The Ultimate Guide to Train Travel in Europe: New Routes and Hidden Gems for 2025

Prepare for an exciting new way to explore Europe by rail in 2025! Fresh train routes will launch, allowing you to zip between cities and countries in comfort and style.

One of the most anticipated new routes will connect Paris and Berlin directly, cutting travel time between these iconic capitals. You can hop on in Paris and arrive in Berlin without changing trains, making the journey smoother. This high-speed link will make combining French and German adventures easier in one trip.

European night trains are making a comeback too. A new overnight service from Brussels to Prague is planned for 2024, with stops in Amsterdam and Berlin along the way.

You can save on hotel costs by sleeping as you travel, waking up refreshed in a new city. Ticket sales for this route are expected to start in October 2024, so watch out if you want to snag a spot. Night train trips like this let you maximize your vacation time while seeing more of Europe.

France-Spain New High-Speed Rail

Get ready for faster trips between France and Spain! New high-speed trains are making cross-border travel a breeze. You’ll zip from Paris to Barcelona in 6 hours and 29 minutes. That’s way quicker than before!

These speedy trains stop at 12 stations in both countries. You can hop on in Paris, Lyon, or Montpellier.

In Spain, Barcelona is the main hub. The trains are run jointly by Spanish Renfe and French SNCF.

Want to save some cash? Look for deals on low-cost routes.

Prices can vary, so book early for the best rates. You might snag tickets for as low as €39 one-way if you’re lucky.

Here’s a quick look at some journey times:

• Paris to Barcelona: 6h 29m
• Lyon to Barcelona: 5h
• Montpellier to Barcelona: Even faster!

The trains are comfy, too. You’ll ride in style on double-decker TGV INOUI trains between Paris and Barcelona. They’ve got plenty of legroom and big windows for sightseeing.

This new service makes it easy to see both countries. You can start your day in France and end it in Spain! It’s perfect for a two-country trip without the hassle of airports.

Bernina Express

You’re in for a treat with the Bernina Express! This scenic train route takes you through stunning Swiss and Italian landscapes. The journey starts in Chur or St. Moritz and ends in Tirano, Italy.

As you board, make sure you have your passport handy. The train crosses international borders, so you’ll need it.

In summer, about five trains run daily. Winter sees fewer trips, with only two per day.

The views are breathtaking from both first- and second-class panorama cars. You’ll climb to the Bernina Pass at 2,253 meters without any special rack-and-pinion system—pretty impressive!

Want to save some cash on tickets? Book in advance and travel during off-peak times. If you’re exploring more of Switzerland, consider getting a Swiss Travel Pass. It can offer good value.

Here’s a quick rundown of the route:

• Chur/St. Moritz → Thusis → Tiefencastel → Filisur → Bergün
• Preda → Ospizio Bernina → Alp Grüm → Poschiavo → Tirano

Fancy extending your trip? There’s an optional bus from Tirano to Lugano. It runs daily from late March to late October. Outside these dates, it’s available from Thursday to Sunday.

Remember, train schedules can change. Always double-check before you travel, especially in 2025!

Switzerland

Switzerland’s train system will get even better in 2025. You’ll be able to zip between cities faster and more comfortably. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) is upgrading routes and adding new high-speed connections.

Zurich to Milan will take just 3 hours on a sleek new train. You’ll whisk through the Alps in style. The route passes stunning mountain scenery and crystal-clear lakes.

Basel to Geneva is another route that is getting a speed boost. Travel time will drop under 2.5 hours, perfect for a quick city break or business trip.

Here are some ticket tips:

• Book early for the best deals
• Look for off-peak discounts
• Consider a Swiss Travel Pass for multiple journeys

Prices vary, but expect to pay around:

• Zurich-Milan: 89-120 CHF
• Basel-Geneva: 60-90 CHF

Don’t forget smaller scenic routes, too. The Glacier Express and Bernina Express offer breathtaking views. They’re slower but worth every minute.

Switzerland’s punctual trains are getting even better. Pack your bags and prepare to explore this beautiful country by rail in 2025!

