2026 marks the grand return of luxury train travel in Europe. The Orient Express is resurrected on the legendary Paris-Istanbul line, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) launches a brand-new route to the Amalfi Coast, and extraordinary new rail journeys are emerging from Scotland to Spain. This comprehensive guide reviews the 10 most remarkable luxury trains on the continent to help you choose your next rail adventure.
Between century-old Art Deco cabins, Michelin-starred cuisine by Heinz Beck and Jean Imbert, and breathtaking Alpine landscapes, luxury train travel emerges in 2026 as the most elegant—and most sustainable—alternative to short-haul flights. Here’s our selection, from timeless icons to newcomers redefining the genre.
1. Orient Express La Dolce Vita — Italy Aboard a Rolling Palace
The first Italian Orient Express, launched in April 2025
Launched with great fanfare in April 2025, La Dolce Vita Orient Express is the result of a partnership between Arsenale S.p.A and the Orient Express brand (Accor group). This luxury train travels across Italy on six distinct routes—from Rome to Venice, from Sicily to the Dolomites—in a setting inspired by the Italian elegance of the 1960s, according to Orient Express.
The undeniable highlight: the gastronomy by Heinz Beck, a three-Michelin-starred chef. The onboard restaurant, named La Dolce Vita, offers creative cuisine using local products selected at each stop. A panoramic bar-lounge completes the experience, as reported by Orient Express Gastronomy.
What distinguishes La Dolce Vita
- 12 carriages, maximum 62 passengers for intimate privacy
- « Deluxe » cabins and « Suite Honour » with private shower and lounge
- Exclusive excursions at each stop (vineyards, archaeological sites)
- A Gourmet Escape itinerary entirely dedicated to gastronomy according to Orient Express
2. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express — The Legendary Paris-Istanbul
The legendary 5-night journey across Europe
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE), operated by Belmond (LVMH group), remains the most iconic luxury train in the world. Each year, a special departure makes the Paris-Istanbul journey on the historic Orient Express route, crossing Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria in five unforgettable nights, according to IRT Society.
The original 1920s-1930s carriages, meticulously restored, transport passengers into an authentic Art Deco universe. The onboard cuisine, orchestrated by chef Jean Imbert, offers seasonal menus using local products harvested at each stage of the journey, as reported by Le Chef.
2026 Pricing
- Historic Twin: from £17,500/person
- Suite: from £38,000/person
- Grand Suite: from £58,000/person
- 35% deposit at booking according to IRT Society
3. VSOE — The New Route to the Amalfi Coast
Villeggiatura by Train: Paris-Amalfi, the brand-new 2026 route
The major 2026 VSOE innovation: a Paris – Amalfi Coast itinerary as part of the Villeggiatura by Train program. This revolutionary concept combines luxury train travel with stays at the finest Belmond hotels in Italy, as revealed by Euronews Travel.
The inaugural journey, scheduled for May 4, 2026, will take passengers from Paris to Ravello, a lesser-known gem of the Amalfi Coast, with a stay at the sumptuous Belmond Hotel Caruso. The program includes a private tour of Pompeii and exclusive excursions along the coast, according to Belmond.
The three 2026 Villeggiatura options
- Amalfi Coast: VSOE + Belmond Hotel Caruso (Ravello)
- Florence: VSOE + Villa San Michele (Fiesole)
- Portofino: VSOE + Splendido (Portofino)
4. Glacier Express Excellence Class — The Ultimate Alpine Panorama
Zermatt – St. Moritz: 8 hours of Alpine splendor
The Glacier Express connects Zermatt to St. Moritz crossing the Swiss Alps on a spectacular route of 291 bridges and 91 tunnels. Nicknamed the « world’s slowest express train, » it offers 8 hours of contemplation through gorges, valleys and high-altitude passes, according to Glacier Express.
The Excellence Class, launched in 2019, transforms the journey into a premium gastronomic experience. With only 20 seats in a dedicated panoramic car, it offers a 5-course menu accompanied by selected Swiss wines, welcome champagne and personalized service. The fare includes seat reservation, full meal and beverages, according to Glacier Express Excellence Class.
