Eurostar Announces Direct High-Speed Rail Routes Linking UK to Central Europe

Eurostar Unveils Plans for Direct London to Frankfurt and Geneva Routes
By Esther Marshall
Published: 11:16 BST, 10 June 2025 | Updated: 11:16 BST, 10 June 2025

Eurostar has announced ambitious plans to launch direct high-speed train services from London to Frankfurt and Geneva by the early 2030s. The proposed routes—set to transform European rail travel—promise journey times of approximately five hours to Frankfurt and five hours and 20 minutes to Geneva.

Eurostar trains at London St Pancras station, the hub for new routes to Germany and Switzerland.

Expanding Sustainable Travel

The initiative hinges on a £1.7 billion (€2bn) investment in a new fleet of 50 trains, designed to meet rising demand for eco-friendly rail travel. CEO Gwendoline Cazenave emphasized the operator’s commitment: “A new golden age of sustainable travel is here. Our fleet will make direct trains to Germany and Switzerland a reality, offering passengers a unique, low-carbon experience.”

The plans align with growing passenger numbers. In 2024, Eurostar carried 19.5 million travelers—a 5% increase from 2023. Existing routes, including Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam, have solidified its reputation as a leader in international rail.

Government Backing and Economic Impact

UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander praised the move: “This strengthens our European connections, promoting green travel and economic opportunities.” The announcement follows a May 2025 UK-Swiss agreement to establish direct rail links, signaling a collaborative push for cross-border mobility.

Frankfurt, a key financial hub, is expected to attract business travelers.

What to Expect

• Frankfurt Route: A five-hour journey to Germany’s financial capital.
• Geneva Route: Five hours and 20 minutes to Switzerland’s diplomatic and banking center.

While intermediate stops remain unconfirmed, Eurostar aims to increase frequency on existing routes like London-Paris, currently operating 15 daily services.

Geneva’s blend of natural beauty and urban appeal will draw leisure and business travelers alike.

A Vision for the Future

Alain Krakovitch, President of Eurostar Group, highlighted 2024’s success, bolstered by Paris Olympics traffic: “We’re on track to serve 30 million passengers annually, with expansion at the core of our strategy.”

The new routes cater to a post-pandemic shift toward sustainable tourism. With air travel facing criticism for its environmental impact, Eurostar’s electric trains—producing 90% less CO₂ per passenger than planes—offer a compelling alternative.

Looking Ahead

As Eurostar finalizes plans, travelers can anticipate seamless connectivity between London and continental Europe’s economic hearts. The project underscores a broader EU-wide push to prioritize rail over short-haul flights, aligning with climate goals.

With tickets expected to go on sale in the late 2020s, the era of fast, direct cross-border rail travel is closer than ever.

For updates, visit Eurostar’s official website or follow their social media channels.

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Eurostar’s bold vision promises to redefine European travel—bringing cities closer and sustainability to the forefront.