New High-Speed Rail Links Lisbon to Prague
Revolutionary Rail Connection Transforms European Travel Experience
About the New High-Speed Rail Connection
A revolutionary high-speed rail line connecting Lisbon, Portugal to Prague, Czech Republic was officially opened on September 10, 2024, marking a significant advancement in European transportation infrastructure. The 2,100-kilometer route represents the longest continuous high-speed rail line in Europe, connecting southwestern and central Europe with speeds reaching up to 320 km/h (200 mph).
The project, which took 8 years to complete at a cost of €18 billion, was developed through a joint initiative between 7 European Union countries. The rail line features 23 stations across Portugal, Spain, France, Switzerland, Austria, and the Czech Republic, dramatically reducing travel times between major European cities.
Route Details and Travel Times
The complete journey from Lisbon to Prague now takes just 11 hours and 30 minutes, compared to over 20 hours by traditional rail or 3 hours by air (excluding airport time). Key intermediate cities include:
- Lisbon to Madrid: 2 hours 45 minutes (625 km)
- Madrid to Paris: 6 hours 30 minutes (1,265 km)
- Paris to Frankfurt: 4 hours 15 minutes (650 km)
- Frankfurt to Prague: 3 hours 45 minutes (450 km)
Benefits of High-Speed Rail Travel
Environmental Impact: Each train replaces approximately 300 car journeys or 4 short-haul flights, significantly reducing CO2 emissions per passenger. The rail network uses 100% renewable energy from wind and solar sources.
Economic Advantages: The project is expected to generate €2.4 billion in annual economic benefits across the region through increased tourism, business travel, and reduced transportation costs. New jobs have been created in construction, operations, and hospitality sectors.
Comfort and Convenience: Passengers enjoy spacious seating, onboard Wi-Fi, dining cars, and the ability to work or relax during travel. No security lines, baggage restrictions, or flight delays add to the convenience factor.
Travel Planning Tips
- Book tickets 2-3 months in advance for best prices, especially for peak summer travel
- Consider the scenic routes through the Pyrenees and Alps for window seats
- Download the RailPlus app for digital tickets and real-time journey updates
- Allow 30 minutes for station transfers in major hubs like Paris and Frankfurt
- Bring a power bank as USB charging ports are available at every seat
Travel Tips for European Rail
- Check for country-specific rail passes that may offer additional savings
- Validate tickets before boarding as some countries still require validation
- Reserve seats in advance, especially for popular routes and times
- Follow luggage guidelines as some trains have size and weight restrictions
- Respect quiet car policies and keep conversations at a reasonable volume