As travelers look for more environmentally friendly alternatives to flying, train travel is experiencing a resurgence. The increasing demand for scenic, leisurely journeys, luxury rail services, and new night trains redefines the concept of slow travel, combining nostalgia with eco-friendliness.
Trains are not just about reaching your destination, but have become integral to the experience. You feel like you're genuinely on holiday from the moment you board, thanks to the scenic views, comfortable seating or beds, and mouth-watering food.
With the introduction of flexible and budget-friendly rail passes and a wide range of ticket options, trains are moving closer to being as cost-effective as flights.
International travel by rail has become increasingly popular, particularly in Europe, as environmentally aware younger generations prioritize eco-friendly and stress-free travel experiences.
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Despite ongoing popularity of aviation, data from booking platform Rail Europe indicates a trend towards eco-friendly and peaceful travel choices.
"People will enjoy a stress-free journey," says Rail Europe CEO Björn Bender.
He emphasizes the advantages of night trains for solo travelers, noting they can save on hotel costs and reduce travel time.
"Setting appeal lies in an experience more comprehensive than a basic point A to point B ###
Looking forward, Rail Europe is focusing on making train travel simpler and more user-friendly. “Transparency in pricing and ease of booking are key requirements we're working to fulfill,” he mentions.
Additional night train services and scenic route offerings stand out, providing a balance between practicality and the desire for slower, more environmentally friendly travel.
Here are some of the top rail journeys in 2025.
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Embark on a breathtaking 8-hour expedition through majestic natural attractions.
As the train navigates through the mountains, the surrounding landscape constantly changes, gradually revealing majestic peaks, profound valleys, and picturesque alpine towns.
It then climbs to the Oberalp Pass, the highest point along the route, which provides stunning views.
Onboard, comfort and quality are the priority. The cuisine features regional Swiss specialties and fine wines, elevating the scenic journey to a gourmet experience.
The famous railway journey, originating in Paris, France, and terminating in Istanbul, Turkey
Playing a pivotal role in the resurgence of train travel, tapping into a nostalgia for the refinement and grandeur of the golden era of rail travel.
One of the most significant developments is the rebirth of the Orient Express, a luxury train journey from Paris to Istanbul, the setting for a classic crime novel by the celebrated author Agatha Christie.
From 2026, the Orient Express will invite travelers to relive the legend aboard 17 original Orient Express cars dating back to the 1920s and 1930s.
These cars, which were once part of the "Nostalgie-Istanbul-Orient-Express," have been restored and ornamented with exceptionally fine decorations.
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The Reunification Express, Vietnam
Connecting Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south.
The route bears a symbolic name, not officially emblazoned on any single train, despite its illustrious past. Its history dates back to 1936 when the French completed the line, marking the beginning of a legacy of unity.
The service was temporarily interrupted in 1954 due to Vietnam's division, and it resumed on December 31, 1976 as a representation of national reunification.
, serene rice fields, and quaint villages by the coast, with ever-changing vistas outside your window.
Onboard, the leisurely pace gives you the chance to indulge in Vietnamese treats, engage in conversation with fellow passengers, and take in the lively ambiance of local railway stops.
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Considered by Michael Palin as "one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world," this 38-minute journey through Northern Ireland's misty landscapes is short however extremely spectacular.
Leaving Derry/Londonderry via the River Foyle, the train enters into a picturesque, verdant landscape, displaying the Atlantic coastline, with the golden sand dunes of Benone Strand.
The views are the primary attraction of this hassle-free train, with the tracks running parallel to one of Northern Ireland's most untouched beaches.
It's a great spot for a beachside picnic or a leisurely stroll through the quaint town streets.
From breathtaking ocean vistas to picturesque landscapes, this short route encapsulates Northern Ireland's stunning natural scenery in under an hour - a testament that extraordinary experiences don't have to be lengthy.
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Renowned as one of the most breathtaking train journeys globally, the famous seven-hour trip from Ella to Kandy takes you through Sri Lanka's breathtaking tea landscapes.
The scenery unfolds with undulating emerald-hued plantations stretching as far as the eye can see, situated alongside the train as it rides along a serpentine rail line.
When choosing your class for a train ride, alternatives are plentiful. Air-conditioned First Class (AFC) offers pre-assigned seats and cool comfort; however, the windows are closed, so you'll miss the experience of leaning out the doors, which is a common tradition for Sri Lankan train travelers.
For expansive windows and a more local atmosphere, 2nd Class Reserved offers a perfect option, featuring spacious seats and a standing-free zone.
Feeling adventurous? Try Second Class Unreserved - same setup, but first-come, first-served seating adds to the mildly chaotic fun.
Tickets for unreserved seats are easily available; just go to the station, get your ticket, and board the low-cost blue train.
Rovos Rail, South Africa
Founded in 1989 by Rohan Vos, a South African entrepreneur with a passion for trains, Rovos Rail has gained a reputation for providing luxurious, multi-day journeys through southern Africa, featuring breathtaking vistas and majestic landscapes of the continent.
Home to Namibia's harsh deserts, or the expansive savannas of Botswana.
Enter, and you'll discover a realm of refined simplicity from a bygone age. The train's compartments evoke a past century, boasting polished woods, supple leather seating, and expansive suites that provide comfort and refinement.
Meals can be enjoyed, while the Swish lounge car is ideal for relaxing and watching the ever-changing scenery pass by.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Provides four scenic routes through Western Canada, the Canadian Rockies, and the American Southwest, where rugged alpine landscapes and wildlife can be experienced solely by train.
The all-dome rail fleet, considered Canada's crowning achievement, operates solely during daylight, providing unobstructed views of the remote surrounding landscapes with flawless service.
Each route offers a distinct experience, but the 'First Passage to the West' is especially worthy of remembrance.
It follows the historic paths of 19th-century frontiersmen and passes through gigantic mountains, swiftly flowing rivers, and lush valleys.
You'll be surrounded by the breathtaking view from the glass-domed coaches, giving you an immersive experience, and outdoor viewing platforms let you get even closer to the action.
View breathtaking vistas, from sweeping sightseeing in the valley to the spectacular waterfalls of the Fraser Canyon, every aspect of the journey promises a unique perspective.
The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
New Zealand's Trans-Alpine train journey is a four-hour scenic ride that spans the South Island from Christchurch to Greymouth.
The country's most breathtaking landscapes feature undulating plains that transition into river gorges, glacial rivers, and snow-capped Southern Alps.
Open-carried carriages offer an unparalleled connection to the landscape, while GPS-induced in-seat commentary ensures that you don't miss the highlights of the journey.
Ffestiniog Railway, Wales
It boasts a heritage and features several lines traversing the magnificent Eryri National Park (Snowdonia).
Originally intended to transport blue slate from Blaenau Ffestiniog's quarries to Porthmadog's harbour, this narrow-gauge heritage railway now allows passengers to travel through Wales' history and natural scenery on board the signature The Mountain Spirit service.
Your epic 13½-mile journey commences in the coastal town of Porthmadog. It proceeds steadily upwards, traversing through lush fields, dense forests, and shimmering lakes, ultimately reaching Blaenau.
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