December is set to bring significant changes for train travelers in Germany.

Two major railway routes, the Riedbahn between Frankfurt and Mannheim and the ICE route between Hamburg and Berlin, will reopen on December 15 after extensive renovations, promising faster travel times.

However, passengers should brace for increased ticket prices, with Flexpreise rising by an average of 5.9%.

Meanwhile, a new direct train service from Berlin to Paris will commence on December 16, offering a convenient eight-hour journey.

Additionally, consumers can expect a slight increase in their net income due to adjustments in the tax-free allowance and child tax credit.

As the year ends, the days will gradually become longer after the winter solstice on December 21.