3 exciting new high-speed trains you need to ride in Europe by 2026

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Who wants to travel around Europe on Ryanair’s sardine-sized seats and pay this, that size?

It’s certainly not for everyone.

But what always passes the vibe check is exploring the world by train. Europe tends to do a phenomenal job keeping rail lines on schedule, unlike airports, where things always feel like crap…

Better yet, many European cities (even lesser-known locations to Americans) offer lightning-fast trips to a range of iconic towns and tight-lipped secrets.

Our team of experts here at Travel Off Path have put their heads together and scoured the internet for Europe’s most exciting new train rides for 2026.

Here are our top 3 picks for adventures you shouldn’t miss next year:

3) Bypass Barcelona 🇪🇸 For the beautiful Toulouse 🇫🇷

Why is such a renowned city in third place?

We’re glad you asked!

As you may have heard, Spain hasn’t exactly attracted national attention lately for its beautiful beaches and world-famous cities – quite the opposite, in fact.

Spain is more known for locals taking to the streets with major protests against tourism, given their country’s non-stop rise as one of the world’s top holiday destinations.

That’s not to say you won’t have the time of your life, but it’s always nice to visit foreign destinations where you feel welcomed with open arms – and the truth is that kind of warm embrace is iffy at best in Barcelona.

But hey, that’s all the more reason to hop aboard the city’s newest cross-border high-speed train.

Spain’s largest railway company Renfe is about to launch a fast-paced new trip to Toulouse, one of France’s most underrated cities.

Call us crazy, but we think it’s just as beautiful as Paris – and it certainly doesn’t detract from the appeal that prices are much, much lower across the board.

This direct route takes you past the following hidden gems before the end point in Toulouse:

• Gerona 🇪🇸
• Figueres 🇪🇸
• Perpignan 🇫🇷
• Carcassonne🇫🇷

As these things often go, this route was assumed debuts in 2025 and has since been pushed back an undisclosed date in 2026.

2) Discover the unknown of Serbia, from Novi Sad to Subotica 🇷🇸

Why are a few unheard of cities ranked higher than two of the most visited countries in the world?

In addition to ugly protests, more reports have revealed that lesser-known destinations are currently all the rage.

But don’t worry: we won’t send you to a faraway country that’s impossible to reach…

Americans can fly nonstop to Belgrade, the safe, beautiful (and highly underrated capital) of Serbia, from both Chicago (ORD) and New York (JFK).

Moreover, there are whispers that Miami is next!

Already a link between Novi Sad, Belgrade is a great starting point for traveling through Serbia, a former Soviet country that has since become a trendy hotspot for digital nomads, nightlife seekers and culture vultures.

After some initial nodding (no, not the kind your weird uncle likes), this nearly 70-mile stretch of countryside will connect to two of Serbia’s most undiscovered destinations — at least for Americans, anyway.

If adventure is calling and wanderlust is itching, then this is the best trip in Europe for you next year already launched this fall.

What can you expect in Novi Sad:

Serbia’s ‘second city’, if you will, is situated on the scenic Danube and crowned by the Fortress Petrovaradin. Expect historic, elegant squares, lush waterfront parks and cozy wine bars galore.

What can you expect in Subotica:

Subotica is perhaps Serbia’s biggest surprise. Located on the border with Hungary, this unsuspecting city captivates with ornate pastel facades and lively squares that feel more Central European than Balkan.

1) Zoom through Europe, from Paris 🇫🇷 to Munich 🇩🇪

Why is Paris to Munich our top must-visit adventure for 2026?

It’s the best of both worlds: two beloved European powerhouses, surprisingly easy to explore, all wrapped into one breezy journey.

Wake up to a warm, buttery croissant and end your day with a buttery pretzel.

Okay, that might be too much butter, but you butter believe this route offers the perfect blend of culture, cuisine and charm in one unforgettable journey.

Since there is no official date yet, you won’t be able to purchase tickets as tempting as it would be.

Are is expected to start in late 2026. No promises for that Oktoberfestbut it sounds like a clear “yes” for Munich’s world-famous Christmas markets.

Sam Sears

Sam, our lead writer and San Diego-based journalist, has visited 36 countries and written more than 1,000 articles with an emphasis on sharing his own travel experiences and highlighting lesser-known gems.

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