From 13 December 2027, the new timetable applies in Baden-Württemberg: more ICE Sprinters to Berlin, additional TGV/ICE connections to Paris, a revived night train to Vienna and better connections to the Baltic coast and East Westphalia. Tickets will be available from 14 October. However, Deutsche Bahn expects temporary restrictions due to construction work.
Quick overview
This report is primarily relevant for rail travelers, as it may have concrete effects on planning, connections or infrastructure. The focus is on Baden-Württemberg, timetable change, timetable 2027, Deutsche Bahn, ICE, TGV, construction work and Stuttgart. The key points are summarised in compact form below.
Key points
- The 2027 timetable comes into effect on 13 December 2026; tickets will be available from 14 October 2026, with prices remaining stable.
- Three ICE Sprinters per direction connect Stuttgart and Berlin with a journey time of around 4:45 hours, stopping only in Nuremberg.
- Together with SNCF, there will be one additional direct connection each on Stuttgart–Paris and Karlsruhe–Paris via Strasbourg.
- After a break of one and a half years, an ICE night train Stuttgart–Ulm–Munich–Linz–Vienna will run again.
- In Baden-Baden (over 40 instead of 27 ICE stops) and Offenburg (hourly service), the new Rastatt Tunnel improves the offering.
- Due to construction work, temporarily changed destinations, longer journey times and reduced services are to be expected in 2027.
What this means for travelers
For travelers, the key question is whether the connection offers a real alternative to flying. The timetable timing, booking start, comfort classes and onward connections at the origin and destination stations will be decisive.
Context
The article from n-tv.de (13/10/2026) is based on a communication from Deutsche Bahn regarding the timetable change in mid-December 2026 for the 2027 timetable year. It lists specific innovations for Baden-Württemberg and points out construction-related restrictions.
What to watch now
- Wait for the booking start and specific days of operation.
- Compare sleeper and couchette options early, as cheap allotments can sell out quickly.
- Plan connections at the origin and destination stations with sufficient buffer.