For decades, the idea of international travel was synonymous with the roar of a jet engine. Airliners delivered a promise of speed, shrinking continents and making a holiday in Paris or Rome an overnight possibility. Yet, as the novelty of rapid transit faded, so too did its romance. Today, a quiet but profound shift is underway, moving travellers from the skies back to the rails. Data underscores this dynamic change, services like the Eurostar continue to show strong demand for international connectivity from the UK, while globally, interest in holidays by rail is booming. Reports highlight that around 51% of UK travellers who use Eurostar also take onward rail journeys, finding that the train makes the journey feel like part of the holiday experience.
Why the tracks are calling again
Why are travellers swapping airport queues for continental carriages? The decision is rarely based on a single factor, but rather a convergence of major cultural and logistical forces. For many, the choice is fundamentally ethical. Air travel carries a significantly higher carbon footprint than rail, particularly for short-haul journeys. With environmental awareness playing a major role, travellers are consciously choosing rail as a demonstrably more sustainable option to align their holidays with their values.
Air travel has become increasingly stressful. The need to arrive hours early, endure lengthy security queues, face flight delays, and cope with the growing sense of air travel anxiety are powerful deterrents. Trains offer a contrasting experience: city-centre-to-city-centre connections, minimal waiting times, and a relaxed environment where you can work or unwind immediately.
Finally, the rise of the 'slow travel' movement has made the journey itself an attraction. Instead of a rapid means to an end, the train journey becomes a scenic, comfortable, and productive part of the adventure. The promise of seeing the landscape unfold, from the vineyards of France to the Alpine peaks is a compelling antidote to the detached experience of flying.
Travel experts confirm the trend
Travel industry professionals are witnessing this burgeoning interest first-hand, noting that international rail is fast becoming a preferred, rather than niche, mode of travel for several distinct demographics.
Talking with Asian Voice, Jaymin Borkhatria, from Southall Travels, notes the strength of this movement: “We’ve certainly seen a growing appetite among travellers choosing international train journeys over short-haul flights, particularly across Europe and parts of Asia. Convenience is another key factor; trains offer city-centre-to-city-centre connections, no long security queues, and greater comfort. The rise of high-speed networks has also made cross-border rail travel faster and more competitive, while the ‘slow travel’ trend is encouraging people to enjoy the journey itself.”
Jaymin adds that in the UK, the demand is evolving beyond simple transport: “The growth is particularly strong in niche segments that value experience, comfort, scenery and sustainability, although it is not yet exploding in every part of the market.”
With Asian Voice, Vas Jesani, from Incredible Adventures with Vas, also highlights the desire for luxury and experiential journeys, “From my perspective, there’s been a noticeable rise in interest around luxury and experiential rail travel, especially post-pandemic. Travellers are increasingly seeking slower, more scenic journeys that combine comfort with cultural immersion. In particular, Switzerland’s iconic train routes, such as the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and GoldenPass Line, have seen a surge in popularity. Overall, the trend is shifting towards authentic, slow-paced, and meaningful travel where people rediscover the joy of movement, comfort, and storytelling along the tracks.”
The rails have roared back, inviting a new generation of travellers to slow down and enjoy the view, making the decision to travel abroad one that is as much about conscience and comfort as it is about speed.
