New trains for Munich-Prague: What awaits us in 2028 and 2031!
Find out everything about the new train connection between Munich and Prague, which is scheduled to be operational by 2031. Developments, challenges and financial support from the EU are the focus.

New trains for Munich-Prague: What awaits us in 2028 and 2031!
From 2031, the train connection between Munich and Prague will be modernized. Both countries, Germany and the Czech Republic, are determined to pursue a financially supported improvement of this important connection. The route is currently served by the Bavarian state railway and the Czech state railway, which means both local and international connections for travelers. Bavaria's Transport Minister Christian Bernreiter (CSU) highlights the importance of the direct connection for Bavarian-Czech train traffic and emphasizes how important it is to strengthen the connections between these two countries. According to information from Mercury However, a first tender for new vehicles from 2028 failed.
The hope now lies in a new tender, which is scheduled for the end of 2025. A contract could not be awarded until mid-2027 at the earliest. Technically, the new trains must be able to overcome non-electrified sections and be suitable for three different power systems. On the Czech side it is a long-distance route, while on the Bavarian side there is a local transport connection.
New connections in Europe
An interesting addition to the existing train landscape will be the new direct connection from Prague to Copenhagen from May 2026. This is organized through stopovers in cities such as Dresden, Berlin and Hamburg. Such developments demonstrate not only the commitment to an improved train connection between Munich and Prague, but also the efforts towards greater connectivity within Europe. These aspects are particularly crucial when one takes into account Munich's central location as the capital and largest city in Bavaria.
Munich, the third largest city in Germany with a population of 1,604,384 (as of November 2024), is known for its high population density and rich cultural heritage. The city has economic strengths in various sectors, including technology, finance and automotive. Important companies such as BMW and Siemens have their headquarters here. Munich's cultural landscape includes museums, theaters and, last but not least, the world-famous Oktoberfest. This cultural diversity and economic strength make Munich an ideal starting point for international connections.
In summary, the upcoming improvements in train services between Munich and Prague will not only strengthen the infrastructure, but also contribute to further integration and connectivity within Europe.