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- Fast facts: the new Deutsche Bahn high-speed route
- Planned stops and the best way to ride this line
- Cologne: why this German hub matters for travelers
- The U.S. flight hack: why starting in Brussels can save time
- Antwerp and Belgian alternatives to the capital
- Stops worth exploring along the line
- How to plan tickets and connections
Europe’s rail map is about to get a major upgrade. Deutsche Bahn will introduce a high-speed connection linking Germany and Belgium in 2026, opening a fast, scenic corridor that makes exploring lesser-known cities easier than ever.
Fast facts: the new Deutsche Bahn high-speed route
- Launch date: expected September 7, 2026.
- Frequency: two daily services planned.
- Travel time: roughly 2 hours between Cologne and Brussels.
- Train type: ICE high-speed trains operated by Deutsche Bahn.
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Planned stops and the best way to ride this line
The full service connects major and mid-size cities along a compact international axis. Travelers can hop on or off to link Belgium and western Germany with ease.
- Cologne (Köln)
- Aachen
- Liège (Liege)
- Leuven
- Brussels Airport
- Antwerp
Note: the route includes a stop at Brussels Airport rather than a downtown Brussels terminal. For many transatlantic visitors, that affects how you plan flights and transfers.
Cologne: why this German hub matters for travelers
Cologne has been quietly evolving into one of Central Europe’s most energetic cities. It blends imperial Gothic architecture with a lively riverside scene and a compact, walkable center.
- The cathedral is one of Germany’s most iconic Gothic landmarks.
- Riverside bars and cultural venues give the city a social buzz.
- Cologne offers strong regional rail links across Germany and the Low Countries.
Practical point: there are currently no direct flights from the U.S. to Cologne, so many long-haul travelers will prefer arriving via Brussels or another nearby airport.
The U.S. flight hack: why starting in Brussels can save time
Because Brussels Airport receives direct flights from several major U.S. cities, many Americans will find it easier to fly into Brussels and then take the ICE service west to Cologne.
- Fly into Brussels Airport, enjoy Belgian highlights, then hop the high-speed train to Cologne.
- Using the airport station reduces extra transfers from outer terminals to central rail hubs.
- This reverse itinerary often cuts total travel time and simplifies connections.
Tip: if your ticket and schedule allow, spend a night in Brussels or nearby Leuven before heading to Germany.
Antwerp and Belgian alternatives to the capital
Belgium is more than Brussels. Travelers who skip the capital often discover Ghent, Bruges, and Antwerp. Antwerp in particular is an underrated urban destination.
- Antwerp is a major port with a lively arts and fashion scene.
- The Cathedral of Our Lady is a UNESCO-listed Gothic landmark worth a stop.
- Antwerp can serve as a more relaxed base than central Brussels for first-time visitors.
Some travelers have expressed concerns about safety in parts of Brussels. That has nudged interest toward cities like Antwerp, which combine culture with fewer crowds in key visitor areas.
Stops worth exploring along the line
Leuven
A university town with medieval squares and cozy cafés. Great for a quiet afternoon between trains.
Liège
Industrial heritage meets modern cultural venues. Known for lively markets and local cuisine.
Aachen
Rich Roman and medieval history. Its cathedral and thermal baths attract history buffs.
How to plan tickets and connections
- Book ICE tickets in advance for the best fares.
- Check whether your international ticket includes seat reservations.
- Allow time for transfers at Brussels Airport if you fly in.
- Consider regional day passes if you plan multiple stops in Belgium or Germany.
Remember: schedules and fares can change as launch day approaches. Confirm service times and booking rules before you travel.
