With travelers increasingly looking for environmentally friendly options instead of air travel, train transportation is experiencing a resurgence. This trend towards slower travel includes more picturesque and relaxed trips, luxurious railway experiences, and the introduction of overnight trains, merging a sense of bygone eras with ecological responsibility.

Trains aren’t merely a means to reach your final stop; they make up an integral part of the journey itself. From the moment you board, your vacation begins with stunning vistas, cozy seating or sleeping arrangements, and sumptuous meals to savor.

Thanks to the availability of flexible and budget-friendly rail passes along with an increased variety of ticket choices, trains are now edging closer to being as cost-effective as flying.

In particular, European train travel has witnessed an increase in popularity, largely due to environmentally aware Generation Z and Millennial travelers who prefer sustainable and convenient trips.

How do trains have advantages over airplanes?

Despite the continued popularity of air travel, booking site Rail Europe has noticed an inclination toward more environmentally friendly and laid-back transportation choices.

Compared to flying, trains provide a more seamless experience as you can boarded swiftly and bypass.

baggage

“Set limits and have a worry-free trip,” states Rail Europe CEO Björn Bender.

He emphasizes the attraction of overnight trains for lone travelers, who prize “cost savings on accommodations and reduced travel time.” Meanwhile, families and elderly passengers enjoy their comfort and ease.

Leisure continues to be the primary motivation for rail journeys, with an increase in extended tours focusing on picturesque routes. “Paths that traverse regions of natural splendor, such as

Switzerland

“, are drawing in those looking for more than just a simple Point A to B experience,” Bender elaborates.

In the future, Rail Europe aims to simplify and enhance accessibility for train travel. “We’re tackling transparency in pricing and simplifying the reservation process,” he remarks.

Highlighting new overnight train services and increased scenic routes as key choices, these alternatives cater to both functionality and a preference for less rushed, eco-friendly journeys.

These are some of the top railway trips scheduled for 2025.

The Glacier Express, Switzerland

Referred to as the “world’s slowest express train,” the narrow-gauge Glacier Express connects St. Moritz and Zermott, providing passengers with an up-close view of Switzerland’s beauty.

alpine

scenery during an amazing 8-hour trip.

As the train twists through the mountainous terrain, the landscape constantly changes, gradually unveiling majestic peaks, steep canyons, and picturesque alpine hamlets.

The path traverses 291 bridges and goes through 91 tunnels, providing a fresh viewpoint with each one.

Swiss Alps

It ascends next to the Oberalp Pass, reaching the peak of the journey with spectacular vistas.

Aboard, the emphasis is on comfort and quality. As for the cuisine, expect traditional Swiss delicacies paired with fine wines, enhancing the picturesque travel experience with a touch of gastronomic sophistication.

The Orient Express, traveling from Paris to Istanbul

Luxury rail travel

plays a crucial role in reviving railway travel, capitalizing on a longing for the sophistication and magnificence of the railroad’s heyday.

A major highlight has been the resurgence of the Orient Express, the train route connecting Paris with Istanbul, which was famously memorialized by crime novelist Agatha Christie.

Starting in 2026, the Orient Express will welcome travelers to experience the legacy onboard 17 vintage Orient Express carriages from the 1920s and 1930s.

These vehicles, previously belonging to the ‘Nostalgie-Istanbul-Orient-Express,’ have undergone thorough restoration and feature extraordinary decor.

The interiors, designed by French architect Maxime d’Angeac, feature Art Deco-inspired details, intricate marquetry, and refined furniture, guaranteeing that each element exudes the opulence of the classic design.

Orient Express

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The Reunification Express, Vietnam

Stretching for more than 1,700 kilometers, the aptly named Reunification Express offers an exciting journey through Vietnam.

Vietnam

, connecting Hanoi in the north with Ho Chi Minh City in the south.

Although no specific train bears this designation, the route embodies the essence of cooperation, dating back to 1936 when the French finished constructing the railway.

The services faced interruptions in 1954 due to Vietnam’s division and restarted on December 31, 1976, signifying reunification.

This leisurely train ride is just as much about the journey itself as it is about reaching your final stop. As you move along, you’ll drift past foggy landscapes.

mountains

, serene rice terraces, and quaint seaside villages, offering ever-shifting vistas beyond your window.

Aboard, the leisurely, rumbling rhythm enables you to indulge in Vietnamese snacks, engage in conversations with your co-travelers, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere at each local station stop.

Londonderry/Derry to Coleraine, Northern Ireland

Described by Michael Palin as “one of the most stunning railway experiences globally,” this 38-minute journey through Northern Ireland’s foggy scenery is brief yet breathtaking.

