Timing Change - New ICE Connections and Construction Work - Germany’s rail network faces major upgrades and disruptions in 2026
Major upgrades to Germany’s rail network are underway, with significant changes planned for 2026. Travellers between key cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Cologne will see new routes, faster connections, and temporary disruptions due to construction. The improvements come alongside fare increases in Hamburg’s public transport system from January 1, 2026.
Work on the rail lines will begin in December, when Deutsche Bahn introduces a revised timetable aimed at improving services nationwide. However, extensive construction managed by DB InfraGO will disrupt travel to and from Hamburg until summer 2026.
Between May 1 and July 10, 2026, the line between Maschen (near Hamburg) and Hanover-Burg will close completely for ten weeks. This shutdown will affect both ICE and regional services, causing delays for passengers.
Regular service between Berlin and Hamburg will resume on May 1, 2026, following a major overhaul of the route. A dedicated Hamburg-Berlin line will then launch on July 11, 2026, offering four trains within a two-hour window.
From the same date, new ICE L trains will begin running once or twice daily between Cologne and Sylt, depending on the season. Meanwhile, Hamburg and Frankfurt will gain three additional high-speed 'Sprinter' services, stopping only in Hanover. Kiel will also benefit, with six daily ICE connections to Stuttgart and two to Berlin once construction is complete.
However, Hamburg-Bergedorf will no longer be served by long-distance trains starting July 11, 2026. Additionally, single and day tickets in Hamburg’s public transport network (HVV) will rise by an average of 5.4 percent from January 1, 2026.
The upgrades promise faster and more frequent connections across northern and central Germany. Travellers can expect improved services by mid-2026, though delays and fare increases will affect journeys in the meantime. The changes reflect ongoing efforts to modernise the country’s rail infrastructure.
