Rail Europe Sees Major Growth in Multi-City Bookings and Cross-Border Travel in 2025: All You Need To Know

In 2025, Rail Europe reported a significant surge in bookings from North American travellers, with destinations across Europe seeing a marked increase in popularity. This data points to evolving travel habits, with multi-city trips, scenic train routes, and a focus on lesser-known destinations becoming dominant preferences. North American travellers are increasingly choosing train travel for its flexibility, cultural immersion, and the opportunity to explore Europe at a slower pace.

According to Rail Europe’s analysis, nearly 50 percent of all sessions on their platform came from the US and Canadian markets, highlighting the growing interest in rail travel as a convenient and relaxed way to move between Europe’s cultural hubs. Cities such as Barcelona, Brussels, Edinburgh, Florence, London, Madrid, Paris, Rome, and Vienna were among the top booked destinations, showcasing rail’s role in connecting major cultural centres without the stress of airport queues or the limitations of domestic transport networks.

The Rise of Lesser-Known European Destinations

In addition to major cities, Rail Europe noted a surge in bookings to lesser-known European gems. Annecy and Bordeaux in France, Bolzano in Italy, Budapest, and Lucerne and Zermatt in Switzerland all saw notable growth in traveller interest. These cities offer rich cultural experiences, stunning scenery, and a more relaxed pace, allowing travellers to connect deeply with local cultures and traditions away from the bustling tourist crowds. Rail Europe’s emphasis on these destinations reflects a broader industry trend towards experiential travel, where the journey becomes just as important as the destination itself.

This shift towards slow travel and hidden gems also supports the growing demand for sustainable travel experiences. As rail travel becomes increasingly seen as an eco-friendly alternative to flying, it provides an opportunity for travellers to reduce their environmental impact while exploring Europe’s most beautiful, off-the-beaten-path locations.

Booking Patterns: Flexibility and Spontaneity on the Rise

Rail Europe’s data highlights some fascinating booking trends in 2025. One of the most notable findings is the rise of last-minute bookings. Over one in four travellers booked their rail journeys within seven days of departure, embracing spontaneity and the flexibility that rail travel offers. This is in contrast to summer travel, which saw bookings made 60 to 90 days in advance, indicating a more traditional planning approach for peak season trips.

The trend toward one-way tickets also emerged as a strong preference, with many travellers opting for multi-city itineraries. This highlights a growing interest in creating personalised travel experiences rather than sticking to rigid, round-trip bookings. The ability to combine several journeys into a single booking offers greater flexibility, making it easier for travellers to explore different regions of Europe without the constraints of fixed itineraries.

Solo Travel and Cross-Border Journeys

Solo travel continues to be a major trend in 2025, with many travellers choosing to explore Europe independently. This aligns with the broader trend of individual discovery and cultural immersion, with rail travel providing a relaxed, safe, and enjoyable way to traverse Europe alone.

Additionally, cross-border rail journeys have gained significant momentum, especially in regions such as the Benelux countries, Germany, Austria, and the Swiss Alps. Rail Europe anticipates that this will continue into 2026, as travellers look for seamless ways to visit multiple countries with ease. Whether it’s the scenic trains of Switzerland or the Eurostar linking the UK with mainland Europe, cross-border routes are becoming an increasingly popular choice.

Off-Season Travel: A Strategy for Avoiding Crowds

Another notable trend is the rise of off-season travel, with approximately 28 percent of rail travellers opting to journey during less crowded months. Travellers are increasingly seeking to avoid the high costs, sweltering heat, and large crowds associated with peak travel seasons. Off-season rail journeys allow for a more relaxed experience, offering quieter, more intimate views of Europe’s scenic landscapes and cultural landmarks.

These off-season months often present an opportunity to explore iconic destinations like Paris, Rome, and Vienna with fewer tourists, offering a more authentic and peaceful experience. Rail Europe’s insights reveal that travellers seeking to avoid the rush of summer are booking more flexible rail passes, which provide access to multiple routes and destinations throughout the off-season.

