Underwater Rail Tunnel to Connect Denmark and Germany, Replacing 45-Minute Ferry with 7-Minute Train Ride
Denmark and Germany are moving closer to realizing the world's longest underwater rail and road tunnel project. This tunnel will connect southern Denmark with northern Germany and play a significant role in the green transition of the transport sector.
The Fehmarnbelt tunnel, expected to open in 2029, will reduce travel time from the current 45-minute ferry crossing to just seven minutes by train. The tunnel will link Rodby on the Danish side with Puttgarden in Germany, providing further connections by road and rail to Central Europe and the Nordic countries.
The decision to build a connection between the island of Lolland in southern Denmark and the island of Fehmarn in northern Germany as an immersed tunnel was made in 2011. Construction on the Danish side began in July 2022, while work on the German side commenced exactly a year later. The tunnel will consist of 89 concrete elements being constructed at a special site in Rodbyhavn on Lolland, dubbed the largest construction site in Northern Europe.
The Fehmarnbelt tunnel project is expected to be a major draw for tourists, not just because of its impressive engineering but also due to the increased ease of travel between Denmark and Germany. The tunnel will offer a faster, more efficient route for travelers exploring the scenic Baltic coastlines, historic cities, and cultural landmarks of both countries.
Tourists will be able to enjoy quicker access to popular destinations such as Copenhagen, known for its vibrant culture and historical sites, and Hamburg, a bustling port city in Germany. Additionally, the surrounding areas of Lolland and Fehmarn offer beautiful natural landscapes, perfect for outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, and beach outings.
