The inaugural direct high-speed rail service between Paris and Berlin commenced on Monday.
A German ICE train departed from Gare de l’Est station in Paris at 9:55 am and was scheduled to arrive at Berlin Hauptbahnhof at 6:03 pm.
Deutsche Bahn announced on social media platform X, “In 8 hours, you can travel from the German to the French capital via Frankfurt South, Karlsruhe and Strasbourg.”
This once-daily service, operated by German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) in collaboration with France’s SNCF, reflects a growing demand for more rail travel options.
Germany and France, the European Union’s two most populous countries and largest economies, are now more connected than ever.
Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner praised the new rail link, describing it as “a good symbol of German-French friendship.”
The launch coincides with DB’s efforts to improve its reliability. In November, the rail operator reported that only 60% of its long-distance trains arrived on time within six minutes of the scheduled time.
DB aims to enhance punctuality rates to over 75% by 2027. German Transport Minister Volker Wissing expressed optimism that the improvements in punctuality and quality promised by DB will be realised.
One-way tickets for the 1,100-kilometre journey range from €24.99 ($26.23) to over €99 ($104), depending on the class and demand.
Frances Ibiefo
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