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The 14 most scenic train journeys in Europe

Pack a book, hop on board and enjoy the most scenic train journeys in Europe, from west to east and north to south

From glaciers and fjords to deserts and plains,   Europe ’s home to some of the world’s most mind-blowing natural landscapes. And so, logically, it makes a heck of a lot of sense that the finest scenic rail journeys in Europe – train routes which are specifically designed to show off those spectacular landscapes – are amongst   the best in the entire world .

The European continent’s finest scenic rail journeys also double up as pilgrimages to sites of incredible feats of engineering. These trains scale dramatic mountains, plunge through ginormous tunnels and span vast distances. You won’t just be gob-smacked by the view: you’ll wonder how on earth you’re able to experience it from the comfort of a locomotive.

And, before you say anything, no, scenic rail routes certainly aren’t just for rail geeks. Oh no. They’re also amongst the most comfortable and supremely romantic ways of getting around. As well as being much better for the planet than cars and planes, train travel is a destination in itself – and that’s even more the case with scenic routes. So, without further ado, here are our top 14 scenic railways in Europe right now.

RECOMMENDED: 🚂  The best train journeys in the world 🚅  The best train journeys in Asia 🚉  The world’s most spectacular train stations

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best train journeys in Europe

1.  oslo to bergen, norway.

Connecting Oslo and Bergen is the fairytale Bergen Line. Take it in spring or autumn, and the voyage plays out like a living painting of all four seasons, as blustery flower meadows and lush valleys fade into icy forests of pine and glittering lakes. It’s a journey that’s quite possibly up there with the best in the world. It makes little difference which way you travel – views are equally OTT in both directions, on both sides of the tracks – but start in the morning to ensure you get a full day of views on the seven-hour trip. Ticket prices are generally quite affordable, but onboard food will set you back, so pack snacks.

2.  Belgrade to Bar, Serbia and Montenegro

Often referred to as ‘the Balkan Express’, the 11-hour (on a good day) jaunt from Belgrade to Bar celebrates civil engineering and natural majesty. A whopping 435 bridges are traversed as the train trundles from the Serbian capital to Montenegro’s largest port, working as a time machine through the twentieth century in these parts. That means socialist architecture in Užice, modern ski resorts in Kolašin and the rapidly developing tourism of Montenegro’s southern coast. The last stretch is particularly stunning.

3.  Palma to Sóller, Majorca

The electric train line that links Majorca’s capital, Palma, with the northern town of Sóller was originally built to ship oranges across the island. Its vintage wooden carriages rattle out of central Palma, through the city’s hinterlands and across the great dry plains of southern Majorca. After a stop in Bunyola, it’s a steady climb into the foothills – followed by the sudden pitch black of the Sóller tunnel. And then comes the best bit: a winding route through the lush peaks of the Serra de Tramuntana, with incredible views over Sóller’s distant church, before the final descent. The whole trip only takes an hour, leaving plenty of time to catch the heritage tram down to Port de Sóller and cool off in the sea before the return leg.

4.  Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog, Wales

The small mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog has fallen on tough times with the demise of the slate mining industry, but the little steam railway that connects it with Porthmadog harbour is a gorgeous route showing Wales at its most magnificent. Most of the journey snakes through Snowdonia National Park, with plenty of stop-off options for travellers with time on their hands. The Ffestiniog Railway Company is also the oldest independent railway company on the planet, another layer of awesome to this gorgeous experience. 

5.  Zermatt to St. Moritz, Switzerland

If you’ve high expectations of an experience named ‘The Glacier Express’, get ready for them to be exceeded and then some. This mountain marvel connects the resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz, and the panoramic views make this one of the best ways to embrace all this dramatic landscape offers. The seven-and-a-half-hour journey traverses 291 bridges, 91 tunnels and a whole lot of beauty. 

6.  The Brocken, Germany

Another gorgeous journey from base to summit, The Brocken Railway picks wide-eyed passengers up from the settlement on the edge of Harz National Park called Drei Annen-Hohne. When the ride is over, those passengers find themselves on top of the world, or at least on top of the Brocken, the highest peak in Northern Germany. The journey is all tight turns, dramatic valleys, snowy vistas and lose-yourself imagery at a maximum speed of 40km/h. 

7.  Barcelona to Montserrat, Spain

There are plenty of ways to travel from Barcelona to the base of Montserrat mountain, but we’re putting our eggs firmly in the basket marked ‘train’. Actually, that would be ‘tren’ in Catalan, but you get the idea. There is a wide range of tickets available for the journey, though we recommend getting one that covers not just your train from Barcelona and then either the cable car or rack railway up the mountain itself, but also entry into the Montserrat Museum.

8.  Fort William to Mallaig, Scotland

A constant on lists of the world’s most beautiful train journeys, Scotland’s Jacobite Steam Train is an 84-mile stunner traversing the magic of Scotland from Fort William to Mallaig. Booking ahead is an absolute must but totally worth it, as the journey transports visitors across a landscape that takes the term ‘rugged’ and redefines it in that inimitable Scottish way. Some call it the Hogwarts Express after its turn in the Harry Potter films, and you can insert your own magical comment here.

9.  Myrdal to Flåm, Norway

Another frequent face on lists of the world’s best train journeys, the line between Myrdal and Flåm in Norway bridges the divide between impossibly cute and absolutely monolithic. That’s Norway in a nutshell, right? The small things are all quaint and idyllic, while the big ones bluster through stunning cliffs, jagged mountains and awe-inspiring scenery. The Flåm Railway climbs a whopping 867 metres into the sky and back, with a short shop at the Kjosfossen waterfall as the cherry on top. 

10.  Chur to Poschiavo, Switzerland

Switzerland is every bit as spectacular as its reputation suggests it might be. Actually, this place is woefully undersold and the rail route between Chur and Poschiavo is further proof, a jaw-dropping run that takes lucky passengers through the heart of the Swiss Alps. The famous mountains unravel on either side of the train, scenery that tends to see passengers put their cameras down and stare at the wonders at hand. The Bernina Express continues toward Tirano in Italy for those who need even more scenery. 

11.  La Rhune, France

What an absolute stunner of a ride. From the foot of the Pyrenees to the top via an early 1900s cog railway, the quaintest of quaint trains scaling a mighty height. It can be a little jarring, but the cobwebs are soon blown away by the stunning vistas and the majesty that awaits at the summit. The train only runs from April to September, round-trip tickets cost €20 (an absolute bargain), and it begins its journey in the town of Sare, some 10km or so from Saint-Jean-de-Luz.

12.  Prague to Bratislava, Czech Republic and Slovakia

Okay, the scenery outside the window between Prague and Bratislava is nothing to write home about. Is it pretty? Sure, we’d expect nothing less from this part of the world, but the real fun of this route is found inside. A train journey spent in a Central European restaurant car is one of those most eccentric travel experiences, so make an immediate beeline for that part of the train when boarding. Line up some excellent Czech  pivo  and enjoy the conveyor belt of characters who will invariably make their way through the car. 

13.  Málaga to El Chorro, Spain

While you can’t get a train across the thrilling and terrifying Caminito del Rey walkway, you can still experience a great journey on the way. The train from Malaga to El Chorro is a stunner, a fast route that takes less than 45 minutes and will set you back less than a tenner. That gives you just under 45 minutes to enjoy the stunning scenery and dredge up the courage to traverse the famous walkway. 

14.  Mostar to Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina doesn’t have many trains, but it remains an absolute must for lovers of rail travel. Why? Well, the stretch of track between Mostar and Jablanica quickly answers that question. It offers a jaw-dropping array of twists and turns that hug the cerulean blue of the ice-cold Neretva river, as jagged cliffs hem everything in from all sides. Sure, you need to get up early to catch the train, but it is worth that sunrise alarm. The route continues to Sarajevo, passing through charming Konjic and several satellite towns along the way.

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The best train rides in Europe: 10 amazing journeys for 2024

Jan 16, 2024 • 8 min read

Incredible scenery awaits traveling through the Bernese Alps; Jungfrau, Switzerland © Thomas Barwick / Getty

There’s something magical about a journey by train.

Sometimes the magic is inside – on a train you have room to move and meet people, dine in a restaurant car with white tablecloths, and sleep in a private compartment between crisp, clean sheets with the sound of steel wheels swishing on the rails beneath you. Sometimes the magic is outside, in the landscape the train traverses – an adventure, an experience, an insight into the heart of a nation.

Below are some of the most beautiful train rides in Europe – some well known, some less so, some luxurious and expensive, others true bargains. From countryside views and mountain villages to alpine passes and landmark bridges (with a little wildlife spotting thrown in for good measure), the continent offers up some of the most scenic train rides in the world.

The best European train trips include the fabulous Bernina Express, the most enchanting Swiss Alpine ride of all, and the spectacular railway from Belgrade to Bar through the mountains of Montenegro . The latter is one of the most scenic train rides you’ve probably never heard of, with a bargain fare of just €21. So here they are, the 10 best train journeys in Europe, extracted from Lonely Planet's Amazing Train Journeys .

1. Settle to Carlisle, England

Route: Settle to Carlisle Best bit? Marveling at the Ribblehead Viaduct, one of the great views of northern England , preferably as a steam train thunders over. Distance:  113km (73 miles) Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes

England’s Settle-to-Carlisle line has long been synonymous with the fight to preserve beautiful and historic stretches of railway. But this is no heritage line. Proudly part of the British rail network and served by regular mainline trains, the railway enjoys a double life as a frequent host of steam specials and, even rarer, steam-hauled mainline services.

Whether you have the whiff of steam in your nostrils or the hard-working growl of diesel-hauled regular trains in your ears, the views from the carriages are pretty much unmatched on the English railway network.

Passengers can feast their eyes on mile after mile of magnificent Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines scenery, interrupted only by stations so sweet you would expect to find them pictured on a box of biscuits.

2. Le Petit Train Jaune, France

Route: Villefranche-de-Conflent to Latour-de-Carol Best bit? Holding your breath as you cross the gravity-defying Pont Gisclard. Distance:  63km (39 miles) Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

Since 1910, the dinky, sunflower-yellow carriages of the Ligne de Cerdagne have been rattling and clattering their way through the rolling forests and saw-toothed mountains of the Pyrenees , and they have secured a special place in the hearts of many French travelers.

Affectionately known as the Canary, or Le Petit Train Jaune (Little Yellow Train), this mountain railway is frequently cited as the most scenic in France , but it’s definitely not a luxury service – it’s a rollercoaster ride on which you will feel the wind in your hair and the chill of the mountain breeze as you ratchet your way up to the highest train station in France. On y va!

3. Belgrade-to-Bar Railway, Serbia and Montenegro

Route: Belgrade to Bar Best bit? Levitating atop the 499m-long (1637ft), 198m-tall (650ft) Mala Rijeka Viaduct, one of the planet’s highest railway bridges, before the train glides over the Balkans’ largest lake, Skadar. Distance: 476km (296 miles) Duration: 12 hours

Dramatic is the operative word for this route, which rumbles over an unsullied, mountainous landscape from Serbia 's capital, Belgrade , to Montenegro ’s Adriatic Coast . During the 12-hour journey, the train disappears into the Dinaric Alps, charges through canyons, teeters on stilted bridges spanning river gorges and skims atop an ancient, tectonic lake.

Like the region it serves, the railway, which chugs across the heart of the Western Balkans , eludes most tourists’ maps. The reward for treasure-hunting travelers, who are informed (or lucky) enough to know where to dig: an embarrassment of authentic culture and pristine geographic riches at every bend.

4. The Bernina Express, Switzerland

Route: Chur to Tirano Best bit? Marveling at the astonishingly turquoise Lago Bianco from the route’s highest station, Ospizio Bernina (2253m/7392ft). Distance: 156km (96 miles) Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

We can wax lyrical about the glacier-capped mountains, waterfall-draped ravines, jewel-colored lakes and endless spruce forests glimpsed through panoramic windows on Switzerland ’s Bernina Express – but, trust us, seeing is believing.

Rolling from Chur in Graubünden to Tirano in northern Italy in around four hours, this narrow-gauge train often tops polls of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys. It's certainly one of the most scenic train journeys in Switzerland.

Beyond the phenomenal Alpine landscape, the railway itself is a masterpiece of early 20th-century engineering, taking 55 tunnels and 196 bridges in its stride. The line is on the UNESCO World Heritage List – and with good reason.

5. The Heart of Wales Line, Wales and England

Route: Swansea to Shrewsbury Best bit? Disembarking at lonely Sugar Loaf Station for a walk or picnic around the iconic nearby knoll of the same name. Distance: 194km (121 miles) Duration: 4 hours

This is Swansea to Shrewsbury the slow and, frankly, surreal way. This one-carriage train traverses track through Wales and England that might easily have been consigned to a museum or an out-of-print book, but that has somehow defied time and logic to survive as a passenger route.

Expect a spectrum of scenery, alternating from the sand-edged estuaries of South Wales, via bucolic farming towns and tracts of forest and hill country you probably never knew existed, through to one of England’s prettiest medieval cities. This four-hour, 34-station zigzag passes almost no major sights or countryside villages, but a very high concentration of spectacularly zany ones.

6. Munich to Venice on the Brenner Railway, Germany, Austria and Italy

Route: Munich to Venice Best bit? Stretching your legs at 1371m (4498ft) Brenner Pass, the highest point on the trip. Distance:  563km (350 miles) Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes

The Brenner Railway is attractive for two key reasons: mountains and wine. There may be more technically astonishing high-altitude trains, but this was the first to cross the Alps, in the 1860s.

On a surprisingly speedy day trip, you pass through three countries – Germany , Austria and Italy – and descend from the snow line to sea level. You’re rarely far from highways, but the vineyard views are still stunning. Bonus: great European cities with historic architecture – Munich and Venice – are at either end.

7. The Kyle of Lochalsh Line, Scotland

Route: Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh Best bit? Passing under the gentle grassy slopes of Fionn Bheinn – a munro rising high over Achnasheen. Distance:  135km (84 miles) Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Scotland has an abundance of windswept railways – the West Highland Line and the Far North Line to Thurso among them. Though comparatively unsung, perhaps the loneliest of all is the Kyle of Lochalsh Line – with trains rumbling doggedly from Inverness through desolate glens and past snowy munros, connecting the cold shores of the North Sea to the furious whitewater of the Atlantic.

It is a railway line full of poetry and beloved by aficionados – but it’s also a useful way for independent travelers to access remote nooks of the Highlands, and make a journey to the Isle of Skye.

8. Nova Gorica to Jesenice, Slovenia

Route: Nova Gorica to Jesenice Best bit? Catching a glimpse of picture-perfect Lake Bled’s church, castle and bright-blue water. Distance: 89km (55 miles) Duration: 2 hours

Here is a near-perfect railway adventure that most people have never heard of. Then again, you could be forgiven for missing it. The Bohinj Railway, after all, connects two places whose significance can be lost to modern travelers. Europe’s shifting borders and politics may have rather marooned the Nova Gorica–Jesenice line, but that only adds to the appeal.

An unassuming regional train rattling out of a faded-grandeur halt on the Italy– Slovenia border doesn’t even hint at what’s to come. The journey is a spectacular tour of Slovenia’s upland highlights, climbing through mountain towns and villages along the Soča River, passing through superb Alpine scenery close to Lake Bohinj , and past world-famous Lake Bled , offering photo opportunities galore.

9. The Centovalli Express, Switzerland and Italy

Route: Domodossola to Locarno Best bit? Taking in the Isorno viaduct, the site of Switzerland’s first bungee jump. Distance:  52km (32 miles) Duration: 2 hours

Often eclipsed by Switzerland’s more famous rail rides, this two-hour trundle from Locarno on the palm-rimmed shores of Lake Maggiore to Domodossola over the Italian border in Piedmont is something of an unsung beauty.

Brush up your Italiano to swoon in sync with fellow passengers as the dinky train clatters across 83 bridges and burrows its way through 34 tunnels. The views make for spirit-lifting stuff: waterfalls shooting past cliffside views, hillside vineyards, gracefully arched viaducts, slate-roofed hamlets, glacier-carved ravines and mile after mile of chestnut and beech forests, all set against the puckered backdrop of mountains that are snow-capped in winter.

10. Bergensbanen, Norway

Route: Oslo to Bergen Best bit? Gazing over the soul-stirring landscape of Hardangervidda between Geilo and Finse. Distance: 496km (308 miles) Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes

This astonishing train is one of the wonders of 19th-century railway building, and yet outside Norway hardly anyone knows about it. In just over six hours and some 490km (300 miles), it covers the spectrum of Norway ’s natural splendor: climbing canyons, crossing rivers, burrowing through mountainsides, swooping past fjords and traversing barren icescapes. All aboard for the Oslo to Bergen trainline, Bergensbanen: a mainline into Norwegian nature.

This article was first published Aug 20, 2019 and updated Jan 16, 2024.

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13 Best Train Holidays in Europe (2024)

Last Updated on March 11, 2024 by Nicole

Are you looking for the best train holidays in Europe? Then you’re in the right place. Traveling by train across Europe offers a captivating fusion of history, beauty, and cultural immersion. Navigating the intricate railway systems, finding the best routes, and ensuring comfort might feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. I spent four months journeying across 26 European countries solely by train. In the process, I found some of the most scenic train journeys in Europe and gathered some of the best tips and tricks to help make your European train vacation a wonderful experience. 

Ready? All aboard for an unforgettable adventure!

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Other European Destinations

There are many wonderful destinations in Europe. Almost all of them offer rail connections to many other amazing places in Europe. Sometimes, these destinations are best explored during certain seasons, or a great holiday spot if you are looking for an inexpensive vacation. If interested in learning more about these getaways, please see the following:

• 28 Cheap Places In Europe For Best Summer Vacations ;
• 26 Amazing Summer Weekend Getaways In Europe ;
• 24 Best Places To Visit In Europe For Mild Summer Weather ;
• 24 Fabulous Fall Destinations In Europe ;
• 20 Best Snowy Winter Wonderlands To Visit In Europe ;
• 29 Best Cheap Spring Destinations In Europe ;
• 27 Best Cheap Cities In Europe For A Fantastic Vacation ; and
• 22 Best Cheap Countries To Visit In Europe .

Best Train Holidays in Europe

In the following article, I highlight some of the most beautiful train trips in Europe. They include destinations that offer quick routes that would work for a weekend getaway to multi-stop train vacations that would be best to enjoy over a week or longer.

In addition, I include maps highlighting the train journey. Some of the maps show the actual rail routes while others only show the route by car, supplying a general idea of the geography of the area. If the train route is supplied, make sure you click on all the marked paths. Often times, there is more than one rail route from which you can choose.

Regardless of whether you only have a few days to spare or are planning an epic train adventure, you will discover some of the most scenic rail vacations in Europe.

London to the Highlands of Scotland

This beautiful rail holiday commences in the vibrant metropolis of London , where the hustle of modern life plays out against a backdrop of iconic landmarks. 

As your train pulls out of the station, the urban landscape gives way to the picturesque English countryside, setting the scene for a remarkable journey.

