The Paris to Berlin night train is facing cancellation less than two years after its celebrated return to European rail schedules, despite strong demand from passengers.
Launched in December 2023, the service connects the capitals of France and Germany with a 12-hour overnight trip. Operated by Austrian Railways (ÖBB) in partnership with SNCF Voyageurs and Deutsche Bahn (DB), the line was hailed as a revival of sustainable, long-distance travel across Europe.
Since its return, the Paris-Berlin/Vienna night train has been a hit with travelers. Average occupancy sits around 70 percent, rising to 90 percent during peak summer months. Yet its future is in jeopardy as the French government prepares to withdraw its financial support.
Advocacy group Oui au train de nuit has warned that without subsidies, ÖBB and DB will not continue shouldering financial losses alone. The group has launched a petition urging the government to maintain funding, even suggesting a renegotiated subsidy in exchange for daily operations.
The French government has argued that operators have not fulfilled their promise to establish a daily service, which officials believe would make the route economically viable. Currently, only three round trips per week are offered.
Environmental organizations, including Réseau Action Climat, have criticized the political deadlock. They argue that the sums involved are relatively small compared with France’s climate goals and public spending. “Everyone is passing the buck,” the group said, warning that cutting international night trains undermines sustainable transport.
Criticism has also been directed at SNCF, accused of downplaying the line. Campaigners allege that tickets are absent from SNCF’s online booking platform, with little promotion of the trains’ availability.
The situation is reminiscent of 2015, when French domestic night trains were gradually cut back amid declining investment and regulatory hurdles. Observers fear history is repeating itself, this time with international services.
“If this service is lost, it will be unacceptable,” said Oui au train de nuit. “These trains are popular, environmentally friendly, and vital for European rail connectivity.”
Unless a deal is reached between the French government and rail operators, the Paris-Berlin night train could make its last journey in December 2026. For now, passengers and climate advocates continue pressing for a solution that keeps this flagship service on track.