Great rail revolution: New trains for the Munich-Prague route from 2031!

Great rail revolution: New trains for the Munich-Prague route from 2031!

Good news for all travelers between Munich and Prague! From 2031, commuters and tourists can look forward to a new, modern train connection that will directly link the two cities. Loud Mercury The new connection will run on a 440 kilometer route and aims to significantly reduce travel time and increase comfort.

However, a small downer remains: the first tender for the new vehicles, which were supposed to be on the rails from 2028, failed. The two countries now need financial support from the EU all the more urgently to make up for lost time. Bavaria's Transport Minister Christian Bernreiter (CSU) emphasizes how important this direct connection is for Bavarian-Czech train traffic and is optimistic that the new tender can start at the end of 2025, with a contract being awarded in mid-2027 at the earliest.

Technical challenges

The rail connection between the two countries has its own technical requirements. The trains not only have to master non-electrified sections, but also have to be suitable for three different power systems. On the Czech side it is a long-distance route, while the Bavarian side is designed as a local transport connection. The present plan could therefore represent an optimal solution for travelers who now have to switch to other transport systems without having to change.

But that's not all! From May 2026 there will be a direct connection from Prague to Copenhagen with important stopovers in Dresden, Berlin and Hamburg. These further expansion plans underline the will of both countries to promote exchange between nations and to sustainably develop the infrastructure.

Munich – The Bavarian capital

Did you know that Munich is not only the third largest city in Germany, but also has a huge international influence? With over 1.6 million inhabitants and around 3 million in the metropolitan region, the city is a real magnet for people from all over the world. This diversity is reflected not only in the population, but also in the economy. Munich is the EU's wealthiest city in terms of GDP per capita and a center for innovation, technology and tourism. Large companies such as BMW and Allianz SE, which drive the Bavarian economy, are based here.

Munich also has a lot to offer culturally. Known for its impressive architecture, historical sites such as the Frauenkirche and the hustle and bustle of Marienplatz, the city is a hotspot for art and culture enthusiasts. Year after year, the city is also the venue for the world's largest beer festival, Oktoberfest, which brings together over six million visitors from all over the world.

With a first-class public transport system including subway, S-Bahn, trams and buses, exploring the city and its surroundings is made easy. Munich Central Station is one of the busiest train stations in Germany, welcoming around 450,000 passengers every day.

There is still a lot to do before the year 2031 begins and the new trains finally roll onto the tracks. But one thing is clear: the wait will be worth it for both Munich and Prague visitors!