Enter the Caledonian Sleeper, your overnight passage to the Highlands. As darkness falls, the train transforms into a moving hotel, providing a unique and comfortable journey through Britain’s heartland. 

Awaken to the sight of the dramatic Scottish landscape unfurling before you, a panorama of untamed wilderness, shimmering lochs, and misty mountains.

Arriving in the Scottish Highlands, you’re welcomed by the breathtaking vistas that have inspired poets and artists for centuries. 

The wild beauty of Glencoe, the mythical aura of Loch Ness, and the majesty of Ben Nevis are a world apart from London’s bustling streets.

London to Paris

Begin in the bustling heart of London, a city where centuries-old history seamlessly blends with modern dynamism. From Buckingham Palace’s regal splendor to the London Eye’s iconic silhouette, the British capital leaves a vivid impression as you embark on your European scenic rail getaway.

As your train sweeps into the Channel Tunnel, a marvel of modern engineering, it marks the transition from the rolling green landscapes of Kent to the idyllic French countryside.

The seamless transformation of the view outside your window underscores the incredible diversity of European landscapes.

On arrival in Paris, the City of Light welcomes you with its unmistakable allure.

From the imposing grandeur of the Eiffel Tower to the artistic treasures nestled within the Louvre, Paris offers an array of experiences that have captivated travelers for centuries.

The train journey from London to Paris is more than a transition between two cities.

It’s a captivating experience that unites the distinct cultures of Britain and France, offering travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the historical and scenic richness that each city and the journey in-between holds.

Paris to Zurich

Your beautiful rail trip in Europe begins in Paris, a city with charm, romance, and culture from every corner. 

From the architectural splendor of the Eiffel Tower to the artistic riches of the Louvre, the French capital’s allure leaves a lasting impression as you settle into your train seat, bound for Switzerland.

The voyage to Zurich presents a unique spectacle of Europe’s diverse landscapes. As Paris’ cityscape recedes, the rolling French countryside morphs into dense forests and picturesque towns. Beyond lies the awe-inspiring beauty of the Swiss Alps, where snow-capped peaks rise majestically against cobalt-blue skies.

On arrival in Zurich, the city greets you with its fusion of modern sophistication and rich history. The old town’s narrow lanes, brimming with medieval houses and towering church steeples, contrast with the contemporary buzz of the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets.

The train journey from Paris to Zurich is more than a voyage between two cities. It’s a delightful exploration of contrasting landscapes and cultures, providing a unique vantage point to witness Europe’s captivating beauty and diversity.

Venice to Rome

Begin in Venice, a city where time seems to stand still amid winding canals and romantic gondolas.

The charm of St. Mark’s Square, the iconic Rialto Bridge, and the mesmerizing Grand Canal create a fairy-tale atmosphere that lingers as you step onto your train, ready to traverse Italy’s heartland.

The beautiful train journey to Rome unfolds like a scenic movie reel, showcasing Italy’s captivating landscapes.

Witness vine-clad countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque towns flash by your window, each a snapshot of Italy’s bucolic charm and a testament to its diverse geography.

As your train glides into Rome, the grandeur of the ancient city unfolds. The Eternal City, a living testament to history and culture, welcomes you with iconic landmarks from the majestic Colosseum to the awe-inspiring Vatican City.

Walking along ancient Roman streets, tasting traditional cuisine, and basking in Rome’s energetic atmosphere provide a memorable finale to your journey.

Almafi to Palermo

Embark on an unforgettable and beautiful vacation by train from the stunning Amalfi Coast to the historic heart of Palermo in Sicily, all from the comfort of your train seat. 

Start in Amalfi, a gem of Italy’s southern coastline where pastel-colored houses cascade down to a sparkling azure sea. 

After soaking in the sun-drenched beauty, step aboard your train, ready to witness a parade of coastal splendors unfold.

The train ride down the ‘boot’ of Italy is a visual feast. Panoramic views of picturesque seaside towns, rugged cliffs, and turquoise waters offer an endless carousel of photo-worthy moments. 

As you traverse the regions, you’ll appreciate the ever-changing landscape, oscillating between tranquil coastal vistas and the rustic charm of the Italian countryside.

Upon arrival in Palermo, Sicily’s buzzing capital, the city’s pulsating energy greets you. Its diverse history, manifested in Arab-Norman palaces, bustling markets, and Byzantine mosaics, is a vivid testament to its multicultural past. 

Exploring the city’s historic quarters and savoring the famous Sicilian cuisine form a fitting conclusion to your rail journey.

Balkan Rail Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating Balkan rail adventure in Europe and unlock a treasure trove of cultural richness and breathtaking landscapes. 

From the cobbled lanes of old-world Sarajevo to the sun-soaked beaches of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, train travel in the Balkans is an experience like no other. 

Traverse Serbia’s rugged wilderness, punctuated by monasteries steeped in history. Take a moment to admire Macedonia’s Lake Ohrid, a sparkling jewel amidst the mountains. 

Onward to Bulgaria, where ancient Sofia awaits with its awe-inspiring blend of Roman, Ottoman, and Soviet influences. 

Meandering across these regions by rail immerses you in the authentic Balkan experience and provides ample opportunities for impromptu encounters and personal connections with the warm, hospitable locals. 

Each rattling carriage and echoing tunnel marks an exciting chapter of your journey, underscoring the essence of a true Balkan rail adventure – a journey that’s as much about the ride as it is about the destination.

Alpine Lakes and Scenic Trains

Immerse yourself in the tranquil serenity of alpine lakes and scenic trains, a sublime journey through Europe’s heart that perfectly blends the grandeur of nature with the allure of European travel by train. 

Picture yourself aboard the panoramic carriages of the iconic Glacier Express or Bernina Express, as each bend reveals a mesmerizing vista of snow-capped peaks reflecting onto mirror-like lakes. 

In Switzerland, Lake Lucerne and Lake Geneva offer an enchanting spectacle of shimmering waters set against the backdrop of towering Alps, a sight made even more breathtaking through the train’s expansive, gleaming windows. 

On the Italian side, Lake Como’s dramatic scenery unfolds as you meander through tunnels and over viaducts, with glimpses of villas and terraced vineyards dotting the hillsides. 

The rhythmic rumble of the train on the tracks, the cool Alpine air, and the gentle lapping of the lakes against their shores create a symphony of sensory delights, encapsulating the magic of an alpine lakes and scenic trains adventure.

Amsterdam to Budapest by Train

Embarking on a picturesque holiday in Europe by rail from the vibrant city of Amsterdam to the historic charm of Budapest is like opening a living storybook of European culture, history, and landscapes.

Begin in Amsterdam, a city alive with a rich tapestry of art, history, and a unique canal-strewn cityscape. Aboard the train, the Dutch countryside unfolds beyond your window, your first taste of the breathtaking scenery to follow.

The journey offers more than just a ride; it’s a portal into the soul of Europe.

You’ll traverse vibrant cities, like Berlin’s dynamic heartbeat and Vienna’s imperial elegance, each stopping a unique narrative in your continental odyssey.

Upon arrival in Budapest, you are greeted by the city’s historic charm. Budapest is a stunning finale to this epic rail journey from the striking Parliament building to the therapeutic thermal baths. A trip from Amsterdam to Budapest provides a means of travel and an immersive cultural experience, making it much more than a train ride. 

Barcelona to Rome

Imagine stepping aboard a train in Barcelona, a city pulsating with rich Catalonian culture and Gaudí’s unmistakable architectural masterpieces. 

As the train pulls away, you bid adios to the shimmering Mediterranean Sea, setting off on an unforgettable journey across the diverse tapestry of Southern Europe, destined for the historic splendor of Rome.

Your scenic getaway in Europe by rail presents a unique opportunity to savor the changing landscapes, from the rugged Spanish countryside and the sun-kissed Provençal vistas of southern France to the azure coastlines of Italy’s Cinque Terre. 

The scenery unfurls like a moving painting in every direction, a beautiful blend of the region’s natural and cultural delights.

As your train glides into Rome, the ‘Eternal City’ welcomes you with an intoxicating mix of history and urban vitality. From the ancient Colosseum, steeped in millennia of history, to the awe-inspiring Vatican City, Rome is a grand finale to your voyage. 

This rail journey from Barcelona to Rome isn’t merely about reaching a destination but embracing the scenic odyssey, where every moment adds to an unforgettable European narrative. 

London to Bordeaux, Basque Country, and Costa Brava

Begin your adventure in London, where centuries-old traditions meet cosmopolitan vitality. 

Stepping aboard the Eurostar , you’re whisked away from the heart of the British capital, bound for a stunning rail journey across landscapes that epitomize the beauty of Western Europe.

Your first stop is Bordeaux, a city synonymous with vineyard-clad hills and a rich wine-making heritage. 

Breathe in the distinct aroma of ripe grapes as your train winds through the picturesque French countryside, then explore the city’s charming old town, before embarking on your next leg of the journey.

Next, discover Spain’s hidden gem – the Basque Country. Between the mountains and the sea, its unique culture, language, and gastronomy create an experience that’s a world away from the familiar Spain. 

Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum and San Sebastián’s golden beaches are just a taste of the region’s allure.

Finally, let the train guide you to the edge of the Iberian Peninsula, where golden beaches await. 

From the Costa Brava’s rugged beauty to the Atlantic Coast’s surf hotspots, the sound of crashing waves marks a perfect end to your journey. 

A trip from London to the beach via Bordeaux and Basque Country is more than a train journey – an unforgettable European adventure.

A Grand Rail Adventure: Milan, The Alps, and Vienna

Set off on a grand European rail adventure from Milan, where Italian style and sophistication reign supreme. 

As you leave behind the city’s impressive Duomo and high-end fashion streets, the train carves a path northward, inviting you on an enthralling journey across the heart of Europe.

Soon, you find yourself immersed in the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Alps. Snow-capped peaks tower above the train, while the valleys below present a patchwork of pristine lakes and charming alpine villages. 

The scenic journey through these mountain ranges is a testament to the magic of train travel, offering unrivaled vistas and a connection to nature’s majestic grandeur.

The grand finale of your beautiful European trip by rail arrives as you reach Vienna. A city steeped in imperial history and world-class music, Vienna greets you with open arms. 

From the stunning Schönbrunn Palace to the melodious strains of Mozart at the State Opera House, the Austrian capital presents a glorious end to your journey. 

Embarking on this scenic escape by train from Milan through the Alps to Vienna is not just about the destinations; it’s a tribute to the timeless charm of European train travel.

London, Paris, and Amsterdam

Begin your European train vacation in the heart of London, a city where history and modernity coexist. 

From the grandeur of Buckingham Palace to the bustling streets of Covent Garden, London’s vibrant atmosphere sets the perfect opening scene for your adventure. 

Board the Eurostar, and as the English countryside blurs past your window, you’ll soon emerge into the City of Lights.

Paris, a city synonymous with romance, art, and gastronomy, greets you with its iconic skyline dominated by the Eiffel Tower. 

Meander along the Seine , explore the artistic wonders in the Louvre or lose yourself in the labyrinth of charming streets in Montmartre before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

The train whisks you away to Amsterdam, a city renowned for its idyllic canals, tulip-filled gardens, and renowned museums. 

The city’s unique blend of history and culture is palpable as you explore the Anne Frank House or the expansive Van Gogh Museum.

Embarking on a train journey from London to Paris, then onto Amsterdam, offers more than just the convenience of travel. It weaves a narrative of cultural discovery, connecting three of Europe’s most captivating cities through the enchanting lens of scenic rail travel.

Berlin to Budapest

Commence your breathtaking rail trip in Europe in Berlin, where contemporary vibrancy meets a poignant past. 

Explore the city’s rich history, from the iconic Brandenburg Gate to the remnants of the Berlin Wall, before boarding your train to start on an exciting voyage across Central Europe.

The journey is an invitation to unwind and savor the shifting landscapes – from the rolling fields of Germany, through the dense forests of the Czech Republic, to the striking panoramas of Slovakia. 

This is more than a train ride; it’s a moving portrait of Europe’s varied landscapes and architectural styles.

As your train sweeps into Budapest, the Hungarian capital welcomes you with its compelling blend of East and West. 

From the neo-Gothic majesty of the Hungarian Parliament building to the thermal baths harking back to Ottoman rule, Budapest is a city where history comes alive. 

Stroll along the River Danube or climb Castle Hill for panoramic city views.

Tips for Traveling Europe by Train

• Plan Your Itinerary in Advance: Decide your must-see destinations and train routes accordingly. European train schedules are generally reliable, which makes planning easier.
• Consider a Rail Pass : If your journey involves multiple countries or numerous train trips, consider purchasing a Eurail or Interrail Pass. It can be a cost-effective and convenient option.
• Reserve Your Seats: Some train journeys, especially longer or overnight trains, require seat reservations. Make sure to check this in advance.
• Travel Light : Space on trains can be limited. A compact suitcase or backpack will be easier to manage and store.
• Pack Snacks and Entertainment : While many long-distance trains have dining cars, bringing your own snacks can save money. Don’t forget books, music, or other forms of entertainment for longer journeys.
• Arrive Early : Train stations can be large and confusing. Give yourself ample time to find the right platform and settle in before departure.
• Keep Your Valuables Safe : As with any form of public transport, keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
• Embrace the Journey : One of the joys of train travel is the scenery along the way. Don’t just focus on the destination, enjoy the journey too.
• Stay Flexible : Delays can happen. Keep your schedule flexible and be prepared for occasional hiccups.
• Learn Basic Phrases : Knowing some basic phrases in the local language can be helpful, particularly in smaller towns and regions.

Wrap Up: Rail Holidays Europe

Traveling Europe by train offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of this diverse continent. 

It allows for an immersive journey through the ever-changing landscapes, from the sun-soaked coasts of Italy to the rugged highlands of Scotland, and from the romantic cityscape of Paris to the historic charm of Budapest.

Whether it’s the ease and comfort of modern train travel, the scenic routes that meander through breathtaking locales, or the chance to rub shoulders with locals and fellow travelers, there’s a unique and compelling aspect to train travel that other modes of transport simply can’t match.

As you plan your train adventure, remember to stay flexible, keep an open mind, and embrace the unexpected moments. 

The trains won’t just take you to your destination, they’ll also offer a window into the heart of Europe, its culture, history, and people.

So, it’s time to pack your bags and let the rhythmic lull of the train tracks guide you on an unforgettable journey. Europe awaits, ready to be discovered, one train ride at a time.

Fiona Boyle is the author of this article. She is an Australian Travel Blogger at Travelling Thirties . Fiona has volunteered in Thailand, lived in Scotland, jumped off cliffs in New Zealand, slept in treehouses and igloos in Finland and everything in between as she has spent the last ten years exploring the world.

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Europe's scenic train rides leave you with memories you'll never forget. Quite simply, they're the most rewarding way of travelling around this beautiful continent! Sit back and relax in your train seat as scenes glide by your window like something from a movie. Here are some of our favourite scenic routes within Europe. Which one will you take?

The Bernina Railway

Scenic route: Chur to Tirano

Countries:   Switzerland  and  Italy It's no secret that Switzerland is home to several superb scenic trains, but this ride tops them all! As the train winds around bright blue lakes and across mighty viaducts, fields transform into snowy mountains right before your eyes.

Our travel tip:  Panoramic trains operating on this route charge a small reservation fee. If you want to avoid the fee, you can take regular trains on the same beautiful route!

The Bergen Railway

Scenic route: Oslo to Bergen

Country:  Norway Witness Norway's spellbinding natural landscape on this epic 7-hour train journey through fjords, glaciers and Europe’s highest mountainous plateau. Our travel tip:  Exit the train in Myrdal to take the legendary tourist train to Flåm ( get 30% off with Interrail ).

The Black Forest Railway

Scenic route: Konstanz to Offenburg

Country:  Germany If you’re a fan of fairytale forests and villages with traditional timbered houses, then don't miss riding the  Schwarzwaldbahn . Keep an eye out for the lovely section between Donaueschingen and Hornberg. Our travel tip:  Local double-decker trains run along this route. As places on board are not allocated, be ready to claim the top-deck seats that have the best views!

The Salzkammergut Railway

Route: Stainach-Irdning to Attnang-Puchheim

Country:  Austria Boasting views of huge cliffs, picturesque villages and glistening lakes, this ride really stirs the imagination. Located within the attractive Austrian Lake District, you’ll want to get off the train at every station to explore. Our travel tip:  From the railway station in Hallstatt, take a ferry across the adjacent lake and visit one of the most beautiful towns in all of Austria.

The Belgrade-Bar Railway

Scenic route: Belgrade to Bar

Countries:  Serbia  and  Montenegro Are you a true traveller at heart? Then this adventurous Balkan train ride is for you. Surrounded by rocky valleys, you'll pass rushing rivers, wide lakes, and cross the tallest viaduct in Europe. Did we mention it lasts 12 hours!? Our travel tip:  There’s a day train and a night train on this route. To get the most out of the amazing scenery, take the train service that departs in the morning.

Cinque Terre

Scenic route: La Spezia to Levanto

Country:  Italy Italy’s most popular scenic rail trip may be short, but it sure is sweet! As the train hugs the coastline you feel as if you’re floating across the water, from one picture-perfect village to another. Our travel tip:  Follow the walking trails between the 5 seaside villages of the Cinque Terre. The section between Monterosso and Vernazza is particularly delightful.

The West Highland Line

Scenic route: Fort William to Mallaig

Country: Scotland,  Great Britain The isolated moorlands, lochs and glens along this train ride will take your breath away. As you cross the famous Glenfinnan viaduct, you might recognise it as a setting from the Harry Potter films. Our travel tip:  The Scottish rail operator runs local services along this route so there’s no need to pay over the odds to take the steam trains that ride the same way.

The Douro Line

Scenic route: Porto to Pocinho

Country:  Portugal This splendid train ride snakes all the way along the Douro River. While the vineyard terraces on either side of the valley are the main attraction, the petite, white and blue tiled train stations have their own charm too. Our travel tip:  The last return train departs as early as 17:22. Take the morning train to make the return trip, or spend a night in the valley sampling delicious wines.

The Little Yellow Train

Scenic route: Latour-de-Carol to Villefranche-Vernet-les-bains

Country:  France In summer, this train has an open-top carriage! The unobstructed views of the Pyrenees make for one heck of a ride. Close to the French borders with Andorra and Spain, this is all about the thrills of exploration. Our travel tip:  While this train is fully included in the Interrail Pass, there are sometimes works on the line so it's good to  check train times  in advance (French only).

Rhodope Narrow Gauge

Scenic route: Septemvri - Dobrinishte

Country:  Bulgaria  Travel back in time on the last narrow gauge train in the country. Beginning at the Pirin range, travel through mountains, forests and villages with minarets and soak up all the beauty the Balkan countryside has to offer.

Our travel tip:  Septemvri is easily accessible from Sofia, but before you make the journey check all train route information on the  BDZ website .

How to plan the perfect scenic train ride

Get your timing right

Use an  online sunrise and sunset calculator  to help choose your  train times . You can't enjoy the scenery after dark.

