How Poland’s ORLEN Kolej Locomotive Deal Will Boost Tourism with Sustainable Rail Travel

Published on November 26, 2025

Poland is about to make a huge leap in its rail infrastructure that could revolutionize the way tourists experience the country. ORLEN Kolej, one of Poland’s largest freight rail operators, has just signed a historic deal to purchase 40 new locomotives worth over PLN 800 million. This move, while primarily focused on freight transport, has significant implications for tourism, as it could bring better, faster, and more eco-friendly rail services for both locals and visitors.

For tourists, this translates to a smoother, more reliable travel experience across Poland’s picturesque cities, rural landscapes, and cultural landmarks. Poland is known for its vibrant cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Gdańsk, as well as stunning natural sites such as the Tatra Mountains and Białowieża Forest. The new locomotives will make it easier and more efficient for visitors to explore these destinations by train.

The Locomotive Deal: A Game Changer for Travel

ORLEN Kolej’s recent locomotive deal is significant. The company has ordered 40 new trains, split between two different models: the Gama 3.0 from PESA Bydgoszcz and the Dragon 2 from NEWAG. Both of these modern locomotives are designed for high performance, with energy-efficient features that make them more environmentally friendly than their older counterparts.

These new engines, with their advanced technology and power-saving capabilities, promise to reduce energy consumption by about 30% per tonne of freight. While this is great news for freight transport, the efficiency of these locomotives will also benefit passenger travel, indirectly improving train services across Poland. By reducing operational costs, the rail system may have more resources for maintaining and improving passenger services, which is vital for a growing tourism sector.

Better Rail Services for Tourists: What to Expect

For tourists, the new locomotives could result in better rail service overall. With more efficient, modern trains running across the country, passengers can expect smoother journeys, fewer delays, and more reliable connections between cities and major tourist hubs.

Take the example of scenic journeys through Poland’s countryside, from the hills of Zakopane to the Baltic coastline. With improved rail services, tourists can more easily hop between key destinations. For those wanting to experience Poland’s rich history and culture, the high-speed, efficient trains could mean fewer hassles getting from one cultural hotspot to the next. Plus, trains will run more frequently, and longer-distance trips could become faster and more convenient, which makes rail a more appealing option for both domestic and international tourists.

Additionally, with the energy efficiency of these new locomotives, Poland’s rail system will become greener and more sustainable. As tourism becomes increasingly focused on eco-friendly travel, many tourists will appreciate the environmental benefits of travelling by train. Reducing carbon emissions in the transport sector is crucial, and by supporting such efforts, tourists will be contributing to a more sustainable form of travel.

Strengthening Poland’s Position as a Top Tourist Destination

Poland has steadily become one of Europe’s most visited countries, attracting millions of tourists each year. Famous for its rich history, medieval architecture, and stunning natural beauty, Poland is home to UNESCO World Heritage sites, vibrant cultural scenes, and beautiful parks. A more modern, sustainable, and reliable rail network can enhance the country’s tourism offerings.

In addition to benefiting international tourists, these improvements will likely attract more domestic travellers eager to explore their own country. The more interconnected and accessible the cities and attractions are, the more tourists—both local and international—will choose rail as their preferred mode of transport.

The investments made by ORLEN Kolej are not just about enhancing the freight sector. They reflect the Polish government’s commitment to improving its infrastructure, which can have a ripple effect on other industries, including tourism. As rail services become more reliable and efficient, local governments can direct more resources towards promoting tourism, improving stations, and maintaining the country’s iconic landscapes and heritage sites.

Looking Ahead: A Boost for Sustainable Tourism

Looking ahead, the new locomotives could play a major role in making Poland’s rail system a model for other countries. With the growing emphasis on sustainability in tourism, the shift toward energy-efficient trains is an important step. Eco-conscious tourists will be more inclined to travel by rail, knowing that their transportation choices are in line with global sustainability goals.

Moreover, the modernisation of Poland’s rail fleet may inspire further investments in passenger travel. While the primary focus is freight, there is no doubt that better infrastructure will benefit tourists. A well-maintained, modern rail system can support the tourism industry by connecting more destinations, offering more scenic routes, and improving the overall travel experience for visitors.

A New Era for Poland’s Rail and Tourism Sectors

Poland’s ORLEN Kolej locomotive deal marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the country’s rail system and tourism industry. While freight transport is the main driver of this investment, tourists stand to gain from smoother, greener, and more reliable rail travel. As Poland continues to enhance its rail infrastructure, the tourism sector will likely see increased numbers of visitors eager to explore the country’s rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cities—by train. For travellers seeking a sustainable and memorable way to experience Poland, the future of rail travel looks brighter than ever.