Deutsche Bahn’s new ICE L will soon be traveling to a popular holiday destination for the first time. From May, the barrier-free train will connect Berlin directly with Sylt.
Deutsche Bahn is launching its new long-distance train ICE L in the future also on tourist routes. As the railway announces, the train is moving for the first time from May 1, 2026 from Berlin via Hamburg to Westerland on Sylt. There are, among other things, stops along the route Hamburg, Itzehoe and Husum planned.
New long-distance train starts on tourist route for the first time
Per day should initially one connection per direction be offered. This is the first time that the new train has reached a classic holiday destination on the North Sea.
The ICE L has only been around since December 2025 on regular long-distance rail services. So far it has been according to the company especially on the track Cologne – Berlin used.
ICE L relies on barrier-free entry
The “L” in the name stands for “Low floor”. The train has one level entrywhich ends with the edge of the platform. This means passengers can board without having to step up.
This should be particularly beneficial for people with limited mobility. Wider doors also make it easier to get in with a wheelchair or stroller.
According to Deutsche Bahn, the new train offers:
- 562 seats
- 85 places in 1st class
- 46 places in the family area
- Onboard restaurant
- Storage space for luggage
- Space for eight bikes
Further routes will follow in the summer
The railway is already planning further deployments of the new long-distance train. Away July 11, 2026 The ICE L will also be used on additional tourist routes.
The routes planned include:
- Frankfurt (Main) – Giessen – Westerland (Sylt)
- Cologne – Münster – Westerland (Sylt)
The train will also be on the connection via Münster in the future stop in Bremen for the first time.
Bahn is planning long-term international connections
In the long term, the ICE L will also be used beyond Germany. The railway is planning connections to European cities starting in May a connection from Prague to Copenhagenthat’s what the Railjournal reports. A total of over 40 international connections are planned. However, technical and infrastructural requirements must first be met.
chip newsletter
CHIP ePower newsletter
Once a week everything about the best e-cars, e-bikes and heat pumps as well as the best sources of electricity: green electricity providers, balcony power plants and solar systems. We will guide you through the energy transition with tests, guides and purchasing advice.
About the Author