Explore the stops

Don't miss your chance to get off the train at stations along the route. By doing so, you can truly be part of the world's best scenery.

Don't spend too much

Taking a scenic train ride doesn't need to be expensive. Most trains are affordable, regional services that locals use every day. If you have an  Interrail Pass , you can board all the trains listed above at no extra cost.

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An Interrail Global Pass is your ticket to all of these epic train journeys. With borderless rail travel in 33 countries, there's nothing stopping you from riding them all!

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The 7 Best Scenic Train Trips in Europe to Ensure You Have a Rail-y Good Time

Last Updated: February 16, 2022

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Let me tell you one thing straight up: train travel in Europe is here to ruin your life.

I mean, after being spoiled with the convenience and comfort of beautiful train rides across the continent, it’s physically impossible for me to enjoy stuffy buses or claustrophobic planes in the same way I used to.

In fact, the worst has happened: I’ve become a stuck-up  train  person, guys….. I talk about trains  for fun and get excited explaining routes to people…

Who have I become?!

But this is the difficult truth: once you experience the comfort, convenience and general badassery of train travel, it’s a difficult return to life pre-rail.

Especially so in Europe, a continent packed with scenic routes, dramatic landscapes and a surplus of incredible destinations to gawk at.

Save this list of the best train rides in Europe for later!

You’ll be rail-y glad you did.

But hey, you know, sometimes sacrifices must be made.

If you dare to take this plunge and risk becoming a transportation snob yourself, I invite you to read on.

Train travel is by far the most scenic and comfortable way to get around Europe (though not usually  the cheapest ), and there are some routes that will genuinely blow your mind.

In fear of overselling you, I’ll simply say this: the following train rides are eye candy in their purest form, and if you’re anything like me (a chronic sucker for views), then you NEED to see them for yourself.

So, without further ado, here are some of Europe’s most scenic train routes (I recommend setting a bowl aside to catch your drool as you scroll through).

This post is in partnership with ACP Rail International and Eurail , who provided me with a rail pass I used on many of these adventures!

Clearly, I’m hooked on train travel… Let me know in the comments where your favourite train ride is in the world so I can add it to my bucket list!

1. The Golden Pass Classic, Switzerland

Truly, it took every ounce of my self-control to not put the entire country of Switzerland on this list. In fact, a peek at early drafts of this post will quickly reveal that my original list was Swiss -er than a luxury watch dipped in fondue. 

Truth be told, a lot of my Eurail pass was used for train hopping in Switzerland (a seriously amazing value considering the high cost of EVERYTHING in that country), but because I don’t want to play favourites, I’ve decided to highlight just one.

Now, the Swiss train system is studded with scenic heavyweights and household names such as the Bernina Express and Glacier Express , but today I’d like to add another stunner to your bucket list: the Golden Pass, a glorious journey split in three parts between Lucerne and Montreux.

Specifically, I need you to know about the Golden Pass Classic train, which uses refurbished cars from the Orient Express (except you know, less murder).

This scenic section of the ride between Montreux and Zweisimmen brings a whole new meaning to the term spectacular, taking you past narrow valleys, lake views and mountainscapes to die for.

As part of my tour of Swiss Christmas Markets,  I hopped on this ride in late November, catching the perfect sweet spot in the off-season when golden trees mingled with snowy mountains to create the most scenic train ride on Earth.

NOTE: To get the full experience, make sure you book for the Golden Pass  Classic,  and maybe even treat yourself to a VIP seat at extra cost, which allows you to ride at the head of the train for sweeping unobstructed views. Although this regular 1st class seat wasn’t too shabby either:

2. The Flåm Railway, Norway

I’ve always thought that Norway was where Mother Nature went to gloat and show off her best work.

I mean… the fjords, the mountains, the… *ahem*  vikings!  If addictive eye candy is what you’re after, Norway is where you’ll find it in spades, and I highly recommend booking a trip on the Flåm Railway to soak it all in.

This train line is one of the steepest in the world, and offers unbeatable views of Norway in all its majestic glory.

PRO TIP: This line is part of the famous “ Norway in a Nutshell ” tour, which gives visitors a taste of Norway’s best fjord views through a combination of scenic train/boat/bus rides. If you have some time, I definitely recommend adding on other segments of this tour (e.g. the boat ride) because it is SO worth it! I did a DIY version by booking all the legs of the trip independently (rather than through a package) – it ended up far cheaper this way 🙂

And in case you need an additional nudge, here are some snapshots from a snowy March day when I did this ride a few years ago:

3. Train de la Côte Bleue, France

The South of France is a region known for its lax Mediterranean vibes and gorgeous landscapes… but can you imagine exploring it by rail, a gentle breeze in your hair as you glide past one of Europe’s most scenic coastlines?

Now that’s sweet joie de vivre.

And while France’s mega high speed trains often turn any scenic views into disappointing blurs, there are still several regional trains well worth the ride… and trust me, the Train de la Côte Bleue is one of them.

This train ride offers up an hour and fifteen minutes of scenic bliss running between Marseille and Miramas, and it’s a stunner.

I had the pleasure of doing this ride several summers ago, when (even in the suffocating heat), I couldn’t help but feel like the luckiest girl alive.

There’s just something about the shimmering blue sea and adorable town views that make it such a ride to remember…!

4. The West Rhine Railway, Germany

In many ways, this scenic stretch along the Rhine River combines many of my favourite things: vineyards, castles and lush, knockout beauty.

The journey between German cities Cologne and Mainz is one that I first got to experience on board a river cruise, back when I did my crazy summer internship with CroisiEurope.

When I found out this route was doable by train, I just about melted into a puddle of goo.

… jaws were dropped, and shortly after, plans were made.

Known worldwide as part of the “Romantic Rhine” journey, the West Rhine railway winds its away around the famous Rhine river, swooshing through green valleys studded with charming castles, vineyards and picture-perfect landscapes that will literally stop your heart. It is by far one of the most scenic train routes you can do in Europe.

Sadly, a rainstorm destroyed any chances of me getting a good photo, so here’s a little taste of the region via HolgersFotografie on Pixabay:

5. Linha do Douro, Portugal

Portugal’s Douro Valley is hands down one of my favourite places in Europe.

Imagine perfectly terraced vineyards, picturesque olive tree clusters and rugged, rocky terrain, all framing a bright blue river. In this picturesque dream, the views are nothing short of magic.

This was another area I fell for during my river cruise days, and I’ve literally yakked about the beauty of the Douro to anyone that would listen.

If cruising isn’t your thing though, the Linha do Douro train route running from Porto to Pocinho allows you to take in the beauty of this picturesque river, all from the comfort of a swishy train carriage.

PRO TIP: If you visit during the summer, there’s also an old timey steam train you can catch through the valley.

6. Munich to Mittenwald (or to Füssen), Germany

I could chat you up all day about the beautiful train rides in and out of Munich.

I’m incredibly spoiled to be living here, a stone’s throw away from the Alps and all their pristine glory.

There are several noteworthy train rides in the area, including the scenic Black Forest, which (besides an excellent cake) offers up incredible views by rail.

My personal favourite however is the train ride from Munich to Mittenwald (or Füssen if you choose to disembark a little earlier).

Not only are the sights along the way absolutely gorgeous, but the destinations are insanely special in their own right.

In fact, just outside of Füssen is where you’ll find Walt Disney’s fairytale muse – Neuschwanstein Castle , one of the dreamiest places in Germany.

7. West Highland Line, Scotland

And last but not least, I bring you the scenic train route of your childhood dreams.

I forced myself to put this one last because I t echnically haven’t done it yet (unless my drool-soaked dreams count), but I assure you: it’s priority #1 on my list! If the photo below looks familiar, it’s likely because this scenic ride in Scotland is better known by its Wizarding name – the Hogwarts Express 😉

Luckily for us though, this ride is open to the muggle public, and operates between Glasgow and Oban (or Fort William and Mallaig, depending on how you do it),

One of the main highlights of this ride is a chance to chug across the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a starring sight in our childhood hearts thanks to Harry Potter & co.

Beyond that though, this ride is a unique chance to immerse oneself in the dramatic and rugged landscapes of Scotland – a worthy incentive in itself.

Did I miss any of your favourite train rides in Europe?

And so, now that I’ve filled your head with all sorts of dreams and plans for train travel, I want to hear some suggestions from you! I hope you enjoyed this roundup of scenic train routes around Europe, and again, I know there are countless others that shouldn’t be missed, so let me know in the comments what your favourites are 🙂

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

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💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

12 thoughts on “The 7 Best Scenic Train Trips in Europe to Ensure You Have a Rail-y Good Time”

If I just take one of these scenic train routes before I die, it has to be the last one. I’d totally pretend I’m going off to Hogwarts. 😉 – Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog https://charmainenyw.com

amazing train journeys!

Oh train travel is our absolute Favorite! These train look so stunning!!! Such a great post

Thanks so much for reading, Stacey! <3

Glad you have both the West Highland Line and the Flam Railway on the list. The Bernina Express is stunning. I lived in France on Lake Geneva and in Basel in Switzerland and I would say the train journey from Geneva to Zurich is pretty special too!

What a great itinerary. I always recommend to anyone traveling in Europe to take the train— it’s just so much nicer than than flying and feels like part of the cultural experience. Will definitely follow some of your suggestions!

Omg I love train rides especially in Europe. You get to enjoy the most beautiful scenery you’ve ever seen in your life. And yes the entire country of Switzerland is a piece of heaven❤❤❤ I hope to experience this one day!

I loved this post! Thanks for adding several train routes to my future itineraries. LOL! We had the pleasure of doing the west Rhine Route as well and it was absolutely incredible.

Oh, I am WITH you – train rides are awesome!! What better way to relax and take everything in? And I love the look of these – definitely have to try the Norway route! A Eurail pass is definitely speaking to me…

I love traveling by train in Europe too and these are amazing. By the way…I did the Hogwarts Express. It’s pretty cool!

I agree – there is nothing like traveling via train in Europe. The scenery is epic and the trains are always so nice no matter what class you travel in. And Eurorail is the way to go! I haven’t done any of those particular train rides, but, I’m certainly going to try to get to them.

The West Highland Line is absolutely stunning! And yes, your inner child will probably be giggling from excitement all the way. I feel like traveling by train is so incredibly underrated! Most people opt for a quick flight to save time or a night bus to save money on accommodations. But it is honestly my favourite kind of transportation. There is something so relaxing and freeing to just stare out of the window while the train is moving through the most scenic views of Europe. Anyway, loved the article! Definitely planning on seeing the West Rhine Railway after this!

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22 of the best rail journeys in Europe

See Europe how it was meant to be seen: from the window of a train! From mountain climbs to luxury sleepers, here’s the rail adventures you must add to your bucket list…

1. Glacier Express, Switzerland

Glacier Express, Switzerland (Shutterstock)

Best for… Seeing Switzerland in the slow lane

The journey: Zermatt to St Moritz (290km; seven and a half hours)

We say… Don’t be fooled by its name: the Glacier Express averages 38kph, but who wants to rush when the scenery is this spectacular?

Linking two of Switzerland’s best-loved ski resorts, the route is an opus of snowcapped peaks, rugged valleys, 291 bridges and wild tangles of alpine forest. The view will keep you glued to the train’s panoramic windows – though the traverse of the towering Landwasser viaduct might have you reaching for a second glass of Valais wine.

Top tip: In Zermatt you can extend your trip by taking Europe’s highest cog railway to the summit of Gornergrat (3,089m). The view of the Matterhorn is worth it.

Read next : Switzerland’s most stunning rail journeys

2. odontotos rack railway, greece.

Odontotos Rack Railway, Greece (Shutterstock)

Best for… Peaks and valleys

The journey: Diakopto to Kalavrita (22.5km; one hour)

We say… Making delightfully slow work of a wild Peloponnese gorge, this heritage railway – built in 1895 – is one of southern Greece’s final remaining narrow gauge lines.

It starts in the seaside town of Diakopto and weaves up to the mountain town of Kalavrita through hand-carved tunnels and plane-tree forests. En route, you’ll cross 49 bridges in total, as the Vouraikos River roils far below.

Top tip: To visit nearby Olympia’s ancient temples and stadium, take the small train from Katacolon – yet another narrow-gauge survivor.

3. Rhine Valley Line, Germany

The Rhine Valley Line, Germany (Shutterstock)

Best for… A riverside ramble

The journey: Cologne to Mainz (152km; two and a half hours)

We say… The Rhine Valley Line finds its muse just after Bonn, where it starts to tightly hug the waterline. Sure, you could take the high-speed intercity route and save yourself an hour on your journey, but then you’d miss out on the patchwork of vineyards, Koblenz’s hilltop fortress and the legend of Lorelei Rock.

Top tip: Interrail passes are valid on this line – and get you a discount on KD Rhine Line boats.

4. Venice Simplon Orient-Express, UK, France & Italy

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Shutterstock)

Best for…The ‘golden age’ of rail

The journey: London to Folkestone; Calais to Venice (1,636km; 24 hours)

We say… While the final descendent of the real Orient Express met its end in 2009, a US businessman had long since bought up 1920s and ‘30s carriages (many belonging to the original service) and resurrected its route to Venice.

This journey is played out on two heritage trains – the British Pullman on the UK leg and the VSOE between Calais and Venice – and as the mountains and meadows slip by, you can sip martinis in the piano bar, devour lobster in its Étoile du Nord restaurant car and just dream.

Top tip: Though the southbound journey is popular, the northbound experience is just as fabulous – and doesn’t book up so quickly.

Read next: The best new rail routes around the world for 2022

5. west highland line, scotland.

Glenfinnan Viaduct on the West Highland Lane, Scotland (Shutterstock)

Best for… The wildest of Scottish rides

The journey: Glasgow to Mallaig (264km; five and a half hours)

We say… After slipping away from Glasgow, the West Highland Line weaves some of Britain’s wildest scenery: to lonely moorlands, forest-bound lochs and crumbling castle ruins.

Up here, you’re more likely to spot red deer than humans – though the Glenfinnan Viaduct is familiar thanks to its cameo in the Harry Potter films. If travelling southwards, sit on the right-hand side of the train for the best views.

Top tip: The Royal Scotsman and Jacobite Steam Train are rather luxurious – if pricey – alternatives to this £16.80 (one-way) ScotRail journey.

6. Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy

Bernina Express (Shutterstock)

Best for… Jaw-dropping (and ear-popping) views

The journey: Landquart to Tirano (163km; five hours)

We say… Starting this summer, you get even more bang for your buck on the Bernina Express , as its trans-alpine journey has been extended for around 50km. It now starts (or terminates) at Landquart before looping through the Prättigau mountains and over Zügen Gorge’s sheer-sided ravines.

Running between May and October, its climax is the 2,253m-high Bernina Pass, the gateway to Italy. It’s a smooth ride but one that’s big on drama, encompassing dizzying and panoramic views from the Brusio Spiral viaduct along the way.

Top tip: For the best views, grab a seat on the rig.

7. Mariazell Railway, Austria

The Narrow Gauge or Mariazell Railway in the Austrian Alps (Shutterstock)

Best for… Alpine hikes and hijinx

The journey: St Pölten to Mariazell (78km; two and a half hours)

We say… Traversing one of the wildest regions of the Austrian Alps, this narrow-gauge service is officially split into two sections: ‘Valley’ and ‘Mountains’.

The former stretches from St Pölten to Frankenfels, a land of pretty grazing meadows and gentle pathways (tickets allow you to hop on and off), while the latter climbs up through the ruggedly handsome Erlauf gorge and the peaks of Ötscher-Tormäuer Naturpark. Allow a full day – at least.

Top tip: For widescreen views, grab a first-class panorama carriage (May to October on weekend and holiday services), while heritage rail fans love the 100-year-old Ötscherbär train that runs from June to late September.

8. Inlandsbanan, Sweden

Inlandsbanan train pulling into Mora, Sweden (Shutterstock)

Best for… A jovial jaunt

The journey: Kristinehamn to Gällivare (1,288km; from two days)

We say… The Inlandsbanan is slow travel at its best, heading up past the Arctic Circle and into Swedish Lapland. In fact, its drivers love an excuse to stretch their legs, and scheduled stops to take a dip in Lake Siljan or visit Sami villages and their reindeer herds along the way are worth it.

Before you know it, you’re cooing over moose and foraging for berries under midnight sun (June to early July) – all thoughts of the timetable long forgotten.

Top tip: At each stop you can order fresh dishes from local restaurants, such as smoked Arctic char and lingonberry crumble.

9. Trenino Verde, Sardinia, Italy

The Green Train travelling through Italy (Shutterstock)

Best for… Island adventures

The journey: Palau to Tempio (59km); Sindia to Bosa (33km); Mandas to Laconi (37km); Mandas to Sadali (58km); Arbata to Gairloch (62km); times vary

We say… The best way to get under the skin of Sardinia is by catching the Trenino Verde – or Green Train – for a picturesque pootle around the island. The Mandas-Laconi line weaves through wild woodlands, the Palau-Tempio track culminates in a town famed for its cork groves, and Sindia–Bosa forges from the island’s untamed interior out to its western coast.

Top tip: Don’t be surprised if the conductor hops out to shoo sheep off the line, or to stop traffic at level crossings. Slow travel at its purest.

Read next: Italy’s most spectacular rail journeys

10. la ligne des cévennes, france.

La Ligne des Cévennes, France (Shutterstock)

Best for… Gallic grandeur

The journey: Clermont-Ferrand to Nîmes (304km; six and a half hours)

We say… Every twist and turn of this train line is an engineering marvel: it ticks off a mighty 106 tunnels and over a thousand bridges, as well as the seriously lofty (46m high) Chamborigaud viaduct.

With 29 long-legged arches arranged in a semicircular loop, Chamborigaud is a scene-stealer – although the track reaches its pinnacle on the summit at La Bastide (1,023m). There are gentler pleasures still to be found in the rolling vineyards of the Auvergne, the chestnut forests of Cévennes National Park and the track’s picturesque dalliance with the River Allier.

Top tip: Visit in springtime to see the area’s wildflowers in bloom.

11. Derry/Londonderry to Coleraine, Northern Ireland

Derry/L:ondonderry, Northern Ireland (Shutterstock)

Best for… A budget Irish beauty

The journey: Derry/Londonderry to Coleraine (55km; 38 minutes)

We say… This route doesn’t need five-star cabins or steam locomotives for wow-factor: it’s all about the scenery. Explore a banquet of windswept beaches, razor-edged cliffs and wild views on the no-frills Translink service.

Sit on the left-hand side (if travelling eastwards) and settle in for a ride that Sir Michael Palin hailed in his Great Railway Journeys series as “one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world”, as you hop-skip peregrine falcon habitats and the thread the longest railway tunnels in Ireland.

Top tip: Stop for a yomp on the wide, wild sands of Benone beach.

12. Linha do Douro, Portugal

Pinhão Station, Portugal (Shutterstock)

Best for…Giving the city the slip

The journey: Porto to Pocinho (160km; three and a half hours)

We say… Don’t take a day cruise from Porto: hop on the Linha do Douro instead. Most boat trips only venture as far as the port-producing village of Pinhão, but this train line ploughs further into the heartlands, past great walls of rock and rambling quintas (wine estates).

