A new direct train service linking Oslo and Berlin is set to launch in 2028, reconnecting the two capitals by rail for the first time in over 20 years. The cross-border collaboration between Norway's Vy, Denmark's DSB, and Germany's Deutsche Bahn will offer a seamless journey without requiring any train changes.
Route Details
The service will utilise Deutsche Bahn's ICE L trains, travelling via Hamburg, Copenhagen, Malmö, and Gothenburg. Key stops include Moss, Fredrikstad, Sarpsborg, Halden, Trollhättan, Gothenburg, Halmstad, Helsingborg, Lund, Malmö, and Copenhagen Airport before proceeding to Odense, Kolding, Padborg, Hamburg, and finally Berlin. The journey from Oslo to Copenhagen will take approximately seven hours, while the full Oslo-Berlin route is expected to take around 15 hours.
Frequency and Pricing
Round-trip services are planned to operate twice daily from summer 2028. Departure times and ticket prices will be announced closer to the launch date.
Statements from CEOs
Gro Bakstad, CEO of Vy, expressed enthusiasm: 'It is fantastic that we are now getting a new, fixed train route in place between Oslo, Copenhagen, Hamburg, and Berlin. The collaboration with DSB and Deutsche Bahn means that we will be able to connect Norway more closely to Europe, and in the long term, this could open up direct trains to more European cities.'
Michael Peterson, CEO of DB Fernverkehr, highlighted the environmental benefits: 'If you want to experience Europe, jump on the train! With high fuel prices, long-distance trains are a good alternative to cars and planes. With the new, international route from Berlin via Copenhagen to Oslo, we are connecting Northern Europe and three capitals by train.'
The reintroduction of this direct link marks a significant step in enhancing rail connectivity across Northern Europe, offering travellers a convenient and sustainable travel option.
