How the New Prague-Copenhagen Rail Service is Connecting Germany, Czech Republic, and Denmark for Sustainable Travel

Friday, July 11, 2025

Europe’s long-distance rail network continues to grow as new routes and services are introduced to better connect major cities across the continent. In a move set to revolutionize travel within Europe, a new direct rail connection between Prague and Copenhagen will launch on 1 May 2026, just in time for the peak summer season. This new service will be the result of a collaboration between Deutsche Bahn (DB), Danish Railways (DSB), and Czech Railways (ČD), three major European transport operators. The development is seen as part of Europe’s broader commitment to creating a more interconnected and sustainable transport system, providing travelers with an environmentally friendly alternative to flying.

The service will run year-round and will operate during the day, offering convenient connections between these two vibrant cities. The journey from Copenhagen to Berlin will take around seven hours, while the trip from Copenhagen to Prague will take approximately eleven hours. This new high-speed rail service is expected to provide a smooth and efficient alternative to other forms of travel, giving passengers the chance to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Europe’s landscapes from the comfort of the train.

Enhancing Cross-Border Connectivity and Promoting Sustainable Travel

This new rail route is not just about providing a quicker and more efficient way to travel; it is part of a larger initiative aimed at improving cross-border mobility and boosting sustainable travel options across Europe. The Prague-Copenhagen connection is the first of ten pilot projects selected by the European Commission to promote new cross-border rail routes and address the barriers that have long hindered seamless long-distance rail travel in Europe. These barriers include infrastructure bottlenecks, fragmented ticketing systems, and slow approvals for new routes, all of which have slowed down the growth of the rail network in the past.

By launching this new route, the EU is taking a crucial step toward a more connected and sustainable transportation network. The introduction of the Prague to Copenhagen rail service aligns with the EU’s broader sustainability goals, offering a greener travel alternative to short-haul flights, which contribute significantly to carbon emissions. As part of the European Union’s push to decarbonize its transport sector, this new rail service will provide passengers with a more environmentally friendly option for traveling between two of Europe’s most dynamic cities.

New Routes and Expanding Opportunities for Travelers

The new Prague-Copenhagen service is part of a broader revival of Europe’s rail network, especially as many travelers are now looking for alternatives to short-haul flights. With a growing awareness of the environmental impact of flying, many are opting for rail travel, which is often more sustainable and comfortable. The Prague-Copenhagen route, set to operate daily, is just one example of a wave of new services emerging across the continent.

In recent months, Europe has seen the launch of several new rail routes aimed at providing more travel options for passengers. For example, the Vilnius-Riga service expanded to Tallinn in February, while Polish Railways (PKP) launched a new summer route connecting Warsaw to Split on Croatia’s Adriatic coast in June. The Espresso Riviera, a popular overnight route linking Rome to the French Riviera, also returned to service this summer. These new services show that Europe is investing heavily in rail infrastructure to make train travel a more attractive option for modern travelers.

Looking ahead, there are plans to further expand these services. One ambitious project comes from the startup Dreamstar Lines, which plans to connect 100 European cities via sleeper trains, offering affordable fares that are competitive with the cost of staying in hotels. Such initiatives are part of a broader renaissance for European rail, particularly night trains, which have seen a resurgence after decades of decline. The growth of the rail network in Europe reflects a shift toward more sustainable and flexible travel options that prioritize convenience and environmental responsibility.

Challenges to Seamless Train Travel Across Europe

While enthusiasm for rail travel in Europe is growing, there are still challenges that need to be addressed before the dream of a fully connected, seamless rail network can become a reality. Fragmented ticketing systems and differences in infrastructure across countries continue to hinder progress in improving cross-border train travel. Many travelers still struggle to find unified booking platforms or access real-time updates when their journeys involve multiple national rail companies, leading to confusion and delays.

Additionally, while new routes like the Prague-Copenhagen connection are an exciting development, it is important to note that some countries still lack the necessary infrastructure to support high-speed rail services across the continent. The current state of Europe’s rail network, while impressive, still has significant gaps that must be addressed to ensure the system is fully integrated and accessible to travelers from all corners of the continent.

Despite these obstacles, EU leaders remain optimistic about the future of European rail travel. The pilot projects, including the Prague-Copenhagen route, are seen as a crucial first step toward a more interconnected and sustainable transportation network. The aim is to eventually provide travelers with a seamless experience, where they can easily travel between countries without facing barriers such as differing ticketing systems or lengthy delays. By focusing on cross-border rail connections, Europe hopes to make rail travel a more viable and attractive option for long-distance travel, reducing the reliance on short-haul flights and promoting sustainability across the continent.

The Economic and Environmental Benefits of Rail Travel

The expansion of the European rail network offers significant economic benefits, particularly in the tourism sector. Rail travel is an attractive option for tourists who wish to explore multiple destinations without the hassle of airport security lines and flight delays. The introduction of more high-speed and cross-border rail routes will make it easier for travelers to visit multiple cities and countries in a shorter amount of time. This can have a positive impact on the tourism industry, as it encourages travelers to explore regions that may have previously been more difficult to access via air travel.

Furthermore, rail travel is increasingly being recognized as a more environmentally friendly alternative to flying. The European Commission has made significant strides in promoting sustainable transport options, with rail being a key part of the strategy to reduce carbon emissions from the transport sector. By offering passengers a more sustainable travel option, the EU is helping to reduce the environmental impact of tourism while also improving the efficiency and connectivity of the European transport system. The expansion of high-speed rail services, such as the Prague-Copenhagen route, is an essential part of this green transition, allowing more travelers to choose rail over air travel for medium and long-distance journeys.

The Future of Rail Travel in Europe: A More Integrated Network

Looking forward, the future of rail travel in Europe looks bright. The EU’s commitment to improving the rail network and expanding cross-border services is paving the way for a more integrated, sustainable transportation system. The success of new initiatives like the Prague-Copenhagen route will likely inspire further investment in high-speed rail infrastructure, particularly in regions where air travel has traditionally been the dominant mode of transport.

As the EU continues to prioritize sustainable travel and connectivity, rail services will become an increasingly attractive option for travelers. New routes and modernized infrastructure will make it easier for people to travel between countries, exploring new cities and experiencing diverse cultures without the need for flights. The convenience, comfort, and environmental benefits of rail travel will make it a central part of the European tourism experience in the years to come.

Conclusion: Rail Travel as the Future of Sustainable Tourism

The launch of the Prague-Copenhagen rail service represents a major step forward in Europe’s quest to create a more sustainable, interconnected transportation network. By expanding rail options and reducing the barriers to cross-border travel, Europe is setting the stage for a future where train journeys are the preferred choice for both leisure and business travelers. With the continued investment in high-speed rail services and the focus on sustainability, Europe’s rail network is poised to become a central part of the global tourism experience.

As travelers increasingly seek out more sustainable and convenient alternatives to air travel, Europe’s rail renaissance will provide an exciting new way to explore the continent. The Prague-Copenhagen connection is just the beginning, and with the support of the European Commission and various national rail operators, the vision of a seamlessly connected Europe is becoming closer to reality. Rail travel is not only the future of European transportation; it is also a critical component of a more sustainable and eco-friendly global tourism industry.