Better yet, the track swaps between shores, so there’s no such thing as a duff seat. Pinhão Station must be one of Europe’s prettiest terminals, trimmed with intricate azulejo tilework, but look out, too, for the towering gorge around Régua and the ancient rock art of the Côa Valley at Pocinho.

Top tip: In Pocinho, linger over lunch and local port at Taberna da Julinha (+351 965 398 826) – its steaks are worth the trip alone.

13. Septemvri to Dobrinishte, Bulgaria

Tsepina on the Septemvri to Dobrinishte, Bulgaria (Shutterstock)

Best for… Making new friends

The journey: Septemvri to Dobrinishte (125km; five hours)

We say… Bulgaria’s only operating narrow-gauge railway is a lifeline to its remote south-west, so make room for the babas (grandmothers) heading to market.

The train travels at a glacial speed (you can walk beside it in parts), but it’s a journey to savour, with stops for hiking in Bansko, Velingrad’s hot springs and Belitsa’s dancing bear sanctuary.

Top tip: The train only has a simple café on board, so bring a picnic.

14. El Transcantábrico Clásico, Spain

León, Spain (Shutterstock)

Best for… Exploring the north

The journey: León to Santiago de Compostela (643km; four to eight days)

We say… Never has the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela felt so indulgent. El Transcantábrico ’s lavish compartments and plentiful excursions make for an easy, enlightening ride.

The Clásico itinerary hugs the northern coast, with stop-offs at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, seafood suppers in Santander and, on longer trips, hiking in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Picos de Europa National Park.

Top tip: The rail network actually runs between San Feliz and Ferrol – a few kilometres shy of León and Santiago de Compostela – so the trip is bookended by brief coach journeys.

Read next: 6 of the world’s most luxurious sleeper trains

15. belgrade to bar, serbia, bosnia & montenegro.

Mala Rijeka Viaduct, Serbia (Shutterstock)

Best for… A cross-country caper

The journey: Belgrade to Bar (476km; 10 hours)

We say… This Balkan line can’t be booked online with national operators, so you’ll need to get tickets at the counter, but once on board you’ll hop ravines and rivers with the greatest of ease, thanks to its 254 tunnels and 435 bridges.

It took railway engineers decades to blast through the Dinaric Alps, traverse the thick birch forests, skirt the shores of Lake Skadar and build the 200m-high Mala Rijeka viaduct, which, until 2001, was the tallest railway bridge in the world.

Top tip: Local sources state this train is currently only operating a night time service. Boo we say! But look out for the return of its day time schedule.

16. Golden Eagle Danube Express, Turkey to Hungary

Golden Eagle Danube Express (Shutterstock)

Best for… The east with ease

The journey: Istanbul (Turkey) to Budapest (Hungary) via Bulgaria & Romania (1,832km; seven days)

We say… On the Danube Express ’s ‘Castles of Transylvania’ route, you’ll whizz between two of Europe’s most beguiling cities in the lap of luxury.

Off-train excursions allow for easy exploration of medieval towns and Romanian castles, while the onboard experience includes opulent perks: think plush double cabins, starched linens and piano recitals.

Top tip: Spend your time socialising in the cocktail lounge; this journey tends to attract fascinating souls.

17. North York Moors Railway, England

Vintage passenger train on the North York Moors Railway (Shutterstock)

Best for… A time-travelling treasure

The journey: Whitby to Pickering (38.6km; one hour, 45 minutes)

We say… With a shrill whistle and a scorching blast, this steamy trip into the North York Moors National Park begins in lively Whitby, so spare time to visit its recenty reopened Abbey.

From there, it travels windswept dales, lush carpets of heather and, so it seems, time itself. Though devoid of most mod cons, the NYMR’s hundred-year-old steam trains make surprisingly quick work of these rolling moors, as you stop off for picnics and village walks along the way.

Top tip: For a taste of life at the steamy end, join the railway’s ‘experience days’ and ride on the footplate.

18. Bohinj Railway, Slovenia & Italy

Bohinj Railway, Slovenia (Shutterstock)

Best for… Slovenia made simple

The journey: Jesenice to Trieste (approx 150km; three hours)

We say… To ford the peaks of the Julian Alps to the northernmost sliver of Italian coastline, the Bohinj Railway must slice a route it has plied for over 110 years.

It was built as a strategic network for the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, but these days it’s catnip for hikers and cyclists who revel in the easy connections to Most na Soci, Lake Bled and Nova Gorica’s wineries.

Top tip: For a special trip, catch the heritage steam train (May to November) between Jesenice and Nova Gorica, where staff still don the uniforms of the old Austro-Hungarian Empire.

19. Semmering Railway, Austria

Semmering Railway, Austria (Shutterstock)

Best for… UNESCO-listed joys

The journey: Gloggnitz to Mürzzuschlag (41km; 40 minutes)

We say… Praised by UNESCO as ‘one of the greatest feats of civil engineering’, the Semmering teeters on two-storey viaducts and narrow mountain passes, with twists and steep inclines aplenty.

The reward for your fortitude? Swoon-worthy views of the Austrian Alps, and opportunities for great hiking or skiing. It took six years and 20,000 labourers to build this track, and this pioneering project from the 1850s became the blueprint for mountain railways all over the world.

Top tip: Gloggnitz is just an hour by train from Vienna, so don’t miss out.

20. Bergen Railway, Norway

Bergen Railway, Norway (Shutterstock)

Best for… Scandi splendour

The journey: Oslo to Bergen (500km; six and a half hours)

We say… Even in the cosy comfort of your compartment, Norway’s desolate Hardangervidda plateau will send a shiver down your spine. While the forests and lakes outside Oslo are beautiful, it’s the Bergen Railway ’s eerily empty mountain passes that steal the show.

Stretch your legs at Finse, the highest station on the line (1,222m), to see where Robert Falcon Scott and his crew trained in advance of their infamous 1912 South Pole expedition. A lonely spot indeed.

Top tip: Hop off at Myrdal and pick up the extraordinary 20km branch line to Flam (one hour), whose spiral tunnels and steep gradient will sweep you up further into these breathtaking mountains.

21. Brocken Railway, Germany

Brocken Railway, Germany (Shutterstock)

Best for… Saving your legs

The journey: Drei Annen Hohne to Brocken (19km; 51 minutes)

We say… The summit of Brocken (the Harz mountains’ loftiest point) is a doddle for these steam trains (which, if you book online, you’ll have to do in German). They climb thick pines and wildflower meadows up to the 1,141m peak, forming one of three lines on the Harz Railway, Europe’s longest network (140km) still running daily steam trains.

Top tip: Buy a one-way ticket and hike back down, walking the famed trail to Torfhaus.

22. Ffestiniog Railway, Wales

Ffestiniog Railway, Wales (Shutterstock)

Best for… Steaming Snowdonia

The journey: Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog (21.7km; one hour 15 mins)

We say… Operated by the oldestsurviving train company in the world, the Ffestiniog Railway has run for almost 200 years through Snowdonia National Park, and has a gleaming troupe of steam locomotives. The route is a rich feast of rivers, waterfalls, mountains and ancient woodlands, with a looping spiral section lending some thrills.

Top tip: Add on the Welsh Highland Railway – Ffestiniog’s sister route – between Porthmadog and Caernarfon to extend your fun.

You may also like:

• Switzerland’s most stunning rail journeys
• Spectacular rail journeys in the USA
• Britain’s most scenic rail journeys

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The most scenic train journeys in Europe that will inspire you to travel by train

Thanks to the great engineers of the Old Continent, Europe has a superb train network that connects every point of the continent, from big metropolitan cities to remote, picturesque mountain villages. Europe’s train network passes through some of the most difficult terrains, including icy rivers, fjords, green highlands, and snowy valleys, giving us a chance to enjoy some of the best scenic train journeys in Europe that inspire even more travelers to visit the Old Continent.

El Transcantábrico ,  Spain

Duration: 8 days Distance: 780 kilometers Fare: € 3,700

Starting off this list of scenic train journeys in Europe, we have el Transcantábrico. What’s better than experiencing the staggering natural beauty of northern Spain with a 5-star train? During this journey, you’ll get to stay in original 1923 Pullman coaches with all the modern facilities of the 21 st century. The tour includes exploring the historic towns of the region, visiting the finest beaches along the Bay of Biscay, and boarding the train overnight.

The journey starts at Irun, close to the French border, passes through San Sebastian, Bilbao, Asturias, Santander, and Ferrol in eight days and allows passengers to see the best Northern Spain has to offer.

Slow Trains through Asturias

Duration: 4 hours Distance: 120 kilometers Fare: €10 one-way

El Transcantábrico is an expensive experience, but if you take away the accommodation in an original 1923 Pullman coach, you can experience the same journey for a fraction of the price. Asturias is famous for the slow trains that pass through the region, allowing passengers to see the virgin beaches, sweeping bays, and picturesque fishing villages dotted with red-roofed homesteads and hórreos. The most picturesque part of the journey is from the hidden town of Cudillero to the historic city of Ribadesella. The journey takes 3-4 hours and it’s the best budget option to experience a part of the magic of El Transcantábrico.

La Rhune, France

Duration: 34 minutes Distance:  4 kilometers Fare:  €19 return

Train de la Rhune is one of the best scenic train journeys not only in Europe but in the whole world. The journey lasts only 30 minutes but in this time, you’ll ride on an old-fashioned train that passes through a 100-years-old railway that leads from Saint-Jean-de-Luz to a 900-meters-high peak of the Pyrenees from where you can get a 360-degrees panoramic view that stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pyrenees and the coast of Basque. It’s one of the most spectacular viewpoints in France and you can have it for only €19 (both ways).

Train de la Côte Bleue, France

Duration: 1.5 hours Distance:  32 kilometers Fare:  €10 one-way

The south of France is famous for its laid-back, Mediterranean vibes, beautiful nature, and jaw-dropping landscapes. Hence, this list of the best scenic train journeys in Europe wouldn’t be complete without at least one train ride from this region. One thing you should note though is that, to fully experience this journey, you have to take the regional Train de la Côte Bleue. France’s TGV trains are too fast to enjoy the view and often turn even the most scenic journeys into a disappointing experience. Train de la Côte Bleue runs between Marseille and Miramas and the journey includes 1.5 hours of scenic views of the shimmering blue sea, lush-green forests dotted with picturesque small towns.

The Little Yellow Train, France

Duration: 1.5 hours Distance:  67 kilometers Fare:  €13.60

The Little Yellow Train has been one of the most popular train journeys in France for more than 100 years. This train journey starts at Villefranche-de-Conflent, goes through the Regional Nature Park of the Catalan Pyrénées, all the way up to the highest train station in France, Bolquere (1,593 meters), and ends at Latour-de-Carol-Enveitg. And if you think things can’t get better, you’re wrong; during the summer, the train runs with an open-top carriage. Another good thing about this journey is that you don’t have to worry about booking tickets in advance or not being able to find a ticket if you book in advance. The tickets for the Little Yellow Train can only be purchased at the train station before your journey.

West Highland Line, Scotland

Duration: 1.5 hours Distance:  69 kilometers Fare:  Starting from £7.40

Featuring isolated highlands , rugged lochs, and glimpses of coastline, the train ride from Fort William to Mallaig is one of the best scenic train journeys in Europe. The journey also includes some spectacular views of Ben Nevis and if you’re wondering where do these divine landscapes look so familiar from, it’s from Harry Potter’s Hogwart’s Express. Some of the best movie-lake landscapes you’ll encounter on this journey include The Glenfinnan Viaduct over the waters of Loch Shiel, the rocky pinnacles of the Cobbler, the steep Monessie Gorge, and the divine Ben Lui.

Caledonian Sleeper, The UK

Duration: 8 hours Distance:  804 kilometers Fare:  Starting from £45 for comfort seats and £140 for classic rooms

The legendary Caledonian Sleeper has recently undergone a £150 million revamp that seems to help in bringing back the glory days of Britain’s most iconic overnight train. Caledonia’s Sleeper runs between London and Edinburgh and features some of the most beautiful sunset views Scotland has to offer. The classic rooms and even the cabins look very posh and the food served on the train is delicious. Overall, it’s one train ride you don’t want to miss if you want to experience one of the best scenic train journeys in Europe.

Belmond Grand Hibernian, Ireland

Duration: 2/4/6 days Distance:  300 kilometers/810 kilometers/1,250 kilometers Fare:  €3,300/€5,800/€9,100

This is one of the newest train journeys in Europe that started operating in 2016 with the goal to showcase the best of Ireland’s natural beauties while giving passengers the chance to stay in one of the most luxurious trains in the world. The Grand Hibernian includes tours that last 2,4 or 6 nights. The journeys include food and accommodation throughout the trip as well as organized tours to some of Ireland’s most famous landmarks.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Duration: 17-24 hours Distance:  1,160 kilometers Fare:  £2,365, budget alternative €139

The old Orient Express is one of the most majestic train journeys that dates back to the 1920s’, also known as the Golden age of rail on the Old Continent. Close to $20 million dollars were spent in restoring the sleeping cars to their original form while keeping all the glamour. This is also probably the only train journey that has a dress code; most of the passengers are dressed very nicely when leaving their coaches. As for the train ride, it starts from the outskirts of Venice and takes you on a journey through the heart of Europe that features the charming towns of Northern Italy, the snow-capped Alps, and the natural beauties of France can never be boring. The journey on the luxurious Orient Express costs more than 2,000 pounds but you can also opt-in for some of the less luxurious journeys that will allow you to experience the same views (minus the luxury) for only €139.

Trenino Verde, Sardinia

Duration: 7 hours Distance:  250 kilometers Fare:  €25

Trenino Verde offers the most idyllic and at places, only, passages through the most remote parts of Sardinia. The Trenino Verde is an unforgettable experience that allows you to see the best of Sardinia in only a few hours. The journey crosses through the heart of Sardinia’s rugged terrain dotted with charming, remote villages that will inevitably inspire you to spend a few more days on the island and discover some of its picturesque hidden gems.

The Brocken ,  Germany

Duration: 1-2 hours Distance:  19 kilometers Fare:  Starting from €25

The Brocken Railway is one of the most spectacular train rides in Germany. It runs from Drei Annen Hohne station to the summit of Brocken (1,141 meters), while showcasing the serenity of Harz National Park. There are 10 trains that travel this rail line every day and all of them are powered by coal-burning steam locomotives that give the journey a unique, old-fashioned vibe .

Central Rhine Railway, Germany

Duration: 1 hour Distance:  61 kilometers Fare:  Starting from €9

If you ever take a train ride on the Central Rhine Railway, you’ll see where a lot of European fairy tales get inspiration from. The railway runs between Bingen and Koblenz and along the way, you can click pictures of some of the most divine landscapes of the picturesque Rhine Valley. Get ready to see wild, swirling waters, majestic castles on the bank of the river, and endless stretches of lush green forests.

Höllentalbahn (Black Forest Railway, Germany)

Duration: 2 hours Distance:  75 kilometers Fare:  Starting from €5

Höllentalbahn actually translates to Hell Valley Railway but this journey is actually the closest thing it comes to paradise in Germany , I was thinking as the old train was crossing of the 40-meters-high Ravenna Bridge, offering me a spectacular view of the mesmerizing Ravenna Gorge, one of the highlights of this scenic train ride. This is arguably the steepest railway in Germany and it crosses through some of the country’s most pristine parts. If you want to discover some of the hidden gems that lie in this forest, Höllentalbahn is also a great option because there are numerous stops where you can get off and continue your exploration by foot.

Munich to Innsbruck, Germany & Austria

Duration: 3 hours Distance:  157 kilometers Fare:  Starting from €9

We can’t have a list of the best scenic train journeys in Europe without mentioning this train ride that features Bavaria’s most scenic landscapes on the way to Innsbruck, one of the best winter destinations in Europe . Get ready to see a lot of glittering, blue lakes, snowy mountain landscapes, cute villages, and of course, a myriad of beautiful mountain towns, including Mittenwald and Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Mariazell Railway ,  Austria

Duration: 1.5 hours Distance:  78 kilometers Fare: Starting  from €9

With all the scenic routes that surround Austria, it’s very difficult to choose one or two, but since we do, the Mariazell Railway has to be on this list. The journey starts at St. Polten near Vienna and it passes through the picturesque Pielach Valley before leading to Mariazzell, one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in Austria. There are a lot of options to arrange your transportation , from high-end alternatives like Railjet Trains in Austria and the modern Himmelstreppe to the old-fashioned steam-pulled carriage trains for the nostalgic travelers but no matter which one you choose, you’re in for one of the best scenic train journeys in Europe.

Semmering Railway, Austria

Duration: Less than 1 hour Distance:  41 kilometers Fare: Starting  from €7

The Semmering Railway is famous as the first real mountain railway in the world and it crosses some of Austria’s most rugged terrains, allowing passengers to see the best of Austria’s untouched pristine beauty. The journey features a lot of tunnels, charming, Instagrammable bridges and viaducts, and the snow-peaked Alps towering over the local forests. A lot of travel enthusiasts use this train line to get off at some of the many remote trekking routes, go trekking for the rest of the day, and end the long day with a warm sauna bath in one of the many beautiful surrounding mountain towns.

Cinque Terre Railway, Italy

Duration: 40 minutes Distance:  20 kilometers Fare: Starting  from €7

The railway connecting these five colorful towns of Cinque Terre is proof that good things come in small packages. The railway stretches across only 18 kilometers and connects the towns of La Spezia, Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza,  Monterosso, and Levanto in that particular order while crossing over some of the most breath-taking cliffs towering over the Ligurian Sea, charming vineyards, and endless stretches of olive groves. If you’re looking to take a post-card-quality picture of Cinque Terre, this rail line will give you a lot of great opportunities to do so.

The Centovalli Railway, Italy & Switzerland

Duration: 2 hours Distance:  52 kilometers Fare: Starting  from €11

Centovalli Railway translates to “the Hundred Valley Railway” and even though this train ride passes to only a few valleys, the spectacular sights you’ll witness will make you feel like you traveled a lot longer than you actually did. This journey runs between Domodossola and Locarno and along the way showcases some of the most scenic natural beauties of northern Italy and southern Switzerland, including hidden waterfalls, chestnut groves, picturesque vineyards, and some of the bluest mountain lakes you’ve ever seen

Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy

Duration: 4 hours Distance:  144 kilometers Fare:   Starting  from €19.90

The Bernina Express is probably the only train ride on this list that’s listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site. This happened in 2008 when UNESCO classified this 144-kilometers-long mountain network as a part of its list because of the network’s contribution to opening the remote communities of the high Alps to the rest of Europe. The line runs from Saint Moritz to Tirano, while passing through some of Europe’s most remote forests and hills, culminating at the Bernina Pass (2,253 meters). These trains are used mostly by tourists.

