As travelers seek environmentally friendly alternatives to air travel, train travel is experiencing a resurgence. The increasing demand for scenic, leisurely journeys, luxurious rail services, and new nighttime trains reimagines slow travel, combining nostalgia with eco-friendliness.
Traveling by train is not just about reaching your destination, it's also a part of the journey. From the moment you board, you feel like you're on a holiday, thanks to the stunning views, comfortable seating or cozy sleeping accommodations, and of course, the delicious food options.
With the introduction of flexible and cost-effective rail passes and an extensive range of ticket options, trains are steadily becoming as affordable as flights.
European rail travel, especially, has seen a sharp increase in popularity, being driven by environmentally aware Gen Z and Millennials who prioritize eco-friendly, low-hassle trips.
There are many travelers who prefer to use trains for their journeys, and for several reasons they should. Firstly, \begin{enumerate} \item trains are generally safer than flying: they have a much better safety record, experience shows, and you are less likely to be involved in an accident than you are on a plane. \item trains offer a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation: they produce much fewer greenhouse gases per passenger than planes do, making them a better choice for travelers with green conscience. \item trains are great for seeing the countryside: unlike airplanes, they give you peace and quiet and allow you to enjoy the view from a large window and not feel confined, also you have more opportunities to move around, you have meals and snacks, and you can stretch your legs while on the train, all of which help to greatly enjoy your trip and eliminate boredom, as you have ample opportunities to do everything you want to do, sitting down or standing, and moving and admiring the external landscape that goes by outside the train windows while listening to music.
Rail Europe states there is a noticeable trend towards choosing eco-friendly and laid-back travel possibilities even though flying remains being widely preferred.
“Travel with peace of mind and enjoy a stress-free journey," says Rail Europe CEO Björn Bender.
He highlights the appeal of night trains for solo travellers, who appreciate "savings on hotels and travel time," and for families and older travellers, who value their comfort and convenience.
"they're drawing in people who want more than just a straightforward get-there experience," Bender notes.
Moving forward, Rail Europe is concentrating on simplifying and making train travel more convenient. “Transparency in pricing and ease of booking are the key requirements we are addressing,” he adds.
New nighttime train services and additional scenic routes offer convenient and eco-friendly choices, prioritizing efficiency and the appeal of more leisurely travel.
Here are some of the top train trips for 2025.
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Take an extravagant scenic tour in an 8-hour amazing trip.
As the train navigates through the mountains, the landscape unfolds in a seamless sequence, gradually showcasing majestic peaks, profound ravines, and quaint alpine hamlets.
It then ascends to the Oberalp Pass, the highest point on the route, which provides breathtaking vistas.
Onboard, comfort and quality are a top priority. The cuisine focuses on local Swiss specialties paired with fine wines, elevating the scenic experience to a gourmet level.
The Orient Express, from Paris to Istanbul
The resurgence of train travel is significant, capitalizing on a sentimental longing for the sophistication and majesty of the golden age of rail.
One of the most significant developments is the revival of the Orient Express, a historic rail journey from Paris to Istanbul, which was famously immortalized by crime writer Agatha Christie.
From 2026, the Orient Express will invite passengers to relive the legend on board 17 original Orient Express cars from the 1920s and 1930s.
These trains, formerly part of the ‘Nostalgie-Istanbul-Orient-Express,’ have been meticulously restored and adorned with exceptional interior design.
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The Reunification Express, Vietnam
The train network established an essential connection between Hanoi in the north and Ho Chi Minh City in the south.
The train route's name may vary, but its essence is that of unity, which dates back to 1936 when French engineers completed the railway.
Travel disruptions occurred in 1954 during Vietnam's division, reinstating on 31 December 1976 as a sign of reunification.
Winding rivers, serene rice paddies, and picturesque coastal towns, with ever-changing vistas outside your window.
On board, the slow, chugging pace enables you to indulge in Vietnamese snacks, interact with fellow passengers, and thoroughly absorb the lively atmosphere of local station stops.
The Derry-Londonderry to Coleraine route is located in Northern Ireland.