See Related: Two Weeks in Switzerland: A Winter Wonderland Itinerary

Douro Line

You’ll love the scenic Douro Line train journey through Portugal’s wine country. This route takes you from Porto to Pocinho along the Douro River, passing vineyards and picturesque villages.

The trip offers breathtaking views of the Douro Valley‘s terraced hillsides. You’ll see charming stations like Pinhão, known for its beautiful blue and white tiles depicting local scenes.

For the best experience, catch the morning train from Porto’s São Bento station. It leaves at 9:20 AM and reaches Pocinho at 12:38 PM without any changes. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.

Ticket prices vary based on the distance:

• Porto to Régua: €10-15
• Porto to Pinhão: €12-18
• Porto to Pocinho: €14-22

Book in advance for better rates, especially during peak season. If planning a day trip, consider a return ticket to save money.

There are plans to extend the line to Barca de Alva on the Spanish border. This could happen by late 2024 or 2025, potentially connecting to Spanish cities like Vigo in the future.

Remember to bring a camera – you’ll want to capture the stunning landscapes along this unforgettable train ride through the heart of Portugal’s wine region.

Portugal

Get ready for a new rail adventure in Portugal! A high-speed train network will connect Lisbon and Porto with Vigo in Spain. This exciting route is set to open in late 2024 or early 2025.

You’ll zip between Portugal’s two biggest cities faster than ever before. In record time, the sleek new trains will whisk you from Lisbon’s historic streets to Porto’s charming riverside.

Fancy a trip to Spain? The line extends north to Vigo, making cross-border travel a breeze. You can explore the beautiful Galicia region without the hassle of flying or driving.

Here are some key details to note:

• Route: Lisbon – Porto – Vigo
• Expected launch: Late 2024 or early 2025
• Operator: To be confirmed

Ticket prices aren’t available yet, but here’s a pro tip: book early! High-speed rail often offers discounts for advance purchases. Also, keep an eye out for launch promotions.

This new route will transform travel in western Iberia. You’ll have more options to explore Portugal’s diverse landscapes and connect with neighboring Spain. It’s an exciting time for train enthusiasts and travelers alike!

West Highland Line

The West Highland Line is a scenic railway journey through Scotland’s rugged landscapes. You’ll see stunning views of mountains, lochs, and moorlands as you travel from Glasgow to coastal towns like Oban, Fort William, and Mallaig.

The line covers over 160 miles, winding through some of Scotland’s most remote and beautiful areas. You’ll cross impressive structures like the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films.

Here are some key stops along the route:

• Glasgow: Starting point
• Crianlarich: Gateway to the Highlands
• Fort William: Near Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain
• Mallaig: Fishing port with ferries to the Isle of Skye

Ticket prices vary based on your journey. A one-way trip from Glasgow to Mallaig costs about £40-50 for adults. You can save money by booking in advance or using a railcard.

For the best experience, try these tips:

• Sit on the left side for loch views
• Pack a picnic to enjoy onboard
• Bring a camera for epic scenery shots

The West Highland Line runs year-round, but summer offers the best weather. Spring and fall give you a chance to see beautiful seasonal colors. You might spot wildlife like deer or eagles along the way.

Scotland

You’re in for a treat with new rail options to explore Bonnie Scotland in 2025! Grand Union Trains will launch direct services between London and Stirling. This means you can zip from England’s capital straight to the heart of Scotland without changing trains.

Want to experience luxury on the rails? Check out the new Edinburgh & Highlands steam train journey.

You’ll chug along in style, taking in stunning views of lochs and glens. The trip includes stops at castles and quaint towns along the way.

For a comprehensive Scottish adventure, consider a 10-day rail tour. You’ll start in Edinburgh, then head north to Inverness. Don’t miss a detour to the magical Isle of Skye! The journey wraps up in Fort William, nestled near breathtaking Glencoe.

Ticket prices for these new routes vary:

• London to Stirling: Expect to pay £70-100 one-way
• Luxury steam tours: Around £1500-2000 for a multi-day package
• 10-day Scotland rail pass: Roughly £300-400

Pro tip: Book early for the best deals, especially on those fancy steam trips. They’ll sell out fast!

