Cross-Border "Metro" of Europe: Germany-Italy "Red Arrow" EMU to Launch Soon

A new era of cross-border high-speed rail in Europe will begin in December 2026: Italy's "Frecciarossa 1000" (Red Arrow 1000) EMUs will launch the first direct services from Milan and Rome to Munich, Germany, with no transfers required. The journey from Milan to Munich will take about 6.5 hours, stopping at cities including Brescia, Verona, Rovereto, Trento, Bolzano and Innsbruck. The EMUs are compatible with the railway networks of Germany, Austria and Italy, offering a new option for cross-border travel in Europe.

In December 2028, the high-speed rail service will be extended to Berlin and Naples, forming 10 connecting routes and turning the "Red Arrow" into a true "Metropolitana d’Europa" (European Metro), strengthening the high-speed rail linkage between Southern and Central Europe. In long-term plans, the Berlin-Palermo railway axis includes the new Brenner Tunnel, and initiatives like "Tube for Europe" will contribute to the integration of Europe's high-speed rail network, with Milan expected to become a core hub.