Glacier Express ,  Switzerland

Duration: 7-8 hours Distance:  291 kilometers Fare:   Starting  from €85

The Glacier Express runs between Zermatt and St. Moritz, two of the most renowned ski centers in Europe. With its snowy landscapes and elevation above 2,000 meters, this train ride is deservingly included in most lists of the best scenic journeys in Europe. The Glacier Express also passes through 91 mountain tunnels, 291 bridges with every next bridge offering a more beautiful view than the previous one. The direct ticket at the Glacier Express costs €85 and above (depending on the season) but you can also organize a budget variant if you don’t mind switching the train.

The Golden Pass Classic, Switzerland

Duration: 5 hours Distance:  Around 300 kilometers Fare:   Starting  from €15

It’s very tempting not to put all train rides in Switzerland on this list, but this is the last of Switzerland you’ll be seeing on this list, I promise. The Golden Pass is a scenic journey that takes you from Lucerne to Montreux. With its rolling meadows, beautiful mountain lakes, and snowy landscapes, this epic journey will redefine the meaning of the word ‘scenic’. If you want to add a bit of luxury to your journey , consider the Golden Pass Classic that runs the same line but with refurbished cars from the Orient Express.

Flåm Line, Norway

Duration: 1 hour Length:  20km Fare:   Starting  from €48

This journey might last only one hour, but it’s one of the best scenic train journeys not only in Europe but in the whole world, according to most travelers. This regional train goes from Myrdal to Flam and it includes a “horseshoe” or a spiral tunnel that will give you a great adrenaline rush in addition to the myriad of natural beauties you’ll see along the way. If you want to explore more of this region’s scenic beauty , you can also combine this train ride with a ferry trip on the Sognefjord.

Rauma Line, Norway

Duration: 1.5 hours Distance:  114 kilometers Fare:   Starting  from €29

The journey from Dombås to Åndalsnes might last only 1.5 hours but in this short period of time, you can expect to see some of Scandinavia’s wildest landscapes . This train line follows the Rauva River valley that features windswept plateaus, breath-taking ice lakes, and of course, the highlight of the trip- Trollveggen; the highest perpendicular rock in Europe.

Inlandsbanan, Sweden

Smiley.toerist

Duration: 13 hours Distance:  1,288 kilometers Fare:   Starting  from €191

If you hop on the Inlandsbanan, you’ll understand why so many travel magazines refer to it as “ Europe’s last wilderness ”. This 1,200 kilometers-long railway links Mora and Galivare with some of the most isolated Lapland communities. Throughout the journey, dense forests keep popping up on the horizon like mushrooms after rain, mile after mile. If you like seeing trees while you travel and this helps you relax, you won’t find a better journey than this one.

Baltic Sea sleeper, Malmo to Berlin 

Duration: 11-12 hours Distance:  780 kilometers Fare:   Starting  from €43

The Baltic Sea Sleeper is the only train on this list that includes a night cruise across the Baltic Sea but even though a large part of the journey happens overnight, the views of the Baltic coast are magical, especially in the winter. The journey starts at Malmo and heads to the Swedish port city of Trelleborg where trains are stored into a special train-ferry and are transported to Hamburg from where the journey continues to the German capital.

Habsburg Trail, Central Europe

Duration: 12 hours Distance:  804 kilometers Fare:   Starting  from €51

Even though this train ride isn’t officially named as the ‘Habsburg Train’, we decided to give this name to this journey because it passes through some of the Habsburg Monarchy’s biggest cities, including Prague , Vienna, Graz, Ljubljana, and Trieste. The only drawback of this ‘Habsburg rail line’ journey is that it doesn’t include Budapest. However, if you don’t mind switching a train or two, you can add a trip to Budapest to this journey. Alternatively, you can turn this trip into a self-guided tour and spend a couple of days in each of the most famous cities that were once a part of the Habsburg Monarchy.

Bieszczady Forest Railway, Poland

Duration: 45 minutes Distance:  20 kilometers Fare:   Starting from €3

Next, we couldn’t complete a list of the best scenic train journeys in Europe without mentioning the Bieszczady Forest Railway of Poland. The railway crosses through some of Poland’s most remote and least-densely populated parts while showcasing a lot of secluded forests, old isolated monasteries, and giving passengers amazing views of the rugged Bieszczady Mountains. If you want to get off-the-beaten-track and explore the Bieszczady Mountains, this train ride is a great starting point.

Gyermekvasút ,  Hungary

Duration: 45 minutes Distance:  11.7 kilometers Fare:  Starting from €2

Gyermekvasút is the largest Children railway in the world, with children aged 10-14 (under supervision) operating all functions of the train line, except for the train driver. The Pioneer’s Rail was built in 1948  but after the fall of communism, the name was changed. The beautiful forests of ash and oak, the surrounding lakes, and the views of Buda Hills towering over the forest make this short but epic ride one of the best scenic train journeys in Europe.

Bohinj Railway, Slovenia

Duration: 2 hours Distance:  75 kilometers Fare:  Starting from €8

The two-hour journey from Nova Gorica ( Slovenia ) to Jesenice crosses the world’s longest stone arch railway bridge, Isonzo Gorge while offering passengers some amazing views of the Julian Alps. Most trains that run this line are operated by old steam locomotives and the train staff is wearing old uniforms from Austro-Hungarian times, giving the whole journey an interesting, historic feel.

Belgrade-Bar, Serbia and Montenegro

Duration: 10-12 hours Distance:  476 kilometers Fare: €21

Balkan countries are the perfect place to travel by train. True, they are often late and not very fast, but these are some of the most scenic train journeys in Europe. The journey starts at Belgrade, Serbia passes through the picturesque town of Cacak, crosses the majestic Zlatibor National Park before crossing to some of the most remote parts of Montenegro, followed by the capital, Podgorica, and finally a short ride along the Adriatic coast before reaching to the ancient city of Bar. If you like this kind of slow travel while exploring the Balkan countries, consider getting the Balkan Flexipass.

Bucharest-Cluj, Romania

Duration: 10-11 hours Distance:  487 kilometers Fare: Starting from €17

The historic Transylvanian line is coming back to life with an increased number of tourists becoming more interested in this region. The best way to see most of Transylvania while traveling is the train ride from Bucharest to Cluj, the biggest city in Transylvania. The journey lasts 11 hours, but it showcases the greenest and spookiest forests of Transylvania and some of the most beautiful castles in the region. If you can’t get enough of this place, you can also check out the Transylvania triangle train tour ; a self-guided tour that allows travelers to experience the depths of Transylvania in 12 days.

Are you planning a trip to Bucharest soon? The you should check out our guide to the Romanian Parliament (the heaviest building in the world) as well as our list of fun facts about Romania .

Kalavryta Railway ,  Greece

Duration: Less than 1 hour Distance:  22 kilometers Fare: €4

Greece might be much more famous for its divine white-sand beaches but a list of the best scenic train journeys in Europe wouldn’t be complete without the Kalavryta Railway. This is one of the last remaining gauge lines in Peloponnese (most were cut due to Greece’s financial crisis). The rail line connects the two mountain towns of Diakopto and Kalavryta while crossing close to the historic site of Olympia and a seemingly endless stretch of beautiful, wild scenery that will make you feel like you’re somewhere in Switzerland rather than Greece.

Paris to Moscow

Duration: 45-50 hours Distance:  3,483kilometers Fare: starting from €245

Every Thursday, the Russian Railways train starts an epic journey from Paris’ Central Train Station, usually arriving in Moscow on Saturday morning. The train crosses through France, Germany, Poland, and Belarus before entering Russia. During the journey, you can expect to see the best of Europe in 2 days as the train passes through the heart of Europe. It’s certainly one of the classiest ways to cross between two continents. And if this doesn’t seem exhausting, check out the last journey on this list.

Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

Duration: 7 days Distance:  9,258kilometers Fare: €150-€500

Finally, this list of the best scenic train journeys in Europe can’t be complete without the Trans-Siberian Railway; the longest train ride in the world (even though geographically, most of this journey doesn’t belong to Europe). The journey crosses eight time zones and connects Moscow with the ports on the Pacific Ocean in the far east. During this week, the social barriers between passengers slowly fade away as the journey progresses. This only makes this trip even more epic than it already is. If you want to organize your journey beforehand, I suggest you book your Russian Railways tickets in advance because you probably won’t find a lot of tickets on the spot as most people book this train ride in advance.

Well, that’s all folks; these were the 34 best scenic train journeys in Europe. Did you ride on any of these? Which one is your favorite? Which one is at the top of your bucket list? Let us know in the comments!

Like it? Pin it.

Thursday 9th of April 2020

We loved our train journeys on our previous trip to Europe. From this list, I have already picked the central Rhine Railway trip and Höllentalbahn trips as we plan to head to Germany next. I wish I had come across this post before visiting Switzerland and Italy..would definitely have tried the glacier express

Passport Symphony

Sunday 12th of April 2020

That's awesome! I'm glad you liked the post and sorry to hear you couldn't make it to some more scenic train rides in Europe but there's always next time :)

Monday 6th of January 2020

I'm impressed by your post! It is so inspiring because I love trains. But I do not use them too often. I did only Cinque Terre Railway and Bieszczady from your list. It is an excellent idea to check these train journeys. El Transcantábrico in Spain looks fabulous, The Little Yellow Train, also. But my dream is the old Orient Express trip. Thanks for such detailed information, including prices and time duration.

Tuesday 7th of January 2020

Thanks, Agnes.

This is such a great compilation of train journeys in Europe. I loved the look of the Yello Train of France. The Baltic Sea sleeper sounds so interesting. I was completely unaware of the concept of train ferries. It would be interesting to travel by this one. Being from India, most of our journeys within the country happen by train. I feel train journeys are special and I love them.

Thanks, glad you like it.

Great compilation! Glacier Express looks absolutely stunning. I imagine it would be a nice experience to take the little yellow train with the top exposed.

Manjulika Pramod

This is some of the best train routes that I have learned about. I am inspired and I must say that I love the train routes in Europe. Even in India, we have some amazing train journeys. With our increasing dependency on flights, we have actually forgotten the fun of traveling in trains. I love the countryside views from the moving train. Cinque Terre, Austrian routes, The Brocken Railway are definitely on my list.

The Train Hacker

Saving You Money on Train Travel

15 Most Scenic Train Journeys in Europe and How to Ride Them

By Chris P King

And since they’re not on high-speed lines, they’re accessible FREE or with a small reservation fee with an Interrail Pass or Eurail Pass . This means you can save some Euros to splash in the many marvellous destinations they serve.

Are you ready? Great, let’s buckle up, relax and dive in for a rollicking rollercoaster through some of Europe’s most beautiful scenic railways.

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15 Most Scenic Train Journeys In Europe & How To Ride Them – Quick Links

• West Highland Line: Glasgow to Mallaig (Britain)
• Centovalli Railway: Locarno to Domodossola (Switzerland & Italy)
• Cevenol Gorges Railway: Langogne to Langeac (France)
• Berlin to Prague Line: Berlin to Prague (Germany & Czech Republic)
• Mr Henderson’s Railway: Algeciras to Ronda (Spain)
• The Flam Railway (Flamsbana): Myrdal to Flam (Norway)
• Douro Valley Line (Linha do Douro): Porto to Pocinho (Portugal)
• The Inland Train (The Inlandsbanan): Kristinehamn to Gallivare (Sweden)
• Belgrade-Bar Railway: Belgrade to Bar (Serbia & Montenegro)
• The Prahova Valley: Ploiesti to Brasov (Romania)
• Septemvri-Dobrinishte: Dobrinishte to Septemvri (Bulgaria)
• Dublin to Rosslare Railway: Dublin to Rosslare (Ireland)
• Bernina Express: Chur to Tirano (Switzerland & Italy)
• Rhine Valley Line: Mainz to Koblenz (Germany)
• Arlberg Line: Innsbruck to Bludenz (Austria)

Breathtaking views of Loch Shiel from the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland, on one of Europe’s most scenic train ride, the West Highland Line – Image: © The Train Hacker images/Chris P King

1. West Highland Line: Glasgow to Mallaig (Britain)

One of the most scenic train journeys in Europe starts in the UK. Beginning from the former shipyards of the Clyde Estuary, the West Highland Line soon pitches you through wooded glens. Onwards it rides alongside Britain’s most extensive stretch of inland water, Loch Lomond.

The iconic Scottish highland landscape turns barren and boggy around Ardlui. The journey then unfolds into the stark wilderness and beauty of Rannoch Moor.

After passing through the Highland’s largest town, the outdoor activity hub of Fort William, get ready with your camera to snap the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films. While passing over the viaduct, marvel at the breathtaking scenery of Loch Shiel and the surrounding mountains.

You’ll wind up at the end of the West Highland Line on the harbour shores of Mallaig. This picturesque seaside town is a jumping-off point to Skye and many others of the Western Isles.

The scenic West Highland Line also makes our list of romantic train journeys in Britain .

How to Ride the West Highland Line Train from Glasgow to Mallaig

The regular train journey from Glasgow Queen Street to Mallaig takes approx 5 hours and 30 minutes. The shorter leg from Fort William to Mallaig on the Jacobite Steam Train Hogwarts Express takes approximately 2 hours.

Travel the West Highland Line with:

Train Tickets

Seat reservations are optional on West Highland Line trains. Book train tickets in advance with Scotrail from Glasgow Queen Street to Mallaig.

Or, travel the West Highland Line on the overnight train between London and Fort William. Find out how to get cheap tickets with  Caledonian Sleeper discount offers .

Rail Passes

Travel for FREE with optional seat reservations with:

• Britrail Pass, Spirit of Scotland and Scottish Highlands Passes

Tours and Holidays

Seven tours and mini breaks from Viator include travelling the shorter West Highland Line leg from Fort William to Mallaig. Travel in style on Scotland’s Harry Potter famed ‘Hogwarts Express’ Jacobite Steam Train .

• 2-Day Jacobite Experience, including the Hogwarts Express
• 3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands Tour from Edinburgh, Including’ Hogwarts Express’ Ride
• 5-Day Best of Scotland Experience from Edinburgh
• 5-Day Best of Scotland Experience from Glasgow
• 5-Day Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and the Jacobite Steam Train from Edinburgh
• 7-Day Orkney, Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh
• 8-Day Hebrides Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

Great Rail Journeys train holidays also include the Jacobite Steam Train leg. You can also travel on the whole or other parts of the West Highland Line . Rail Discoveries have holidays incorporating the Jacobite Steam Train and the West Highland Line .

Dramatic scenery as a train crosses one of the 83 bridges on the narrow-gauge Centovalli Railway from Locarno to Domodossola – Image: NAC

2. Centovalli Railway: Locarno to Domodossola (Switzerland & Italy)

An express train in name alone, this little white narrow-gauge train clacks its way leisurely across 83 bridges and 34 tunnels across the Centovalli (the Hundred Valleys) region. Many viaducts pass high over deep, densely wooded ravines strewn with jagged rocks and waterfalls.

The train makes occasional stops on both sides of the Swiss and Italian border at tiny mountain villages and hiking points before terminating at Domodossola. This medieval pilgrimage houses a fascinating museum about the history and construction of the Simplon Railway Tunnel.

Enjoy one of Europe’s most scenic train rides all year round with panoramic carriages designed for viewing.

How to Ride the Centovalli Railway from Locarno to Domodossola

Trains from Locarno to Domodossola take approx 2 hours. Travel the narrow-gauge Centovalli Railway with:

Travel for FREE with no reservation fees with:

• Interrail Passes
• Eurail Passes
• Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Travel Pass Flex

Buy Centovalli Railway tickets in advance from Trainline or SBS .

Great Rail Journeys and Rail Discoveries holidays include the Centovalli Railway and the Alps.

‘Le Train Touristique des Gorges de pallier entering the Génestouze tunnel on the Cevenol Gorges Railway between Langogne and Langeac – Image: Lunon

3. Cevenol Gorges Railway: Langogne to Langeac (France)

One of southern France’s most beautiful stretches of rail can be enjoyed either as a regular SNCF service or a scenic tourist train. This section is part of a longer route between Nimes and Clermont-Ferrand.

The SNCF journey can be made with an Interrail Pass or Eurail Pass . At the same time, the tourist train, ‘Le Train Touristique des Gorges de l’Allier’, goes at a slower pace with more stops and has an English audio commentary available.

Langogne is an earthy market town, swiftly followed by emerald gorges and small beaches on the banks of the River Allier. You then snake through 51 tunnels and over 16 viaducts with few signs of life, save for the odd eagle.

On the right side of the train, you glide past the pink roofs of farmhouses and chapels in hilltop volcanic villages like Pont-d’Alleyras, before the scenery shifts back to the left side of the train at Arcons d’Allier. You’ll disembark at Langeac, with its pleasant riverside waterfront and a charming cluster of churches and museums.

How to Ride the Cevenol Gorges Railway from Langogne to Langeac

The journey from Langogne to Langeac on SNCF InterCity and Regional trains takes 1 hour and 25 minutes. The tourist train completes the trip in approx 2 hours.

Travel for FREE with optional seat reservations on Intercity trains with:

Buy regular train tickets in advance with Trainline .

Find out how to book the tourist train with Le Train Touristique des Gorges de l’Allier .

The picturesque Berlin to Prague line runs alongside the spectacular River Elbe for part of the journey – Image: Thom Quine

4. Berlin to Prague Line (Germany & Czech Republic)

Two of Europe’s most famous capital cities – Berlin and Prague – are connected by an equally impressive rail route. You might not think it as you initially trundle through the crumbling industrial infrastructure of eastern Germany – although it does have a spooky charm. However, things start to change once you pass Dresden, and the landscape becomes noticeably more pastoral.

Sit on the train’s left for the best breathtaking views of the River Elbe. Highlights include the music box alpine buildings that dot the river near Bad Schandau and the sandstone peaks of the Saxon Switzerland National Park.

How to Ride the Berlin to Prague Line

The cross-border Berlin Hbf to Prague hl.n. the train takes approx 4 hours and 30 minutes. Travel the journey with:

Travel for FREE or with optional seat reservation fees on daytime EuroCity services with:

• Interrail Global Pass
• Eurail Global and Select Passes

Buy tickets in advance with Trainline, Deutsch Bahn or Czech Railways .

Great Rail Journeys Berlin, Dresden and Prague holiday include travelling this scenic railway. Rail Discoveries Vienna, Prague, and Berlin holiday also incorporate the journey.

Take a stiff walk from Mr Henderson’s Railway to the white hilltop village of Gaucin on the way from Algeciras to Ronda – Image: Ian Watson

5. Mr Henderson’s Railway: Algeciras to Ronda (Spain)

Built in 1892 to connect the port town of Algeciras with Cordoba, this line takes its name from its financier Sir Alexander Henderson. The British-built train takes you through some stunning, off-the-beaten-track Andalusian scenery – considered a dangerous bandit country when American novelist Truman Capote rode through it .

You’ll pass through 16 tunnels and over 20 bridges and can spy fields of sunflowers, nesting stork colonies and towering limestone peaks policed by eagles, buzzards and vultures.

Highlights include the dramatic hills and densely forested valleys just north of San Pablo on the edge of Alcornocales Natural Park, Europe’s largest cork forest.

