Germany’s long-distance rail market is about to see a shake-up. After decades of dominance by Deutsche Bahn, Italian private high-speed operator Italo is preparing to challenge the ICE with its own trains.
Tag: Europe
Trenitalia eyes expansion into Germany’s high-speed trains market
The Italian state railway group Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane (FS), better known under its brand name Trenitalia, is considering a major expansion into Germany’s long-distance rail network with a fleet of around 50 high-speed trains, a move that could introduce the first large-scale competition for Deutsche Bahn on its home market.
European Commission wants to link all EU capitals by high-speed train by 2040… and that’s not going to happen
On Wednesday 5 November 2025, the European Commission unveiled a comprehensive plan to accelerate the development of high-speed rail across the European Union, offering passengers significantly reduced travel times. By boosting fast, comfortable, safe, and reliable rail services, the plan supports the EU’s twin goals of becoming carbon-neutral by 2050 and strengthening Europe’s global competitiveness.
SBB CFF FFS announce night train to Malmö from April 2026
Starting on 15 April 2026, the Swiss Federal Railways SBB CFF FFS, together with RDC Deutschland, will introduce a new night train connection from Basel in Switzerland to Copenhagen in Denmark and Malmö in Sweden. The EuroNight will run three times per week, strengthening Switzerland’s international night train network.
Travellers in Europe increasingly open to choosing trains over planes for short-haul journeys
A study published in May 2025 suggests that many travellers across Europe are increasingly open to choosing trains over planes for short-haul journeys, particularly when high-speed rail alternatives are available. A study commissioned by Hitachi Rail, based on responses from over 11,000 people in Europe and North America, found that around two-thirds of Europeans support…
CHANNEL TUNNEL | Virgin Trains gains access to Temple Mills, ORR snubs links to Germany and Switzerland
On 30 October 2025, the United Kingdom‘s Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has announced the approval of Virgin Trains’ application for access to Temple Mills International depot in East London. This is a key step towards launching future cross-border train services through the Channel Tunnel to France.
2028 to be Music Year in Antwerp
In 1993, Antwerp was Cultural Capital of Europe. This status was a catalyst for many events such as exhibitions and performances, but also gave Antwerp a boost. 2028 will be dedicated to music, new Alderwoman for Culture Lien Van de Kelder (Vooruit) says.
The best cities for gay cruising? London, Berlin, Paris, Madrid and Barcelona
A new Global Gay Cruising Index published by Erobella in September 2025 reveals where gay men around the world have the best chances for spontaneous erotic encounters, and Europe emerges as the undisputed leader.
The Loft by Brussels Airlines and Lexus business class lounge receives prestigious award before it closes for an extensive make-over
At the World Travel Awards in Cagliari in Sardinia, Italy, The Loft by Brussels Airlines and Lexus at Brussels Airport was named ‘Leading Airline Lounge in Europe‘. It’s for the 7th time in a row that this lounge receives the prestigious award, shortly before it will close – for an extensive renewal.
Eurostar unveils €2 billion Alstom ‘Celestia’ fleet of double-decker sustainable trains
On 22 October 2025, Eurostar has announced a landmark €2 billion investment in up to 50 new double-decker trains — the first of their kind to operate through the Channel Tunnel and on the United Kingdom‘s rail network.
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