13 of the most exciting new train routes launching in 2026

It’s been quite the year in train travel. In Europe, new overnight services have taken off across the continent (even though some were sadly axed). North America’s famous Rocky Mountaineer train was named the world’s best rail journey, while over in Asia, China and Vietnam were finally connected by sleeper train after a five-year hiatus.

Travelling by train is climate-friendly, offers unparalleled views, and makes the journey itself sometimes more impressive than the destination. Passengers are spoilt for choice with luxury carriages to sleeper trains (where you also save on a night’s accommodation) and everything in between.

The good news is that train travel is only picking up steam, rather than slowing down, next year. All sorts of new routes, from Europe and the UK, to Canada and the UAE, are set to leave the station for the very first time. From five-star trips to the Amalfi Coast to a new coastal connection in Cornwall, here are 13 of the most exciting new train routes launching in 2026.

It’s been a long time coming, but next year a passenger train will finally connect all seven emirates. The 900km-long Ethiad Rail will travel through 11 cities and regions across the UAE – from Al Sila in the west to Fujairah in the east – passing through Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai. Comfort is key, with each train offering a range of amenities and entertainment, from an advanced air-conditioning system to charging stations. But fear not, it doesn’t necessarily come with a high price tag as there are options for every type of budget and traveller with three different classes: economy, family and first class.

Fancy a bit of luxury? Then book yourself onto the Al Andalus train, where you can enjoy the splendour of the Spanish countryside from your opulent carriage, previously used by the British Royal Family. The 7-day journey from Seville to Madrid next spring includes bucket-list destinations, like the UNESCO World Heritage city of Toledo and charming villages. That’s if you can bear to peel yourself away from the train, which doubles as a five-star hotel with a glamorous salon to sip the finest cocktails, a fully kitted-out games bar and two high-end restaurants serving traditional Spanish cuisine.