Paris-Berlin train: prices, timetables… here’s what you need to know

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📌 Read in : Français (French)

This 16 December 2024 marks a significant date for train travel fans and supporters of sustainable mobility. The launch of the new train line between Paris and Berlin fulfils a promise made by SNCF and Deutsche Bahn last May. With this direct route, these two iconic European capitals come even closer together, offering a modern, eco-friendly and convenient alternative to short-haul flights. Here’s everything you need to know about this new line.

🛎️ Dreamy nights in Berlin. For an exceptional stay in the German capital, don’t miss our selection of the most beautiful hotels with swimming pools in Berlin, and the trendiest in the Kreuzberg district.

Paris-Berlin: a direct eight-hour journey

With a journey time of eight hours and eight minutes, this direct connection lets passengers travel from Paris to Berlin without any changes. It crosses well-known regions such as Lorraine, Rhineland and Brandenburg. The goal is clear: make travelling by train competitive with flying over a distance of nearly 1,100 kilometres.

To achieve this, the route uses ICE trains, the German high-speed fleet capable of travelling at up to 300 km/h. Comfort meets expectations, offering modern facilities, a reliable Wi-Fi connection (yes, it really is possible) and good-quality onboard catering.

Why such an initiative?

This collaboration between SNCF and Deutsche Bahn is not just about making journeys easier. It aims to tackle crucial climate and societal issues. According to the European Environment Agency, a flight emits an average of 285 g of CO2 per kilometre per passenger, whereas a train journey emits just 14 g. In this case, both companies estimate that travelling from Paris to Berlin produces 2 kg of CO2 per passenger, compared to 200 kg by plane. By providing a direct route, they hope to encourage travellers to choose rail.

“Rail is a key player in reducing the carbon footprint of the transport sector,” the French operator often reminds us. This new line comes at a time when Europe is stepping up efforts to promote sustainable mobility. The European Union is implementing several initiatives to support cross-border railway infrastructure, making fast, accessible connections between major cities.

Paris-Berlin train: what times? What prices?

The line will offer one daily return service. The train departs from Paris Gare de l’Est at 09:55, arriving at Berlin Hauptbahnhof at 18:03. In the other direction, it leaves Berlin at 11:54 and is due to arrive in Paris at 19:54. These fixed times will apply every day.

This timetable caters to a wide range of traveller needs. Business passengers will appreciate the reliability and comfort, while families and tourists can enjoy a pleasant, stress-free experience. And if you want to head to Berlin for a big night out, the schedule is perfect for that too!

Ticket prices start at €59.99 for second class and €69.99 for first class, with fares varying according to demand. Travelling on New Year’s Eve or in the middle of March won’t cost the same, of course!

A unique cultural experience

Beyond its practical benefits, this line also represents a fresh cultural link between two European capitals. Paris, the City of Light, and Berlin, the modern and alternative metropolis, attract millions of visitors every year. This train offers a new way to explore both cities while admiring the varied landscape’s – including the picturesque cities of Strasbourg, Karlsruhe and Frankfurt.

The launch of the Paris-Berlin train line marks a strategic step forward in European railway connections. With this new service, the number of daily routes between France and Germany rises from 24 to 26, strengthening an already well-developed network. Meanwhile, the relaunch of the Paris-Berlin night train at the end of 2023 has already demonstrated growing enthusiasm for sustainable alternatives to short- and medium-haul flights.

👉 Also worth checking out: the map of Europe’s night train routes

And you—will you continue to favour flying, or switch to the train? Tell us in the comments.