New train routes across Europe for 2025
Published 21 January 2025
Exciting rail routes in place from Paris to Berlin and from Brussels to Venice this year
Leisurely, eco-friendly, and picturesque, European train travel provides not only a break from crowded airports but also an opportunity to enhance the overall travel experience by savouring both the journey and the destination. It’s no wonder, then, that the demand for international train travel is expected to increase nearly fivefold between 2022 and 2050.
Moreover, exploring Europe by train is becoming more accessible and environmentally friendly, thanks to recent EU initiatives aimed at improving rail connectivity and promoting sustainable travel. As a result, 2025 promises to be a landmark year for European train travel. New routes will make it easier than ever to explore different countries.
Here are two train routes set to redefine European travel in 2025 and what you can look forward to with each.
Paris to Berlin
A new direct daytime train route from Paris to Berlin offers a captivating journey through picturesque landscapes, from rolling vineyards to dense forests, seamlessly connecting the city centres of both capitals.
There is one daily train following this route with a total travel time of 8 hours and 8 minutes (departing Paris at 9:55 for example to arrive at 18:05 into Berlin). Reaching speeds of up to 200 mph, is the first to provide a direct link between Paris and Berlin, passing through Strasbourg, Karlsruhe and Frankfurt. Naturally, with these timings, it would be necessary to stay in Paris the night before in order to catch the train the next day.
Launched on 15 December, a year after its nighttime counterpart, the new daytime service cuts the travel time by five hours.
Beyond its speed and convenience, the Paris-to-Berlin train also delivers a visually stunning travel experience. Passengers can enjoy views of Champagne vineyards, the Vosges hills, the Saverne tunnel, and the scenic Rhine along the way.
Brussels to Venice
Set to launch on 5 February 2025, European Sleeper’s new route passing through the Netherlands, Germany, and Austria will connect Brussels to Venice, taking you through the stunning Austrian Alps. The departure dates from Belgium are either the 5 or 14 of February, and the 4 or 12 of March.
This overnight journey promises breathtaking views of mountainous landscapes, the majestic Dolomites, and Venice’s iconic canals.
The train will cover the route in approximately 20 hours. The provisional timings indicate a 17:00 departure from Brussels and 14:00 arrival in Venice the next day, with stops in cities like Munich and Innsbruck along the way.
In terms of accommodation, the sleeper compartments remain the most comfortable choice. There is a washbasin in the room but no private WC; these can be booked as single, double or triple with toiletries and cabin service included.
There is also a dining car and lounge bar for travellers, offering dinner in the evening and breakfast for the following day as the train crosses the Alps into Italy.
Building these train routes into luxury and bespoke holidays
These new trains offer a springboard for several touring holidays we offer. For example, the Paris to Berlin route could easily segway into our Highlights of Berlin, Prague and Vienna tour taking you through Germany into eastern Europe.
For the Brussels to Venice sleeper train, look at our 9-night Venice, Florence and Rome fly-rail tour, combining these three varied and stunning cities by train.
Final Thoughts
With these fantastic train journeys being implemented, our fly-rail and rail drive holidays are looking more tempting than ever! If you have any questions regarding these new trains and holiday possibilities, don't hesitate to get in touch with us over the phone or by email.
