Traveling by Train in Europe: The Complete Guide for 2026
There was a time when the train was seen as an outdated, slow, and impractical means of transport compared to the speed and low cost of low-cost airlines. But times change, and the wheel turns — or rather, the train wheel reclaims its rights. In 2026, the train is experiencing a spectacular renaissance across Europe, driven by unprecedented ecological awareness, massive investments in rail infrastructure, and a new generation of travelers who value experience over utilitarian travel.
Traveling by train means choosing deliberate slowness, the landscape scrolling past the window, compartment encounters, historic stations that on their own tell the story of the cities they serve. It is also a strong gesture for the planet: a train journey emits on average 80% less CO2 than the same trip by plane. In 2026, as the climate emergency imposes itself on everyone, this criterion is no longer anecdotal but central in the choice of transport modes.
This complete guide takes you on a discovery of train travel in Europe: the most spectacular lines, the night trains rising from their ashes, tips for saving on your tickets, and everything you need to know to make the train your travel ally.
The Renaissance of Night Trains
The great railway story of 2026 is undoubtedly the strong comeback of night trains. After decades of decline, night trains are making a triumphant return on European rails, driven by growing demand for sustainable and comfortable travel. Falling asleep in Paris and waking up in Venice, Berlin, or Vienna: this is an experience that combines the romance of old-fashioned travel with the demands of the modern traveler.
The Nightjet network of the Austrian company OBB is the spearhead of this renaissance. With its comfortable cabins, modern couchettes, and renovated sleeping cars, Nightjet now connects around twenty European cities. The most popular lines connect Vienna to Venice, Zurich to Hamburg, or Innsbruck to Amsterdam. The mini cabins, a kind of private capsule inspired by Japanese ryokans, offer an economical and comfortable solution for solo travelers.
France is not to be outdone with Midnight Trains, a private operator that launched its first lines from Paris to Milan, Venice, and Edinburgh in 2025. The concept is resolutely modern: trains designed like hotels on rails, with soundproof cabins, high-end bedding, a gourmet restaurant, and even a private shower in premium cabins. The price, higher than that of a low-cost airline ticket, is offset by the savings of one night in a hotel and the absence of airport-related stress.
The SNCF’s night trains, the famous Intercites de nuit, have also been modernized. The Paris-Briancon, Paris-Rodez, Paris-Toulouse, and Paris-Latour-de-Carol lines now offer renovated couchettes with individual power outlets, Wi-Fi, and breakfast included. The Paris-Briancon, which winds through the Alps, is particularly spectacular with its viaducts and tunnels crossing mountain ranges.
In 2026, the European Union has strengthened its support for night trains through the “Sleeping Europe” program, which subsidizes the creation of new cross-border lines. The goal is ambitious: to crisscross Europe with a network of night trains that would connect all capitals to each other by 2035. The new lines announced for 2026 include Paris-Oslo, Barcelona-Stockholm, and Berlin-Rome, enough to make railway travel enthusiasts dream.
The Most Spectacular Train Lines in Europe
Europe is full of railway lines that offer breathtaking landscapes. Some are famous worldwide, others remain little-known, but all are worth a detour for the beauty of the panoramas they traverse.
The Bernina Express (Switzerland)
Undoubtedly the most beautiful train line in Europe, the Bernina Express connects Saint-Moritz to Tirano, in Italy, through the Swiss Alps. In four hours of travel, the train climbs dizzying slopes, crosses 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, and goes from 2,253 meters altitude at the Bernina Pass to 230 meters in the Italian valley. Glaciers, deep blue lakes, flower-filled alpine pastures, and mountain villages follow one another in a breathtaking setting. The panoramic cars, with their giant windows that go up to the roof, offer an unobstructed view of this grandiose spectacle.
The Flamsbana (Norway)
Considered one of the most beautiful railway lines in the world, the Flamsbana descends from Myrdal to Flam, in the Aurland Fjord, over a distance of only 20 kilometers. But these 20 kilometers are a concentrate of natural beauty: the railway line crosses 20 tunnels carved into the rock, offers spectacular views of dizzying waterfalls (notably the Rjoandefossen waterfall which drops 140 meters) and winds along deep gorges. The journey lasts about an hour, but every minute is enchanting.
The Train des Pignes (France)
Less known than the Yellow Train of the Pyrenees, the Train des Pignes (Pine Cone Train) is nonetheless one of the most beautiful lines in France. It connects Nice to Digne-les-Bains through the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, offering spectacular panoramas of the Verdon Gorges, lavender fields, and perched villages. The train, which runs at an average speed of 30 km/h, allows you to fully enjoy the landscape. The stops in small country stations are so many invitations to discovery.
The West Highland Line (Scotland)
This legendary line connects Glasgow to Mallaig, on the west coast of Scotland, crossing the Highlands. The Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films, is one of the highlights of the journey, but the trip offers many other wonders: misty lochs, jagged mountains, wild moors, and small stations lost in the middle of nowhere. The Jacobite Steam Train, a historic steam train, runs this line during the summer months to the great delight of nostalgics.
