The 26 Best Places to Go on a Rail Holiday in 2026

A curated list of 26 top destinations for unforgettable rail holidays in 2026, from classic European routes to epic scenic journeys worldwide.

If you’re dreaming about a rail holiday in 2026, this list is your ultimate starting point. These destinations offer jaw-dropping scenery, iconic cultural moments, and smooth connections, and with Railbookers handling all logistics, every journey becomes effortless. Whether you're craving mountains, coastlines, luxury trains, or world capitals, here are 26 extraordinary places to explore by rail next year.

1. Switzerland

Switzerland remains the gold standard for scenic rail. Snow-covered peaks, turquoise lakes, charming alpine villages, and world-famous panoramic trains make it a bucket-list country for anyone who loves unforgettable landscapes. Every transfer is easy thanks to Switzerland’s famously smooth rail network, and each town feels more postcard-perfect than the last.

2. Italy

Italy’s rail network is one of the most enjoyable in Europe, whisking you between ancient ruins, Renaissance art cities, and coastal hideaways in comfort. With food, culture, and scenery woven into every stop, Italy is a must-visit for first-time and returning travellers alike. Rail makes it easy to see more without the stress of driving or domestic flights.

3. Scotland

Scotland’s misty moors, rugged coastlines, and historic towns feel cinematic from a train window. The Highlands especially shine by rail, where winding tracks reveal landscapes many visitors never reach. Add in warm pub culture and castle visits, and Scotland becomes one of the most atmospheric rail destinations of 2026.

4. France

From Parisian boulevards to Riviera beaches, France offers elegance, culture, and effortless rail connectivity. TGV routes make exploring the country fast, comfortable, and scenic. Rail travel not only saves time, it turns the journey itself into a pleasure.

5. Spain

From Barcelona’s architecture to Valencia’s beaches, Madrid’s museums, and Seville’s Moorish beauty, Spain delivers colour and energy at every turn. High-speed trains make cross-country travel incredibly smooth, letting you see multiple cities in one unforgettable journey. It's a perfect blend of culture, sunshine, and easy logistics.

6. Alaska

Few places capture the imagination like Alaska. Towering mountains, blue glaciers, wildlife sightings, and wide-open wilderness define this breathtaking rail destination. Travelling by train allows you to soak in the sights without navigating remote roads, leaving more time for adventure.

7. Norway

Fjords, waterfalls, forests, and snow-capped mountains make Norway one of the most scenic rail countries on earth. The Flåm Railway and Bergen Line offer some of the most dramatic scenery in Europe, combining engineering marvels with natural wonder. It’s a place where every ride feels like a film reel.

8. Germany

Germany blends fairytale castles, cutting-edge cities, beer halls, historic streets, and sweeping countryside, all connected by one of the most efficient rail networks in Europe. From Munich’s old-town charm and Bavarian culture to Berlin’s modern energy and history to the riverside beauty of Frankfurt, this rail holiday captures Germany’s diversity in comfort and style.

9. Canadian Rockies

The Rockies offer some of the most dramatic landscapes on earth, emerald lakes, glacier valleys, and snow-capped peaks. Rail brings you into the heart of this spectacle in comfort, where every seat is a window to awe. It’s the perfect alternative to long drives through mountain passes.

10. England

Historic cities, charming villages, and stunning countryside make England ideal for scenic train journeys. Rail travellers can explore London, Bath, Oxford, York, and beyond with ease, skipping the stress of narrow roads and traffic. It’s a classic rail destination for good reason.

11. Portugal

Portugal blends old-world beauty with coastal relaxation. From Lisbon’s viewpoints to Porto’s riverfront and the Douro Valley’s vineyards, rail travel enhances the experience. It’s warm, welcoming, and wonderfully scenic, an emerging favourite for 2026.

12. Austria

Elegant cities, alpine lakes, classical music history, and laid-back villages define Austria's charm. Its rail system makes connecting Vienna, Salzburg, and Hallstatt incredibly easy, each offering a distinct experience and atmosphere.

13. Australia

Australia’s huge scale makes rail travel a revelation. From coastal cities like Sydney and Melbourne to red-desert outback routes, rail offers a comfortable, scenic way to experience the country’s vast variety of landscapes.

14. Ireland

Rolling green hills, rugged coastlines, and lively pub culture define the Irish experience. Rail travel lets you sit back and enjoy the view without tackling rural roads.

15. Scandinavia

Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm combine sleek design, waterfront charm, and modern culture. Rail travel ties these cities together beautifully, offering a stylish and easy European getaway.

16. New Zealand

A land of vast beauty, fjords, volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastal scenery, New Zealand is stunning from the rails. Train travel here is slow, scenic, and immersive, letting you appreciate the landscapes in full.

17. Turkey

Turkey blends East and West with remarkable depth. Explore Istanbul's mosques and bazaars, Cappadocia's fairytale landscapes, and coastal ruins, all woven together with hassle-free connections.

18. Zermatt

A different slice of Switzerland, Zermatt is all about the Matterhorn, car-free charm, and alpine luxury. The Glacier Express enhances the journey, offering panoramic views of snowfields, gorges, and mountaintops.

19. Bordeaux & Loire Valley (France)

Wine lovers and romantics will adore France’s vineyard valleys and château-studded countryside. Travelling by rail makes these regions easy to explore without needing a car in rural areas.

20. Sicily

Sicily offers warm Mediterranean culture, seaside towns, dramatic volcano views, and unforgettable cuisine. Travelling by rail lets you sample the island’s highlights with ease and comfort.

21. Greece

Greece’s mix of ancient landmarks, modern cities, and laid-back island life creates a dream rail and sea combination. Travelling with Railbookers removes the complexity of linking trains, ferries, and hotels.

22. Northern Norway & Arctic Coast

Fishing villages, Arctic wilderness, fjords, and sweeping sea views make this a once-in-a-lifetime destination. Rail combined with coastal cruises reveals remote regions few travellers reach.

23. Croatia

Historic Old Towns, island-speckled coastlines, and warm Adriatic breezes create an irresistible combination. Rail and transfers make exploring Croatia seamless, even in peak season.

24. Morocco

Vibrant souks, desert landscapes, colourful medinas, and dramatic mountain scenery make Morocco a cultural standout. Rail travel adds comfort and ease to this sensory-rich journey.

25. Venice Simplon Orient Express

Luxury rail at its finest, vintage carriages, gourmet meals, impeccable service, and timeless elegance. This experience turns a single journey into a lifelong memory.

26. La Dolce Vita Orient Express (Italy)

Italy’s newest luxury train blends old-world glamour with cinematic routes through vineyards, coastlines, and historic towns. It’s the perfect 2026 splurge for travellers seeking style and sophistication.