13 Exciting New Train Routes Across Europe and Asia in 2026

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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Train travel is set to become more thrilling in 2026, with new routes launching worldwide. From luxurious experiences to budget-friendly 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 traditional 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, Deutsche Bahn, and Danish State Railways will link Prague, Berlin, and Copenhagen from May 1, 2026.

The 555-passenger train reaches 230 km/h and features dining carriages and a movie area, ideal for culinary and cultural exploration.

7. Boston to New York

AmeriStarRail’s LibertyLiner250 will offer hourly express services between Boston, New York, and Washington D.C. in 2026. Children under 18 travel free with adults, and first-class seats include massage features.

8. Paris to Munich

A new high-speed service connects Paris and Munich by the end of 2026, allowing travelers to enjoy a morning croissant in France and an evening beer in Bavaria, reflecting the revival of European rail travel.

9. Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok

The direct route via Butterworth and Padang Besar resumed in late 2025, with plans to expand to Su-ngai Kolok, Rantau Panjang, and Pasir Mas in 2026, making train adventures in Asia more accessible.

10. Basel to Malmö

Swiss Federal Railways launches the Basel-Copenhagen-Malm sleeper train on April 16, 2026, departing Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The 350-passenger train arrives in Malmö the next morning, improving access between Switzerland and Scandinavia.

11. Falmouth to Newquay

A new service will link Falmouth and Newquay in Cornwall, England, cutting travel time from over two and a half hours to a faster, more convenient journey for locals and tourists.

12. Brussels, Barcelona, and Milan

European Sleeper plans Brussels-Barcelona and Brussels-Milan sleeper trains, launching in late 2026 and 2027, each operating three times a week, continuing the expansion of night train routes in Europe.

13. Stirling to London

Budget operator Lumo will launch the London Euston-Stirling route in mid-2026, stopping in Lockerbie, Carlisle, Preston, and Nuneaton. This service provides a more affordable alternative to the Caledonian Sleeper for exploring historic Stirling.