Germany's main cruise ports, Hamburg, Kiel and Warnemünde, are well connected by rail, as are many river cruise departure points such as Passau, Cologne and Basel. With a little planning, the train is the most relaxed way to get there.
1. Build in a buffer or arrive the day before
The ship won't wait for a late train. If you travel on embarkation day, allow at least two hours before check-in closes. Safest of all is a night in a hotel near the port. Hotels near the port
2. Choose the right ticket
Deutsche Bahn's saver fares are usually available a few weeks ahead. Find saver fares They are tied to one train. If your train is expected to arrive at least 20 minutes late, DB passenger rights let you take another one. For full flexibility, book the flexible fare.
3. Luggage and seats
Reserve a seat near the luggage racks at the end of the carriage. Large cases often fit between seat backs.
4. From the station to the terminal
Depending on the port, continue by taxi, public transport, ferry or a booked transfer: Terminal transfers*. For Hamburg, see our Hamburg port guide.
Checklist
- Ticket and seat reservation booked
- Buffer before check-in or hotel the night before
- Cruise documents with terminal and check-in time to hand
- Route from station to terminal sorted
- Cruise line luggage tags attached
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