A new year calls for new trends in the travel world–including how we get from one place to another.
While train travel has been trending in the last few years, this mode of transportation will only increase in popularity in 2024, according to predictions.
This year, more travelers are leaving crowded airports behind and turning to slow-travel options that are easier on the environment and their wallets.
Also, modern, long-distance trains offer amenities that travelers find appealing such as free Wi-Fi, bike storage, complimentary meals, pet-friendly compartments, private showers–and beds.
We searched the internet to find seven of the most popular train routes that travelers are talking about in 2024. You can find train routes with gorgeous views, sustainable energy sources, cozy appeal, comfortable accommodations, and more.
Most Scenic U.S. Sleeper Train Route: Amtrak’s Coast Starlight Route
Although the “Golden Age” of rail travel saw its peak in North America almost 100 years ago, there are still plenty of overnight sleeper trains you can take through the U.S.
One of the most popular sleeper train routes in the U.S. is the Coast Starlight. On this route, you can experience the majestic grandeur of the Cascade Range mountains and watch the waves beat against the Pacific Ocean coastline.
This train runs from Los Angeles to Seattle daily, and the route is about 35 hours long, but don’t worry; you can catch some Zs on the way!
The most economical sleeping option on the Coast Starlight Route is the Superliner Roomette. In this private room, your daytime seat folds out to become a bed. The Roomette also includes complimentary meals and access to a shower and restroom in your car.
To better appreciate the amazing scenery, try out the observation car with its floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s no wonder that the Coast Starlight is listed as Amtrak’s number one scenic train route.
Best for Digital Nomads: Nightjet’s Vienna to Brussels Route
If you are exploring Europe as a digital nomad, you can surround yourself with beauty as you work on the Nightjet Vienna to Brussels Route.
This 14-hour trailblazing sleeper train offers “new-gen” amenities, including wireless charging stations and free Wi-Fi so you can work as you travel. There is also storage space for your bicycle and pets are allowed if you upgrade to a private room.
The most affordable sleeping arrangement on this NightJet train is the “Couchette.” This sleeps four to six people and includes breakfast. If you are a solo female traveler, you can choose a designated ladies’ compartment.
Newest Sleeper Train: SNCF’s Paris to Aurillac Route
This SNCF line was discontinued 20 years ago, but it had its grand re-entry on December 10, 2023, making it one of the newest train routes in Europe. The SNCF train runs from the “City of Lights” to the French city of Aurillac at the foot of the Cantal mountains.
This train runs daily during the holiday season. However, the regular night train schedule is limited to Friday and Sunday evenings. The trip can take anywhere from 7 to 12 hours with the option of sleeping arrangements.
You can make a private reservation for a sleeper car for four or six people. Also, solo female travelers can create a reservation for free in the night space for women. The family-friendly French train offers a nursery area for young tots and a dedicated play place for children.
Most Eco-Friendly Sleeper Train: SJ EuroNight’s Stockholm to Hamburg Route
The SJ EuroNight’s Stockholm to Hamburg night route is doing its part to make travel more eco-friendly. The Swedish train uses electricity from hydropower and wind turbines to keep its carbon footprint low. The 12-hour ride offers Couchette or Sleepers.
If budget isn’t an issue, a Sleeper will provide the most comfort. This option comes with a fluffy duvet and includes a toilet, shower, and breakfast box. You can book a single, double, or triple Sleeper room.
The Couchette is the best economy option. These cars sleep four to six people and include a standard blanket and washing station.
Wheelchair accommodations and pet-friendly compartments are also available on the SJ EuroNight route.
Best Sleeper Train for Snow Lovers: TUI Ski Express’s Amsterdam to Austria Route
Snow lovers can enjoy taking a route that travels from one ski resort to another, including popular spots such as Gerlos, Kirchberg, Niederau, Soll, Zell Am See, and Westendorf.
This overnight train starts in Amsterdam and ends up in Austria. During peak season (December 23 to March 31st), this train leaves every Friday night.
Passengers can enjoy free luggage storage, choose between a fixed or fold-out bed, and enjoy a morning breakfast as part of the trip. This route is popular among winter sports enthusiasts. In fact, a TUI ski pass is included in the cost of the trip.
You can’t beat the views from the Ski Express’s panoramic windows as you look out over snow-covered mountains.
Coziest Experience: VR’s Santa Claus Express Helsinki to Rovaniemi Route
You can enjoy the spirit of Christmas all year round with VR’s Santa Claus Express. This route runs from Helsinki, the capital of Finland, to Rovaniemi, the home of Santa himself.
The double-decker train is especially popular during the Christmas season when children are on the lookout for a certain man in a red suit. Finnish Railways highly encourages travelers to reserve a spot early and allows you to purchase tickets 10 months in advance.
This train doesn’t sell beds individually. Instead, you can choose between a double-sleeper cabin and a deluxe double-sleeper cabin which includes a private bathroom. Children under 10 can share a berth with an adult and sleep for free.
The Santa Claus Express route is beautiful at any time of the year and is a great way to explore Finland. You might even get lucky and catch a view of the Northern Lights!
High-Speed Sleeper Train (Coming Soon in 2024): TGV’s Paris to Berlin Route
Traveling from Paris to Berlin will get a little faster in the new year. The new French TGV train is set to unveil a new route in the fall of 2024.
Currently, travelers must change trains to get from France’s capital to Germany’s capital city. However, the new route will allow passengers to traverse Strasbourg and Karlsruhe in a direct route.
This new high-speed night train offers sleeping options and a speedy seven-hour trip.
In 2024, people are turning more and more to trains for their comfort, views, eco-friendliness, and affordability. These seven popular sleeper train routes are currently buzzing across the internet:
- Amtrak’s Coast Starlight Route
- Nightjet’s Vienna to Brussels
- SNCF’s Paris to Aurillac
- SJ EuroNight’s Stockholm to Hamburg
- TUI Ski Express’s Amsterdam to Austria
- VR’s Santa Claus Express Helsinki to Rovaniemi
- TGV’s Paris to Berlin
The route you choose usually depends on your destination. However, if you are a digital nomad or global citizen, sometimes the journey is the most important part of your trip.
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