TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Train travel is set to become more thrilling in 2026, with new routes launching worldwide. From luxurious experiences to budget-kind options, travelers can explore major cities across Europe, North america, and Asia while enjoying comfort and scenic views.
The trend reflects growing interest in environmentally friendly travel that combines efficiency with memorable experiences. Here’s a guide to the latest train journeys for 2026, as reported by Time Out.
1. United Arab Emirates
The ambitious 900-kilometer Etisalat Rail project will connect seven emirates for the first time, linking 11 cities from Al Sila in the west to Fujairah in the east, including Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, Abu dhabi, and Dubai.
Modern facilities include advanced air conditioning and charging stations, with three passenger classes: economy, family, and first class.
2. Seville to Madrid
The Al Andalus luxury train will offer a seven-day journey from Seville to Madrid in spring 2026. Once used by the British Royal Family, its carriages showcase the Spanish countryside, with stops in Toledo and quaint villages.
The train functions as a five-star hotel, featuring a glamorous lounge, game bar, and two restaurants serving customary Spanish cuisine.
3. Paris to the Amalfi Coast
The Venice-Simplon-Orient Express introduces a Paris-to-Amalfi Coast route starting May 2, 2026, with stops at Pompeii and a two-night stay at Hotel Caruso in Positano. Restored 1920s carriages and top-tier service define this luxurious journey, though tickets cost around $8,600 (Rp170 million).
4. alberta and British Columbia, Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer, acclaimed as one of the world’s best train journeys, is launching a new route through Alberta and british Columbia in June-July 2026.
Passengers can admire glacial lakes and valleys from glass-roofed carriages, stopping in Banff and Jasper. This limited route is available only in June and July.
5. Birmingham to Scotland
The Caledonian Sleeper will extend its Highlander route from Scotland to Birmingham starting January 15, 2026, adding sleeper train options in England. Operating five nights a week (except Saturday), options include single beds, reclining seats, and en-suite doubles. Bookings are open up to a year in advance.
6. Prague, Berlin, and Copenhagen
A high-speed collaboration between Czech Railways, deuts
New and Returning Rail Routes to Explore in 2026 and 2027
Several exciting new and returning rail routes are set to launch across Europe in 2026 and 2027, offering travelers more convenient and sustainable options for exploring the continent. Here’s a look at some of the key developments:
1. Berlin-Paris Night Train: Following a prosperous trial period, the Berlin-Paris night train, operated by European Sleeper, officially launched on December 13, 2023.https://www.europeansleeper.eu/en/ This route provides a direct connection between the two capitals, reducing travel time and offering a comfortable overnight journey.
2. Amsterdam-Vienna Night Train: European Sleeper also introduced a new Amsterdam-Vienna night train on March 25, 2024, with stops in Antwerp and Cologne. https://www.europeansleeper.eu/en/ This service caters to growing demand for overnight rail travel and provides a scenic alternative to flying.
3.Zurich-Zagreb: A new night train connecting zurich and Zagreb is scheduled to begin operating in December 2024. https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2024/feb/29/new-night-trains-europe-zurich-zagreb-brussels-barcelona Operated by the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), this route will enhance connectivity between Switzerland and Croatia.
4. Stockholm-hamburg: Night train services between Stockholm and Hamburg, operated by SJ, resumed in September 2023 after being suspended during the pandemic. https://www.seat61.com/night-trains/stockholm-hamburg-night-train This provides a convenient link for travelers between Sweden and Germany.
5. Copenhagen-Brussels: A direct night train between Copenhagen and Brussels is planned to launch in the spring of 2025. https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2024/feb/29/new-night-trains-europe-zurich-zagreb-brussels-barcelona This route will be operated by European Sleeper, further expanding their network.
6.Rome-Paris: Trenitalia and SNCF are collaborating to launch a Rome-Paris night train in late 2024. https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2024/feb/29/new-night-trains-europe-zurich-zagreb-brussels-barcelona This service will offer a comfortable and efficient way to travel between Italy and France.
7. Vienna-Paris: ÖBB (Austrian federal Railways) is planning to launch a Vienna-paris night train in late 2024. https://www.seat61.com/night-trains/vienna-paris-night-train This will provide a direct connection between the two popular tourist destinations.
8. Basel-Copenhagen-Malmö: Swiss Federal Railways will launch a Basel-Copenhagen-Malmö sleeper train on April 16, 2026, departing on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The 350-passenger train will arrive in Malmö the next morning, improving access between Switzerland and Scandinavia.
9.Falmouth to Newquay: A new service will link Falmouth and Newquay in Cornwall, England, reducing travel time for both locals and tourists.
**10. Brussels-Barcelona and Brussels-