Europe reveals itself most beautifully through a train window. From the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps to the sun-soaked coastline of the French Riviera – the continent offers travellers an unparalleled way to explore: slowly, consciously and sustainably. Travelling through Europe by train is gaining enormous popularity in 2026. More and more travellers are consciously choosing sustainable travel options in Europe – not only for environmental reasons, but also for the experience, comfort and freedom this way of travelling provides. Combined with a characterful holiday home as a base, a train journey through Europe becomes a truly unforgettable adventure.
Sustainable Travel in Europe: A Growing Trend in 2026
Sustainable travel in Europe is no longer a niche – it is a movement. Travel trends in 2026 clearly show that travellers are thinking more carefully about their ecological footprint. Flights are being replaced by train journeys, short car trips by cycling tours, and single-use plastic by reusable alternatives.
Europe’s train infrastructure plays a key role in this shift. With extensive networks including Eurostar, Thalys, TGV and Intercity connections, virtually every corner of Europe is reachable without boarding a single plane. Train travel produces up to 80% less CO₂ than flying the same distance – a compelling argument for the environmentally conscious traveller.
But sustainable travel goes beyond transport alone. It also involves choosing local products, respecting nature and staying in accommodation that aligns with a responsible travel philosophy. Holiday homes and vacation rentals are playing an increasingly important role in this movement.
The Most Beautiful Train Routes Across Europe
Europe boasts an impressive network of train routes, each with its own character and beauty. These are some of the most remarkable and popular routes for travellers in 2026.
The Glacier Express – Switzerland The Glacier Express between Zermatt and St. Moritz is considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. Travellers pass through spectacular mountain landscapes, alongside deep ravines, over historic viaducts and through snow-covered alpine valleys. It is a journey that is a destination in itself.
Paris to Barcelona – The Pyrenees Route The high-speed train from Paris to Barcelona crosses the heart of Europe in just six hours. Along the way, travellers pass the Pyrenees, charming French provincial villages and the first glimpses of the Catalan coastline. A perfect combination of culture, nature and speed.
The Cinque Terre Express – Italy Along the rugged coastline of Liguria, the train connects the five iconic villages of Cinque Terre. Travellers step on and off between colourful fishing cottages, narrow coastal paths and crystal-clear blue water. A train route that showcases the heart of Italy at its most beautiful.
Edinburgh to London – The East Coast Mainline This classic British route winds along the dramatic Scottish coastline, through picturesque towns and past medieval castles. Travellers experience the full contrast of the British Isles in a single journey — from rugged nature to a vibrant metropolis.
Prague to Vienna – Heart of Central Europe A quieter but no less impressive route connects two of Europe’s most culturally rich capitals. Along the way, travellers enjoy Bohemian landscapes, historic villages and the serene banks of the Danube.
Sustainable Travel Options Beyond the Train
Train travel is the best-known sustainable travel option in Europe, but there are more ways for travellers to make greener holiday choices.
Cycling Through Europe Europe’s cycling network grows every year. Routes such as the EuroVelo paths connect countries and cultures across thousands of kilometres. Cycling holidays in Europe are more popular than ever — from the Rhine route through Germany to the coastal routes of Portugal.
Electric Driving For travellers who prefer the flexibility of a car, electric driving offers a more sustainable alternative. Europe’s charging network is expanding rapidly, making an electric road trip through France, Spain or Italy increasingly feasible.
Slow Travel by Bus or Ferry Night buses and ferry services offer a slower but more romantic way of travelling. The night ferry from the Netherlands to England or the Adriatic ferry services to Croatia and Greece are popular choices for travellers who want to experience the journey itself.
Tips for a Sustainable Train Journey Through Europe
- A sustainable train journey through Europe requires smart preparation. These tips help travellers get the most out of their trip:
- Book train tickets early for the best prices and guaranteed seats
- Choose an Interrail or Eurail pass when visiting multiple destinations
- Combine train travel with local cycling tours or walking routes
- Stay several nights in one location for a deeper experience
- Choose a holiday home with a kitchen to explore local produce
- Plan rest days without fixed activities for true relaxation
- Choose destinations that are easily reachable by train from the Netherlands or Belgium
The Best Destinations for a Sustainable Train Journey in Europe
Europe offers countless destinations that are perfectly accessible by train and ideal for a sustainable and conscious holiday.
France remains the top destination for train travellers. The extensive TGV network connects Paris with Provence, the Atlantic coast and the Alps in just a few hours. Travellers looking for a resting point between train rides will find a wide range of Belvilla holiday homes in France, from picturesque cottages in the Dordogne to charming mas properties in Provence, all within easy reach of the nearest train station.
Italy offers an impressive train network connecting cities such as Rome, Florence, Venice and Naples. High-speed lines make it possible to combine multiple iconic destinations in a single trip. Belvilla holiday homes in Italy, from rustic farmhouses in Umbria to characterful villas on Lake Garda – offer travellers the perfect base after a day filled with train journeys and city experiences.
Switzerland is paradise for train travellers. Almost every village is reachable by train, tram or mountain railway. The country combines breathtaking nature with a perfect rail infrastructure. For travellers who want to stay longer and soak up the calm of the Swiss mountains, Belvilla holiday homes in the Swiss regions offer a comfortable and stylish base right in the heart of nature.
Spain is investing heavily in high-speed rail connections. From Madrid to Seville, from Barcelona to Valencia -Spain’s AVE trains offer comfort and speed through impressive and sun-drenched landscapes. Belvilla holiday homes in Spain span a wide range of stays, from authentic fincas in Andalusia to modern villas with private pools on the Costa Brava – ideal as the final destination of a Spanish train journey.
The Benelux and Germany form the ideal starting point for train travellers from the Netherlands and Belgium. Direct connections to Paris, London, Berlin and Brussels make a European train journey more accessible than ever. Travellers beginning or ending their journey close to home will find an excellent range of Belvilla holiday homes in the Netherlands and Belgium, from cosy cottages on the Dutch coast to peaceful rural retreats in the Belgian Ardennes.
Why Belvilla Holiday Homes Are the Ideal Choice for Sustainable Travellers
Sustainable travellers make conscious choices and that applies to their accommodation as well. Belvilla holiday homes across Europe align perfectly with the philosophy of conscious and responsible travel. The range includes holiday homes in nature, by the sea, in historic cities and in peaceful rural regions all accessible by train or bicycle.
Whether it is an authentic holiday home in the Tuscan hills after a train journey through Italy, a characterful apartment near a French railway station, or a spacious villa on the Spanish coast as the final destination of a European train journey – Belvilla offers the perfect base for every sustainable traveller.
With transparent pricing, a wide range of properties and the ability to filter by location, amenities and travel group, Belvilla vacation rentals make sustainable travel not only easier but also more comfortable.
The full range of Belvilla holiday homes across Europe is ready and waiting for travellers who want to travel consciously without compromising on comfort or experience.
Travelling through Europe by train and choosing sustainable travel options in 2026 is not only a responsible choice , it is also the most beautiful way to discover the continent. The train brings travellers closer to the landscapes, cultures and people of Europe. Combined with a characterful holiday home as a base, the result is a travel experience that is both inspiring and deeply relaxing. Belvilla holiday homes across Europe offer the perfect foundation for every sustainable traveller – from budget to luxury, from coast to mountains, from city breaks to nature adventures.