Virgin has revealed the trains it will use for cross-Channel services. The company has signed an agreement with Alstom for 12 Avelia Stream trains capable of travelling at up to 300km/h.
The rail operator plans to launch 20 daily return rail services between London, Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam from 2030, adding almost 7,5 million seats a year to cross-Channel routes.
Social spaces on the train will draw inspiration from Virgin Atlantic’s Clubhouses, while Virgin Voyages will influence the food and drink offering and Virgin Hotels will inform seating and onboard design.
Passengers will be able to earn Virgin Points through Virgin Red and redeem them on future journeys, flights, hotel stays, cruises and experiences.
Virgin will also explore connections between its rail services and Virgin Atlantic’s air network.
Orient Express adds Italian journeys
La Dolce Vita Orient Express is expanding its 2027 portfolio with four new itineraries. The journeys include stops in Florence, Portofino, Venice, Verona, Bolgheri and Alba, combining scenic rail travel with regional food and cultural experiences.
One itinerary links Rome with Portofino, Venice and Florence, bringing together the Italian Riviera, Venice’s canals and palaces, and Florence’s Renaissance heritage. Onboard dining and culinary experiences will showcase the flavours of Rome, Liguria, Veneto and Tuscany.
The Italian Wine Route focuses on Bolgheri in Tuscany and Verona in Veneto, exploring the two regions’ winemaking and food traditions.
A new Truffle Route takes passengers to Alba in Piedmont’s Langhe hills, known for its white truffles.
A fourth itinerary connects Rome and Venice via Bolgheri, combining Tuscany’s vineyards and Mediterranean scenery with the Venetian lagoon.
DB makes family ticket permanent
Deutsche Bahn will make its €99,99 (R1 840) family ticket permanent from November 1, with sales opening on October 26.
According to TravelMole, the ticket covers a return journey within Germany for up to five people, including seat reservations.
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