A new direct international train connecting Oslo and Berlin is planned to launch in summer 2028, marking one of the biggest improvements to Norway’s rail links with mainland Europe in decades.
The service is being developed jointly by Norwegian operator Vy, Denmark’s DSB and Germany’s Deutsche Bahn.
Direct Rail Connection Planned After More Than 20 Years
If launched as planned, the route will allow passengers to travel directly from Oslo to Berlin without changing trains for the first time in more than two decades.
Currently, rail journeys between Norway and Germany usually require multiple transfers in Sweden and Denmark, often involving separate ticket systems and complicated timetable coordination.
The new route is intended to simplify international train travel across Scandinavia and northern Europe.
Route Will Cross Four Countries
The planned service will connect Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Germany on a single route.
From Oslo, the train is expected to travel south through Østfold before crossing into Sweden.
It will then continue via Gothenburg and Malmö before crossing into Denmark through Copenhagen.
From Denmark, the route will continue south towards Hamburg and finally Berlin.
Journey Expected To Take Up To 15 Hours
Although the new service removes the need for transfers, the full journey between Oslo and Berlin is expected to take approximately 14 to 15 hours.
The Oslo to Copenhagen section is projected to take around seven hours.
The route is expected to appeal particularly to travellers seeking more sustainable long-distance transport alternatives to flying.
Rail Expansion Reflects Growing European Demand
The announcement comes as demand for international rail travel continues to grow across Europe, with governments and rail operators investing heavily in cross-border connections and lower-emission transport options.
Night trains and direct long-distance rail routes have seen renewed interest as travellers increasingly prioritise sustainability, convenience and reduced airport-related disruption.
For Norway, the project represents a significant step towards improving rail integration with continental Europe.
Operators say further planning and coordination work remains ongoing ahead of the proposed 2028 launch.
