New Copenhagen–Prague direct trains launch, but summer disruption looms

A new direct rail connection linking Prague, Berlin and Copenhagen has officially launched, marking one of the European Union’s flagship cross-border rail projects aimed at improving international train travel. The service, operated jointly by Czech, German and Danish rail companies, is designed to make long-distance rail travel between Central and Northern Europe more seamless for passengers.

The launch was formally marked in Berlin on Friday, where officials from the European Commission, national transport ministries, and railway operators celebrated the start of operations. For Czech passengers, the route is operated by Czech Railways, using its modern ComfortJet trains.

Despite the celebratory launch, however, passengers will face significant disruptions during the peak summer travel season due to scheduled engineering works in Germany for about four weeks later this summer.

The new service initially began operating in early May, but with some transfers due to delayed track upgrades in Germany. Since mid-June, trains have been running on their intended direct route between Prague and Copenhagen, with a journey time of around 11 hours and 45 minutes.

The connection is part of an EU-backed pilot program aimed at strengthening cross-border rail links across Europe. Alongside Prague–Copenhagen, other pilot routes include Berlin–Oslo and Munich–Rome, as Brussels seeks to make rail a more attractive alternative to short-haul flights.

Officials at the launch in Berlin described the service as a milestone for European rail integration. European Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas called it evidence that “European cooperation brings tangible benefits for citizens,” while German Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder said it turns “the idea of a united Europe into practice on the rails.”

Czech Railways CEO Michal Krapinec said the ComfortJet trains deployed on the route represent the company’s most modern rolling stock, equipped with Wi-Fi, a restaurant car, bicycle storage and entertainment options.

Despite the launch, passengers will face a planned interruption during the summer holiday period. Between July 18 and August 15, construction works at Hamburg railway hub will require travelers to change trains along parts of the route.

According to German rail authorities, passengers will need to make at least one transfer during this period. Additional works in Denmark will also mean replacement bus services on some sections on certain days, further increasing travel time and complexity.

The disruption comes at a sensitive moment, as the new route has only recently reached its full operational schedule. Two daily return services now run between Prague and Copenhagen, along with a seasonal night train.

Rail operators say it is still too early to evaluate passenger demand for the full route, although most travellers are expected to use the connection for shorter segments rather than travelling end-to-end between the two capitals.