High speed train ICE 4 shortens travel time between Germany and Southern Austria
A new symbol of cross-border rail travel has been unveiled in Southern Austria. Late February, a modern ICE 4 train from the German rail Deutsche Bahn was recently christened “Steiermark” (Styria), highlighting the growing cooperation between Austrian and German railways and the region’s tourism sector.
The ceremonial naming brought together key representatives from mobility and tourism at the central rail station of Graz, the regional capital of Styria.
Among them were Michael Feiertag, Managing Director of Styria Tourism; Mario Kunasek, Governor of Styria; Sabine Stock, Board Member for Passenger Transport at Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB); and Thomas Kemper, Head of Market Communications for DB Fernverkehr at Deutsche Bahn.
The newly named train now carries the Styrian coat of arms and the region’s iconic Green Heart emblem, symbolizing the partnership between ÖBB, Deutsche Bahn and Styria Tourism while promoting the Austrian region across Europe.
ICE 4: International-level comfort
The ICE 4 represents the backbone of Germany’s long-distance rail network and offers travelers a high level of comfort and accessibility. The train provides 444 seats, including 77 in first class and 367 in second class. Passengers benefit from ergonomic seating, free Wi-Fi, a modern passenger information system, eight bicycle spaces, and strong accessibility features including integrated lifts and four wheelchair spaces.
Sabine Stock of ÖBB Passenger Transport said the train reflects the future of rail mobility. “With the ICE ‘Styria’ we are creating a symbol of international mobility and of what modern rail should deliver: fast, comfortable and climate-friendly connections. This benefits our passengers as well as tourism in Styria and far beyond.”
Governor Mario Kunasek highlighted the symbolic role of the train. “The Styrian coat of arms and our Green Heart will now travel between the major economic and tourism regions of Germany and Styria, representing our homeland — a region known for its unique landscapes, welcoming people and distinctive cuisine.”
Graz moves closer to Germany
Rail connectivity between Graz and Germany has improved significantly following the opening of the Koralm Railway. The new high-performance line dramatically reduces travel times across southern Austria. Graz and Klagenfurt are now just 41 minutes apart, while the journey between Graz and Munich takes under 5 hours and 40 minutes.
Five daily train services operate in each direction, complemented by a Nightjet sleeper train linking Graz directly with Berlin overnight.
The improved rail connection strengthens mobility for residents while making it easier for international travelers to reach Styria by climate-friendly transport. Rail is increasingly becoming a key driver of sustainable tourism, regional economic value and cross-border cooperation between Austria and Germany.
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