The year 2026 is set to be a landmark period for rail enthusiasts and sustainable travellers, with six new sleeper train routes scheduled to launch across the UK, Europe, and beyond. These services offer an eco-friendly alternative to short-haul flights, combining overnight comfort with scenic journeys that span from the Scottish Highlands to the ancient Silk Road.
A New Era for Overnight Rail Travel
As environmental concerns continue to influence travel choices, sleeper trains are experiencing a significant resurgence. The anticipated routes for 2026 reflect a growing demand for slower, more immersive travel experiences that reduce carbon footprints while connecting major destinations seamlessly. From budget-friendly options to ultra-luxurious itineraries, these new services cater to a wide range of travellers seeking adventure and sustainability.
1. Caledonian Sleeper – London to Scotland via Birmingham
Starting from 15 January 2026, the iconic Caledonian Sleeper will expand its network to include Birmingham International on its "Highlander" route. This enhancement bridges the travel gap between the West Midlands and the Scottish Highlands, offering passengers from Birmingham direct overnight access to destinations like Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, and Fort William. The service operates nightly except Saturdays, departing from London Euston and stopping at Crewe and Preston before heading north.
2. European Sleeper – Amsterdam to Milan via Switzerland
European Sleeper will introduce a direct night train connection from Amsterdam and Brussels to Milan city centre, commencing on 18 June 2026. Departures are scheduled for Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from the Netherlands and Belgium, with return services from Milan on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The route includes stops in Berne, Switzerland, and Stresa on Lago Maggiore, with ticket sales opening in early 2026.
3. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – Paris to Amalfi Coast
Belmond's Venice Simplon-Orient-Express will launch a new four-day journey from Paris on 4 May 2026, winding along the French and Italian Rivieras. This luxury experience includes a scenic boat tour, a private guided visit to Pompeii, and cooking classes with local experts. Tickets start from approximately €10,000 (£8,700) per person, covering all meals, excursions, and transfers.
4. Golden Eagle Luxury Trains – Beijing to Tashkent
Golden Eagle Luxury Trains will offer an exclusive 22-day "The Grand Silk Road" journey from September 2026, traversing the historic Silk Road from Beijing to Tashkent. The itinerary features two private trains with stops at UNESCO-listed sites and ancient cities across Central Asia. Passengers can enjoy superior cabins or Han Dynasty suites, with prices starting from $53,200 (£39,748) for 2027 departures.
5. The Luxury Train Company "Le Grand Tour" – Paris to Puy du Fou
The Luxury Train Travel Company's "Le Grand Tour" is a six-day French rail journey covering 4,000km on an 18-cabin Belle Époque styled train. Departing from Paris Gare de l'Est, the route includes stops in Épernay, Reims, Annecy, and Saint-Emilion, concluding at the Puy du Fou historical theme park. Tickets are priced from £6,210 per person, promising a blend of history, culture, and fine French cuisine.
6. Al Andalus – Seville to Madrid
Spain's luxury Al Ándalus train service will debut a new itinerary for the 2026 season, running from April to October. The seven-day, six-night voyage begins and ends in Madrid, with stops in Seville, Córdoba, and the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. New destinations include Extremadura, Castilla-La Mancha, and Madrid, with prices ranging from €6,600 (£5,700) for a Grand Class room to €7,900 (£6,840) for a Deluxe Suite.
These new sleeper train routes highlight a shift towards sustainable and experiential travel, offering passengers unique opportunities to explore diverse landscapes and cultures while minimising environmental impact. Whether seeking luxury or practicality, 2026 promises to be an exciting year for rail travel enthusiasts worldwide.
