Train cancellations and construction work: chaos in rail operations August 2025!
In August 2025 there will be train cancellations and timetable changes due to construction work in Schleswig-Holstein. Commuters take precautions.

Train cancellations and construction work: chaos in rail operations August 2025!
In the summer of 2025, train travelers in Schleswig-Holstein will be forced to adapt to a variety of restrictions. Both Deutsche Bahn and Nordbahn have announced massive construction work on their routes, which will lead to significant train cancellations, rail replacement services and timetable changes. Loud NDR Commuters from Hamburg, Lübeck and Neumünster in particular have to expect diversions and delays, especially at night.
The construction work affects essential routes, including the connection from Hamburg to Berlin, which will be completely closed until April 30, 2026. For travelers who rely on long-distance transport, this means massive diversions and replacement transport, which, however, does not always work ideally.
Details about the construction sites
- Deutsche Bahn: Ab dem 1. August 2025 wird die Strecke Hamburg – Berlin aufgrund von Generalsanierungsarbeiten bis Ende April 2026 vollständig gesperrt.
- Nordbahn: Zwischen dem 4. und 31. August 2025 treten auf den Linien RB71 und RB61 nächtliche Zugausfälle auf. Hier wird es einen Ersatzverkehr mit rollstuhlgeeigneten Bussen geben.
Travelers should be prepared for the timetable to be adjusted frequently. It is advisable to take a look at the Nordbahn homepage to get the latest information about timetable deviations. You can also inquire about the Nordbahn service telephone on (040) 303 97 73 33.
Specific timetable changes
Numerous timetable changes are expected in the next few days. For example, the RE11186 train journey between Hamburg main station and Pinneberg will be canceled until August 13th. Numerous night trips between Neumünster and Flensburg will also be canceled between August 11th and 17th. According to information from kn online Replacement traffic will have to bridge these times, which can significantly complicate travel planning.
The list of affected lines is long and comprehensive. Both Deutsche Bahn and Nordbahn as well as AKN and Erixx are affected by the changes:
| line | period | Changes |
|---|---|---|
| RE7 | Until August 13th | Trips are canceled between Hamburg Hbf and Pinneberg |
| RB63 | Until August 16th | All trains between Neumünster and Hohenwestedt are canceled |
| A1 | Until September 6th | Route closure between Eidelstedt and Ulzburg-Süd |
With this extensive work, Deutsche Bahn has an ambitious goal. Even if the measures ultimately serve to improve rail transport, they will have a short-term impact on travelers. There will certainly be a lively exchange of experiences and impressions in the coming weeks, as everyone is affected by these changes and needs to prepare optimally for their trips.