shows real-time arrivals
- Comfortable Shoes: You'll be standing a lot!
Safety & Etiquette
- ✓ Stay behind yellow platform lines
- ✓ Be aware of other passengers - don't block pathways
- ✓ Follow station staff instructions
- ✗ Never trespass on tracks or railway property
- ✗ Don't interfere with railway operations
- ✗ Respect "No Photography" signs if posted
Best Spotting Times
- Weekday Rush Hours: 7-9 AM, 5-7 PM for maximum traffic
- Mid-Morning: 10 AM - 12 PM for freight and special services
- Early Morning: 5-7 AM for night train arrivals
- Avoid: Sunday evenings (maintenance, reduced service)
Travel to Spotting Locations
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Price Disclaimer: All prices mentioned on this page are non-binding and subject to change. Prices are examples only and may vary depending on booking time, route, and availability. Current and binding prices are available exclusively on the official websites of the respective providers (e.g., bahn.com or omio.com).
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is train spotting?
Train spotting (or trainspotting) is the hobby of watching, photographing, and logging trains. Enthusiasts track different train types, numbers, and routes - similar to bird watching but for railways.
Where are the best train spotting locations in Germany?
Top spots include Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (busiest station), Leipzig Hbf (varied traffic), Hannover (ICE testing), and Fulda (main north-south ICE route). Each offers unique train types and frequencies.
Do I need permission to train spot in Germany?
No special permission needed for train spotting from public platforms or areas. However, always follow safety rules, don't trespass, and respect railway staff if questioned about your activities.
What trains should I look out for in Germany?
ICE 3, ICE 4 (newest models), historic ICE 1, freight locomotives (Class 185, 189), night trains (ÖBB Nightjet), and special liveries like DB Regio designs or advertising wraps.