Paris Joins Berlin, Prague, Copenhagen, Munich, Stirling and More in the Ultimate 2026 Rail Overhaul, Introducing High-Speed and Night Trains That Will Redefine European Travel!

Published on December 30, 2025

Europe’s rail network is set to undergo a major transformation in 2026, with high-speed and night train services connecting key cities across the continent. Paris, Berlin, Prague, Copenhagen, Munich, Stirling, Basel, and Malmö will be at the heart of this expansion, making it easier than ever for travellers to explore Europe by train. Whether you’re planning to discover the art and culture of Paris, explore the historical sites of Berlin, or enjoy the serene beauty of Malmö, the new rail routes promise a faster, greener, and more comfortable way to get around.

This expansion aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable travel and the EU’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions in transportation. By offering convenient, eco-friendly alternatives to flying, these services will not only improve cross-border travel within Europe but will also open up new opportunities for tourists to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of these cities.

1. Paris to Berlin: The Return of the Night Train

The iconic Paris to Berlin night train is making a comeback, offering an overnight journey that’s both comfortable and eco-friendly. Starting in March 2026, this European Sleeper service will be the perfect way for travellers to move between two of Europe’s most influential cultural hubs.

• Key Features:
  • Sleeper cabins, couchettes, and lounge cars for comfort
  • Direct service from Paris Gare de l’Est to Berlin Hauptbahnhof
  • Environmentally friendly and energy-efficient travel

This night train is a fantastic option for tourists looking to make the most of their time in both cities. Travel overnight, rest comfortably, and arrive in Berlin refreshed and ready to explore.

2. Prague to Copenhagen: A Scenic Daytime Route

The new Prague to Copenhagen daytime train, launching on May 1, 2026, will connect Czechia, Germany, and Denmark in one seamless journey. This high-speed train will offer a fast, scenic ride through the heart of Europe, giving passengers the chance to experience some of the continent’s most stunning landscapes.

• Highlights:
  • Seven-hour journey from Copenhagen to Berlin and eleven hours to Prague
  • Premium onboard services including Wi-Fi, dining cars, and ample seating
  • Eco-friendly and efficient rail travel

This new route will be a game-changer for those looking to experience the best of Czech, German, and Danish culture. Whether you’re visiting the historic charm of Prague, the dynamic energy of Berlin, or the modern appeal of Copenhagen, this train makes it easy and sustainable to see it all.

3. Paris to Munich: High-Speed Rail Connectivity

A brand-new high-speed daytime train between Paris and Munich, set to launch in late 2026, will further enhance rail travel in Europe. This service will provide faster and more frequent journeys between these two major cities, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers.

• Why it matters:
  • Faster travel times and more frequent services than the current route
  • Direct connection between Paris Gare de Lyon and Munich Hauptbahnhof
  • Comfortable seating and modern amenities

This high-speed train will offer quick access to Munich’s vibrant beer gardens, the artistic treasures of Paris, and everything in between, all while reducing your carbon footprint.

4. Stirling: Connecting Scotland with London

In the UK, Lumo’s new rail service between London and Stirling, set to launch in mid-2026, will connect England’s capital with Scotland’s rich historical landscape. This new route offers a fast and affordable way to travel between London Euston and Stirling, allowing visitors to easily explore Stirling Castle, Wallace Monument, and the scenic Scottish countryside.

• Benefits for UK travellers:
  • Direct access to Scotland’s historical landmarks
  • A three-hour journey with scenic views
  • Affordable and convenient

This is the perfect option for those seeking to explore Scotland’s iconic sites while enjoying the comfort and convenience of modern rail travel.

5. Basel to Malmö: New Night Train Service

For those travelling to Sweden, the new Basel to Malmö night train will offer a direct, overnight route across Europe. Launching in April 2026, this long-distance train will stop at key cities in Germany, including Frankfurt and Hamburg, before continuing on to Copenhagen and Malmö.

• What’s new:
  • Overnight travel with a journey time of 15 hours
  • Stops in Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Copenhagen
  • Comfortable sleeper cabins and dining options

This night train offers a convenient and sustainable way to travel from Switzerland to Sweden, allowing you to rest while covering a large distance. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, this service provides a comfortable and eco-friendly alternative to flying.

Highlighted Train Routes: Key Travel Information for 2026

Here’s a quick overview of all the exciting new rail services launching in 2026, featuring travel times, routes, and key cities:

Sustainability: Why Rail Travel is the Eco-Friendly Choice

These new train services are not just about convenience—they are also part of Europe’s ongoing commitment to sustainable travel. With the rise of eco-conscious tourism, rail travel has emerged as a cleaner, greener alternative to flying, particularly for short- and medium-haul journeys.

Traveling by train produces up to 70% less CO2 emissions compared to flying. As part of the EU’s commitment to sustainability, these new routes offer a low-carbon way to travel, allowing tourists to explore Europe’s cities and landscapes without harming the environment.

Europe’s New Rail Network: A Gateway to Tourism

The expansion of Europe’s rail network will offer increased accessibility to a range of destinations, allowing travellers to experience cultural hubs like Paris, Berlin, Prague, and Copenhagen with ease. For many tourists, these services will open up new travel opportunities, making it easier to explore regions that were once difficult to reach by train.

The combination of high-speed trains for business travel and night trains for long-distance journeys will also allow Europe to cater to a wider range of travellers—from those looking for quick weekend getaways to those on extended cultural explorations.

Conclusion: The Future of Travel in Europe

The expansion of Europe’s rail services in 2026 is set to transform travel across the continent. Whether you’re planning to visit Paris, Berlin, Prague, Copenhagen, Munich, Stirling, Basel, or Malmö, the new high-speed and night trains will offer faster, more comfortable, and eco-friendly ways to explore Europe.

As sustainable travel becomes more important to today’s global travellers, these new services will provide an alternative to short-haul flights, helping to reduce carbon emissions and making train travel a go-to choice for exploring the continent. So, whether you’re a business traveller or a leisure tourist, Europe by train is the way forward in 2026.