Berlin is the perfect starting point for numerous exciting destinations that are ideal for a short trip. At any time of year, there are idyllic towns, glittering lakes and impressive natural sites that will make you forget the hustle and bustle of the big city for a while. From the so-called “German Venice” with its picturesque canals and boat trips to a mysterious witches’ town with its legendary Hexenberg and one of the most famous spa towns in Europe: all of these places can be easily reached from Berlin, many even with fast and uncomplicated train connections. And if you think a train journey is nothing special – far from it! The next destination we would like to introduce to you is a cultural train that offers literature, music and entertainment on board. The journey itself is an experience. But hurry up: This unique train is only available until December 28!
Berlin-Wroclaw culture train is about to end
Get on board, have fun – and arrive in Wroclaw! The Kulturzug usually starts at Berlin-Lichtenberg station, with a further stop at Ostkreuz. It then continues to Poland via Cottbus Hbf, with the final stop in the Lower Silesian metropolis of Wrocław Główny (Wrocław Central Station). From Friday to Sunday, the train commutes across the border in around four and a half hours – and takes you straight to the heart of a city full of history, architecture and creativity. During the journey, you can borrow books, get tourist tips and enjoy the special on-board program: Music, art, language exchange and cultural encounters make the journey itself an experience.
The tickets are available as a three-tier special price – €20, €22 or €27 depending on the route. A great offer, but probably only valid until December 28, 2025. This is because the cultural train is hardly economically viable: In contrast to other transport services, Berlin and Brandenburg do not share the costs here according to kilometers travelled, but in equal parts – which puts a significant strain on funding for Berlin.
Another reason for the imminent end of the culture train is the significant drop in passenger numbers since the coronavirus pandemic. Currently, around 330 passengers use the train on a weekend for the outward or return journey – in 2019, the average was still around 420 passengers. According to the transport administration, the Kulturzug has recorded an average occupancy rate of less than 50% since 2024. The train is now entering its tenth and final season. The Berlin-Brandenburg Transport Association (VBB) commented on the opening of these final journeys in April 2025 with the words: “The culture train is a European cultural festival on wheels – unique in this form to date and has won several awards.” It is regrettable that this special project will soon come to an end – but all the more reason to experience it once again. Take the opportunity to discover the beauty, diversity and architecture of Wroclaw before it ceases operation.