Eurostar is already the go-to for zipping under the Channel to Paris or Brussels, and with the Eurostar-Thalys merger completed in 2023, the travel map could expand even further.
With the recent merger and growing demand for sustainable travel, new routes from London to more European cities could be just around the corner. For travelers, this expansion opens up exciting new possibilities for rail adventures across the continent, minus the carbon footprint of flying.
Eurostar and Thalys Join Forces
In a major move to expand its network, Eurostar officially joined forces with Thalys in 2023. The combined power of these two iconic rail companies could soon offer passengers more choices for quick, seamless travel across Europe. Eurostar has teased that new routes could be announced as early as 2025, making it easier than ever to explore the continent by train.
Which New Routes Are on the Horizon?
While no specific routes have been confirmed yet, there is speculation that Eurostar could be eyeing future connections to Germany, Spain, and more destinations in the Netherlands, with announcements expected by 2025. The idea is to create a comprehensive rail network linking London to more European cities, allowing travelers to skip the hassle of airports and make their journey part of the adventure.
Why Travelers Should Care
For Londoners and visitors alike, this potential expansion could make European travel simpler, faster, and greener. Imagine hopping on a train in London and arriving in Berlin or Barcelona without ever stepping foot in an airport. No long security lines, no baggage fees—just smooth, efficient travel from city center to city center.
Sustainable Travel on the Rise
Demand for sustainable travel options is booming, and Eurostar is betting big on that trend. With more travelers seeking eco-friendly alternatives to short-haul flights, Eurostar’s expansion is well-timed. Trains produce a fraction of the carbon emissions of planes, making them an ideal choice for the environmentally conscious traveler.
What’s Fueling the Expansion?
According to Eurostar’s CEO, Gwendoline Cazenave, the increased demand for sustainable travel is one of the driving forces behind this expansion. She recently hinted that the company is exploring new routes but wasn’t ready to share the full details just yet. “We are studying the possibilities,” she said, adding that more announcements are expected soon.
When Will These Routes Launch?
While Eurostar hasn’t set an official launch date for any new routes, many insiders predict that we could see an expansion as early as 2025. If you’re planning a big European trip in the next few years, keep an eye on Eurostar’s announcements. A new city on your travel bucket list might just be a train ride away.
What It Means for Your Next Eurotrip
For travelers who prefer the comfort and ease of train travel, this expansion could be a game changer. New routes could allow you to explore destinations that were previously difficult or expensive to reach from London. Plus, with train stations located in city centers, you’ll skip the long airport transfers and get right to the heart of the action.
Eco-Friendly, Cost-Efficient Travel
One of the best perks of Eurostar travel is its affordability compared to short-haul flights. While ticket prices have yet to be announced for any new routes, Eurostar has historically offered competitive fares, especially when booked in advance. Combine that with the environmental benefits, and this expansion is a win for travelers on a budget looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
What Cities Are Eurostar’s Top Targets?
Currently, Eurostar serves major cities like Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam. But with Thalys in the mix, expect to see more cities in Germany, the Netherlands, and even Spain added to the roster. This could include direct routes from London to destinations like Frankfurt or Madrid, making Europe more accessible for London-based travelers.
How to Plan Ahead
If you’re excited about the prospect of these new routes, it’s worth keeping tabs on Eurostar’s updates. The company is expected to release more information over the coming months, including potential ticket prices and timetables. As rail travel becomes an increasingly popular choice, these new routes could book up fast—so being an early bird could score you the best deals.
The Future of European Rail Travel
As Eurostar continues to grow, its expansion signals a broader trend in European travel: trains are the future. With a focus on sustainability, convenience, and accessibility, Eurostar’s new routes could make rail travel the preferred way to explore Europe in the coming years. If the expansion delivers on its promise, we could soon see travelers trading in their plane tickets for rail passes.
Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Tiff Ng.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
