Europe’s best new train routes for 2025

Exploring Europe by train is about to get even better in 2025.

With new routes launching across the continent, travellers will have more options than ever, from budget-friendly trips to luxurious escapes. Here’s what’s in store for next year’s rail adventures.

Brussels to Venice: The ultimate sleeper train experience

Imagine drifting to sleep in Brussels and waking up in the magical canals of Venice. Starting 5 February 2025, European Sleeper introduces this enchanting new route, taking passengers on a journey through some of Europe’s most picturesque landscapes.

• Journey Highlights:
  • Departure: Brussels at 5 PM, arrival: Venice at 2 PM the next day.
  • Stops include Eindhoven, Munich, Innsbruck, and Bolzano.
  • Stunning views of the Dolomites before arriving in Venice.
• Onboard Experience:
  • Choose from sleeper cabins (already in high demand), couchette cabins starting at €139, or upright seats.
  • Enjoy a restaurant car for dinner and a lounge bar for evening drinks.
  • Optional breakfast (€14) served just before arrival.

This route is perfect for spring travellers and coincides with the Venice Carnival (14 February – 5 March).

Amsterdam to Barcelona: The must-see sleeper train route

Two of Europe’s most vibrant cities will soon be connected by an overnight sleeper train. While the current journey takes 17 hours with multiple changes, the upcoming direct route will transform travel between Amsterdam and Barcelona.

• Route overview:
  • Stops include Brussels and Lille, offering a seamless connection.
  • Designed to make overnight travel both practical and enjoyable.
• Launch date:
  • Originally slated for spring 2025, the route is now expected in late 2025 or beyond.
  • Why the buzz? Travel enthusiasts like Christina Tan can’t wait: “Night trains bring back the romance of travel. This route is going to be magical.”

Paris to Berlin: Experience high-Speed daytime travel

For those who prefer daylight travel, a new high-speed ICE train will debut between Paris and Berlin on 16 December 2025, cutting travel time to just eight hours.

• Details to Know:
  • Depart Paris Est at 9:55 AM, arrive Berlin Hauptbahnhof at 6:03 PM.
  • Stops in Strasbourg, Karlsruhe, and Frankfurt.
  • Onboard perks: restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and scenic views.

With fares starting at just €59.99, this route offers an affordable and efficient way to explore two iconic capitals.

La Dolce Vita: Indulge in a Luxurious rail journey

Step into the golden age of train travel with Orient Express La Dolce Vita. This opulent service combines vintage charm with modern luxury, creating an unforgettable experience.

• What to expect:
  • Carriages feature deluxe cabins, master suites, and the ultra-luxurious “La Dolce Vita” suite.
  • Routes include Rome to Venice, Portofino, Matera, and beyond.
• Price tag:
  • Fares start at €2,500 per person per night, with departures beginning April 2025.
  • International routes to Paris and Istanbul are also in the pipeline.

This is more than a train ride—it’s a journey back in time, filled with elegance and indulgence.

GoVolta: Affordable rail travel for Budget explorers

Dubbed the ‘easyJet of railways,’ GoVolta aims to make long-distance train travel accessible to everyone. Starting in September 2025, this Dutch company will roll out affordable routes for budget-conscious travellers.

• Key Routes:
  • Amsterdam to Berlin (€10 tickets available).
  • Future destinations include Copenhagen and Basel.
• What Sets GoVolta Apart:
  • Slower travel times but unbeatable prices.
  • At least 110 tickets priced under €10 on every train.

For those willing to trade speed for savings, GoVolta is the perfect choice.

Whether you’re seeking a budget-friendly journey or a luxurious escape, the new train routes launching in 2025 promise to make rail travel more exciting than ever. Start planning now and get ready to explore Europe in style.