As of December 16, 2024, Paris and Berlin are connected by a direct high-speed train for the first time. Although the new eight-hour rail service isn’t exactly fast, it’s part of a push launched within Europe to reduce short-haul flights in favor of more eco-friendly train options.
Related: 28 Best European Routes Where You Should Take the Train Instead of the Plane
Route and timetable
Deutsche Bahn intercity express trains are operated by the German national rail operator and its French counterpart SNCF. After departing from Berlin Hauptbahnhof, the train stops in Frankfurt and Karlsruhe, Germany, as well as Strasbourg, France, before reaching its destination at Paris Gare de l’Est.
With daily departures in each direction, the westbound train departs Berlin at 11:54am and arrives in Paris at 7:55pm, the eastbound service departs Paris at 9:55am and arrives in Berlin at 6:03pm. One-way ticket starts. At 59 euros (about $61) for second class and 69 euros (about $71) for first class. Tickets can be purchased in advance through Deutsche Bahn Or SNCF website.
So far, there is only one direct service between the two capitals OBB Nightjet Overnight Trainwhich takes about 13 hours and has only three weekly departures. The previous day’s service included a connection and took nine and 10 1/2 hours.
Related: Europe’s newest night train now connects 4 capitals including Brussels and Prague
Environmental benefits
Of course, the flight between the two cities is the fastest mode of transport at just one hour and 45 minutes. (And budget airline fares are often as low as $40.) But the train is part of a push to provide more eco-friendly options for short-haul flights in Europe.
“This creation of the connection contributes to a common objective of our two countries: to promote carbon-free mobility,” said Alain Krakovich, Managing Director of TGV-Intercites. Posted on X In September following the announcement of the new service.
According to SNCF train groupA train between Paris and Berlin emits 2 kilograms of carbon dioxide per passenger versus 200 kilograms per passenger by air.
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The bottom line
Although the new Paris-Berlin direct high-speed train takes about six hours longer than flying between the two European cities and may cost about the same, if you want to reduce your carbon emissions in 2025, this train route may be for you. is
Once you factor in the roughly hour-long commute between the city center and the airport at each end (plus getting to the airport early to get through security), you can still save a few hours by flying.
When you add the scenic views of the vineyards of France’s Champagne region and the Rhine Valley in western Germany, the slow journey seems even more appealing.