Belgian, French, and Swiss rail operators have announced plans to test a new high-speed rail link connecting Brussels, Strasbourg, and Basel starting in July 2027. The trial, a collaboration between SNCB, SNCF Voyageurs, and Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), extends the existing TGV INOUI service between Brussels and Strasbourg to the Swiss city of Basel.
The service will operate with one round trip each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Departing Brussels-Midi around 7:00 am, the train will stop at Lille-Europe, Charles de Gaulle Airport TGV, Champagne-Ardenne TGV, Meuse TGV, Lorraine TGV, and Strasbourg-Ville before arriving at Basel SBB at approximately 12:30 pm. The return journey leaves Basel at about 2:00 pm and reaches Brussels shortly before 7:00 pm.
Strengthening Cross-Border Rail Networks
This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve rail connectivity between three of Europe’s key travel markets. By offering a direct link, the operators aim to provide a more sustainable alternative to short-haul flights, particularly for business and leisure travelers between Belgium and Switzerland. The route also strengthens links across eastern France, including Strasbourg, home to several European institutions and a major tourist destination.
Beyond the three countries, the service creates new onward connections. Swiss passengers can transfer at Lille-Europe onto Eurostar services to London, offering a rail-based alternative to flying between Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Travelers from Switzerland can also continue from Brussels to destinations in the Netherlands via Belgium’s rail network. However, the current timetable does not allow same-day connections from London to Basel via Lille.
The trial builds on the existing Brussels-France TGV INOUI route, jointly operated by SNCB and SNCF Voyageurs. SBB’s participation marks a new phase in cross-border cooperation, testing demand for a direct service that eliminates the need for multiple transfers.
If successful, the link could further enhance rail travel across the continent, complementing other efforts to reduce aviation emissions. The initiative comes amid broader discussions in Brussels about sustainable transport, including proposals to cut electricity taxes and overhaul the grid to lower bills and support green mobility.
While the trial is limited to weekends, it represents a step toward more integrated European rail networks. The operators will assess passenger numbers and operational feasibility before deciding on a permanent service.
