Plans are being developed to launch a high-speed train that would stop in at least one city in every country in Europe, reaching speeds of up to 248 miles per hour
Plans have emerged for a new high-speed train stopping in every single European country.
Think tank 21st Europe has proposed plans for a high-speed train that travels and stops across different cities in Europe, named Starline. Operating like a London tube, the train would connect the European countries. The train would rely on existing and planned infrastructure and would reach speeds of up to 186 to 248mph. This would mean that passengers getting on at Helsinki, Finland, could be in Berlin, Germany in just over three hours, instead of a full day as it takes now.
The train would stop at different cities across the Continent, and have at least one station in each country for the Starline system. The network would even extend to England, Turkey and Ukraine. In addition to travellers, the train will be used to transport time-sensitive goods, such as medical supplies, fresh produce, and manufacturing components.
A map for the trainline shows it would stop in London, Liverpool, Belfast and Glasgow, as well as Dublin.
Plans propose that the network gets new stations, instead of repurposing old or disused ones, and each station would double as landmarks and artistic venues. The inside of the train would be painted deep blue in reference the European flag. The train will not have different class divisions, but will feature quiet zones, open areas for work and conversation, and family-friendly sections for those travelling with children. There will also be café areas.
Starline will also have a dedicated cargo capacity, which allows for it to transport time-sensitive goods. The aim of this would be to help reduce reliance on short-haul freight flights and congested road networks. For the project, 21st Europe hopes to launch a ticketing platform for Starline, which will integrate multiple providers and third-party services. Passengers will be able to buy tickets either through Starline or existing platforms.
The train company’s goal is to standardise rail access across the continent rather than centralise sales under a single operator. 21st Europe’s website says it would be run as a “publically funded, privately operated system”. “A Franchise-Based Operational Model: Starline could be run by approved national rail companies, each responsible for specific routes under a common framework. This model, similar to how major airline alliances operate, would allow existing operators to leverage their expertise while ensuring Starline functions as a singular system,” it adds.
The organisation has proposed setting up a new central body, the European Rail Authority, to run it.
In addition, the high-speed train would also utilise AI-driven, sensor-based security that would monitor passenger flows in real time, without creating delays.
The high-speed train would also adopt AI-driven, sensor-based security that monitors passenger flows in real time without creating delays. Instead of static checkpoints, the system would use biometric verification and automated threat detection.
In terms of if and when this project may begin, 21st Europe explains its next steps.
“Starline is an invitation to rethink how Europe moves. This blueprint is not just a proposal for high-speed rail—it’s meant to ignite conversation, a starting point for reimagining connectivity across the continent. Now, we begin building the network to push for real change, bringing together policymakers, designers, and industry leaders to turn vision into action,” its website reads.
But just as much as it is about infrastructure, Starline is about ideas. 21st Europe exists to spark these discussions, and anyone who shares this ambition can join as a member—to contribute, debate, and help shape the future of mobility in Europe.
Pictures were also released this week of the new TGV InOui trains, that are due to commence services next year. The trains will feature nine carriages and will increase seating capacity by 20 per cent compared to older models. There will be two classes (first and second), as well as a two-storey bar dubbed Le Bistro. The train connects France with neighbouring countries.