Stop off at some of the many tempting trackside dining stops at stations along the route, or if you’re feeling spry, hike 14 kilometres down to the picturesque white hilltop village of Gaucin Pueblo.

Back on board, look for some interesting Victorian railway memorabilia harking back to the train’s British origins.

How to Ride Mr Henderson’s Railway from Algeciras to Ronda

Mr Henderson’s Railway from Algeciras to Ronda takes approx 1 hour and 50 minutes on Renfe Medium Distance trains. Altaria trains do the route 20 minutes quicker. You can travel it with:

Both Renfe services need seat reservations with extra fees with:

• Renfe Spain Pass

Buy tickets in advance with Trainline or Renfe .

Take the Flamsbana from Myrdal to Flam for a spectacular ride through Norway’s wild mountain and fjord scenery – Image: beyondmagazine

6. The Flam Railway’ Flamsbana’: Myrdal to Flam (Norway)

The Flamsbana (The Flam Railway) is one of the steepest standard-track railway lines in the world, where almost 80% of the journey has a gradient of 5.5%. It’s a spectacular train journey that offers a panoramic view of some of the wildest Norwegian fjord landscapes.

The Flamsbana whisks you through 20 tunnels, from the ocean-side view at Sognefjord, past steep peaks and waterfalls, to the top of a mountain at Myrdal, 867 metres above sea level, all in under one hour.

From Myrdal, you can transfer to the almost as dramatic Oslo – Bergen line or return to Flam.

The Flam Railway’s fjord scenery makes it a solid choice for one of Europe’s scenic train rides.

How to Ride the Flam Railway from Myrdal to Flam

The rail journey from Myrdal to Flam takes approx 1 hour. Travel on the Flamsbana with:

Get a 30% discount on fares with:

Buy train tickets in advance with ACP Rail or Vy .

Experience The Flam Railway with Viator tours:

• Private Tour to Sognefjord, Gudvangen and Flam from Bergen
• Norway in a Nutshell – Roundtrip from Oslo to Oslo
• From Bergen to Oslo Day Trip
• Norway in a Nutshell – Roundtrip from Bergen to Bergen

Great Rail Journeys have three holidays that, include the Flam Railway . Rail Discoveries Essential Norway also travels The Flam Railway.

Travel one of Europe’s most scenic train rides, the Douro Valley Line between Porto and Pocinho, Portugal – Image: Nelso Silva

7. Douro Valley Line ‘Linha do Douro’: Porto to Pocinho (Portugal)

The Douro Valley, famed for its port production and vineyard tasting tours, is best seen from this train. From its launch point at Ermesinde, a railway town 15km north of Porto, the 160km journey goes through the verdant heart of the Alto Douro Wine Region.

The train follows the course of the River Douro upstream, through 20 tunnels and over 30 bridges, with many stations being little more than shelters for local quintas (villas on wine estates). The route’s most scenic stretch unfurls between Regua and Pocinho. Here the train clings to the river banks, perched above jagged rocks in the Douro Gorge.

How to Ride the Linha do Douro (Douro Valley Line) from Ermesinde to Pocinho

The rail journey from Ermesinde to Pocinho takes approx 3 hours and 10 minutes. Travel the Douro Valley Line with:

Travel for FREE with no reservation fee:

Inter-Regional trains from Porto travel via Ermesinde and on to Pocinho. All trains from Porto Campanha and some from Porto Sao Bento take this route.

Buy train tickets in advance with Portuguese Railways .

Experience the Linha do Douro with Viator tours:

• Day Trip from Porto to Regua by Train and Return by Boat
• Sunday Trip from Porto to Regua by Train and Return by Boat

Great Rail Journeys Portugal and The Douro holiday includes a trip on the railway. And Rail Discoveries Lisbon, Porto & The Douro also travels the Douro Valley Line.

The Inlandsbanan travels Sweden’s interior 1,300 km in the summer months from Kristinehamn to Gallivare – Image: Inlandsbanan

8. The Inland Train ‘The Inlandsbanan’: Kristinehamn to Gallivare (Sweden)

Chase the midnight sun as you rattle 1,300 km through Sweden’s interior during the summer months between June and August. Departing from Kristinehamn, the train takes in the sea, dense forests, lakes and mountains, not to mention vast swathes of wonderfully desolate backdrops, as it steers a line up to Gallivare.

Gallivare is a mining town in the Arctic Circle enveloped by forests and deeply enmeshed with the local Sami culture. Look out for reindeer, elk and even bears on a long journey, making semi-spontaneous stops for refreshment and photo opportunities.

Although it’s only open for four months of the year, the Inland Train is still one of Europe’s most impressive rail journeys.

How to Ride The Inlandsbanan (The Inland Train) from Kristinehamn to Gallivare

The journey from Kristinehamn to Gallivare takes one and a half days. Travel across three legs between Kristinehamn, Mora, Ostersund and Gallivare.

The scenic Inlandsbanan railway only opens from mid-June to the end of August. Travel The Inland Train with:

Seat reservations with charges are optional but recommended for:

• Inlandsbanan Card

Buy train tickets in advance with Inlandsbanan .

Great Rail Journeys, Arctic Circle Express , and Grand Arctic Circle Explorer holidays include travelling on The Inland Train.

The spectacular Mala Rijeka Viaduct on the Belgrade-Bar train line is the highest railway bridge in Europe – Image: Halavar

9. Belgrade-Bar Railway: Belgrade to Bar (Serbia & Montenegro)

As you pull away from the Serbian capital, you probably won’t notice you’re on one of Europe’s best-rated scenic train rides until you reach the sloping hills of Uzice. From here, you’ll crisscross the Bosnian border via the remote villages of Zlatibor after passing through the six km-long Zlatibor Tunnel.

Around Prijepolje, the mighty Zlatar and Jadovnik mountains make their presence known. The highest stretch of the journey hits its peak at Kosalin, a popular ski and hiking resort.

There are a staggering 254 tunnels and 435 bridges to enjoy on this 296-mile journey. The bridges include the 498-metre-long Mala Rijeka viaduct, one of the world’s highest, pitched nearly 200 metres above the ground. After passing through Montenegro’s capital Podgorica and skirting Lake Skadar, the train goes through its final tunnel before tracing the Adriatic coast to Bar.

How to Ride the Belgrade-Bar Railway from Belgrade to Bar

The rail journey from Belgrade to Bar takes approx 12 hours. Travel the route with:

It’s recommended but not essential to book reservations on daytime trains and applies to:

Train tickets from Belgrade to Bar are not available online. Find out train times and how to book tickets at Serbian Railways .

Travel through the lush Prahova Valley before climbing the Bucegi Mountains on the rail journey from Ploiesti to Brasov  – Image: Gabriel

10. The Prahova Valley: Ploiesti to Brasov (Romania)

The stately pace of trains in Romania lends itself perfectly to scenic excursions. Emerging from the flat Wallachian Plains surrounding Ploiesti, the train heads up the Prahova Valley, snaking through narrow passages before climbing up the Bucegi Mountains towards Sinaia. Like the famous Peles Palace, this attractive town is adorned with fairytale buildings.

The train then rolls on through hiking mecca Busteni and the 100-metre-high Predeal Pass. You cross into Transylvania before making the downhill chug to Brasov, a historical hotspot heavy with walled citadels and medieval grandeur.

Although it’s a relatively short ride, the Ploiesti to Brasov railway is a worthy addition to Europe’s most scenic train rides.

How to Ride the Ploiesti to Brasov Train Through the Prahova Valley

The rail journey from Ploiesti Vest to Brasov takes between 1 hour 44 minutes and 2 hours 37 minutes. Travel the railway with:

Slower InterRegio (IR) trains do not require reservations. Faster InterCity (IC) trains do for a small fee which applies to rail passes:

• Interrail Global and Romania Passes
• Eurail Global, Select and Romania Passes

The  Eurail Select Two Country Pass  Montenegro/Serbia/Romania includes Romania.

Buy train tickets in advance with the following:

• Voyages-SNCF (UK & Europe)
• Rail Europe
• Romanian Railways – CFR Caile Ferate Romane

A train travelling across the longest bridge on the picturesque narrow-gauge railway from Septemvri to Dobrinishte – Image: Bdz43r

11. Septemvri-Dobrinishte Railway: Dobrinishte to Septemvri (Bulgaria)

Bulgaria certainly gives Romania a run for its money in the snail-paced train stakes, but relax – it’s not about the speed; it’s all about the views! And this narrow-gauge line is a bona fide scenic feast.

Setting out from the small ski resort of Dobrinishte (or starting further up the line at Bankso) in the shadow of the Pirin Mountains, the train first creeps beneath the snow-capped Rila Mountains.

It then winds its way through deciduous forests and farmland, past picture-book minarets and the spa town of Velingrad. The train then plunges into the deep Velingrad Gorge before levelling on the Plain of Thrace.

The journey ends at Septemvri, a modest village connected to Bulgaria’s capital Sofia and the second city, Plovdiv. Plovdiv offers some fascinatingly quirky architecture and an impressive Roman amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved in the world.

How to Ride the Septemvri-Dobrinishte Narrow-Gauge Railway

The journey from Dobrinishte to Septemvri takes between 4 hours and 30 minutes and 5 hours.

Rail passes do not require reservations:

• Interrail Global and Bulgaria Passes
• Eurail Global, Select and Bulgaria Passes

Romania is also included in the Bulgaria/Montenegro/Serbia Eurail Select Two Country Pass .

Train tickets from Dobrinishte to Septemvri are not available to buy online. Find out more about tickets at BDZ – Bulgarian State Railways .

Train hugging the coast as it snakes its way out of Dublin into Wicklow on its way south to Rosslare – Image: Irish Rail

12. Dublin to Rosslare Railway: Dublin to Rosslare (Ireland)

This railway was built by Isambard Kingdom Brunel in 1855 to connect Ireland and the ferry line between Rosslare and Fishguard in Wales. The stretch between Bray and Wicklow hugs the contours of the coast so snugly that new tunnels and viaducts were repeatedly reconfigured.

The line switches from double to single track at Bray Head before looping inland through the wooded foothills of the Wicklow Mountains. It rejoins the coast at Arklow at the mouth of River Avoca, where it crosses the Nineteen Arches Bridge.

The train then powers down through the agricultural landscape of the Bann Valley and the lusher Slaney Valley before finally clattering along the quayside to Rosslare Harbour.

How to Ride the Dublin to Rosslare Railway

The journey from Dublin Connolly to Rosslare Europort takes approx 2 hours and 50 minutes. Travel the railway with:

Reservations are possible but not required on InterCity trains in Ireland and apply to:

• Interrail Global and Ireland Passes
• Eurail Global, Select and Ireland Passes
• Irish Rail – Iarnrod Eireann

Spectacular high-mountain Alpine scenery meets the Mediterranean atmosphere of the Poschiavo Valley on the Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano – Image: swissrailways

13. Bernina Express: Chur to Tirano (Switzerland & Italy)

The Bernina Express slices southerly through the Graubunden Canton, reaching the lofty altitude of 2,253 metres at its highest point – without the gravity boost of a cogwheel track. The train passes through an ingenious system of spiral loops, 55 tunnels and 196 bridges.

You’re treated to diverse views, from the high Alpine scenery at the Bernina Pass to the Mediterranean atmosphere of the Poschiavo Valley en route to Tirano.

Highlights include crossing the spectacularly curved Landwasser viaduct and the rugged Alpine landscapes as you ascend the Bernina Pass.

The dramatic descent follows magnificent views of the Palu glacier before arriving at Switzerland’s Italian-style border valleys. The final drop travels through the famous Brusio spiral viaduct before crossing the border and arriving in Tirano.

The Bernina Express’ breathtaking landscapes make it a highly cited scenic rail journey in Europe.

How to Ride the Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano

The Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano takes approx 4 hours and 15 minutes. The only non-stop direct train departs Chur at 08.32 and arrives at Tirano at 12.45.

 There are other Bernina Express departures to Tirano from Davos and St Moritz.

Travel the scenic Chur to Tirano route in a panoramic viewing train with:

Bernina Express seat reservations cost between 10 and 14 Swiss Francs and apply to:

• Interrail Global and Switzerland Passes
• Eurail Global, Select and Switzerland Passes

Regular trains also travel the route, but you must change trains at Samedan and Pontresina. There aren’t any reservation fees on regular trains.

You will need seat reservations (cost 10 to 14 Swiss Francs) and a train ticket. Buy Bernina Express tickets in advance with the following:

• RhB – Rhaetian Railway

Tours & Holidays

There are four Bernina Express tours on Viator that travel between St Moritz and Milan:

• Swiss Alps Bernina Express Rail Tour from Milan
• Swiss Alps Bernina Express Rail Tour from Milan with Hotel Pick Up
• 3-Day Bernina Express Independent Tour from Zurich
• 3-Day Bernina Express Independent Tour from Geneva

Great Rail Holidays has 17 holidays that ride the Bernina Express . At the same time, Rail Discoveries has nine holidays that include the trip .

Travel through idyllic, picture-postcard German countryside on the Rhine Valley Line from Mainz to Koblenz – Image: Eurail

14. Rhine Valley Line: Mainz to Koblenz (Germany)

This section of the West Rhine Railway leaves the sedate university town of Mainz to follow a meandering path on the west bank of the River Rhine. You’re treated to picture-postcard views of centuries-old castles as you travel through some idyllic German wine country.

Look out for Pfalzgrafenstein Castle on an island on the Rhine, justly famous for its picturesque setting.

The route passes countless sloping vineyards and ducks through the occasional tunnel before arriving at the 2,000-year-old town of Koblenz, where the Rhine meets the Moselle.

How to Ride the Rhine Valley Line from Mainz to Koblenz

The journey takes 50 minutes on InterCity and 1 hour 30 minutes on Regional trains.

Seat reservations are not required for the following:

• Interrail Global and Germany Passes
• German Rail Pass from DB

Buy tickets in advance with the following:

A train travelling across the Inn Bridge in Landeck, Austria, on the scenic Arlberg Railway from Innsbruck to Bludenz – Image: Siegele Roland

15. Arlberg Line: Innsbruck to Bludenz (Austria)

Last but not least, no list of the most scenic train journeys in Europe would be complete without mention of Austria’s Arlberg Line. The Arlberg Line transports you through typically Tyrolean scenery, starting from the high alpine setting of Innsbruck, through the hub of Landeck and via Langen am Arlberg at over 1,200 metres above sea level on one of Europe’s steepest passenger lines.

Journey highlights include the Trisanna Bridge, the Paznuan Valley (renowned as ‘the birthplace of Alpine skiing’) and the ten km-long Arlberg Tunnel.

Afterwards, you might also fancy journeying to Zurich via Liechtenstein, along the shore of Lake Zurich.

How to Ride the Arlberg Line from Innsbruck to Bludenz

The Arlberg Line from Innsbruck to Bludenz is served by Rail Jet, Euro City and InterCity trains. The journey takes between 1 hour and 45 minutes and 2 hours.

Innsbruck to Zurich takes three and a half hours with Rail Jet.

Seat reservations are optional and not required on all services in Austria for:

• Interrail Global and Austria Passes
• Eurail Global, Select and Austria Passes

Seat reservations are optional for travel on the Arlberg Line. Buy in advance with:

• Voyages-SNCF (UK & Europ)

Travel on the Arlberg Line with the Grand Alpine Explorer holiday from Great Rail Journeys:

We could easily go on, but we hope this list demonstrates the sheer diversity and stunning beauty of the best of Europe’s scenic train rides.

Remember that these magical journeys can be enjoyed using an Interrail or Eurail pass, giving you a comfortable, relaxing way to take in some of the continent’s finest scenic spots without busting the budget.

Thanks to Jools Stone and Graham Spicer for their creative writing and editing on this article.

Image credits: NAC ,  Lunon ,  Thom Quine ,  Ian Watson ,  beyondmagazine ,  Nelso Silva ,  Inlandsbanan ,  Halavar , Gabriel ,  Bdz43r , Irish Rail, Rhaetian Railway , Eurail , Siegele Roland

Traveling Without a Passport

The Seven Most Scenic Train Rides in Europe

All aboard! Add some adventure to your European sojourn with a scenic train ride through some of Europe’s most picturesque landscapes

Forget planes, buses or automobiles: 2024 is the year of the train. With rail lines in more than 130 countries around the globe, the sustainable, and often fastest, way to travel for many locals and tourists alike is the mighty train.

Trains have long captivated the imagination, allowing us to soak in the scenery from the comfort of a dining car, sleeper car or seat. And with the return of the night train , Europe in particular boasts a wealth of scenic train rides to get you going.

From the snow-capped peaks of Switzerland to the rolling hills of Scotland, we’ve rounded up the top seven rail journeys that will take your breath away in Europe. Get ready for stunning panoramic views, quaint countryside charm, and bucket-list-worthy experiences on Europe’s most scenic train rides .

Glacier Express, Switzerland

If one thinks of scenic train journeys in Europe, the mighty Alps always come to mind. Switzerland is tops with the Glacier Express . This 90-year-old train journey boasts views you’ve only ever dreamed about.  

Traverse the Swiss Alps across eight hours en route from glitzy St. Moritz to charming Zermatt or vice versa. Cross 291 bridges, wind your way through nearly 100 tunnels and explore the three cantons of Valais, Uri, and Graubünden. End your trip at the pyramid-shaped Matterhorn, which rises majestically on the border of Switzerland and Italy.

Newly renovated panoramic cars feature retrofitted interiors, power outlets and free Wi-Fi. Guests can also follow along with an audio guide that provides information about the route in a variety of languages. Excellence Class tickets affords guests with guaranteed window views and five-course meals.

Odontotos Rack Railway, Greece

If Odysseus was alive today, he’d probably add the Odontos Rack Railway to his epic journey home to Greece . For more than 120 years, passengers have been boarding this one-hour journey from the seaside town of Diakofto to Kalavrita in the Peloponnese. 

A trip through Vouraikos Gorge reveals olive groves, alpine meadows, and dramatic landscapes that exude a rich history. The two-carriage cog train showcases the evolution of railway travel, and lets passengers travel like they did during the heyday of train travel. 

Traverse the rugged Vouraikos River Gorge, a protected UNESCO site, and witness the splendor of Helmos Mountain as you wind your way to the Gulf of Corinth past the Mega Spilaio Monastery, which is perched high on a cliff overlooking the valley. End in the historic town of Kalavrita, which is a must-see for WWII history buffs.

The Rhine Valley Line, Germany

Castles and vineyards are a regular site on the 114-mile journey from Cologne to Mainz on the scenic Rhine Valley Line . The Rhine Valley Gorge, a UNESCO site, is the picture-perfect backdrop to this one-and-a-half hour journey, one of the most scenic train rides in Europe. 

As the train bends and turns from Koblenz to Bingen and beyond, passengers on the left-hand side of the train are rewarded with views of historic castles such as Marksburg Castle, glimpses of the pyramid-shaped Lorelei rock, and vines growing in the fertile soil in the valleys below. Passengers can expect power outlets, snack trolleys, video screens, Wi-Fi and a great audio system to guide you along.

