Kassel (Wilhelmshoehe Rail Stn)

Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe Station (Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe) is the main railway hub of the city of Kassel and one of the most significant stations in Germany's high-speed train network. Opened in 1991, it is situated in a picturesque district, not far from the famous mountain park included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. The station building is distinguished by its modern architecture and functionality, serving thousands of passengers daily travelling on ICE trains and regional express lines.

It is important for passengers to know that the station features a unique structure: the main concourse with shops and ticket counters is located beneath the railway tracks. To reach the platforms (usually tracks 1 to 10), one must use the wide ramps, escalators, or lifts, making the station convenient for passengers with reduced mobility. Navigation is intuitive, but due to the considerable length of the platforms, designed for double ICE train sets, it is recommended to allow a little extra time for transfers.

To contact the station or receive the latest information regarding operations, please use the following details:

• Official Website: bahnhof.de (Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe section) — here you can check the current schedule and available services.
• Information Phone: +49 30 2970 (Deutsche Bahn hotline) — 24-hour support regarding tickets and train movements.
• Address: Willy-Brandt-Platz 1, 34131 Kassel, Germany.
• Opening Hours: The station building is open 24 hours a day; ticket counters (Reisezentrum) usually operate from 06:00 to 21:00 (schedule may vary on weekends).
• Luggage Storage: Automated lockers are available 24/7 and are located in the main concourse.
• Accessibility Information: The station is fully barrier-free; the Mobility Service assistance team is available (advance booking is recommended).

The station is located to the west of the historic centre, but it is very easily accessible thanks to a well-developed transport network. The primary method is via trams and buses operated by the local company KVG. Tram lines 1, 3, 4, and 7 connect the station with the city centre; a trip to key stops such as Rathaus or Königsplatz will take approximately 15–20 minutes.

Additionally, lines of the RegioTram system pass through the station, connecting the city with the suburbs. A taxi rank is located directly in front of the main exit on Willy-Brandt-Platz. If you prefer walking, the entrance to Wilhelmshöhe Park can be reached in 15–20 minutes; however, walking to the city centre is quite a distance (about 4 km).

The infrastructure at Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe offers everything necessary for a comfortable journey. The central concourse houses the DB Reisezentrum (centre for ticket sales and consultations) and a DB Information counter. For First Class passengers and status programme members, the comfortable DB Lounge is available.

Complimentary Wi-Fi (WIFI@DB network) is available throughout the station. Travellers also have access to automated luggage lockers of various sizes, clean restrooms (fee applies), ATMs, and photo booths. The station is fully equipped for people of determination: there are tactile indicators, lifts to all platforms, and dedicated washroom facilities.

The station presents an excellent selection of places to have a bite before your journey. Along the main arcade, you will find popular bakeries, such as Le Crobag, and local shops offering fresh pastries, sandwiches, and hot coffee. This is an ideal option for a quick snack.

For a more substantial meal, there are fast-food chain restaurants and cafés with seating areas. Additionally, a bookstore with a beverages section and a small supermarket operate on the premises, where you can purchase water, fresh fruit, and snacks. Most establishments open early in the morning. The average cost for coffee and a pastry is around 5–8 Euros.

The history of Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe Station is inextricably linked with the development of high-speed transport in Germany. It was ceremoniously opened in May 1991, specifically for the launch of the first ICE trains and the new high-speed Hanover-Würzburg line. The project by architects Andreas Brandt and other specialists was intended to replace the old main station (Kassel Hauptbahnhof) as the primary hub for long-distance trains.

Interestingly, the station's design, featuring a massive canopy supported by columns and tracks situated "above" the city, caused much debate during the construction phase, but ultimately proved its functionality. Today, it serves as the "gateway" to the city for millions of tourists and a key element of the transport system for the entire country, ensuring rapid connection between the north and south of Germany.

When planning a trip through Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe, please consider that the platforms here are very long. It is recommended to arrive at the station 15–20 minutes before departure to calmly find the correct sector (A-F) where your carriage will stop. Please note: it can be quite windy on the platforms, so during colder seasons, it is better to wait for your train in the glass pavilions on the platform or downstairs in the warm concourse.

If you have a transfer between ICE trains, it often takes place on the same platform (cross-platform), which is very convenient, but always check the electronic display boards. For safety, do not leave your luggage unattended and keep your tickets handy. During the night, the station remains open, but the number of operating services and staff is reduced.