After months of closure, S-Bahn and regional trains have been running again between Nuremberg and Neumarkt since the beginning of August. Hiking destinations in the Altmühltal Nature Park are now reachable from Nuremberg Hauptbahnhof in just over an hour – combined with the leisure bus 515.
Quick overview
This report is mainly relevant for rail travelers, as it may have concrete effects on planning, connections, or infrastructure. The focus is on rail, Nuremberg, Altmühltal, VGN, S3, hiking, excursion, regional transport, and Neumarkt. The key points are summarized concisely below.
Key points
- Since the beginning of August 2026, S-Bahn and Regional-Express trains have been running regularly again on the Nuremberg–Neumarkt route.
- According to the VGN timetable, the S3 takes around 33 minutes from Nuremberg Hbf to Neumarkt; from there, the Kanal-Altmühl-Express (line 515) continues to Berching in approximately 38 to 39 minutes.
- The VGN hiking tour ‘Kloster-Kultur und Wasser-Wege im Sulz- und Altmühltal’ is around 12 kilometers long (approx. 3.5 hours walking time) and connects Berching, Kloster Plankstetten, and Beilngries.
- The leisure bus 515 (Kanal-Altmühl-Express) runs in the 2026 season until November 1, via Berching and Beilngries to Dietfurt an der Altmühl.
- Note: The walkable section of the Berching town wall is currently closed due to renovation work; the structure can be circumnavigated on a footpath.
What this means for travelers
For travelers, it is worth taking a close look at the period, route, and booking conditions. It is crucial whether the report already triggers concrete timetable changes or initially describes a political or strategic development.
Context
The corridor renovation between Nuremberg and Neumarkt (Upper Palatinate) has been completed, and the rail replacement service is no longer needed. As a result, excursion destinations in the Altmühltal Nature Park are once again reachable without a car.
What to watch now
- Check specific timetable or construction information only once travel dates are set.
- For international journeys, allow more generous connection times.
- Watch the source and operator information in case dates are still provisional.