As you follow the River Foyle away from Derry/Londonderry, the train slides smoothly into the verdant countryside, then presents views of the Atlantic coast and the sandy shores of Benone Strand.

The primary attraction of this straightforward train journey lies in its scenic views, as the rails run parallel to one of Northern Ireland’s least spoiled coastlines.

The charming Castlerock station, crafted by architect John Lanyon, stands out as a significant highlight along the route.

seaside village

provides an ideal spot for a beach picnic or strolling through its quaint lanes.

Ranging from breathtaking coastal views to lush rural landscapes, this brief itinerary encapsulates Northern Ireland’s natural splendor within under an hour—demonstrating that remarkable trips do not have to be extensive.

The train journey from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka

Referred to as one of the most picturesque train journeys globally, this famous seven-hour trip from Ella to Kandy offers travelers a breathtaking view of Sri Lanka’s verdant tea plantations.

Towering mountains, cascading

waterfalls

, with rolling emerald plantations blanketing the terrain as the train snakes through winding rails.

When selecting your class, numerous choices await. The air-conditioned First Class (AFC) provides designated seating along with a comfortably cooled environment; however, it does not include openable windows, thus denying you the pleasure of sticking out during one of the time-honored traditions of traveling on Sri Lanka’s trains.

If you prefer open windows and a more community-oriented atmosphere, opting for 2nd Class Reserved is perfect. It offers comfortable seating without any standing passengers.

Feeling daring? Opt for 3rd Class Unreserved – with the same amenities, but the first-come, first-served seating brings an element of playful chaos to your journey.

Unreserved class tickets are simple to obtain; simply head to the station, purchase your ticket, and board the affordable blue train.

Rovos Rail, South Africa

Founded in 1989 by South African businessman and rail aficionado Rohan Vos, Rovos Rail has earned recognition as an exceptional method for leisurely travel through southern Africa. The company provides various multiday routes that highlight some of the region’s most breathtaking scenery.

Based in Pretoria, this private railroad business offers distinctive trips as they meander through the verdant landscapes of South Africa.

vineyards

, Namibia’s barren deserts, or Botswana’s vast grasslands.

Step inside, and you’ll discover a realm of classic sophistication. The railway carriages hark back to earlier times with their gleaming wooden accents, plush leather chairs, and ample private chambers designed for both luxury and ease.

The dining cars serve

gourmet

Meals can be enjoyed here, with the sleek lounge car being ideal for unwinding and observing the constantly changing landscape outside.

The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Rocky Mountaineer, one of North America’s most cherished

rail journeys

offers four picturesque routes through Western Canada, the Canadian Rockies, and the American Southwest, allowing travelers to experience harsh alpine terrains and wildlife solely via train journey.

Regarded as Canada’s premier achievement, the entirely dome-equipped train fleet runs solely during daytime hours, providing unobstructed vistas of distant scenery while offering exceptional service.

Every route provides a distinct experience, however, the ‘First Passage to the West’ stands out as particularly unforgettable.

It traces the paths taken by 19th-century pioneers and meanders through majestic mountains, swift rivers, and lush valleys.

The domed carriages envelop you in the scenic views, whereas the open-air observation decks enable you to be right at the heart of the experience.

From

wildlife

From sightings in the valleys to the breathtaking cascades of Fraser Canyon, each moment onboard provides a fresh viewpoint.

The TranzAlpine, New Zealand

The TranzAlpine trip in New Zealand spans four hours and offers a scenic railway experience crossing the entire width of the South Island, starting from Christchurch and ending in GreymOUTH.

The train provides a prime view for some of

New Zealand

Features some of the region’s most stunning scenery, where vast open fields transition into steep river gorges, meltwater streams, and the frost-covered Southern Alps.

Riding in open-air carriages offers an unmatched experience with nature, while seat-activated GPS commentary guarantees you won’t overlook any of the key sights along your route.

Ffestiniog Railway, Wales

Ever since 1832, the Ffestiniog Railway has served as a pillar of support.

Welsh

Heritage showcases numerous trains traversing the majestic Snowdonia National Park (Eryri).

Initially designed for transporting blue slate from the Blaenau Ffestiniog quarries to Porthmadog’s harbor, this narrow-gauge heritage railway now provides travelers with a trip through Welsh history and natural beauty via the signature The Mountain Spirit service.

Your grand 13½ mile adventure begins in the seaside town of Porthmadog, ascending gradually through verdant pastures, thick woodlands, and glistening waters up toward Blaenano.

Upgrade to the Gold Service for Observation Bay seating and revel in extraordinary vistas from this meticulously renovated spot.

steam train

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