Germany and the Netherlands Resume Key Train Services after Major Rail Upgrades

In the Netherlands, construction is underway on a new 105‑metre platform at Coevorden station, along with a lift and upgraded tracks, to restore the historic cross‑border line to Bad Bentheim, Germany. The project, funded with about €28 million from the Dutch side and the remainder by Germany, aims to reopen the route on 13 December 2026, adding an estimated 900‑1,000 daily passengers.

In Germany, Deutsche Bahn completed a comprehensive renovation of the Berlin‑Hamburg corridor on 14 June 2024. Regular half‑hour ICE services resumed, increasing daily long‑distance trains from 38 to 52 and restoring regional connections. Speed limits remain in place until month‑end for testing, while new direct links to Prague, Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna and Copenhagen are also re‑established.