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.
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.
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.
Would You Still Take Short Flights in Europe?
💬 Do you prefer flying or taking the train for short trips? What’s your go-to route?
