The national rail operators of the Czech Republic (ČD), Germany (DB), and Denmark (DSB) have announced the launch of a new international train route linking Prague, Berlin, and Copenhagen. Set to debut in 2026, this initiative is part of a broader pilot project by the European Commission aimed at enhancing cross-border railway connections across the EU.
The route will connect three European capitals in one seamless journey, with stops in key cities like Dresden, Hamburg, Odense, and Ústí nad Labem. Passengers will have the convenience of two daily departures year-round, with trains leaving Prague around 6:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. A third daily departure will be added during the summer months to accommodate increased travel demand. Authorities are also considering the introduction of a seasonal night train along the same route.
The full journey from Prague to Copenhagen is expected to take approximately 11 hours, while travelers from Berlin will reach the Danish capital in about 7 hours. These travel times are projected to shorten significantly after the completion of the Fehmarn Belt tunnel — a long-anticipated underwater link between Germany and Denmark that is currently under construction.
The route will feature next-generation ComfortJet trains, capable of speeds up to 230 km/h and designed to carry 555 passengers, including 99 first-class seats. Comfort and innovation are at the heart of the experience. Onboard amenities will include:
A full-service restaurant car offering hot meals and beverages
A dedicated children’s cinema to keep young travelers entertained
Windows coated to enhance mobile signal reception throughout the journey
This rail link is the first of ten pilot routes selected by the European Commission to modernize and expand rail travel across the continent. The project underscores the EU’s commitment to offering sustainable, efficient, and enjoyable alternatives to air and car travel.
Tickets for the new Prague–Berlin–Copenhagen service are expected to go on sale six months prior to the launch, giving travelers plenty of time to plan their itineraries. With its blend of speed, comfort, and international connectivity, this new train is poised to become a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers exploring Northern and Central Europe.