Venice Simplon Orient-Express, France & Italy

If money is no object, you can’t beat the Venice Simplon Orient-Express. With routes starting in cities such as London, Paris, Lyon and Brussels, guests can expect opulence like no other train journey on earth. Choose the Paris to Venice route for a true bucket-list adventure.

This one-night journey winds its way from the City of Light, through Switzerland’s mountainous valleys, and ends in the romantic City of Water. Admire half-timbered houses and pastoral scenes all while adopting your best mystery novel persona sans the canny Belgian detective and murderous guests.

In Paris, a conductor and porters whisk you away to your carriage, which is a study in Art Deco glamor. Plush upholstery, handcrafted lampshades, and marquetry design await. Spend the evening in the bar car with other guests, savor a bespoke three-course meal, unwind with a midnight brunch and enjoy a decadent French breakfast in your room followed by a gouter (aka light repast) before disembarking in La Serenissima. 

West Highland Line, Scotland

Scotland is known for its rugged landscapes and lush scenery that can literally take your breath away. Journey through the Scottish Highlands on the iconic West Highland Line, known for its historic stops at Fort William and Glenfinnan Viaduct. Offering comfortable seating and a dining car, this five-and-a-half-hour ride is perfect for a day trip or overnight adventure. 

Choose the Fort William and Mallaig line as you’ll pass heather moors, mirrored lochs, hills and valleys. Start your journey in Glasgow, an industrial town that boasts a great music culture and history. Pass the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Spiel on the Jacobite Steam Train. The former is recognizable to many a cinefile as the route of the Hogwarts Express. This is rugged countryside, so heavy, that mists can often obscure vistas even as they add a sense of history and mystery to the view. An audio companion points out all the most important sites so you don’t miss a thing.

See Also: We Rank the Best Hikes for Beginners in Scotland

Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy

UNESCO doesn’t just authenticate and protect sites on land. It also protects World Heritage sites on wheels. The Bernina Express , often called “the train that winds its way to the mountain summit” has been transporting passengers literally and figuratively for more than 100 years. Serpentine through 55 tunnels and nearly 200 bridges as you traverse some of the highest train tracks in Europe. The 213-foot-high Landwasser Viaduct, built in 1901 and restored in 2009, and Alp Grüm, withs its close-enough-to-touch views of the Palü glacier, are route highlights for any Instagram aficionado. 

The snow-capped mountains of Switzerland give way to the palm trees of Tirano, Italy. Opt for the panoramic first-class car, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, and make sure to listen to the audio companion as they give you facts, tips and highlights of the journey.

Flam Railway, Norway

Western Norway feels like the ends of the earth. One gets a sense of peace and spirituality here. The land of the fjords beguiles with craggy mountain peaks, lush waterways and valleys dotted with red farm houses. The Flam Railway runs only 12 miles from the tiny town of Flam, but boasts some of the most dramatic vistas on earth.

After arriving from Bergen at Myrdal Station, hop on a vintage carriage and make your way down steep valleys, past pastoral scenes and old churches. The railway, much of it constructed by hand, was completed in 1940 after 20 years.

Stop off at Kjosfossen waterfall for a five-minute photo opp with your selfie stick. Cross through 20 tunnels as you traverse the mountain and don’t be surprised to see cyclists following your route along the road.

See Also: How to Enjoy Norway on a Budget

Shandana A. Durrani

Shandana A. Durrani is the Head of Content & Brand at TourRadar. A former Senior Editor at Cigar Aficionado and a former Dining Editor at Google, Durrani has written about travel for Condé Nast Traveler, Afar, Silverkris and Metro London and is the author of “Day Trips from New York City.”

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15 Scenic Train Journeys to Experience in Europe This Year

Looking to add a scenic train journey to your next European vacation? In this article, Travel Enthusiast Emma Braby shares some of her favorite train journeys to add to your itinerary when visiting Europe!

By Emma Braby

Last updated: April 11, 2024

If you’re looking to embark on a truly unforgettable adventure, there’s nothing quite like exploring Europe by rail. From snow-capped mountains and rolling hills to picturesque villages and stunning coastlines, Europe offers an array of awe-inspiring landscapes. And they can all be experienced from the comfort of a train window. But why choose trains over other modes of transportation? Traveling by train allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the view as it unfolds before your eyes. Not to mention, some of Europe’s train stations are incredibly beautiful . Traveling by train also provides a wonderful sense of romance and nostalgia. Whether you seek panoramic vistas or quaint countryside charm, these train rides offer it all. So hop aboard as I take you on a tour of 15 scenic train journeys in Europe. From Switzerland’s iconic Glacier Express to Italy’s charming Cinque Terre route. Get ready to witness some of Mother Nature’s most magnificent creations from the comfort of your cabin. Let me unveil these hidden gems waiting just beyond those ticket turnstiles!

Austria is home to some of the most breathtaking train journeys in Europe. The Arlberg Railway and Semmering Railway are two notable routes that showcase Austria’s stunning landscapes.

Both these railway journeys offer an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. So, sit back, relax, and let these scenic train rides transport you to a world of natural beauty in Austria.

The Arlberg Railway

Peak Season

Winter Months (December to March)

The Arlberg Railway takes passengers through the magnificent Austrian Alps, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. As the train winds its way through tunnels and over viaducts, travelers can marvel at the engineering genius that is this historic route. This is Austria’s only east-to-west railway and one of the highest standard gauge train tracks, too. 

As soon as you depart Zurich, the train runs alongside the shore of the Zurichsee and then the Walensee. And along the way, you’ll also discover the crystal-clear River Inn in Tirol. The journey also passes by charming alpine villages, where you can glimpse traditional Austrian life and wooden villas.

Semmering Railway

Spring to Fall (May to October)

+43-2664-20025

Also in Austria is the Semmering Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its architectural beauty. The Semmering railway, which starts at Gloggnitz and leads over the Semmering to Murzzuschlag, is one of Europe’s first mountainous railways and the world’s first railway to achieve UNESCO status. 

This mountainous route takes you over 16 impressive viaducts and countless tunnels as it traverses through dense forests and rolling hills. Passengers are captivated by the picturesque scenery that unfolds before their eyes as they snake through the Austrian Alps.

When it comes to picturesque train journeys in Europe, France certainly has its fair share of gems. Both these train journeys offer a unique perspective on France’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an escape from city life, these routes will leave you awe-inspired by their unparalleled beauty.

The Mont Blanc Express

Summer Months (June to August)

+41-27-723-33-30

One such gem is the Mont Blanc Express, which takes you on a breathtaking journey through the stunning French Alps to Switzerland. As you make your way from Chamonix to Martigny, be prepared to witness jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks, charming alpine villages, and lush green meadows. No matter what season you visit, it’s a rail journey you’ll never forget.

Don’t be deterred by the name “express.” This journey takes a leisurely ride through the snowy landscape, taking well over two hours. Sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views and bracing twists from the heart of one of the most iconic French skiing destinations to the Trient Valley in Switzerland. I’ve been to Chamonix , where this rail journey begins, and it is one of the prettiest locations in Europe.

Train des Pignes

Spring to Autumn (April to October)

The Train des Pignes is another scenic delight that should not be missed. The Train des Pignes was completed in 1911 and was created to connect the French Alps to the Mediterranean coastline. From Grenoble to Nice, enjoy the icy views before reaching the sunny coastline of the Cote d’Azur. 

This historic train winds its way through the beautiful Provence region, offering passengers glimpses of lavender fields, vineyards, and quaint Provençal towns. With every twist and turn along the tracks, you’ll immerse yourself in southern France’s natural beauty and charm.

Travelers often overlook Germany, but it is one of my favorite European countries. So much so that I lived there for a few years! Let’s discover this magical railway route.

The Rhine Valley Railway

Spring and Summer (April to September)

Embark on a journey along the Rhine Valley Railway in Germany, where charming chocolate box houses and lush greenyards meet. This journey offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage along the western side of Germany. The trip takes you from Cologne to Mainz through Bonn and Koblenz.

Tour the famous Rhine Valley that boasts medieval castles along the river. Some highlights include fortress Ehrenbreitstein in Koblenz, Marksburg Castle, and the unusual Pfalzgrafenstein Castle on the Rhine riverbed. Experience true German hospitality as you relax in comfortable seats and gaze out the windows at some of the most tranquil green scenery you’ll ever see.

When it comes to scenic train journeys, Italy offers some truly unforgettable experiences. Whether you embark on the Orient Express or explore the enchanting Cinque Terre by rail, one thing is sure – these train journeys will leave an unforgettable mark on your memory.

Cinque Terre Route

Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)

Another must-see is the Cinque Terre route along the Italian Riviera. This picturesque stretch of coastline encompasses five charming fishing villages nestled between cliffs and turquoise waters. The train ride is a delight as it hugs the rugged coastline, offering glimpses of vineyards clinging to steep terraces and colorful houses perched on rocky outcrops.

This route only runs from April to October, but if you’re lucky enough to visit here during this period, it’s a must-see. With stops in each of the towns, it’s a favorable and easier way to explore the towns than hiking through the difficult cliff-top terrain. Although this is one of the shortest railway journeys on this list, it is one of the most colorful.

La Dolce Vita, Orient Express

The Orient Express is the legendary train journey of dreams. The train’s rich history dates back to the 19th century when it connected Europe’s elite travelers from Paris to Istanbul, the edge of Europe. Although you can no longer ride the original Orient Express, you can enjoy six different routes through Italy based on the legendary Orient Express. Destinations include Rome, Venice, Portofino, and Palermo, to name just a few.

Step aboard the luxurious locomotive adorned with classic art deco design, wooden paneling, and plush seats, filling the atmosphere with romantic grandeur. Indulge in a gourmet dining experience inspired by each destination along the way. This is the ultimate Italian train journey, which is why it is called the “ rolling palace .”

When it comes to train travel, Norway definitely has a lot to offer. The Flam Railway and the Bergen Railway are two of the most breathtaking routes. Both these train journeys provide unparalleled views of Norway’s rugged natural wonders. Let yourself be swept away by the awe-inspiring beauty that awaits you on these remarkable railways.

Bergen Railway

Late Spring to Early Autumn

The Bergen Railway offers an unforgettable experience as it travels from Oslo to Bergen. This seven-hour journey covers approximately 500 kilometers of picturesque Norwegian countryside. Every moment on this route feels like stepping into a postcard, from snow-capped peaks to deep fjords.

One of the best parts of the train journey is crossing the Hardangervidda Plateau in southwestern Norway. This is Europe’s most extensive mountain plateau, covering 2,500 square miles. Gliding through the snowy plain makes you feel like you are on top of the world.

The Flam Railway

+47-57-63-21-00

The Flam Railway is a 20-kilometer-long journey that takes you from Myrdal to Flam through some of Norway’s most stunning landscapes. As you wind down steep mountainsides and pass by cascading waterfalls, you’ll be inspired by the beauty surrounding you. Spot the vibrantly colored houses and the spectacular Aurlandsfjord from your cabin. 

This railway is known for its incredible engineering marvels, including 20 tunnels, countless bridges, and sharp turns on a steep incline. It takes about an hour to complete, although you can hop off at several destinations along the way. Why not complete your railway experience with Scandanavia’s longest and most breathtaking zip lines in Flam?

Scotland is famous for its stunning landscapes and historic sites, and there’s no better way to experience it than by taking a journey on the Jacobite Steam Train and West Highland Line. Whether you’re a fan of history or want to immerse yourself in Scotland’s natural beauty, a ride on these rails is an experience not to be missed.

The Jacobite Steam Train

Late Spring to Early Autumn (May to September)

+44-333-996-6692

As you board the Jacobite Steam Train at Fort William, get ready to be transported back in time. The nostalgic steam engine chugs along as you travel across the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous by its appearance in the Harry Potter films. You don’t have to be a wizard or witch to ride on the “Hogwarts Express.” 

Even if you’re not a Harry Potter nerd like me, there’s more to this train journey than being the Harry Potter steam train. Enjoy the Scottish terrain and relish in the commentary of Scottish folklore passing right before your eyes.

This journey starts near Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. For the best views, sit on the left-hand side on the way to Mallaig and on the right-hand side on your return journey.

The West Highland Line

The West Highland Line winds its way through rocky mountains, lush green valleys, and sparkling lochs. One highlight of this journey is passing by Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest mountain. Standing at an impressive 1,345 meters tall, it provides a dramatic backdrop against which to admire the beauty of this region. As you approach Mallaig, a small fishing village on Scotland’s west coast, you are greeted with panoramic views of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. It’s easy to see why this area has been dubbed “the Jewel of the Highlands.” Keep your camera handy because there will be plenty of opportunities for jaw-dropping photographs.

Serbia is a landlocked country that lies between central Europe and the southeastern side. This Balkan country offers some of Europe’s most impressive, rugged scenery. And one special railway takes you from the heart of one country to the sparkling coastline of another. 

Montenegro Express

Summer Months

This scenic train journey takes you from the capital city of Serbia, Belgrade, through the mountains towards the Adriatic coastline of Bar in Montenegro. This is one of the best-hidden secrets of European train travel. This rail journey was a feat in Eastern European engineering because building a railway through the Dinaric Alps was no easy task.

You can do this journey in sections, allowing you to stop off at some of the charming towns along the way. Or you can do this ride in one, which takes around 11 hours. This train journey transports you from a bustling city to the tranquil shores, offering everything a traveler could wish for. Passing through 254 tunnels and over 435 bridges, get ready to enjoy breathtaking gorges, rolling hills, and scarily steep ridges.

Switzerland

When it comes to scenic train journeys in Europe, Switzerland is at the top of the list. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and efficient railway system, Switzerland offers three incredible routes that are a must-see for any train traveler. Let’s take a look at a few of my last European train journeys.

Bernina Express

+41-81-288-61-00

First up is the Bernina Express, which connects Switzerland with Italy. It travels from Chur to Tirano. As it winds through steep mountain passes and across impressive viaducts, you are treated to magnificent views of glaciers, crystal clear lakes, and lush green meadows.

One of the most famous viaducts is the Landwasser Viaduct, which spans a deep gorge. You’ll pass under 196 bridges and through 55 tunnels during your journey. This UNESCO World Heritage route will leave you speechless. The Bernina Express route is known for its iconic red carriages with panoramic carriages and on-board commentary.

Golden Pass Line

+41-21-989-81-90

Next on the list is the Golden Pass Line, which runs from Montreux to Lucerne. This scenic journey stretches from western Switzerland right into the center. Choose from carriages with panoramic windows or VIP seats at the head of the train for an unforgettable ride.

Along this route, you’ll pass through rolling hills dotted with traditional Swiss chalets and picturesque vineyards. Marvel at stunning lake views as you make your way through the heart of Switzerland and magical towns like Interlaken and Zweisimmen.

The Glacier Express

Summer Months (June to September)

+41-81-288-65-65

The Glacier Express is often called the “slowest express train in the world.” This iconic journey takes you through stunning alpine scenery, passing by snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and charming Swiss villages. The Glacier Express runs from Zermatt to St Moritz and is well-linked to the Bernina Express, so why not do both?

It’s easy to see why Switzerland is known for its cheese and chocolate industry when you see how many lush meadows are dotted with grazing cows. The panoramic windows allow you to soak in every detail of this picturesque route, and it’s a must for anyone visiting one of Europe’s prettiest countries.

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12 Most Scenic Train Rides in Europe for Your Bucket List

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Are you looking for a unique way to explore the breathtaking scenery of Europe? Your best bet would be taking scenic train rides to experience some of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes. From snow-capped mountains, vast meadows, deep valleys, and engineering feats to historic landmarks, Europe has train journeys that offer passengers much to see and experience. 

We have chosen journeys that give you the best of the most sought-after European landscapes. From the Bernina Express to the Black Railway, these rail journeys are ideal for nature enthusiasts, Instagrammers, and history buffs.

Settle to Carlisle, England

The Settle-Carlisle train line starts in Settle, North Yorkshire, and ends in Carlisle, Cumbria. It takes passengers through the breathtaking landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales and the Cumbrian Fells. 

The start of the journey lets you soak in the small-town charm and picturesque landscape of Settle. As the journey progresses, you will be treated to stunning views of the Ribblehead Viaduct, a Victorian engineering feat that spans the Ribblehead Valley. 

🏨 Explore all your hotel options here

As the train travels through the Yorkshire Dales, you will catch views of rolling hills, green meadows, and picturesque stone villages. The real treat comes as you roll into Cumbria; you will be treated to views of the Cumbria Fells, including peaks such as Whernside and Pen-y-Ghent. The 1-hour 45-minute journey is a real treat outdoor enthusiasts will cherish.

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La Petite Train Jaune, France

La Petite Train Jaune (The Little Yellow Train), which traverses the French Pyrenes, is one of the best ways to experience part of Southern France’s charming landscapes. 

The 1 hour 40 minutes journey starts at Villefranche-de-Conflent, ends at Latour-de-Carol, and takes passengers through picturesque landscapes. As the train departs, passengers are offered stunning views of Villefranche-de-Conflent ancient walls and fortresses, a UNESCO World Heritage site . 

The train then winds into Têt Valley, offering panoramic views of rugged mountains, lush forests, and rivers.

Other notable highlights include the Serdinya Viaduct, Mount Louis, and the crossing of the gravity-defying Gisclard Bridge. The train stops at Bourg-Madame, a picturesque town on the French-Spanish border, to allow tourists to take in the charming environment before proceeding to the final destination.

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The Bernina Express, Switzerland – Italy

The Bernina Express, starting in Chur, Switzerland, and ending in Tirano, Italy, is one of Europe’s most scenic train journeys. While you can take the ride any time of the year, it was definitely made to be experienced in winter; the landscapes in these two of the most beautiful countries in the world are magical when covered in snow. 

The Bernina Express rides on the Albula Line, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage railway due to its spiral tunnels, viaducts, and dramatic bridges. 

Some of the highlights you cannot miss on this journey include the Landwasser Viaduct, Engadin Valley, Bernina Pass, Brusio Spiral Viaduct, and the charming town of Poschiavo. The 4-hour, 15-minute journey is full of magnificent scenery.

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Bergensbanen, Norway

The Bergensbanen, starting in Oslo and ending in Bergen, is the best way to explore the Norwegian countryside if you have limited time in Norway. The journey takes tourists through stunning landscapes such as mountains, fjords, and charming villages.

Some of the highlights of this scenic trip include the charming towns of Hønefoss and Geilo and the Hardangervidda Plateau, which is the largest mountain plateau in Europe. The Bergensbanen offers passengers a memorable experience, allowing them to witness the beauty of Norway’s landscapes in just 7 hours.

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Centovalli Express, Italy

The Centovalli is another option for exploring Italian and Swiss charm in one ride. This journey starts in Locarno, Switzerland, travels through Centovalli (hundreds of valleys), and ends in Domodossola, Italy.