2026 Pricing
- 2nd class: mandatory reservation from CHF 49 + SBB ticket
- 1st class: reservation from CHF 69 + SBB ticket
- Excellence Class: approximately CHF 600 all-inclusive according to MySwissAlps
- Pro tip: with a Swiss Travel Pass, the journey is free—you only pay for the reservation
5. Royal Scotsman — The Highlands in a Rolling Manor
Wild Scotland in Edwardian palace style
The Belmond Royal Scotsman is a true « rolling manor » that traverses the grandiose landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. With a maximum of 36 passengers aboard, intimacy is guaranteed. Itineraries range from 2 to 7 nights, with loops crossing the moors, lochs and castles of northern Scotland, according to IRT Society.
In 2026, Belmond strengthens the train’s wellness positioning with a Dior partnership for wellness retreats aboard. The « Grand Suites » offer generous space with private lounge, and excursions include distillery visits, salmon fishing parties and guided hikes in otherwise inaccessible areas.
2026 Pricing (example: Western Scenic Wonders)
- Twin/Double: from £8,500/person
- Grand Suite: from £19,900/person
- 25% deposit at booking according to IRT Society
- All-inclusive: meals, drinks, excursions and transfers
6. Transcantábrico Gran Lujo — Secret Atlantic Spain
From Santiago de Compostela to León: 8 days of Basque and Asturian gastronomy
The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo is the overlooked gem of European luxury train travel. Operated by Renfe, it hugs the northern coast of Spain—Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia—on an 8-day route crossing some of the most spectacular and least touristy landscapes of the Iberian Peninsula, according to The Luxury Train Travel Company.
With only 28 passengers, the train offers spacious suites with private lounge. The unique « day train, hotel by night » format means you travel during the day to enjoy the panoramas, then the train stations at night for perfect rest. The gastronomy draws from Basque and Asturian terroirs—natural cider, pintxos, aged cheeses and Atlantic seafood.
What makes the difference
- Daily excursions: Guggenheim Bilbao, Altamira caves, Picos de Europa
- Stops in villages like Potes (gateway to the Picos) and Ribadeo (Beach of the Cathedrals)
- All-inclusive: meals, drinks, excursions, transfers and gratuities
- Season: April to October 2026
7. Al Ándalus — New Seville-Madrid Route in 2026
The 1929 Belle Époque palace ventures into Extremadura
Major 2026 news: Al Ándalus is no longer limited to Andalusia. Renfe announces a new Seville-Madrid itinerary crossing Extremadura, a region with colossal heritage but still underrated by international tourism. The train will stop at Mérida (UNESCO-listed Roman ruins), Cáceres (medieval old town) and Toledo, according to Renfe.
The carriages date from 1929, restored in dazzling Belle Époque style. The format remains the same as the Transcantábrico: hotel-train with integrated excursions and haute cuisine, on a 7-day/6-night cycle, as reported by Condé Nast Traveler.
Why it’s exceptional in 2026
- Extremadura is one of Spain’s most authentic and least visited regions
- Mérida has the best-preserved Roman theater in Europe
- Pricing: from €6,600 to €11,200/person depending on cabin
- Season: April to October 2026
8. Golden Eagle Danube Express — Paris-Istanbul via the Balkans
The « cruise on rails » version of Paris-Istanbul
If the VSOE is the « myth, » the Golden Eagle Danube Express is the ultra-logistical version of Paris-Istanbul. The 8 to 11-night itinerary crosses Central Europe and the Balkans with in-depth excursions at each stop—Vienna, Budapest, Belgrade, Sofia—and nights in 5-star hotels integrated into the program, according to Golden Eagle Luxury Trains.
The concept resembles more of a cruise on rails: everything is organized, excursions are guided by local experts, and onboard comfort is consistent. It’s the ideal option for travelers who want to « see a lot » without any logistical friction.
2026 Pricing (per person, in twin)
- Deluxe Class: €16,900 (twin) / €28,200 (single)
- Superior Deluxe: €21,300 (twin) / €35,600 (single)
- 25% deposit—dates in May and September 2026 according to Golden Eagle
9. Britannic Explorer — The New British Luxury
Cornwall, Wales, Lake District: the English countryside in luxury sleeping cars
The Britannic Explorer is Belmond’s latest creation: England and Wales’s first luxury sleeper. Launched in 2025, this train embodies a modern vision of rail luxury—less Art Deco gilt, more contemporary British design, botanical cocktails and « curated » excursions to sculpture gardens, wine estates and artistic villages, according to Belmond Mediahub.
Three routes from London Victoria are offered: Cornwall, Wales and Lake District. The « British contemporary » aesthetic extends to the wellness suite aboard and cuisine showcasing the best products from the regions crossed, according to Forbes.
