For rail enthusiasts who grew up in countries where double-decker trains are a rarity, the prospect of boarding one on the continent has always held a certain charm. That excitement was amplified late last year when Eurostar announced it would introduce double-decker trains across its network from 2031. Now, the company has revealed an even more enticing feature: the new trains will come with two-storey bars.
Dubbed Celestia, these trains are designed to elevate the travel experience, with the double-decker bar as the centerpiece. A Eurostar spokesperson told Euronews Travel: “The name Celestia means ‘heavenly’, reflecting the idea behind the double-decker bar: to create a travel experience beyond the ordinary.” The bars will be accessible to all passengers, not just those in premium classes.
What to expect from the Celestia fleet
Eurostar has ordered 30 Celestia trains, with the first six scheduled to welcome passengers in May 2031. Initially, they will serve all of Eurostar’s current destinations, including Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and London, as well as new routes to Geneva and Frankfurt. The full fleet is expected to be in service by the mid-2030s, operating until the 2060s.
The decision to introduce double-decker trains comes as Eurostar aims to increase capacity on its popular routes, particularly between London and continental Europe. The trains are being built by Siemens, and their design reflects a broader trend among European rail operators to invest in more spacious and comfortable rolling stock.
In response to the record-breaking heatwaves that have swept Europe in recent summers, Eurostar has also confirmed that the Celestia trains will feature air conditioning capable of operating in temperatures up to 55°C. “These trains will enter service in 2031 and run into the 2060s, so it’s essential to be prepared for the future,” a spokesperson added.
The announcement has been welcomed by travel industry observers, who see it as a sign of confidence in the future of cross-Channel rail travel. Eurostar has faced challenges in recent years, including the aftermath of the pandemic and increased competition from airlines on short-haul routes. However, the company has reported strong passenger numbers, and the new trains are expected to further boost its appeal.
For passengers, the double-decker bar is likely to be a major draw. Unlike traditional train bars, which are often cramped and limited in selection, the Celestia bars will span two levels, offering a more spacious and social environment. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail while watching the French countryside roll by or grabbing a coffee before a meeting in Brussels, the new bars aim to make the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
Eurostar’s investment in new trains is part of a wider effort to modernize European rail travel. Other operators, such as family-friendly rail services, are also upgrading their fleets to attract more passengers. The Celestia trains are expected to set a new standard for comfort and amenities, and their introduction could encourage more travelers to choose rail over air travel.
While the wait until 2031 may seem long, the promise of a heavenly travel experience is enough to keep rail enthusiasts and casual travelers alike looking forward to the future of European rail.
