New 2026 Trains You Don’t Want to Miss: From Luxury Land Cruises to High-Speed Rail Across Europe and North America

Published on December 30, 2025

The year 2026 promises to bring a wave of excitement to the world of train travel, with new routes, luxurious trains, and high-speed networks making their debut. Whether you’re dreaming of a scenic journey through the Canadian Rockies, hopping between European capitals, or experiencing unparalleled luxury in Saudi Arabia’s desert, 2026 is shaping up to be a groundbreaking year for rail travel.

From ultra-modern, high-speed trains connecting major cities to exclusive, luxury “land cruises” offering bespoke experiences, the evolution of rail travel is going full throttle. For travelers looking for a comfortable and unique way to explore new destinations, here are some of the most anticipated new train journeys you can look forward to in 2026.

Rocky Mountaineer Expands with New Routes in 2026: A Scenic Journey Through Western Canada

One of the most famous names in scenic rail travel, the Rocky Mountaineer, is expanding its routes in 2026 with the introduction of the “Passage to the Peaks” journey. This new route will offer travelers the opportunity to experience the breathtaking landscapes of western Canada, including Edmonton, Jasper, Calgary, Kamloops, Lake Louise, and Banff.

Set to operate from June to July 2026, this limited-edition route will feature glass-roofed coaches that offer panoramic views of the stunning Canadian wilderness. The journey spans from one to nine nights and includes guided excursions, hotel accommodations, and trips to iconic landmarks such as the Columbia Icefield, Athabasca Falls, and Lake Minnewanka.

For those looking for adventure combined with luxury, the Rocky Mountaineer offers an unparalleled experience, crossing famous passes such as Yellowhead and Rogers, and passing through Kicking Horse Canyon. The route also includes visits to historic sites like Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven in 1885.

Fecciarossa Trains to Germany and Austria: Italy’s High-Speed Rail Heads International

Italy’s renowned Frecciarossa (Red Arrow) trains, operated by Trenitalia, will make their international debut in 2026 with routes extending to Germany and Austria. Already transforming domestic travel across Italy, these sleek, high-speed trains will now offer faster and more affordable journeys between Italian cities and key destinations like Vienna and Munich.

The introduction of Fecciarossa trains in Germany could pose a challenge to the InterCity Express (ICE) trains, which are currently the country’s most prominent high-speed rail service. The competition, however, may be difficult due to Germany’s outdated infrastructure, which has been blamed for recent delays and issues with reliability. Despite this, travelers can expect to enjoy high-frequency services between major cities and significant reductions in journey times.

The expansion of Frecciarossa trains to these new markets underscores the increasing demand for cross-border high-speed rail travel in Europe, with both Trenitalia and its competitor Italo continuing to push the boundaries of rail travel in the region.

Luxury Train Travel in Saudi Arabia: Dream of the Desert

In a bold move, Saudi Arabia is set to launch its luxury rail offering, Dream of the Desert, in 2026. This 41-cabin train will offer an exclusive, high-end travel experience across the kingdom’s desert and mountain landscapes, with a route running from Riyadh to Al Qurayyat, near the Jordanian border.

The train is designed with luxury in mind, combining international and Saudi influences in its dining and service offerings. This unique experience will highlight the country’s natural beauty, such as the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Natural Reserve, and provide an unforgettable way to explore Saudi Arabia’s diverse landscapes.

In collaboration with Arsenale Group — the creators of the famous Orient Express La Dolce Vita — Saudi Arabian Railways plans to redefine luxury travel in the region. With a focus on personalized services and world-class amenities, this train journey will be perfect for those seeking both adventure and luxury.

European Sleeper: A New Era of Night Train Travel Between Paris and Berlin

As night trains experience a renaissance across Europe, European Sleeper is reviving the much-needed Paris-Berlin overnight route in March 2026. Running three times a week, the new service will route via Brussels and offer a convenient, eco-friendly travel option for those looking to travel overnight without the hassle of airports.

This newly renovated service will feature sleeping compartments, couchettes, and reclining seats, with modern amenities like onboard Wi-Fi and charging points. The train will also cater to a wide range of budgets, making it accessible for both business travelers and vacationers.

In addition to the Paris-Berlin route, European Sleeper is planning further expansions to serve more European cities, making train travel a more competitive option against air travel, especially for long-haul journeys.

ComfortJet Trains: Connecting Prague and Copenhagen in 2026

Czech-built ComfortJet trains will debut in May 2026, linking Prague and Copenhagen with a fast, convenient service through Dresden, Berlin, and Hamburg. The new trains, capable of reaching speeds of up to 143 mph, will offer a modern onboard experience with a bar-restaurant car, onboard Wi-Fi, and a play area for children.

This service will reduce travel times between the two cities by over three hours, offering an affordable and comfortable alternative to flying. The launch of ComfortJet is a perfect example of how intercity rail in Europe is becoming faster, more accessible, and more comfortable for travelers.

Conclusion: The Future of Train Travel in 2026

From Rocky Mountaineer’s luxurious Canadian excursions to high-speed rail links connecting European capitals, 2026 is shaping up to be a transformative year for rail travel. As trains become faster, more luxurious, and more connected, travelers can look forward to new ways to explore the world by rail.

With growing investments in high-speed rail networks, luxury train journeys, and eco-friendly overnight routes, the future of rail travel is not only faster but also more accessible, sustainable, and exciting. Whether you’re seeking adventure, comfort, or cultural exploration, the new trains of 2026 are set to offer something for every traveler.