Home » RAILWAY NEWS » UK, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland Set to Revolutionize Travel with Bold New Direct Train Connections, Transforming European Rail Journeys Forever
Wednesday, May 28, 2025
The ambitious plans to expand direct train routes connecting the UK, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland mark a transformative moment for European travel. This groundbreaking expansion aims to provide faster, more sustainable, and incredibly convenient journeys, responding to growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives to air travel. By enhancing rail connectivity across these key countries, travellers can look forward to seamless adventures that reduce carbon footprints while opening up exciting new destinations—all without the hassle of airport delays.
UK to Europe by Rail Set for Expansion with Ambitious New Routes to Italy, France, Germany and Switzerland
Europe-bound travel from the UK may soon become more accessible than ever thanks to ambitious plans to expand international rail services. The new proposals aim to double the number of countries reachable directly from the UK by train, offering travellers faster, more comfortable, and greener alternatives to short-haul flights.
Currently, the Eurostar network provides direct train access to just five European destinations: Paris, Lille, Brussels, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam. These routes are especially popular with leisure and business travellers seeking convenience, skipping the airport queues and arriving in the heart of cities. However, several other routes that once existed—such as London to Marseille—have been discontinued over the years due to operational challenges and changing demand.
Now, a wave of proposals aims to bring back old favourites and introduce new connections to key cities in France, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy. If these plans materialize, British travellers could enjoy seamless journeys to iconic European destinations, with Milan in Italy topping the list of potential future additions.
Milan in Focus: A Potential First for Italy
Among the most exciting prospects is the introduction of a direct train service from London to Milan. Although this new route is unlikely to launch before 2030, it represents a bold step forward in cross-border rail connectivity.
At present, a rail journey to Milan typically takes between 10 and 12 hours and requires a change in Paris. The proposed direct route would eliminate the need to transfer, offering a smoother experience for passengers. Despite the long travel time, the comfort of train travel and the rising popularity of sustainable transportation methods could attract a new generation of rail enthusiasts.
Milan’s central station, Milano Centrale, is more than just a transit hub. Opened in the 1930s, it replaced a smaller structure and was designed to reflect the grandeur of Mussolini’s fascist regime. The architecture is striking, with a soaring steel and glass roof covering 24 active platforms. Inside, travellers can find shops, restaurants, and access to Milan’s metro system, making it a convenient gateway to the rest of the city.
Culturally and economically, Milan is one of Europe’s leading cities. It ranks second in Italy for international visitors, only behind Rome, and consistently places among the top travel destinations globally. Home to globally renowned art collections, fashion houses, and historic landmarks such as the Duomo Cathedral and the canals of Navigli, Milan offers an unforgettable mix of heritage and innovation.
As one of the world’s four fashion capitals, Milan also draws millions each year for business and shopping. The city hosts the headquarters of legendary fashion brands like Prada, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, and Versace. For travellers, a direct train route would offer easy access to this stylish urban playground without the stress of air travel.
Other Destinations on the Horizon
While Milan is the most attention-grabbing of the proposed routes, several other European cities are being considered for direct rail links from the UK. Each varies in probability and timeline, but collectively, they point to a larger effort to reimagine how the UK connects with the continent.
Marseille, France
Once a part of the Eurostar network, Marseille could be one of the first reinstated routes. The direct service was scrapped in 2020 but had operated for several years with up to four weekly departures. The journey takes approximately six hours, making it one of the more viable options for reactivation.
Bordeaux, France
First proposed in 2018, the Bordeaux route has seen renewed interest with suggestions it could launch as soon as 2026. The southwestern French city is celebrated for its wine culture, riverfront charm, and UNESCO World Heritage architecture, making it a desirable destination for UK tourists.
Cologne, Germany
Cologne stands out for its proximity to Brussels—currently just two hours from London by train. Extending the journey another two hours could connect passengers directly to this historic German city, famed for its stunning cathedral and vibrant Christmas markets.
Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt once had a direct connection to London in 2010, though the plan never became a permanent fixture. As Germany’s financial hub and a key international gateway, Frankfurt would be a strategic addition to the rail network.
Zurich and Geneva, Switzerland
Two major Swiss cities are also on the list. Zurich, while attractive for its global business presence and lakeside beauty, faces hurdles due to its seven-hour travel time. Geneva, on the other hand, may be a more realistic option due to its proximity to Milan. A route linking London to Geneva, and onward to Milan, could make multi-stop alpine adventures by train a compelling option for British travellers.
New direct train routes linking the UK, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland will transform European travel by offering faster, greener, and more convenient journeys. This expansion meets rising demand for sustainable alternatives and unlocks exciting new destinations across the continent.
A Greener Future for European Travel
These proposals come at a time when environmental concerns are pushing both governments and travellers to reconsider the carbon footprint of air travel. Trains are increasingly seen as a sustainable alternative, offering significant reductions in CO₂ emissions compared to flying.
High-speed rail is also gaining momentum across the continent. As more countries invest in modernizing infrastructure and cutting border delays, international train travel is poised for a renaissance.
The UK’s potential to re-establish and expand its direct European train routes is more than a convenience—it’s a statement about the future of sustainable, connected, and comfortable travel. With these new links, British travellers may soon find it easier—and more enjoyable—than ever to explore Europe by rail.
Tags: Belgium, direct train routes, european travel, france, germany, High-Speed Rail, Italy, Netherlands, Railway News, sustainable travel, Switzerland, Travel News, UK
