Luxury trains are back, transforming rail travel experiences across Europe
- Several luxury sleeper trains are set to launch across Europe starting in 2025.
- These trains will connect travelers to unique destinations previously not accessible by premium rail services.
- This resurgence in rail travel reflects a growing demand for sustainable and pleasurable travel options.
In 2025 and beyond, Europe will witness the launch of multiple luxury sleeper trains that are reviving interest in rail travel. The first of these, Belmond's Britannic Explorer, will debut in July 2025 with routes connecting London to regions in the UK, such as the Lake District and Cornwall. Meanwhile, next year also marks the introduction of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, which will offer multi-day routes through picturesque Italian locales including Venice, Rome, and the Tuscan countryside. By 2026, the Norient Express is poised to explore Norway's stunning fjords and landscapes, tapping into a growing appetite for rail journeys that combine luxury with accessibility to unique destinations. This renaissance is attributed to an increasing eco-consciousness among travelers, as they seek sustainable and stress-free travel options. The surge in rail travel has already been evidenced by passengers traveling a record 266 billion miles by rail across Europe last year, signaling a shift towards a more refined and purposeful travel experience, underpinned by a nostalgia for bygone eras.