Prague and Copenhagen are now more connected than ever, thanks to a recent direct rail link set to launch on May 1, 2026. Deutsche Bahn (DB), Danish railways (DSB), and Czech railways (ČD) are collaborating to offer this service, which will also serve Dresden and Hamburg. The introduction of this route coincides with a new initiative by DB to offer last-minute tickets starting at €6.99 on weekends for travel the following week, aiming to fill empty seats on long-distance trains.
The new Prague-Copenhagen connection is one of ten pilot projects selected by the European Commission to address obstacles in international rail transport and promote sustainable mobility across Europe. The Commission specifically chose this route to improve market conditions and encourage cross-border rail travel.
A Convenient Route Through Germany
The ComfortJet trains operated by ČD will service the route, providing an eco-friendly travel option between the three capital cities. The journey is expected to take approximately seven hours between Copenhagen and Berlin, and eleven hours between Copenhagen and Prague. A seasonal night-time connection will also be available, extending the existing Hamburg-Copenhagen night train service through Berlin and Dresden. This expanded service will also utilize the ComfortJet trains.
Currently, two round trips will operate year-round. Still, the initial schedule is impacted by ongoing overhaul work between Berlin and Hamburg. Trains are currently being rerouted via Stendal and Uelzen, adding approximately 80 minutes to the journey in Hamburg-Altona. Once the renovation is complete on June 14, 2026, a second daily train will be added, and the rerouting will be eliminated, reducing travel times.
Boosting International Rail Travel
Michael Peterson, DB Board Member for Long Distance Passenger Transport, emphasized the importance of rail in connecting Europe. “Rail is bringing Europe closer and closer together,” Peterson said. “Journey times of over four hours are popular with our passengers in international long distance transport, and we are offering additional attractive services to meet the growing demand. Our strategy of growth in international long distance transport is truly working.”
The ComfortJet trains themselves offer a high level of comfort and capacity, traveling at speeds of up to 230 kilometers per hour. Each train boasts 555 seats, including 99 in first class, and space for twelve bicycles. This increased capacity is designed to accommodate the anticipated rise in passengers following the launch of the new connection.
For travelers accustomed to planning well in advance, the new last-minute ticket initiative from DB offers a flexible alternative. Starting May 9, 2026, DB will release discounted tickets on Saturdays and Sundays for travel during the following week. This strategy aims to maximize occupancy on trains and provide cost-effective options for spontaneous travelers.
What So for European Travel
This new rail connection represents a significant step forward in integrating European rail networks. By offering a direct, convenient, and environmentally friendly travel option, DB, DSB, and ČD are encouraging a shift away from air travel and towards more sustainable transportation methods. The success of this pilot project could pave the way for further expansion of cross-border rail connections across the continent.
The Prague-Copenhagen route isn’t the only new connection being developed. The European Commission has also supported a new direct link between Munich, Milan, and Rome, demonstrating a broader commitment to improving rail infrastructure and connectivity throughout Europe.
Travelers interested in exploring this new route should be aware of the current rerouting impacting travel times. Although the journey is currently longer due to the ongoing work between Berlin and Hamburg, the convenience of a direct connection and the potential for affordable last-minute tickets make it an attractive option for those looking to travel between Prague, Copenhagen, and the cities in between.
The next key date for this project is June 14, 2026, when the track work is scheduled to be completed, and the full benefits of the new connection – including faster travel times and increased frequency – will be realized.
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