Exploring the Railways of Europe in 2023: Discovering New Startups and Itineraries for Exceptional Journeys

As Europe embraces a resurgence in train travel, many EU nations, like France, are pushing to replace air travel on routes under 2.5 hours with more sustainable train options. This shift in transportation preferences has sparked a wave of new and innovative train startups. These companies are connecting various parts of the continent with more cost-effective and convenient schedules than ever before.

One exciting example is NightJet sleepers, operated by Austrian company OBB, that will connect Munich, Vienna, and Salzburg to Italy. Additionally, Spanish operator Iryo is expanding its high-speed services, making it possible to travel between Barcelona and Madrid in a fast and affordable way, with one-way tickets starting at just $22.

To address the challenge of trains running on different track gauges in different countries, some train operators are now implementing solutions that allow for seamless travel across borders without the need for passengers to change trains.

One example is the Swiss GoldenPass Express, which has recently re-launched its service from Montreux to Interlaken. In the past, travelers would have to disembark at Zweisimmen due to the gauge change, but the new trains now have the ability to adjust to the different gauges and platform heights, as well as the varying voltages encountered along the route. This makes for a smoother, more convenient journey for passengers.

Great Rail Journeys, a UK-based tour operator, predicts that one-third of British people plan to take a train journey in 2023, driven by the desire for a more leisurely, low-stress and airport-free mode of transportation, as well as the opportunity to visit multiple destinations on the same trip. Companies like Byway now aid in planning holidays exclusively by rail.

Mark Smith, known as "The Man in Seat 61," has been advocating for train travel since founding his website in 2001. A former railway worker, his website focuses on all aspects of train travel. He recently stated in an interview with The Telegraph that one of the main reasons people should consider train travel over flying is the availability of new and improved routes through Eastern Europe, making train travel a more efficient option for trips from the UK to destinations like Prague.

Train companies have begun to adopt the business model of budget airlines by providing affordable, long-distance routes across Europe. While there are still challenges that prevent them from fully competing with air travel, such as the need for government investment in rail infrastructure at a continental level, the European rail network has experienced significant growth and innovation in the past decade.

With the increasing urgency of the climate crisis and growing public demand for sustainable travel options, train operators are now looking to invest in faster and more convenient routes in the future. The railway industry is seeing the change in perception of the consumers who want to travel more environmentally sustainable way, they are now looking forward to making the railway travel more comfortable, convenient and faster to compete with air-travel.

If you're searching for the most legendary train journeys across Europe, CN Traveler's Reader Choice Awards is an excellent resource to find the best routes. The award-winning journeys feature:

The Royal Scotsman, that offers a trip around Scottish Highlands with a maximum of 40 passengers.

The Danube Express's 'Castles of Transylvania' route, which takes you through Romania,

The 1930s art deco British Pullman which leaves London for historic cities like Canterbury or York

And lastly, the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express that runs through the French and Swiss countryside. These trains are considered as the jewels of railway travel.

Each of these trains offer a unique and unforgettable experience, They offer best scenic views, luxury, delicious food and lots of history.