Renowned by Michael Palin as "one of the world's most beautiful rail journeys," this 38-minute trip through Northern Ireland's foggy landscapes is brief but breathtaking.
Following the River Foyle as it departs Derry/Londonderry, the train travels through the picturesque countryside, transitioning into a scenic coastal route that offers stunning views of the Atlantic coastline and the golden sands of Benone Beach.
The views are the main attraction of this hassle-free train, with the tracks running alongside one of Northern Ireland’s most pristine shores.
It forms an ideal spot for a beach getaway picnic or a leisurely stroll through its quaint streets.
From breathtaking ocean views to picturesque landscapes, this short route captures the essence of Northern Ireland's natural splendor in under an hour - demonstrating that extraordinary experiences aren't always time-consuming.
The Ella to Kandy Train, Sri Lanka.
Known as one of the world's most scenic train rides, the widely admired seven-hour journey from Ella to Kandy takes you through Sri Lanka's lush tea region.
Winding through vast green expanses, undulating plantations stretch as far as the eye can see as the train traverses through the dense, narrow tracks.
When it comes to choosing your class, numerous options are available. Air-conditioned First Class (AFC) offers reserved seats and cool comfort but lacks open windows, so you'll miss the enjoyment of leaning out the doors - a traditional experience in Sri Lankan train travel.
For wide-open windows and a more intimate, local atmosphere, 2nd Class Reserved is the perfect choice, offering comfortable seating and a standing-room-only area.
Feeling adventurous? Try 3rd Class Unreserved - it's the same setup, but with an exciting element of random seating, adding to the lively excitement.
Tickets for open classes may be easily purchased; simply arrive at the station, pick up your ticket, and board the economy-friendly blue train.
Rovos Rail, South Africa
The company, Rovos Rail, was founded in 1989 by South African entrepreneur and train enthusiast Rohan Vos. It is renowned for being one of the most sophisticated ways to travel at a leisurely pace across southern Africa, providing a variety of multi-day journeys that highlight the continent's most breathtaking landscapes.
Their stark deserts, or expansive savannahs of Botswana.
Step inside and discover a sophisticated atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. The train's cabins transport you back in time, boasting beautifully crafted wood, plush leather seats, and expansive suites that exude comfort and refinement.
Meals can be enjoyed while the swish lounge car is an excellent choice for relaxing and observing the scenery as it constantly changes.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Experience the majesty of Western Canada, the Canadian Rockies, and the American Southwest through four enchanting train routes, which guarantee unparalleled views of rugged alpine landscapes and opportunities to witness diverse wildlife.
Considered Canada's crowning jewel, the all-dome rail fleet operates exclusively during daylight hours, providing unbroken views of remote landscapes while delivering top-notch service.
Each route has its own distinct experience, but the 'First Passage to the West' stands out as an unforgettable one.
The route traces and follows the original paths created by 19th-century pioneers as they trekked through the landscape, traveling across towering mountains, alongside rushing rivers, and through lush valleys.
The glass-domed coaches provide an immersive experience with a 360-degree view of the surroundings, while separate outdoor viewing platforms allow for even closer access to the action.
Scenic views from the valleys to the impressive cascades of Fraser Canyon, every moment onboard presents a new viewpoint.
The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
New Zealand's TransAlpine journey is a four-hour rail attraction that traverses the width of the South Island from Christchurch to Greymouth.
Some of the country's most impressive landscapes feature rolling plains which give way to river gorges, glacial rivers, and the snow-dusted Southern Alps.
Experience a unique link to the surrounding environment as you travel through open-air carriages, and get the most out of your journey with GPS-activated narration that highlights the key points you don't want to miss.
Ffestiniog Railway, Wales
The heritage trail winds its way through the majestic Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) amidst spectacular scenery.
This narrow-gauge historic railway was originally used to transport blue slate from the quarries of Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog harbour. It now offers passengers a trip through Welsh history and the surrounding natural environment aboard the flagship "The Mountain Spirit" service.
Your extraordinary 21.69 km journey commences in the coastal town of Porthmadog, ascending steadily through verdant pastures, dense woodlands, and glistening lakes towards Blaenau.
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