Swiss SBB, in conjunction with RDC Deutschland (Railroad Development Corporation), is preparing to create a new night train linking Malmö/Copenhagen with Basel. The service could be operational by spring 2026 if the initiative goes ahead.
According to the Nordiskbil portal, SBB spokesperson Sabrina Schellenberg says the demand for cross-border night trains is “high” and has great untapped potential.
There are no direct rail connections between Scandinavia and Switzerland. The CityNightLine Aurora, which covered this route, stopped running in December 2014, with the entry into force of the 2014-2015 service timetable.
However, the project must secure funding and official approvals before launch.
When the Aurora was abolished, the night train declined in Europe mainly due to the success of low-cost aviation. However, the situation has been reversed by the increased environmental awareness of European travellers.
The new connection would provide direct rail access from Scandinavia to the main centres of Central and Southern Europe, promoting environmentally friendly and convenient alternatives for tourists and business travellers.