Overland is much better than flying for so many reasons.

Whether you prefer ferries or the Eurostar, European train holidays from London and other stations in the UK are going to continue gaining popularity in 2026.

If you enjoyed my trip through the Pyrenees on France’s Little Yellow Train, you’ll be pleased to hear I’m keen to book another budget-friendly train trip to Europe for myself and Mr D.

Research is ongoing.

I love train travel research but in case you don’t, I thought I’d share my initial ideas with you.

Previous train trips to Europe

In 2024 I travelled to and from Paris by train and ferry in April, and back from Sweden to London by train in July. The Sweden trip gave me the opportunity to compare flying with train travel because I flew out and caught the train back. The Paris trip reminded me of how much I love ferries but I’ve since discovered an even better way to cross the Channel (see SailLink below).

The train was by far my preferred travel method.

I love train adventures in the UK and overseas.

So I’m keen (and I mean KEEN) to organise another European train travel experience. I have my spreadsheet at the ready and am looking at another 10-day trip for two adults sometime in April.

Having travelled through Paris a few times now, I’m keen to find an alternative route.

I’m looking for a train ride with fantastic views and a destination that’s slightly out of the ordinary. Hopefully with opportunities to do a bit of walking and swimming. as well as general sightseeing and local food appreciation.

I’m looking for the best budget train holiday in Europe!

Updated European train routes for 2026

Once of the great things about the resurgence of European leisure train travel is that year on year, more train routes are opening up and improving. I’ll try to keep an eye on this for you as the year progresses.

Why no follow me on Instagram to keep updated.

New luxury European train travel experiences are popping up all the time but I’ve ignored them for now as I’m looking for a more affordable approach to Europe by train. One that more of my followers can get on board with (pun intended).

I’ve chosen three possible new train route options, but there are plenty more.

Here’s where European train holiday enthusiasts might be going in 2026.

And please excuse the lack of photos. These trips are still at the daydreaming stage.

Brussels to Milan (sleeper)

From September 2026 – European Sleeper (sales open 17th March)

Price not yet available

If the 2026 Winter Olympics has put Milan on your travel list and you fancy travelling through Switzerland, you’re in luck with this new Europe sleeper train route. Known for its fashion, architecture and sophistication, this is a busy modern city is also a centre for some amazing day trips.

Lake Como by train and ferry anyone?

Three visitor experiences on my Milan list:

• Verona by train – for Romeo and Juliet scenes
• Duomo di Milano – for a cathedral tour
• QC Termemilano – for luxurious thermal spa time

Prague to Copenhagen (direct)

From May 2026 – CD (České dráhy)

This train trip is a tale of two very different cities. Travel in 11 hours, without changes from Prague’s atmospheric story-book vibe to Copenhagen’s modern waterside lifestyle, and arrive ready to explore (after a coffee and pastry of course).

No more changing in Hamburg!

Not to miss in Prague and Copenhagen:

• Prague’s Orloj or astronomical clock – to view the apostles
• Surfing Prague’s Vltava river wave – or just watching
• Copenhagen from above – from the Round Tower
• Kastrup Søbad – for a Baltic Sea swim

Birmingham to Scotland (sleeper)

We’ve all heard of the Caledonian Sleeper from London to Scotland but you can now hop on board this iconic night train at Birmingham International station.

From England’s second city to the UK’s most remote and highest train station. Yes please!!!

Follow me on Instagram.

Cross the Channel by sail

We all know that Eurostar and the Channel Ferries are great car-free ways to get across the English Channel but Saillink have come up with what I think must be the ultimate eco-friendly travel method; how about sailing across the Channel on a stable catamaran? Shelter from the wind in the salon, enjoy the blast from the decks or even help trim the sails and steer, it’s up to you.

And I hope it’s going to be up to me soon. This trip is definitely on my radar for 2026.

The best European train journey planners

If you’ve ever used an Interrail ticket for your European travel, you’ll be aware that Interrail don’t update their Rail Planner app timetables every day.

In other words, the Interrail app is great for pre-planning but if you want to get real-time train information when you’re actually travelling in Europe it’s best to use a local travel app for the countries you are visiting.

In 2024 I used these Europe journey planner apps:

• SNCF Connect for trains in France
• DB Navigator for trains in Germany (and beyond)
• IDF Mobilities for public transport around Paris
• SL for public transport around Stockholm

The Man in Seat 61 recommends the DB Navigator website for train travel across the whole of Europe. He’s far more experienced than I am and I’m inclined to agree.

Once we’ve decided which train journey to Europe to take, I’ll update you with more details. I’m looking forward to planning accommodation and travel as well as the best places to eat as we whizz across Europe.

Bon voyage!