Eurostar, in collaboration with Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and SNCF Voyageurs, has signed a memorandum of understanding to investigate the feasibility of a direct rail service connecting the United Kingdom and Switzerland. The proposed route would offer seamless journeys from London to major Swiss cities, with estimated travel times of approximately six hours to Zurich and slightly less to Geneva, passing through France.
Addressing Customer Demand
This initiative responds to significant customer demand for a direct rail link, as London remains a primary flight destination from Switzerland. Currently, passengers must change trains in Paris, making the journey less convenient. The new service would eliminate this transfer, providing a more streamlined travel experience.
Timeline and Challenges
The project is anticipated to become operational sometime in the 2030s at the earliest. However, this depends on resolving entry formalities, implementing necessary infrastructure changes, and securing intergovernmental agreements. The partners are committed to overcoming these hurdles to make the service a reality.
In a separate development, a new direct rail service between Prague and Copenhagen launched on 1 May, reconnecting the two capitals after more than a decade. Operated by Czech Railways, this service marks a significant step in European rail connectivity.
