The article discusses the burgeoning demand for rail travel in Europe, driven by climate concerns and increasing price competitiveness with flights. Governments and private investors are responding to this demand by expanding rail connections across the continent. In particular, there are plans for new routes linking major European cities, such as Paris to Venice, Barcelona to Amsterdam, and Brussels to Bratislava. Eurostar’s monopoly on passenger rail traffic under the English Channel may face challenges as competitors seek to offer additional services between Britain and the continent. Various companies and startups are planning to introduce new routes and overnight services, such as European Sleeper’s Brussels to Berlin service and Midnight Trains’ Paris-based routes to cities like Milan, Venice, and Barcelona. Additionally, national railways are investing in revitalizing rail networks, with Germany committing 40 billion euros to upgrade its infrastructure, Spain opening its high-speed rail network to private competition, and France restarting overnight services and expanding connections to promote ecological transition. Overall, the European rail renaissance reflects a growing preference for sustainable travel and presents opportunities for both passengers and rail operators.

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/04/travel/europe-new-trains.html