British travellers are set to gain an exciting new option for European city-hopping, as a brand new direct train line connecting Prague, Berlin, and Copenhagen is scheduled to launch on 1 May 2026.
This landmark project, a collaboration between Czech Railways (ČD), Deutsche Bahn (DB), and Danish State Railways (DSB) with support from the European Commission, will for the first time link these three iconic capitals without the need for passengers to change trains.
Route Details and Onboard Experience
The service will utilise ČD's modern ComfortJet trains, which can reach speeds of up to 230km/h (140mph). Each train will have a capacity for 555 passengers, including 99 in first-class carriages.
Passengers can look forward to a comfortable journey with amenities including a dining car, a cinema area, and adjustable seating. The route is planned to operate with two daily return services.
Journey times are anticipated to be approximately seven hours between Berlin and Copenhagen, and around eleven hours from Prague to Copenhagen. In addition to the capital cities, the route will include stops in key hubs such as Dresden and Hamburg.
Affordable Travel and Seasonal Services
While official 2026 pricing is yet to be announced, current fares offer a compelling preview. The journey from Copenhagen to Berlin costs around £43, while the Berlin to Prague leg can be as little as £13.87.
This brings the potential total for the entire cross-continental trip to just over £57. To maximise the route's utility, a seasonal night train will also be introduced, extending an existing service between Hamburg and Copenhagen.
A Boost for Sustainable Tourism
European officials have hailed the new connection as a significant step forward for cross-border rail travel. Kai Wegner, Governing Mayor of Berlin, stated the link "strengthens Berlin as a hub in Europe" and is an "important contribution to a sustainable transport transition."
EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Postolos Tzitzikostas, added that this is the first of ten European Commission pilot projects designed to support new cross-border rail connections, highlighting the EU's commitment to expanding high-speed rail.
For British tourists, this new link provides a convenient, scenic, and environmentally friendly way to experience the distinct cultures of three of Europe's most dynamic cities just in time for the summer 2026 season.
