New Italian scenic train
Italy has launched a new scenic train service, connecting Rome with Siena, which will run on weekends from September 27 to November 2.
The Siena Express will include restored 1970s carriages with an onboard bar service.
The train crosses Val d'Orcia, a Unesco World Heritage Site, and the Obertello Lagoon, with nearly an hour’s stop in Grosseto, according to Travel Off Path.
The train departs from Rome on Saturdays at 07h42, and return journeys depart Siena at 15h05 on Sundays.
Vintage Rail launches 2026 NSW journeys
Vintage Rail Journeys has launched its 2026 season of all-inclusive five-day Australian train itineraries, offering three journeys through New South Wales.
The journeys include:
- Riverina Rail Tour – From February to April departing from Sydney. Off-train experiences include liquorice making in Junee, olive oil tastings at Morella Grove, museum visits and a ride on the historic Zig Zag Railway.
- Golden West Rail Tour – From August to November, travellers can enjoy views of the Capertee Valley, Hunter Region, Orange, Bathurst and Mudgee. Off-train activities include a lunch cruise and a wine experience.
- North Coast Rail Tour – From May to July, travellers can experience the North Coast. Activities include visits to historic and cultural landmarks of Maitland and surrounds of Byron Bay Lighthouse.
UK trials ticketless train travel
East Midlands Rail has launched a digital ticketing trial for passengers travelling between Leicester, Derby and Nottingham. By the end of September, the trial will extend to the Northern Trains network in Yorkshire.
Passengers can take part in the trials by signing up via the relevant train operator’s website.
Digital ticketing allows passengers to check in and check out on rail journeys using an app on their phone. The app will track journeys using GPS technology and automatically charge passengers the fare.