What’s Next for Rail Travel in 2026

As rail travel continues to evolve, Rail Europe forecasts continued growth in cross-border routes and a greater focus on lesser-known destinations in 2026. The trend towards cultural discovery, slower travel, and sustainable tourism shows no sign of slowing down, with rail offering a unique way to experience Europe in a more personal and meaningful way. For travellers looking to explore Europe’s hidden gems, rail travel provides the flexibility, comfort, and sustainability needed to make each journey unforgettable.

The data from Rail Europe’s 2025 travel trends underscores the importance of cultural experiences, multi-city itineraries, and off-the-beaten-path exploration. As rail continues to grow as a preferred mode of travel, it offers an exciting and eco-friendly way to discover Europe, one destination at a time.

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New Sharjah Hotel Opens Doors at Aljada: Nest Hotel, A Perfect Stay for Business and Students

Sharjah’s latest addition to its growing hospitality landscape, Nest Hotel, is set to transform the way travellers experience comfort and convenience. Situated at Aljada, Sharjah’s premier lifestyle destination, the hotel is now accepting bookings ahead of its grand opening in December 2025. Designed to cater to business professionals, families, long-term guests, sports teams, and notably, students, Nest Hotel promises a tech-driven, community-focused experience that enhances the guest journey.

A Modern Destination for Diverse Travellers

The Nest Hotel is the debut property in Arada’s newly launched lifestyle hospitality brand. This hotel is located next to the Nest Campus, a student housing complex, providing easy access to Sharjah’s University City and offering a versatile range of services and facilities. Whether travelling for business, leisure, or education, the hotel offers a tailored stay with flexible room options and cutting-edge amenities. The 395-room property combines modern design, functionality, and technological integration for a seamless guest experience.

As the UAE continues to focus on innovation, the hotel caters to a wide variety of needs. Guests can expect everything from family-friendly rooms with interconnecting options to dedicated spaces for long-stay visitors and students. The hotel offers easy access to Aljada’s East Boulevard, a thriving area featuring over 100 dining, retail, sports, and entertainment venues, ideal for all types of travellers seeking both relaxation and recreation.

Smart Technology for a Frictionless Experience

Nest Hotel stands out by integrating advanced smart technology throughout its operations. Guests can enjoy a contactless experience right from booking to checking in and accessing their rooms via digital keys. The hotel’s online platform allows for easy management of bookings, dining reservations, and even access to services such as eBike rentals. Guests also benefit from high-speed Wi-Fi and other smart conveniences that cater to modern expectations, whether working remotely or enjoying their leisure time.

This digital-first approach allows for an entirely paperless stay, a sustainable and forward-thinking option for the increasingly tech-savvy traveller. The hotel’s infrastructure also offers co-working zones, ideal for business visitors who require a productive environment during their stay. Additionally, with dedicated dining outlets, lounges, and community areas, Nest Hotel caters to those seeking both private relaxation and social engagement.

Sharjah’s Growing Appeal for Students and Educators

Nest Hotel has been developed with input from students at Sharjah’s University City and the adjoining Nest Campus. Their feedback has helped shape room layouts, communal spaces, and co-working zones, ensuring that the hotel offers an environment tailored to their needs. The hotel also introduces part-time employment opportunities, providing students with practical hospitality experience.

This unique collaboration aligns with Sharjah’s wider vision to create a dynamic hub for education and community development. The hotel’s design focuses on creating a bridge between academia and tourism, which not only enriches the student experience but also makes it easier for faculty members and visiting academics to stay in the area.

Location and Accessibility

The strategic location of Nest Hotel places it in proximity to Sharjah International Airport, University City, and the wider city’s business districts. The hotel is well-connected, making it a convenient choice for those flying into the UAE for work, leisure, or academic purposes. Guests also benefit from the hotel’s shuttle service to the airport and proximity to key transportation networks like Etihad Rail, ensuring a hassle-free journey around Sharjah and beyond.

Nest Hotel’s Expansion Potential

The opening of the Nest Hotel marks the beginning of Arada’s ambitious plans to expand the brand both regionally and internationally. The developer aims to grow the Nest Hotel brand as a midscale hospitality offering. This growth includes standalone properties as well as integration with the Nest Campus concept, appealing to travellers seeking innovative, modern stays in urban centres across the UAE and abroad.

