Record-Breaking Year for International Rail Travel: Insights & Challenges

The allure of international rail travel is on the rise, with more individuals opting for the eco-friendly, scenic journey. Last year, a record-breaking 21 million people crossed European borders via train, according to Deutsche Bahn, demonstrating the growing popularity of this mode of transportation. But despite the boom, challenges persist in seamless cross-border connectivity.

By Kevin Erickson

 A Surge in International Rail Travel

In 2022, international rail traffic increased by 30 percent compared to the previous record year, 2019. The share of international journeys in Deutsche Bahn’s total long-distance traffic rose from 2019 to 2022 by three percentage points to 16 percent. About 200 European destinations are now directly accessible from Germany, making international long-distance travel a vital component for Deutsche Bahn.

Europe’s Unification on Rails

According to Richard Lutz, Deutsche Bahn’s chief executive, this strong approval represents the growing integration of Europe on the rails. The most popular international connections are Frankfurt/Stuttgart to Paris, Frankfurt to Brussels, and Amsterdam, with the largest increases seen on routes to Poland, Denmark, and Italy.

A Closer Look at the Challenges

Despite the significant growth in international rail travel, there are still challenges in offering seamless services across multiple European country borders. For instance, intending to travel from Germany, through France, to Spain, Portugal, or Eastern Europe is still quite challenging. Timetables are not coordinated, and tickets must be individually booked with each rail provider.

The Future of International Rail Travel

On a brighter note, travel to Italy seems more streamlined, with Austrian Federal Railways offering night train lines from Germany. There are also direct night connections from Berlin via Hamburg to Stockholm, offered by Swedish rail companies. Deutsche Bahn has expanded its international offer by 20 percent more seating capacity and several new connections since 2016, leading to a 35 percent increase in the number of travelers.

Short conclusion:

As we continue to seek greener, more convenient ways to explore the world, international rail travel certainly holds promise. While there are challenges to overcome, the record-breaking year of 2022 showcases the potential for growth and the journey towards a more interconnected Europe.

This post is also available in:
English