Luxury Trains: 2026 Journeys to Redefine Travel

Train travel is experiencing a resurgence, marked by innovative routes set to launch in 2026 that combine thoughtful design with meticulously planned itineraries. These upcoming journeys aim to elevate travel days into anticipated experiences, offering reduced queues, scenic vistas, and a more personal connection to the journey.

Several distinct luxury train experiences are on the horizon. A 22-day expedition from Beijing to Tashkent will traverse six countries, featuring stops at significant cultural sites and offering en-suite cabins with expansive windows. Saudi Arabia's "Dream of the Desert" will connect Riyadh with Qurayyat across 800 miles of desert, incorporating guided excursions to heritage sites. Belmond's new route links Paris with southern Italy, featuring restored 1920s carriages and curated excursions to Pompeii.

Further afield, France's Le Grand Tour offers a six-day immersion into Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Provence, complete with private vineyard tastings and dining by a Michelin two-star chef for an exclusive group of 36 passengers. Spain's Al Ándalus returns with a route through Andalucía, showcasing restored 1930s carriages and local cultural performances. Railbookers is preparing a grand 60-day itinerary connecting cities like London, Istanbul, Delhi, and Cape Town, handling all logistics for travelers seeking variety.

North America will see new scenic routes, including the Rocky Mountaineer's "Passage to the Peaks" through British Columbia and Alberta, focusing on interior landscapes. Canyon Spirit will extend its service to Salt Lake City in 2026, traversing red rock formations and river canyons. Europe is also expanding overnight travel with the revived Paris-to-Berlin night train, offering modern amenities and a practical alternative to short flights. France's TGV INOUI is also updating its high-speed services with redesigned interiors and enhanced dining options.