As travellers increasingly seek more sustainable and immersive ways to explore, a collection of new train routes launching in 2025 is set to revolutionise rail travel. From the rolling hills of Britain to the sun-drenched Italian coast, these journeys combine old-world charm with modern luxury, offering experiences that go beyond simply reaching a destination.
The renaissance of rail travel comes at a time when sustainable tourism takes centre stage in the luxury sector. These new routes promise to deliver experiences that celebrate slow travel while maintaining the highest standards of comfort and service. With carefully curated itineraries, exceptional dining experiences, and thoughtfully designed carriages, each journey has been crafted to showcase the unique character of its route.
What sets these new rail experiences apart is their focus on destination immersion. Unlike traditional train travel, these routes include carefully planned stops that allow travellers to explore hidden gems and iconic locations alike. From wine tastings in ancient cellars to private tours of historic estates, the exclusive experiences extend well beyond the train itself.
A British affair with Belmond
Belmond’s latest venture, the Britannic Explorer, marks one of the most anticipated new train routes launching in 2025. Starting from London in July, this elegant train will weave through the British countryside, taking in destinations such as Cornwall, Wales, and the Lake District. The experience mirrors the sophistication found at iconic hotels with views, featuring a dining car inspired by English gardens and a dedicated wellness spa carriage.
belmond.com/britannic-explorer, @belmondbritishpullman
Arabian nights on rails
Saudi Arabia continues its ambitious tourism development with a groundbreaking 41-cabin desert train, scheduled among the new train routes launching in 2025. The journey spans nearly 800 miles from Riyadh to Al Qurayyat, offering guests a unique perspective of the kingdom’s diverse landscapes. This luxury experience includes upscale dining cars that celebrate Saudi culture and tradition, while the route showcases everything from vast deserts to the protected King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Royal Natural Reserve.
arsenalegroup.com, @arsenalegroup
La Dolce Vita reimagined
April 2025 welcomes the Orient Express La Dolce Vita, an homage to Italian elegance and style. The train’s carefully crafted itineraries include coastal trips to Venice and Portofino, adventures through Tuscan wine country, and explorations of Sicily. Guests can expect fine dining from a Michelin-starred chef, with menus celebrating regional Italian cuisine served in an exquisitely designed dining carriage.
orient-express.com/la-dolce-vita, @orientexpress
European Sleeper’s alpine adventure
For those seeking a more accessible option among the new train routes launching in 2025, the European Sleeper’s Brussels to Venice service begins operation on February 5. The 20-hour journey crosses through some of Europe’s most scenic regions, including the Austrian Alps, with stops in cultural hubs such as Munich, Innsbruck, and Verona. The twice-weekly service offers various accommodation options, from sleeper cabins to regular coach seats.
europeansleeper.eu, @europeansleeper
French elegance on Le Grand Tour
Le Puy Du Fou introduces Le Grand Tour, a six-day journey through France’s most enchanting regions. Departing from Paris Gare de l’Est, the train traverses through Champagne, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley. This intimate experience, limited to ensure personalised service, includes curated excursions that showcase French culture and heritage.
legrandtour.com, @legrandtouroff
As the world of luxury travel continues to evolve, these new train routes launching in 2025 stand as testament to the enduring appeal of rail journeys. They offer a sophisticated alternative to conventional travel, combining environmental consciousness with unparalleled comfort. From the thoughtfully curated menus celebrating regional cuisine to the carefully planned excursions at each stop, every aspect has been considered to create memorable moments.
For those seeking to explore the world in 2025, these rail experiences promise something increasingly rare in modern travel – the luxury of time. As the trains wind their way through diverse landscapes, from ancient cities to remote wilderness, passengers have the opportunity to experience destinations in a way that air travel simply cannot match. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most extraordinary experiences come not from reaching a destination, but from the journey that takes you there.
