A landmark development in European rail travel is on the horizon as a new direct train service will connect Norway, Denmark, and Germany starting in the summer of 2028. This international route, a collaboration between the national rail operators of Norway (Vy), Denmark (DSB), and Germany (Deutsche Bahn), marks a historic milestone, reviving a direct rail link between Denmark and Norway for the first time in over two decades. This ambitious project aims to offer travelers a seamless, sustainable alternative to air and car travel, bringing three of Northern Europe’s most iconic capitals closer than ever before.
Flemming Jensen, CEO of DSB, expressed pride in the joint effort: “We are proud that, together with Vy and DB, we will soon offer one of the longest rail routes in Europe. Such a project depends on cooperation, and the future of European rail relies on stronger collaboration among operators.” Michael Peterson, a member of Deutsche Bahn’s executive board, echoed this sentiment, highlighting how the route will serve as a backbone for connecting the capitals of Northern Europe. “Given rising fuel costs, long-distance trains remain an excellent alternative to cars or planes,” Peterson stated. “By linking Oslo, Copenhagen, Hamburg, and Berlin, we create a more closely connected Northern Europe by rail.”
Set to be one of the longest direct rail routes in Europe, the Norway–Denmark–Germany connection will use Deutsche Bahn’s modern ICE L trains, renowned for their comfort and efficiency. Manufactured by Talgo, these trains are designed to ensure a smooth long-distance experience, with two daily services operating year-round. Each train will feature a dining car, a family car, and first-class options, ensuring a luxurious journey across borders. The estimated travel time from Oslo to Berlin is approximately 14 to 15 hours, while Copenhagen to Oslo will take about seven hours, making this route a perfect option for both business travelers and tourists eager to explore Europe by train.
This route will not only captivate tourists but also support regional economies by fostering easier access between cultural, business, and leisure hubs. According to the plan, stops in Norway will include Oslo, Moss, Fredrikstad, Sarpsborg, and Halden; in Sweden, the route will serve Trollhättan, Gothenburg, Halmstad, Helsingborg, Lund, and Malmö; in Denmark, stops will include Copenhagen Airport, Copenhagen Central Station, Odense, Kolding, and Padborg; and finally, in Germany, the trains will stop at Hamburg and Berlin. By weaving these stops together, the route forms a powerful spine for tourism, inviting travelers to explore a rich tapestry of Nordic and Germanic culture.
European rail operators have observed a steady surge in international train tourism, driven by a growing desire for sustainable travel. Rising fuel costs and environmental concerns are pushing more tourists to rediscover Europe by rail, favoring comfort, scenic routes, and a slower pace of exploration.
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