Who is planning to explore Europe in 2026?
If your answer is a resounding “YES!” (as it should be), then we at Travel Off Path have the perfect trip in mind.
You see, sometimes the best things come to those who wait. In this case, what was supposed to be one of 2025’s most exciting new train routes was postponed, so now it’s one of the most thrilling adventures for 2026 instead.
It’s true — brand new rail operator GoVolta has finally dotted all its I’s and crossed all its T’s after a year-long delay.
Officially set to launch at the turn of spring, a pair of Europe’s most stunning capitals will be easier to reach than ever at fares you simply can’t beat!
GoVolta: What To Expect On Europe’s New Train Startup
As more travelers opt for rails over clouds, it’s not nearly as nerve-wracking to hop aboard a new train versus a new airline.
All we care about is that the brakes work, right?
Even if that’s true, it’s nice to know what you’re signing up for so there’s no surprises, such as assuming snacks are provided, or that wifi is free, only to realize you should’ve snagged some Pringles and gotten your last work task done sooner.
Here’s a quick Jim Halpert-style ‘rundown’ of what to expect with the new Netherlands-based GoVolta:
- Fares are expected to average €30 ($35)
- Reserved seating for every passenger
- 2 classes: Economy and Comfort, plus an onboard lounge car
- No wifi available
- Refurbished coaches pulled by modern locomotives
- Direct city-to-city routes (no annoying transfers or layovers)
- Plans to expand to other major European cities (there are whispers about Paris)
Journey From Amsterdam To Berlin For $10 Bucks
Well, this will certainly back the aforementioned average fares…
As GoVolta preps their inaugural route, they chose a banger of a route with even more bangin’ prices.
Their initial promo lists fares as low as $10 as a celebratory offer.
No worries if you miss out on the deal — fares are still in line with their hopeful projections of $30 or so.
But here’s the kicker about why we were so excited to reveal this news: train travel across Europe is often more expensive than flying.
Sure, EasyJet Ryanair may break your kneecaps in their sardine seating format, but you can’t dismiss their pricing and straight-shot routes.
As train travel has made a raging comeback, so this $10 deal is too good to pass up (even if you have to fork over $20 more for standard fares).
In fact, some insiders are already dubbing GoVolta as the “EasyJet of trains,” except you have more comfortable seating, among other amenities, on a ride you’ll actually enjoy.
Launching March 19, 2026, GoVolta will chug along for the first time, connecting 2 of Europe’s most stunning capitals, Amsterdam and Berlin.
Say you score a $10 seat; that’s over $50 cheaper than the average ticket on competitive routes, so this will truly be a game-changer.
The downside is that GoVolta is not considered a “high-speed” operator…
Why Visit Amsterdam? (Better Yet, Should You?)
Obviously, despite being Amsterdam-based, this new brand-spankin’ new train will travel both ways.
The first leg to kick off will set off to Berlin from Amsterdam, but if travelers are hesitant to head the opposite direction is a reasonable question nowadays.
Across some of Europe’s most notable cities, many locals have turned into full-fledged “Karens”, essentially yanking the welcome mat away from tourists’ feet for a myriad of overtourism concerns.
While Amsterdam remains a world-class nightlife destination, one of the prettiest canal-lined cities Europe has to offer, and a playground for dreamers, artists, and wanderers preferring 2 wheels over 4, it’s quite possible the Amsterdam-Berlin leg will be a lot more popular than the Berlin-Amsterdam return.
Some of our favorite Amsterdam sites:
- Skinny Bridge
- Anne Frank Huis
- Albert Cuyp Markt (order a stroopwafel!)
Why Visit Berlin?
Unlike Amsterdam these days, it’s safe to say Berlin welcomes everybody — we mean ev.er.y.bo.dy.
Known as one of the most dynamic cities in Europe, there’s never a dull moment, even if you sit on a park bench and watch the world go by.
If nightlife is your jam, you’re in the right place. Just know what you’re signing up for…
Berlin is, let’s say, unapologetic and perhaps even a little unhinged.
On the flip side, Berlin is also rimming with culture, boasting vibrant neighborhoods such as the RAW-Gelände arts district and the stylish Jewish Quarter.
And if you thought Munich was the only great beer town, think again. Berlin’s no stranger to a good pour, with laid-back beer gardens and trendy craft brewers keeping taps flowing well past midnight.
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