When will the Fehmarn Belt tunnel between Denmark and Germany open?
The new link to Germany
Short answer
The Fehmarn Belt tunnel is not open yet: as of November 2026 the 18 km immersed tunnel between Rødbyhavn and Puttgarden is still under construction. Building began in 2020 on the Danish side and in 2021 on the German side, and the first tunnel element was placed off the Danish coast in May 2026. In November 2026 the placing of the fifth element was postponed until a rubber seal is repaired. When the tunnel is finished, the crossing will take 7 minutes by train and 10 minutes by car.
Why
- Until it opens, direct trains to Hamburg run via Odense, Kolding and Padborg.
- It will be the longest immersed tunnel in the world.
- It is funded by loans and will be paid for by its users.
Details
All installations in the tunnel will be tested before it opens.
Tip
Plan trips to Germany with today's routes, as the tunnel cannot be used yet.
What may differ
The opening date depends on construction progress and can move.
Common misconception
Many think you can already drive or take the train through the Fehmarn Belt tunnel.
What actually happens
The tunnel is still being built, and the elements are being placed one by one.
People also ask
- How long is the train from Copenhagen to Hamburg?
- How long is the Fehmarn Belt tunnel?
- Is there a direct train from Copenhagen to Berlin?
Sources
- Femern A/S: The Fehmarnbelt tunnelChecked at:
- Femern A/S: Construction phasesChecked at:
- Femern A/S: The tunnelChecked at:
- Femern A/S: Immersion of special element postponedChecked at:
- Snälltåget: Day train Hamburg, Copenhagen, StockholmChecked at:
This answer is for reference only. Timetables, routes and fares change, so check the operator before you travel.
Transport and mobilityRelated questions
-
Can you take a pram or stroller on a DSB train in Denmark?
A pram or folding stroller always travels free on DSB trains.
-
How do you get assistance on an international train trip from Denmark?
For train trips from Denmark to other European countries you first buy your ticket and then call DSB Kundecenter Udland on 70 13 14 18.
-
Do wheelchair users need a seat ticket on DSB InterCity trains?
On DSB InterCity and InterCityLyn trains in Denmark you must always reserve a wheelchair space with a Kørestolspladsbillet.
-
How do you book assistance for passengers with reduced mobility on DSB trains?
DSB Handicapservice gives extra personal help getting on and off the train and help with one piece of luggage up to 20 kg.