What you need to know
- All-inclusive: gourmet meals, alcoholic beverages, excursions according to Belmond
- Pricing: from £4,000 to £11,000/person for 3 nights
- Season: May to September
- UK « luxury nature » in a single program, without road logistics
10. The Original Orient Express — The Renaissance of the 1883 Train
The return of the « real » Orient Express by Accor and SNCF
This project should not be confused with Belmond’s VSOE or La Dolce Vita. The Orient Express by Accor and SNCF is the resurrection of the original 1883 train—Agatha Christie’s. The historic carriages are currently being restored by 30 master craftsmen—glassmakers, embroiderers, upholsterers and cabinetmakers—in authentic Art Deco style, according to Euronews Travel.
The bar will feature sumptuous green sofas, marble, rosewood and a vaulted ceiling with panoramic windows. The itinerary will follow the historic Paris-Istanbul route via Strasbourg, Vienna, Budapest, Bucharest and Munich. Exact pricing and dates have not yet been revealed, but the ultra-premium positioning suggests prices of €15,000 to €30,000 per person.
The Orient Express ecosystem in 2026
- Orient Express Corinthian: first of two Orient Express yachts, launched in 2026
- Orient Express Venice: luxury hotel in Venice, opening April 2026
- British Pullman « Celia »: private carriage by Baz Luhrmann, summer 2026 (from £15,000 for 12 guests) according to Belmond Mediahub
Bonus: The Night Train Revolution in 2026
Midnight Trains, European Sleeper and Lapland in a cabin
Beyond traditional luxury, 2026 marks unprecedented excitement on the European night train front. Three major trends are emerging:
European Sleeper: Paris-Berlin on March 26, 2026
The Dutch cooperative European Sleeper launches its Paris-Berlin service on March 26, 2026. Prices are accessible: seats from €59, couchettes from €79, Comfort compartments from €129 with beds, sinks and duvets, according to Travel And Tour World. An Amsterdam-Milan service will follow in June 2026.
Midnight Trains: the hotel on rails
French startup Midnight Trains promises a « hotel room on rails » concept with spacious double cabins, restaurant-quality dining and boutique design. The launch, initially planned for 2025, is now expected during 2026-2027, according to Backroad Planet.
Lapland by night train: functional Nordic luxury
Finnish night trains VR (Helsinki → Rovaniemi/Kolari) offer a different luxury: private cabin with shower from €74, in service of an exceptional destination—northern lights, snowy forests, frozen lakes. It’s the luxury of nature experience, not gilt, according to VR Finland.
Comparison Table: Europe’s Luxury Trains 2026
| Train | Duration | From | Gastronomy | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Dolce Vita OE | 1-3 nights | €3,500/person | 3★ Michelin (Heinz Beck) | 1960s Italy |
| VSOE Paris-Venice | 1 night | ~€4,450/person | Jean Imbert, 4 courses | 1920s Art Deco |
| VSOE Paris-Istanbul | 5 nights | ~£17,500/person | Multi-country | Legendary |
| VSOE Paris-Amalfi | 3+ nights | ~£8,600/person | Regional Italian | Art Deco + coast |
| Glacier Express EC | 8h (day) | ~CHF 600 | 5 courses + Swiss wines | Alpine panoramic |
| Royal Scotsman | 2-7 nights | £4,500/person | Refined Scottish | Edwardian manor |
| Transcantábrico | 4-8 days | €9,900/person | Basque-Asturian | Noble wood suites |
| Al Ándalus | 7 days | €6,600/person | Andalusian | 1929 Belle Époque |
| Golden Eagle DE | 8-11 nights | €16,900/person | European fusion | Balkan explorer |
| Britannic Explorer | 3 nights | £4,000/person | British terroir | Contemporary chic |
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between the VSOE (Belmond) and the new Orient Express (Accor/SNCF)?
They are two completely separate entities. The VSOE (Venice Simplon-Orient-Express) is operated by Belmond (LVMH group) with Art Deco carriages from the 1920s-30s. The new Orient Express is an Accor/SNCF project to resurrect the original 1883 train, with cabins restored by 30 master craftsmen, expected for 2026-2027. There’s also La Dolce Vita Orient Express, an Italian train under Orient Express license, launched in April 2025. Three brands, three different experiences, as detailed by Adventure Chest.
Can you still do Paris-Istanbul by luxury train in 2026?
Yes, in two ways. The VSOE offers one special annual Paris-Istanbul departure in 5 nights (from £17,500/person) according to IRT Society. The Golden Eagle Danube Express offers a similar itinerary in 8-11 nights with in-depth excursions in the Balkans (from €16,900/person) according to Golden Eagle.