The Belgrade-Bar (Serbia-Montenegro)
One of the most spectacular lines in Europe and yet one of the least known. The train that connects Belgrade, the Serbian capital, to Bar, on the Montenegrin coast, crosses landscapes of incredible diversity: the plains of Serbia, the dizzying gorges of the Moraca River, the mountains of Montenegro, and finally the Adriatic coast. The highlight of the journey is the crossing of the Mala Rijeka Viaduct, one of the highest in Europe, perched 198 meters above the void. An experience to be lived absolutely for lovers of railway sensations.
The Best Deals for Traveling by Train on a Budget
The train has long suffered from a reputation for being more expensive than the plane, and this is still sometimes the case. But with the right tips, it is entirely possible to travel by train in Europe without breaking the bank.
The Interrail Pass
Interrail is undoubtedly the best friend of the railway traveler in Europe. This pass allows unlimited travel in up to 33 European countries for a determined duration. In 2026, the pass has been modernized with a powerful mobile application that allows you to reserve your trains, track your itinerary in real time, and even benefit from discounts on partner accommodations. The 2026 rates start at 199 euros for a 4-day pass in one month (youth), 285 euros for adults. The 15 consecutive day global pass costs about 450 euros for adults, which remains very advantageous if you plan several long-distance journeys.
The Interrail One Country Pass, which allows unlimited travel in a single country, is an excellent option for those who wish to explore a region in depth. In 2026, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and Austria offer this type of pass, with rates starting at 150 euros for 3 days.
Prem’s Tickets and Last-Minute Offers
In France, SNCF’s Prem’s tickets offer discounts of up to 60% on TGVs, provided you book several weeks in advance. Ouigo, SNCF’s low-cost TGVs, offer journeys starting at 10 euros on major lines. In Germany, the Deutschlandticket, at 49 euros per month, gives access to all regional transport in the country, a real feat for budget travelers. In Italy, the private companies Italo and Trenitalia compete fiercely, driving down prices on the Rome-Milan and Rome-Naples routes, with tickets available from 9.90 euros for early booking.
National Discount Cards
Each European country offers discount cards that, for a modest investment, allow substantial savings on journeys. In France, the Avantage Jeune card (27 euros for one year) offers 30% off all TGVs and Intercites. The Avantage Senior card (27 euros) offers the same discounts for travelers over 60. In Germany, the BahnCard 25 (62.90 euros for one year) offers 25% off all trains, while the BahnCard 50 (255 euros) offers 50% off. In Switzerland, the half-fare card (185 euros for one year) offers 50% off the entire Swiss network, including mountain lines.
Insider Tips
To travel by train at a lower cost, a few simple tricks can make the difference. Book your tickets as early as possible, ideally three months in advance for the best fares. Travel on weekdays (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) rather than weekends. Avoid peak hours. Use comparators like Trainline or Omio to find the best prices on international routes. Finally, do not hesitate to combine several tickets: sometimes, buying two separate tickets (for example Paris-Brussels and Brussels-Amsterdam) costs less than a direct Paris-Amsterdam ticket.
The Environmental Impact: Why the Train Is the Future of Travel
Transport is responsible for about 25% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and aviation represents a growing share of them. At a time when ecological awareness is transforming our lifestyles, choosing the train as the main means of transport for travel in Europe is a strong and necessary act.
The figures speak for themselves: a Paris-London journey by train emits 4.5 kg of CO2 per passenger, compared to 75 kg for the same trip by plane. Paris-Marseille: 2.5 kg by train compared to 90 kg by plane. Paris-Amsterdam: 5 kg by train compared to 80 kg by plane. On all journeys under 1,000 kilometers, the train is by far the most ecological option, and often the fastest if you factor in airport access time and boarding procedures.
In 2026, many European governments have taken strong measures to encourage modal shift toward rail. France has banned domestic flights on routes that can be traveled by train in less than 2.5 hours. Spain has eliminated several domestic air routes in favor of high-speed rail lines. Austria has launched a “klimaaktiv” program that subsidizes up to 50% of train ticket prices for ecological travel.
The railway companies themselves are committing to the ecological transition. SNCF has set a goal of reducing its CO2 emissions by 50% by 2030 compared to 2015. The TGV M trains, entering service in 2026, are made with 97% recyclable materials and consume 20% less energy than previous trainsets. In Germany, Deutsche Bahn has announced that all its long-distance trains will be powered by 100% renewable electricity starting in 2026.
But the environmental impact of the train is not limited to CO2 emissions. By choosing the train, you also contribute to reducing noise pollution, the fragmentation of natural habitats, and the consumption of space linked to aviation and airport construction. You are choosing a more respectful, slower, more conscious tourism.
Traveling by Train on a Budget: Tips for Thrifty Globetrotters
The train is not reserved for wealthy travelers. With a bit of organization and the right tips, it is entirely possible to travel across Europe by train without breaking the bank.
