Ultra-Short-Haul Flights in Europe: Which Routes Are Worth Flying vs. Taking a Train?

For decades, Europe’s budget airlines have made it easy to hop between cities in under two hours. But with rising flight taxes, environmental concerns, and growing high-speed rail networks, many travelers are asking:

Should I still fly ultra-short routes in Europe, or is the train a better option?

In 2025, the answer isn’t always straightforward. Some routes are still cheaper and faster by air, while others make more sense by train—especially with high-speed rail now competing with airlines on price and convenience.

Here’s a breakdown of which short-haul European routes are still worth flying, and which ones are better by train—plus how to book both options with Mytrippl’s seamless flight and rail search.

✍️ Ava · February 11, 2025

When Flying Still Makes Sense 🛫

Despite the rise of high-speed trains, flying is still the better choice on certain routes. Here’s when you should stick to the skies:

When there’s no high-speed rail option – Some routes still lack direct, high-speed train connections, making flights the only practical choice.
When time is critical – A 1-hour flight still beats a 6-hour train journey if you're on a tight schedule.
When prices are significantly lower – Budget airlines often undercut train fares, especially on low-cost carriers like Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air.
When traveling between countries with difficult rail connections – Some cross-border train routes involve multiple transfers, making flights a better choice.

💡 Best ultra-short-haul flights that still make sense in 2025:

London to Amsterdam – 1-hour flight vs. 4-hour Eurostar train.
Lisbon to Madrid – 1.5-hour flight vs. 10+ hours by rail.
Athens to Thessaloniki – 50-minute flight vs. 4.5-hour train.
Stockholm to Copenhagen – 1-hour flight vs. 5+ hours by train.

👉 Find and book the best flight deals for these routes with Mytrippl.

When the Train is the Better Choice 🚆

Europe’s high-speed rail network is expanding rapidly, making train travel the smarter option on many routes. Here’s when you should ditch the plane and take the train:

When the total travel time is similar – Flights might be shorter in the air, but once you factor in airport security, check-in, and travel to/from airports, trains often match or beat flight times.
When you want a stress-free experience – No long security lines, baggage fees, or early airport check-ins—just hop on the train and go.
When the price is the same or cheaper – Many European train tickets cost the same as flights, but without the extra fees for baggage and seat selection.
When sustainability matters – Trains emit far less CO₂ than planes, making them the eco-friendly option.

💡 Best short-haul routes where the train is the smarter choice in 2025:

Paris to Brussels – 1.5-hour train vs. 1-hour flight (+ airport time).
Madrid to Barcelona – 2.5-hour high-speed train vs. 1-hour flight (+ airport time).
Milan to Rome – 3-hour train vs. 1-hour flight (+ airport time).
Berlin to Hamburg – 1.5-hour train vs. 1-hour flight (+ airport time).

👉 Compare and book both flights and trains on Mytrippl, all in one place.

Cheapest way to travel short distances in Europe

Price Comparison: Flights vs. Trains in 2025 💰

With Mytrippl’s integrated search, travelers can compare the true cost of flights vs. trains on the same route, factoring in:

Base ticket price – Flights might seem cheaper, but train tickets don’t have surprise fees.
Baggage costs – Budget airlines often charge £20-£50 for luggage, while train fares include bags.
Airport transfers – Many airports are far from city centers, adding extra costs to your flight.
Seat selection & extra fees – Trains offer more space and comfort without paying extra.

💡 Example price breakdown (Madrid to Barcelona, booked 1 month in advance):

Flight (budget airline): £35 ticket + £30 baggage + £10 airport transfer = £75 total
High-speed train: £55 ticket (no baggage fees, no extra transfers) = £55 total

The Future of Ultra-Short-Haul Travel in Europe 🔮

Several European countries are now banning or restricting short-haul flights in favor of trains.

France has banned flights where a train alternative is under 2.5 hours (e.g., Paris to Lyon).
Germany and Austria are cutting domestic short-haul routes, investing in faster rail.
Spain is expanding high-speed rail competition, making train travel even cheaper.

💡 What does this mean for travelers?

More affordable, high-speed train routes replacing short-haul flights.
Better environmental impact as countries push for sustainable travel.
More flight restrictions on routes with strong train alternatives.

Fly or Take the Train? 🤔

✈️ Choose a flight if:

The train route takes 5+ hours or requires multiple connections.
You’re traveling between cities without good train links (e.g., Lisbon to Madrid).
A flight is significantly cheaper (even with baggage and airport costs).

🚆 Take the train if:

The total travel time is similar or shorter than flying.
The price is equal to or cheaper than flights when including baggage and transfers.
You want a stress-free, city-to-city experience with no security lines.

🚀 The best way to decide? Compare both options with Mytrippl and book instantly.