Most of the global railway network is built using traditional ballasted track systems, which consist of rails supported by sleepers embedded in crushed stone ballast. These systems are cost-effective and offer good vibration damping, helping to reduce noise levels and ground-borne vibrations. However, they are prone to issues such as ballast degradation, differential settlement, and increased maintenance needs over time. In contrast, ballastless systems employ a concrete slab instead of loose ballast, offering improved structural integrity and reduced maintenance, but are accompanied by increased noise and vibration levels. This study employs finite element modelling using PLAXIS 3D to compare the performance of a typical ballasted track with the Rheda 2000 slab track, with a focus on noise and vibration behaviour. To address the vibration challenges associated with ballastless systems, this study explores modifications to components within the Rheda 2000 system that can be adjusted without altering its fundamental design. Several design alternatives were tested to minimise rail-borne noise, and the most promising configuration—combining stiffer rail pads with softer under-slab mats—was also evaluated for ground-borne vibration performance. The results suggest that this hybrid solution can significantly reduce both noise and vibrations, offering a viable path for optimising slab track systems.