Combining Train and Accommodation
Night trains offer a considerable advantage: they replace a night in a hotel. A couchette ticket on a night train generally costs between 50 and 100 euros, which is often cheaper than a hotel night + a plane or daytime train ticket. Low-cost night trains, like OBB’s Nightjet or the French Intercites de nuit, offer seated places starting at 30 euros for small budgets, even if comfort is obviously lower.
Affordable Destinations by Train
Some European destinations are particularly accessible by train at a low price. The countries of Central and Eastern Europe (Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania) offer very affordable train tickets, with fares often below 20 euros for journeys of several hours. The Baltic countries, Slovakia, and Slovenia are also economical railway destinations. In 2026, the new high-speed lines connecting Western Europe to Central Europe (Paris-Vienna, Berlin-Warsaw) have considerably reduced travel times while maintaining competitive prices.
Practical Tips for a Successful Train Journey
Booking
For high-speed trains (TGV, ICE, Thalys, Eurostar), booking is mandatory and it is advisable to book as early as possible to get the best fares. For regional trains and night trains, booking is often optional but recommended in high season. Use the official websites of railway companies rather than intermediaries to avoid unnecessary booking fees.
Baggage
Unlike flying, the train does not impose strict baggage limits (except for some Japanese and Italian regional trains). You can generally bring two large suitcases and a carry-on bag at no extra charge. This is a considerable advantage for long journeys or families. However, make sure you can carry your luggage yourself, especially for boarding the train or storing it in the luggage racks.
Comfort on Board
For a comfortable train journey, bring something to occupy yourself (book, music, podcasts), but do not forget to look up from your screen from time to time to enjoy the landscape. Bring water and a snack, especially if you are traveling in a country where on-board catering is limited or expensive. Power outlets are now present in most European trains, but a universal adapter can be useful depending on the country.
Punctuality
Train punctuality varies considerably by country. Swiss, German, Austrian, and Dutch trains are generally very punctual. French, Italian, and Spanish trains are generally reliable but can experience delays, especially on regional lines. Trains in the Balkans and Eastern Europe are often late — allow a margin in your connections. In case of significant delay (more than 60 minutes), you are entitled to compensation of up to 50% of the ticket price according to European regulations.
Technological Innovations in Trains in 2026
The year 2026 marks a major technological turning point for European rail transport. The new high-speed trainsets integrate innovations that transform the travel experience. The French TGV M, with its modular cars that adapt to needs (more luggage space during off-peak hours, more seats during peak hours), offers unprecedented comfort. The German ICE 4 offers seats equipped with sensors that automatically adjust temperature and inclination, while the Italian Frecciarossa 1000 has developed an active suspension system that almost completely eliminates vibrations.
The digitalization of railway travel is also accelerating. Dematerialized tickets are now the norm throughout Europe, and the European “Rail Europe” app allows you to plan, book, and pay for a multimodal journey combining trains, buses, and metros in 33 countries. Artificial intelligence is used to optimize connections and inform travelers in real time about delays and disruptions. Stations, now veritable digital hubs, offer coworking spaces, connected luggage lockers, and interactive information terminals.
The great revolution of 2026 is the arrival of the first hydrogen trains on non-electrified lines. Germany, France, and the United Kingdom have deployed these innovative trainsets on regional lines, considerably reducing CO2 emissions while offering comfort comparable to electric trains. These trains, which emit only water vapor, could eventually replace diesel trains still in service on secondary lines.
The Challenges of Rail Travel in Europe
Despite these impressive advances, train travel in Europe is not without its challenges. Interoperability between different national networks remains a major problem: signaling systems, electrical voltages, and track gauges still vary from one country to another, forcing international trains to change locomotives or slow down at borders. The European Union is working on harmonizing these standards via the ERTMS (European Rail Traffic Management System), but full deployment is not expected before 2035.
Pricing is another major challenge. While low-cost airlines offer tickets at 20 euros to cross Europe, the train often remains more expensive, especially for international routes. Government subsidies and European initiatives are beginning to correct this imbalance, but there is still a way to go to make the train accessible to all budgets.
Finally, punctuality remains a weak point in some countries. If Switzerland, Austria, and Germany display punctuality rates above 90%, France, Italy, and Spain experience more frequent delays, partly due to strikes and technical incidents. Railway travelers must therefore plan a margin in their connections, especially on international routes.
Conclusion
Traveling by train in Europe in 2026 has never been more exciting. The renaissance of night trains, the expansion of the high-speed network, ecological awareness, and technological innovations make the train the ideal mode of travel to explore the Old Continent. Whether you are a solo backpacker, a couple in search of railway romance, or a family with children, the train offers a unique experience, slower, more immersive, and infinitely more enriching than the plane.
So, the next time you plan a trip to Europe, ask yourself this simple question: what if I took the train? You might well discover that the journey is just as beautiful as the destination. And that is, ultimately, the greatest lesson of railway travel: the path is the goal, and every kilometer traveled is an invitation to slow down, to observe, to marvel.