See Related: Best Affordable Castle Hotels: Experience Luxury Without Breaking the Bank

Inlandsbanan

Sweden’s Inlandsbanan is a hidden gem for train lovers. This scenic route stretches 1,300 km from Kristinehamn in the south to Gällivare in the north. You’ll journey through Sweden’s stunning inland, crossing the Arctic Circle.

The train runs from June 17 to August 25 2024. It’s perfect for summer travel when you can experience the midnight sun. You’ll pass through magnificent forests and bogs, with chances to spot reindeer.

Here are some tips for your Inlandsbanan adventure:

• Get a flexible ticket to hop on and off as you please
• Pack light – storage space can be limited
• Bring snacks, though there are food stops along the route
• Charge your camera for amazing photo ops

Ticket prices vary based on your journey. A full route ticket costs around 1,700 SEK (about €150). For shorter trips, expect to pay 300-500 SEK (€25-45). Book early for the best deals!

The Inlandsbanan is fully covered by Eurail passes, making it a great addition to your European train trip. You’ll get a unique glimpse of Swedish Lapland that many travelers miss.

Don’t forget to check out local attractions when you stop. The Jokkmokk Winter Market in February is a special treat if you visit in winter.

Sweden

Get ready for an exciting new train adventure in Sweden! A fresh route connecting Finland and Sweden might open by 2025. This line will allow you to travel from central Europe to Lapland.

Sweden’s trains are comfy and modern. You’ll love the views of forests, lakes, and charming towns as you zip through the countryside. The journey from Stockholm to Lapland is especially pretty.

Here are some ticket tips for your Swedish train trip:

• Book early for the best prices
• Look for off-peak deals
• Consider a rail pass if you plan to ride a lot

Sweden’s train network is growing. Soon, you might be able to take a night train from Berlin to Stockholm. Imagine falling asleep in Germany and waking up in Sweden!

Train travel in Sweden is eco-friendly, too. It’s a great way to see the country while being kind to the planet. Pack your bags and get ready for a Swedish rail adventure!

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the crème de la crème of luxury train travel. As you board the beautifully restored 1920s and 1930s carriages, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

This iconic train offers several glamorous routes across Europe. The classic journey takes you from London to Venice, passing through Paris. You’ll spend one night aboard in a private cabin, enjoying gourmet meals and impeccable service.

Want to splurge? Book a Grand Suite for the ultimate in luxury. These spacious accommodations feature private bathrooms, plush double beds, and 24-hour butler service.

New for 2024, the train will travel to Italy’s stunning Ligurian coast. The Paris to Portofino route lets you experience the glitz of the Italian Riviera.

Pricing tips:

• Book early for the best availability and rates
• Consider shoulder season for lower prices
• Twin cabins start around $3,600 per person
• Grand Suites cost about $10,350 per person

The dress code is formal, so pack your finest attire. You’ll want to look your best for the champagne reception and four-course dinners.

Remember, this journey is about the experience, not speed. Relax and savor every moment as you travel in unparalleled style across Europe.

See Related: Surprise Vacation: Hidden Gems for Unforgettable Last-Minute Getaways

Austria to France

Get ready for an exciting new train journey connecting Austria and France! Starting in 2025, you can hop on a night train from Vienna to Paris. This new route will make it easier than ever to explore both countries without flying.

The overnight train leaves Vienna in the evening and arrives in Paris the next morning. You’ll wake up refreshed and ready to start your day in the City of Light. The journey takes about 14 hours, giving you plenty of time to sleep and relax.

Here are some key details about the new route:

• Departure: Vienna Hauptbahnhof
• Arrival: Paris Gare de l’Est
• Travel time: Approximately 14 hours
• Frequency: Likely to run 3-4 times per week

Ticket prices aren’t set yet, but you can expect them to be competitive with flights. To get the best deals:

• Book early – prices often go up closer to travel dates
• Look for promotional fares when the route launches
• Consider getting a rail pass if you plan to take multiple trips

The train will offer different accommodation options:

• Sleeper cabins (1-3 beds)
• Couchettes (4-6 beds)
• Seated carriages

You’ll be able to enjoy dinner and breakfast on board. The route will pass through beautiful scenery, including the Alps. It’s a great way to see more of Europe while reducing your carbon footprint.