Rail travel continues to enjoy a remarkable renaissance. Across Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia, ambitious new routes are redefining how travellers experience the journey itself. Whether aboard an opulent luxury train winding through Italy, an overnight sleeper connecting European capitals or a panoramic route through the Canadian Rockies, these new services demonstrate that train travel is no longer simply about reaching a destination—it’s becoming one of the highlights of the holiday itself. Here are some of the most exciting rail journeys launching in 2026.
1. La Dolce Vita Orient Express – Italy
Perhaps the most anticipated luxury rail launch of 2026, the La Dolce Vita Orient Express introduces an extraordinary new way to experience Italy. Beautifully restored 1960s-inspired carriages combine timeless elegance with modern comfort, while itineraries explore destinations including Rome, Tuscany, Venice, Sicily and the Amalfi Coast. Certain journeys even include exclusive stays in iconic luxury hotels, making this one of Europe’s most indulgent travel experiences.
The Interior of La Dolce Vita Orient Express
2. Etihad Rail – United Arab Emirates
For the first time, travellers will be able to journey seamlessly across all seven emirates by passenger rail. Stretching approximately 900 kilometres, the new Etihad Rail passenger network connects Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah and several other key destinations. Offering Economy, Family and First Class cabins, the service is expected to transform travel throughout the UAE while showcasing the country’s diverse desert and coastal landscapes.
Modern Etihad Rail train crossing the desert landscape.
3. Rocky Mountaineer’s New Canadian Rockies Route
Already regarded as one of the world’s finest rail journeys, Rocky Mountaineer is introducing a limited-edition itinerary through Alberta and British Columbia. Travellers can expect panoramic glass-domed coaches, turquoise glacial lakes, towering mountain peaks and overnight stays in charming alpine towns including Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise. It promises an unforgettable way to experience Canada’s breathtaking wilderness.
Rocky Mountaineer passing through the Canadian Rockies.
4. Prague, Berlin & Copenhagen
Three of Europe’s most exciting capitals will soon be linked by a new high-speed rail service. Operated jointly by Czech Railways, Deutsche Bahn and Danish State Railways, the route will allow travellers to effortlessly combine Prague’s historic architecture, Berlin’s vibrant cultural scene and Copenhagen’s celebrated design and gastronomy within a single itinerary. Onboard amenities include a dining carriage, First Class seating and even a cinema area.
Modern European high-speed train arriving in Copenhagen.
5. Paris to Munich
Travelling between France and southern Germany will become even easier with a new high-speed connection linking Paris and Munich. Perfect for city-hopping travellers, the route allows visitors to enjoy breakfast beneath the Eiffel Tower before arriving in Bavaria in time for dinner at one of Munich’s famous beer halls or Michelin-starred restaurants.
High-speed train travelling through the French countryside.
6. Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok
Southeast Asia’s rail network continues to expand with the return of a direct international service connecting Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. The route offers an increasingly attractive alternative to flying, allowing travellers to experience changing landscapes while travelling comfortably between two of the region’s most dynamic capitals. It also opens up exciting opportunities for multi-country rail adventures across Malaysia and Thailand.
Interior of The Oriental Express
7. Basel to Malmö
Travellers exploring Scandinavia will soon have another sustainable option thanks to a new overnight sleeper connecting Switzerland, Denmark and Sweden. Running via Copenhagen before arriving in Malmö, the service provides a relaxing alternative to air travel while allowing passengers to wake up in an entirely different part of Europe after an overnight journey.
European sleeper train crossing a Bridge.
8. Birmingham to the Scottish Highlands
The iconic Caledonian Sleeper is expanding beyond London by introducing services linking Birmingham with the Scottish Highlands. Travellers can choose between reclining seats, private cabins or luxurious en-suite rooms, making overnight rail travel across Britain more accessible while preserving one of the country’s most beloved railway experiences.
The Brand New Caledonian Sleeper
Why Rail Travel Continues to Grow
From luxurious multi-day journeys through Italy to practical new international connections across Europe and Asia, 2026 demonstrates the growing appeal of travelling by train. Rail offers a more relaxed pace, spectacular scenery and a lower-carbon alternative to short-haul flights, allowing travellers to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. As more countries invest in modern rail infrastructure, train travel is becoming one of the most rewarding ways to discover the world.
Whether you’re dreaming of crossing the Canadian Rockies, discovering Italy aboard the Orient Express or exploring multiple European capitals by sleeper train, 2026 offers more opportunities than ever to embrace the romance of rail travel. Matthew Rian Travel Concierge can curate bespoke rail holidays featuring luxury train journeys, boutique hotels, private transfers and tailor-made itineraries that transform every journey into an unforgettable experience. Contact our team to begin planning your next rail adventure.
