Train Travel Returning To Pre-Pandemic Levels Worldwide

Train travel is on track for big increases this year. Some travelers who are fed up with high airfares and delays are instead heading to the rails. Debra Anthony from southern New Hampshire is a fan, saying: “There’s nothing like it. There’s absolutely nothing like it.” She marveled at the scenery and shared lots of laughs with her family during a recent trip aboard the Glacier Express.

The train makes an eight-hour trip through the valleys and mountains of Switzerland, as passengers wine and dine and peer out panoramic windows, travel that feels very different from flying.

“It’s easy to maneuver around,” says Anthony. “It’s easy to get on and off. I like having a schedule. As opposed to flying, it’s kind of crazy. You get pushed around.”

The Swiss train system is well known for its punctuality, ease and comfort.

“You travel through beautiful valleys, along lakes, you even see glaciers, and this is very special,” says Swiss Travel System CEO Maurus Lauber.

Swiss tennis star Roger Federer and comedian Trevor Noah are getting on board, starring in this ad for Switzerland tourism. Visitors to the country can also travel to the highest railway station in Europe which is more than 11,300 feet above sea level.

Train travel in Switzerland has largely returned to pre-pandemic levels, a worldwide trend according to luxury train travel advisor Rachel Hardy, who’s based in Louisville, Kentucky.

“People aren't willing to wait any more for their bucket list trips,” she says.

Rocky Mountaineer, which offers scenic train tours in Canada and the western U.S., is seeing a boost this year. So is Amtrak, which is selling out many trains and expanding service in the northeast.

Amtrak says nearly 1 in 3 passengers are new riders. The company also offers half price rates for children with an accompanying adult. Many companies are adding additional tours this year as more travelers say all aboard.