Germany, France, Czech Republic, Denmark, Sweden, Switzerland, and Scotland’s New Rail Routes to Offer Faster, Greener Travel Across Europe

Published on December 30, 2025

In a move set to revolutionize the travel landscape, Europe’s rail network will witness the introduction of five exciting new routes in 2026. Train travel across the continent is becoming more accessible, faster, and environmentally friendly, with rail services poised to replace short-haul flights in key regions. Rail manufacturers, including Hitachi Rail, have reported significant interest in rail travel, with a survey indicating that a substantial portion of travelers plans to take more trains in the coming years. With new services launching from Scandinavia to Scotland, Europe’s rail network is expanding, creating opportunities for more sustainable travel options across the continent.

This expansion will include routes connecting major cities such as Paris and Berlin, Prague and Copenhagen, and Basel and Malmö, alongside the much-anticipated revival of long-haul sleeper services. Here are five new train routes set to transform European travel in 2026.

1. European Sleeper Reintroduces Paris-Berlin Night Train

Paris and Berlin will soon be linked by a newly revived night train service operated by European Sleeper. Following the withdrawal of funding from the French government that led to the cancellation of the previous overnight service, European Sleeper has stepped in to restore the route. The new service is set to commence on March 26, 2026, offering three weekly departures from Paris Gare du Nord to Berlin Hauptbahnhof and Ostbahnhof.

The reintroduction of this overnight service will significantly enhance travel convenience between these two cities, providing passengers with a comfortable alternative to air travel. Travelers will now be able to board the train on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from Paris and return on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from Berlin. This service will also help alleviate the pressure on congested air routes, offering an environmentally sustainable travel option.

2. Paris to Munich: A Faster, More Frequent Service

The long-standing rail connection between Paris and Munich is set to get an upgrade in late 2026. This new service, spearheaded by Deutsche Bahn and SNCF, will not only offer higher speeds but will also increase the frequency of trains between these major cultural hubs. Currently, one TGV operates per day in each direction; however, the new high-speed trains will make this connection faster and more accessible, offering greater flexibility for travelers.

This upgrade will ensure that passengers can travel between the two cities in even less time, making the journey quicker, more efficient, and more comfortable than ever before. Although specific timetables and pricing details have yet to be confirmed, the service will be part of a broader initiative to improve cross-border rail links between France and Germany.

3. A Brand-New Prague to Copenhagen Daytime Service

A new direct daytime train between Prague and Copenhagen will launch on May 1, 2026, connecting the Czech Republic and Denmark with a scenic, high-speed route. Operated by a collaboration between Deutsche Bahn (DB), Danish Railways (DSB), and Czech Railways (ČD), this route will offer a convenient, year-round service. The trip will take about seven hours from Copenhagen to Berlin and eleven hours from Copenhagen to Prague.

This new service promises passengers a range of onboard amenities, including Wi-Fi, bicycle storage, and an onboard restaurant. The trains will also be equipped with unique features such as a children’s cinema, providing an engaging travel experience for families. Other planned stops along the route will include Dresden and Hamburg, adding more access points for travelers wishing to explore these key cities.

4. Basel to Malmö: A New Night Train for Cross-Border Travel

The launch of the EuroNight sleeper train between Basel, Switzerland, and Malmö, Sweden, is set for April 15, 2026. This new night service, planned by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), will provide a comfortable overnight travel experience between Switzerland and Sweden. The EuroNight will cover approximately 1,400 kilometers and stop at key cities along the way, including Freiburg, Karlsruhe, and Hamburg.

Travelers aboard this sleeper train will enjoy various accommodations, including sleeping, couchette, and seating carriages. Designed to offer a more restful travel experience, the train will cater to up to 350 passengers, making it a fantastic option for those looking to maximize their travel time without losing sleep. Although the service will not stop at Copenhagen Central Station, passengers can reach the city in just 15 minutes from nearby stations.

5. New Scottish Train Connection: London to Stirling

For travelers exploring Scotland, a new low-cost service from London Euston to Stirling is set to launch in mid-2026. This route, operated by Lumo, will connect London with the underrated Scottish city of Stirling, just an hour north of Edinburgh. Known for its medieval castle and the National Wallace Monument, Stirling offers visitors a mix of history and natural beauty.

The service will stop at several key points, including Lockerbie, Carlisle, Preston, and Nuneaton, making it an excellent option for those wishing to explore some of Scotland’s lesser-known gems. The new connection between London and Stirling is part of a broader initiative to increase access to Scotland’s picturesque cities and towns.

Conclusion

The expansion of Europe’s rail network in 2026 marks an exciting milestone for travelers seeking more efficient, sustainable, and comfortable ways to explore the continent. With new high-speed connections linking major cities such as Paris, Berlin, Copenhagen, and Munich, the future of European train travel is brighter than ever. These five new routes will not only reduce travel times but also enhance accessibility, providing a more seamless experience for travelers across Europe.

Whether you’re planning to travel for business, leisure, or to discover new destinations, these new routes promise a faster, greener, and more enjoyable way to experience Europe’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.

As these train services roll out in 2026, rail travel across Europe will continue to grow, offering passengers more choices, flexibility, and comfort than ever before. Keep an eye out for these upcoming routes, and get ready to embark on a new era of European train travel.