A new direct train service connecting Prague, Berlin, and Copenhagen is set to launch on 1 May 2026. The initiative is a joint effort between Czech Railways (ČD), Deutsche Bahn (DB), and Danish State Railways (DSB), and will operate using ČD’s ComfortJet trains.
The service will allow passengers to travel between the three capitals without changing trains, with additional stops planned in key cities including Dresden and Hamburg.
The connection will offer two daily return services. Journey times are expected to be approximately seven hours between Berlin and Copenhagen, and around eleven hours between Prague and Copenhagen.
A seasonal night train, which currently operates between Hamburg and Copenhagen during the summer months, will also be extended to run to Prague via Berlin and Dresden once the new service is launched.
The introduction of the direct route will follow the completion of a general renovation on the Berlin–Hamburg line. The ComfortJet train, designed to travel at speeds up to 230 km/h, will be used for the route. Each train will have 555 seats, including 99 in first class. Facilities on board include Wi-Fi, a dining car, adjustable seating, a cinema area for children, and space for bicycles.
Kai Wegner, Governing Mayor of Berlin said:Deutsche Bahn's new direct connection connects three European capitals – Prague, Berlin, and Copenhagen. This strengthens Berlin as a hub in Europe. At the same time, the new direct rail connection is an important contribution to a sustainable transport transition; even more people can now travel to and from Berlin in an environmentally and climate-friendly way.
The European Commission is supporting the new route as part of a broader effort to encourage cross-border rail travel and improve the international rail market. The service is one of ten pilot projects selected by the Commission, which aims to promote sustainable and integrated mobility across Europe.
Apostolos Tzitzikostas, EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism said:The expansion of high-speed rail, especially cross-border rail, is our top priority. This new connection between the Czech Republic, Germany, and Denmark is a strong example of progress on this path. And I am particularly proud that it is the first of ten European Commission pilot projects to support the realisation of new cross-border rail connections.
