A passenger train is a train used to transport people along a railroad line. These trains may consist of unpowered passenger railroad cars (also known as coaches or carriages) hauled by one or more locomotives, or may be self-propelled; self propelled passenger trains are known as multiple units or railcars.

In 2026, passenger rail is more diverse than ever, ranging from local commutes to transcontinental luxury. Standard Commuter and Regional trains (like London’s Overground or NYC’s LIRR) handle daily work traffic, while Intercity trains connect major hubs. High-speed rail is the current "gold standard," led by Japan’s Shinkansen and France's TGV, often reaching speeds of 320 km/h. In India, 2026 marks a massive shift with the rollout of Vande Bharat Sleeper and Amrit Bharat trains, alongside hydrogen-powered locomotives. Additionally, Namo Bharat Rapid Rail services cater to regional short-distance travel. For tourists, luxury "hotel on wheels" options like the Orient Express or the Blue Train continue to offer a slow-travel alternative to flying, while heritage steam trains remain popular for scenic excursions.