A Smart and Stylish Choice for Sharjah Visitors

The launch of Nest Hotel at Aljada signals the rise of a new wave of smart, flexible hospitality in Sharjah. By combining technology, community engagement, and an emphasis on student needs, Nest Hotel offers a dynamic and adaptable environment for a wide range of travellers. Whether for short stays or longer visits, business, leisure, or academia, the hotel is designed to ensure a smooth, modern experience, contributing to Sharjah’s appeal as a forward-thinking destination. Bookings are now open for guests eager to experience this innovative hospitality offering when the doors officially open in December 2025.

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Turkish Airlines Opens Its First European Lounge at Edinburgh Airport

Turkish Airlines has unveiled its first-ever European lounge at Edinburgh Airport, significantly enhancing the airport’s premium travel offerings and further establishing the airport as a growing international hub. Located on Level 2 near gate 16, this new lounge provides a luxurious space for Turkish Airlines passengers, boasting a range of amenities designed to ensure comfort and convenience before flights. The opening marks a significant milestone for the airline and its continued commitment to enhancing the travel experience for passengers across Europe.

A Premium Experience in the Heart of Edinburgh Airport

The new Turkish Airlines Lounge in Edinburgh spans 673m² and has a capacity to accommodate 149 guests. It provides a comprehensive suite of amenities to elevate the passenger experience, including a luxury relaxation area equipped with Wi-Fi and TVs, two prayer rooms, and an accessible restroom for guests with reduced mobility. The lounge is also family-friendly, featuring a baby care room for traveling families.

One of the standout features of the lounge is its open buffet, which includes a Turkish pide service at lunch and dinner, offering travelers a taste of traditional Turkish cuisine. With flight information screens on-site, passengers can stay updated while enjoying their time in the lounge before boarding.

A Commitment to Premium Services and Global Connectivity

This lounge is part of Turkish Airlines’ strategy to bring its award-winning hospitality closer to passengers around the world. As the eighth lounge outside of Turkey and the first in Europe, it reflects the airline’s ongoing investment in premium services and enhancing the passenger journey. With its lounge network already established in key international destinations, this new opening at Edinburgh Airport adds to the airline’s robust presence across Europe.

The lounge is available to Turkish Airlines Business Class passengers, Miles&Smiles members (including Elite, Elite Plus, and Elite Corporate Club members), and Miles&Smiles Premier Visa Signature Cardholders. Additionally, travelers with a Paid Lounge membership card can access the lounge, providing flexibility for those seeking a more luxurious experience before their flight.

Expanding Global Network and Connectivity

Turkish Airlines operates 10 weekly flights between Edinburgh and Istanbul, connecting Scottish travelers to over 356 destinations in 132 countries through the airline’s vast global network. This makes Edinburgh an important hub for travelers wishing to connect to destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and beyond.

Enhancing the Travel Experience for All Passengers

The opening of the Turkish Airlines Lounge at Edinburgh Airport is a significant step forward in improving the travel experience for premium passengers. It provides a comfortable and relaxing environment before flights, setting a high standard for airport lounges in Europe. Whether for business or leisure, passengers flying with Turkish Airlines can now enjoy a seamless, elevated experience from the moment they arrive at the airport.

Elevating Edinburgh’s Premium Travel Offerings

The Turkish Airlines Lounge at Edinburgh Airport enhances the premium travel experience, offering travelers a modern and comfortable space to relax and enjoy high-end amenities before their flight. This lounge sets a new benchmark for premium services at Edinburgh Airport, reinforcing the airport’s status as a key destination for international travelers. With the opening of this lounge, Turkish Airlines reinforces its commitment to delivering exceptional service and creating a seamless journey for passengers traveling through Edinburgh. As part of the airline’s global strategy to expand its premium offerings, the new lounge exemplifies its dedication to enhancing the overall travel experience and ensuring passengers have the best possible start to their journey.

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