Does the VSOE really go to the Amalfi Coast in 2026?
Yes. Belmond announces a Paris → Amalfi Coast itinerary as part of its Villeggiatura by Train program, with an inaugural journey on May 4, 2026. The program includes a private visit to Pompeii and a stay at the sumptuous Belmond Hotel Caruso in Ravello, as confirmed by Euronews Travel.
Which luxury train to choose for a first experience?
For an introduction, the Glacier Express Excellence Class offers the best value (~CHF 600 for one day). For a more complete immersion, the VSOE Paris-Venice (1 night, from ~€4,450) or the Royal Scotsman 2 nights (from £4,500) are excellent choices. For the richest cultural adventure over several days, the Transcantábrico or Golden Eagle are unbeatable.
Which train to choose if gastronomy is my priority?
La Dolce Vita Orient Express is the #1 choice with its cuisine by Heinz Beck (3 Michelin stars) according to Orient Express. The VSOE (Jean Imbert, seasonal menus, legendary bar car) is an excellent second choice according to Le Chef. The Transcantábrico appeals to terroir lovers with its authentic Basque-Asturian cuisine.
Can you book directly without going through an agency?
Often yes, but it’s not always straightforward. Belmond (VSOE, Royal Scotsman, Britannic Explorer) offers booking via its website and dedicated number according to Belmond. Renfe (Transcantábrico, Al Ándalus) provides phone and email for its luxury tourist trains according to Renfe. Golden Eagle offers direct sales via its website according to Golden Eagle. For the most in-demand trains (VSOE Paris-Istanbul), a specialized tour operator can facilitate booking.
Do you need to dress formally aboard?
It depends on the train. The VSOE is the most formal: during the day, the style is « smart casual » (no jeans, shorts, T-shirts or sneakers). For dinner, tuxedo is common for men and cocktail dress for ladies, with the minimum being suit and tie, according to Luxury Trains. The Britannic Explorer and Glacier Express are more casual. The Royal Scotsman recommends « country smart » attire with a formal dinner on the last evening.
When to book for the best rates?
As a general rule, book as early as possible: as cabins fill up, prices increase according to Luxury Trains. For the VSOE and Royal Scotsman, aim for 6 to 12 months in advance. For Glacier Express Excellence Class, at least one year—the 20 seats sell out in a few days. For Spanish trains (Transcantábrico, Al Ándalus), 3 to 6 months is generally sufficient.
Sources
Main Sources
- Orient Express — The Grand Premiere of La Dolce Vita Orient Express
- Orient Express — La Dolce Vita Gastronomy
- IRT Society — Paris to Istanbul by Luxury Train: Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
- Euronews Travel — VSOE Amalfi Coast Route 2026
- Belmond — Villeggiatura by Train Italy 2026
- Glacier Express — Prices: Seat Reservations and Tickets
- Glacier Express — Excellence Class
- IRT Society — Belmond Royal Scotsman: Western Scenic Wonders
- The Luxury Train Travel Company — El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo
- Renfe — Al Ándalus Train Will Launch New Itinerary 2026
- Condé Nast Traveler — Spain’s Most Glamorous Train Launches New Journey 2026
- Golden Eagle Luxury Trains — Paris to Istanbul
- Belmond Mediahub — Belmond Shapes the Future of Travel Through Slow Luxury
- Forbes — The Britannic Explorer Luxury Train Inaugural Journey
- Euronews Travel — New Vintage Luxury Train Journeys 2026
Additional Sources
- Le Chef — Jean Imbert aux commandes du VSOE
- Luxury Trains — Venice Simplon-Orient-Express 2025 & 2026
- MySwissAlps — Glacier Express Route, Price & Alternatives 2026
- Swiss Family Fun — Glacier Express 2026 Guide
- Belmond Mediahub — British Pullman Celia by Baz Luhrmann
- Belmond — Inside the Britannic Explorer
- Adventure Chest — Orient Express 2025-26: Routes & Prices
- Travel And Tour World — Paris-Berlin Night Train Returns 2026
- Backroad Planet — 9 New European Trains 2026
- VR Finland — Night Trains Sleeper Cars
- Orient Express — Gourmet Escape La Dolce Vita
- Renfe — Nueva web Trenes Turísticos de Lujo
Article updated in February 2026. Pricing and availability are subject to change—always verify on operator official websites before booking.
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