This journey is the best way to catch views of the Centovalli Region, characterized by deep valleys, rugged mountains, terraced vineyards, dense forests and waterfalls. The ride passes through picturesque villages , each offering different personalities and charm to the passengers. The train stops in Intragna, a historic town where travelers can descend and explore the narrow streets and historic buildings.

You will also see breathtaking bridges, such as Ponte dei Salti, which crosses the Lavertezzo River.

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The Odontotos Rack Railway, Greece

Also known as the Diakopto-Kalavryta Railway, The Odontotos Rack Railway traverses the Vouraikos Gorge in the Peloponnese region of Greece. The 1 hour 15 minutes journey starts in Diakopto and ends in Kalavryta.

A good reason to take this ride is the unbeatable views of the Vouraikos Gorge you will get to enjoy. You will catch views of towering cliffs, lush vegetation, waterfalls, and the Vouraikos River.

The rail journey winds through narrow passages, cliffs, bridges, and tunnels carved into the mountainside, making it even more adventurous and exciting.

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The Black Forest Railway, Germany

Taking The Black Forest Railway is effortlessly the best way to tour Germany’s stunning Black Forest region. The 3-hour journey starts in Offenburg, ends in Konstanz, and passes over two viaducts and 39 tunnels.

The trip treats passengers to the picturesque landscapes of the Black Forest region, including historic villages, thick forests, rivers, and valleys. Some of the journey’s must-see highlights include Feldberg, the highest peak of the Black Forest region, and the stunning Lake Titisee.

For the best views, take this trip in autumn or spring; you will enjoy amazing views of fall foliage in the thick forests of this region.

Read also:  Castles in Europe

Cinque Terre Express, Italy

Exploring the Italian Riviera, specifically the villages of Cinque Terre , should be on every explorer’s bucket list. To kickstart this experience, consider taking the Cinque Terre Express, which takes you through five of the region’s villages. 

This train ride starts at La Spezia Centrale and takes you through Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore before ending at Levanto. The train stops at each of the five villages, allowing passengers to descend and take in the views and some photos .

The journey is a perfect way to enjoy the views of the Ligurian Sea and the region’s rugged cliffs, terraced vineyards, and colorful villages perched on the hillsides.

Read also:  Hidden Islands in Europe

Belgrade – Bar Railway, Serbia / Montenegro

This scenic train route starts in the Serbian capital of Belgrade and ends in the coastal town of Bar in Montenegro. The ride passes through diverse landscapes, offering passengers breathtaking views of mountains, gorges, rivers, and valleys. 

As the train leaves Belgrade, watch out for the stunning mountains of Western Serbia, the picturesque countryside of Mokra Gora, and the Tara River Canyon, one of Europe’s deepest river canyons and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The journey spans 10-12 hours, and you may decide to catch some sleep, but be sure not to miss the Durmitor National Park, known for its dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and dense forests. This journey is a great way to experience the magnificence of Serbia and Montenegro firsthand.

Read also:  Top European Beaches

The West Highland Line, Scotland

The West Highland Line is a great way to explore the scenic Scottish Highlands’ lochs, landmarks, and beautiful landscapes. The journey starts in Glasgow and ends in Mallaig. 

While the journey offers numerous landmarks and features, you want to catch glimpses of Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest freshwater loch, Loch Shiel, and Glenfinnan Viaduct (Hello, Harry Potter fans!).

This 4-to-5-hour trip has something for every type of explorer, whether they’re looking to enjoy natural landscapes , engineering marvels, or scenes from Harry Potter films.

Read also:  Europe’s Best Value Beach Destinations  

The Semmering Railway, Austria

While this train ride has a lot to offer nature enthusiasts, we highly recommend it to architectural and engineering enthusiasts. The journey starts in Gloggnitz and ends at Mürzzuschlag. 

The journey’s excitement starts when the train ascends the Semmering Pass, which is 2,936 feet (895 meters) above sea level. This pass offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

This rail line acquired UNESCO World Heritage status thanks to its breathtaking tunnels and viaducts. Anyone who is into engineering will enjoy admiring these marvels of 19th-century engineering.

Read also:  Cities in Europe for Solo Traveling

Glacier Express, Switzerland

There are many ways to tour the magnificent Swiss Alps, but an excellent option is to take The Glacier Express. The views and experiences this 181-mile (291-kilometer) ride offers are unparalleled. 

The ride starts at Zermatt and goes all the way to St. Moritz; however, you could choose to go with shorter versions and stop at Chur, Andermatt, or Brig, all of which are very charming villages . Either way, you will be treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and picturesque valleys.

Some of the unmissable highlights include the iconic peaks of the Swiss Alps, like the Matterhorn, Weisshorn, and Piz Bernina. This journey is best experienced in winter, offering fantastic views of snow-covered landscapes.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

The 11 Most Scenic Train Rides In Europe

Robert Neumann / Shutterstock

• Destinations
• European Rail
• Orient Express
• Types of Travel

In today’s world of innovative travel, train travel is enjoying a revival. And to be honest, traveling by train has always been so much more enjoyable than by plane, because on a train, the journey is just as, if not more, important than the destination. Is there anything better than sitting comfortably by a window, with an untouched book on your lap, probably drink in hand, while you enjoy spectacular vistas rolling past outside?

I have always loved traveling by train, and whether you are on a luxury train or a suburban commuter link, it is the views that are important.

There are so many fabulous trains around the globe that invite you to sit back and enjoy the journey, but this list concentrates on Europe, and I will tell you in each section just why that chosen train should be on your to-do list. Enjoy the ride.

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1. Orient Express: London To Venice

Is there a more famous train than the Orient Express ? Harking back to the glamorous times of travel in the 1920s and 1930s, the train used to take passengers from Paris all the way to Istanbul and did so in style. This still happens roughly once a year at a stupendous price, and tickets sell out well in advance. However, you can sample the extravagance on shorter trips, such as an extended lunch or a murder mystery day trip in England . Or you can travel from London to Venice for a more in-depth experience. Along the way, you will travel through France and the Alps for spectacular views, even if most of the enjoyment of this particular trip lies firmly within the train and its superb black-tie service.

2. West Highland Line: Glasgow To Mallaig, Scotland

Scotland is home to one of Europe’s most rugged and dramatic countrysides, and this ride is taking in all the West Highland delights along the way. Add to that the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, which Potterheads will recognize as the viaduct the Hogwarts Express travels along in the Harry Potter films, and Corrour, the UK’s highest altitude train station, and you have a thoroughly enjoyable 5 hours of looking out of the window. Before heading out on the West Highland Line , enjoy the arts and crafts city of Glasgow , and end in the harbor city of Mallaig.

3. Nimes, France To Barcelona, Spain

Whether you start your journey in Paris, adding a mere 1.5 hours to the trip, or in the Roman city of Nimes , the stretch between Nimes and Barcelona is the highlight of this train journey . The line hugs the Mediterranean coast and takes you through the fabulous marshlands of the Camargue, with salt lakes on one side of the train and the sea on the other. Then you sidle along the Pyrenees mountain range before reaching Barcelona. You will find yourself dashing from one side of the train to the other.

And apart from great cities at the start and the end of your trip, this is a worthwhile alternative to flying between France and Spain, as it offers you 5.5 hours of relaxed views, while probably still being faster than flying.

SkandaRamana / Shutterstock

4. Cologne, Germany To Basel, Switzerland

This is another normal train route , but it travels along the Rhine Valley and offers some stunning sights normally only seen from river cruises. Start in Cologne and travel through the former German capital of Bonn, past Mainz and Mannheim. You will spot the seemingly countless castles perched high up on the cliff edges along the Rhine Valley, with the bustling river traffic right next to the train tracks. If you are traveling in summer, you might see endless sunflower fields as well. Step off in Basel , or continue to Zurich.

5. Cannes, France To Ventimiglia, Italy

Starting your roughly 1.5-hour-long journey covering three countries in Cannes on the Mediterranean coast, you travel to Nice , and then Monte Carlo, Monaco, right along the French Riviera with simply stunning views inland and across the coast. You continue along the coast, with the mountains rising high on the left side and the rugged Italian coastline on the right. This short stretch has often been voted as one of the most scenic stretches of rail track in Europe.

6. El Transcantabrico Gran Lujo: San Sebastian To Santiago De Compostela, Spain

You can walk through northern Spain along the pilgrimage path of Camino de Santiago to Santiago de Compostela, or you can take a super-luxury train . Even better, you can walk one way, and reward yourself with the very plush return journey by train.

This 8-day journey, starting or ending in San Sebastian near the Pyrenees mountains, takes in stops such as Bilbao and the medieval Santillana del Mar while ferrying you in luxury Pullman carriages along the coastline. You have your own cabins, complete with living rooms, bedrooms, and en-suite bathroom. You will dine on local specialties and enjoy small group excursions in the daily stops along the way.

Julia Lav / Shutterstock

7. Cinque Terre Express: Italy

This little local train runs every 15 minutes and connects the five colorful villages that make up Cinque Terre. Straddling a spectacular stretch of coastline, the train runs along steep cliffs and the Mediterranean Sea. The views across the UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses the entire Cinque Terre National Park with its five towns are spectacular, and the tickets are cheap.

8. Glacier Express: Zermatt To St Moritz, Switzerland

Not necessarily an express train, with the trip taking some 8 hours, the Glacier Express is nevertheless a wonderful, bright red train that takes you past the green valleys and snow-capped mountains of Switzerland. You will leave Zermatt, right by the Matterhorn mountain, and traverse the Swiss countryside, crossing the Rhone river, climbing up to a 6,669-foot-high mountain pass, crossing viaducts, and end up in lovely Saint Moritz . You can take in the vistas through the large panoramic windows that encase each carriage for nearly 360-degree views. The journey is split into four segments, so you could stop in between overnight if you wanted to, enjoy a shorter segment, or even travel along the same route by normal train to save money.

9. The Douro Line: Porto To Pocinho, Portugal

If you are in Porto , this scenic 3.5-hour train ride is a must-do. Running along the Douro river valley, taking in the lovely Portuguese countryside with its vineyards and small, picturesque villages, makes for a lovely day out. You could be tempted to split the journey and step out along the way, hopping back onto the next train, as it runs in regular intervals.

10. Trenhotel: Lisbon, Portugal To Madrid, Spain

Taking the train between the capitals of Portugal and Spain is a lovely way to not only skip a flight but also relax, sleep in comfort, and enjoy some scenery along the way. The Trenhotel is an express overnight train that connects the capitals and allows you to travel in a two-bed sleeper with an en-suite bathroom or save money and travel simply. You get what you pay for on this train, but either way, this is a nice alternative to flying and exploring Europe.

cvrestan / Shutterstock

11. The Flam Railway: Flam To Myrdal, Norway

Probably one of the most scenic train journeys of them all is this short but thoroughly impressive 1-hour journey between two fjord towns in Norway . In the 1-hour, 12-mile trip, the little train climbs impressive heights, passes through 20 tunnels, takes in the stunning Rjoandefossen waterfall, and even allows you to connect with the Bergen line, if that is on your itinerary when in fjord country. Or you can simply return on the next train for a repeat performance. Either way, dress warm and keep your camera poised.

Europe, or at least western Europe, has a superb rail system, allowing you to explore the continent without even uttering the word airport. You can connect easily between capitals and get decent discounts if you carry ID or purchase a discount card for the country you are most likely to stay in the longest. All services generally tend to be on time, comfortable, and straightforward to use, with officials usually at least speaking a degree of English, should you have questions.

While I have highlighted some routes and trains that are special and luxurious, even along those routes, there tend to be cheaper local alternatives if you want the views without the cost. Pack comfortable clothes, sit back, and enjoy Europe’s vistas passing along outside your window.

Editor’s Note: While you are traversing the continent, check out these scenic ferry rides as well .

A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

2024’s Top 24 Scenic European Train Rides

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Europe with these top scenic train rides. As you sit back and relax in your train seat, you’ll be captivated by the picturesque scenes that unfold outside your window. From snow-capped mountains to charming villages, these routes offer the most rewarding way to explore the beauty of the continent.

So, which scenic train ride will you choose?

Best scenic train rides in Europe

If you are like us, you will fall for Berlin train stations.

The Flam Railway: Myrdal to Flåm, Norway

Experience one of the steepest train journeys in the world as you descend from the mountainous plateau of Myrdal to the picturesque village of Flåm. The journey takes you through lush valleys, past waterfalls, and alongside the stunning Aurlandsfjord.

The Bernina Railway: Chur to Tirano, Italy

Switzerland and Italy come together in a remarkable display of natural beauty on the Bernina Railway.

This scenic route takes you on a winding journey around bright blue lakes and across majestic viaducts. Fields transform into snowy mountains right before your eyes, leaving you in awe of the stunning landscapes.

While panoramic trains offer a luxurious experience, you can also enjoy the same beautiful route on regular trains without the surcharge.

The Glacier Express: Zermatt to St. Moritz, Switzerland

Traverse the Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express, known as the slowest express train in the world. Marvel at the snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and charming alpine villages during this leisurely 8-hour journey.

Editor’s tip: Looking to explore Europe effortlessly? Consider leveraging Omio, a versatile travel platform for trains, buses, and flights. Whether you are looking for trains from Milan to Paris, Lisbon to Porto, Rome to Naples, or elsewhere, it offers quick comparisons, reasonable booking costs, and eco-friendly options to reduce your carbon footprint.

The Bergen Railway: Oslo to Bergen, Norway

Prepare to be enchanted by Norway’s spellbinding landscapes on the Bergen Railway.

This epic 7-hour train journey takes you through fjords, glaciers, and Europe’s highest mountainous plateau. As you watch the breathtaking scenery pass by, you’ll be immersed in the natural wonders that Norway has to offer .

Make a stop in Myrdal and hop on the legendary tourist train to Flåm for an unforgettable detour.

The Black Forest Railway: Konstanz to Offenburg, Germany

Step into a fairytale as you embark on the Black Forest Railway in Germany. This scenic route takes you through lush forests and villages with traditional timbered houses .

The section between Donaueschingen and Hornberg is particularly enchanting, with picturesque views at every turn. Keep an eye out for the local double-decker trains that run along this route, and be sure to claim a top-deck seat for the best views.

The Salzkammergut Railway: Stainach-Irdning to Attnang-Puchheim, Austria

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Austria’s Salzkammergut region on this picturesque train ride. Marvel at the huge cliffs, picturesque villages, and glistening lakes that make this journey truly remarkable.

Located within the stunning Austrian Lake District , each station along the route beckons you to explore and discover hidden gems.

Be sure to get off the train at every station, and don’t miss the opportunity to visit Hallstatt, one of the most beautiful towns in all of Austria, by taking a ferry across the adjacent lake from the railway station.

The Flamands Line: Brussels to Bruges, Belgium

Explore the charming Belgian countryside on the Flamands Line. This scenic route takes you through picturesque farmlands, alongside canals, and into the medieval city of Bruges, known for its cobblestone streets and historic architecture.

The Amalfi Coast Line: Salerno to Sorrento, Italy

Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast from the comfort of a train. As you travel along the coastline, enjoy panoramic views of colorful cliffside villages, crystal-clear waters, and lush Mediterranean landscapes.

The Belgrade-Bar Railway: Belgrade to Bar, Montenegro

For the adventurous at heart, the Belgrade-Bar Railway in Serbia and Montenegro offers an unforgettable Balkan train ride.

Surrounded by rocky valleys, rushing rivers, and wide lakes, this 12-hour journey showcases the stunning beauty of the region. Cross the tallest viaduct in Europe and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery along the way.

If you want to maximize your experience, opt for the day train and soak up every moment of the amazing landscapes.

The Semmering Railway: Vienna to Semmering, Austria

Discover the Semmering Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as you journey through the Austrian Alps. This historic route features viaducts, tunnels, and stunning mountain vistas.

The West Highland Extension: Crianlarich to Oban, Scotland, UK

Extend your Scottish adventure by taking the West Highland Extension to Oban. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Loch Awe, mountains, and glens as you make your way to the charming coastal town of Oban.

Cinque Terre: La Spezia to Levanto, Italy

Italy’s picturesque coastline comes to life on the scenic train ride through Cinque Terre.

As the train hugs the shore, you’ll feel like you’re floating across the water, passing from one picture-perfect village to another. Immerse yourself in the charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site as you explore the walking trails between the five seaside villages.

Don’t miss the delightful section between Monterosso and Vernazza, with its stunning views and vibrant atmosphere, and read this article on how to keep your Italy travels on a budget .

The Rhine Valley Line: Mainz to Koblenz, Germany

Wind along the Rhine River, passing vineyards, medieval castles, and charming towns. The Rhine Valley Line offers a romantic journey through one of Europe’s most scenic river valleys.

The West Highland Line: Fort William to Mallaig, Scotland, UK

Discover the untamed beauty of Scotland’s moorlands, lochs, and glens on the West Highland Line.

This train ride will take your breath away as you traverse the famous Glenfinnan viaduct, known for its appearance in the Harry Potter films. Enjoy the isolation of the landscape  and marvel at the scenic vistas along the way.

While steam trains are available on this route, you can also opt for the local services operated by the Scottish rail operator for a more budget-friendly experience.

The Elbe Sandstone Mountains: Dresden to Decin, Germany 

Immerse yourself in the unique rock formations and sandstone landscapes of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. This picturesque journey along the Elbe River offers stunning views of the Czech-German border.

The Gotthard Panorama Express: Lucerne to Lugano, Switzerland

Combine a scenic boat trip with a train ride on the Gotthard Panorama Express. Travel through the Swiss Alps, pass by pristine lakes, and experience a seamless transition between rail and water transport.

The West Coast Main Line: Glasgow to Mallaig, Scotland, UK

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Scottish Highlands as you travel from Glasgow to Mallaig on the West Coast Main Line. Pass through rugged landscapes, cross viaducts, and catch glimpses of iconic castles on this scenic route.

The Douro Line: Porto to Pocinho, Portugal

Playing with light and shadows at São Bento Railway Station in Porto

Embark on a splendid journey along the Douro River in Portugal on the Douro Line. As the train snakes its way through the scenic valley, you’ll be treated to views of vineyard terraces on either side.

Admire the beauty of the petite, white, and blue-tiled train stations along the route, which add to the charm of the journey.

Take the morning train to allow ample time to explore the valley, tasting delicious wines and immersing yourself in the rich Porto architectural gems and the overall cultural heritage of the region.

The Little Yellow Train: Latour-de-Carol to Villefranche-Vernet-les-bains, France

Prepare for a thrilling ride on the Little Yellow Train in the French Pyrenees.

During the summer, you can even choose to ride in the open-top carriage and enjoy unobstructed views of the majestic Pyrenees mountains. This scenic route is located near the borders of Andorra and Spain, offering a unique opportunity for exploration.

Keep in mind that there may be occasional line maintenance, so it’s a good idea to check the train times in advance.

The West Cork Line: Cork to Killarney, Ireland

Explore the scenic beauty of Ireland on the West Cork Line. This route takes you through picturesque landscapes, along the coast, and into the charming town of Killarney.

The Montenegro Express: Podgorica to Bar, Montenegro

Revel in the rugged beauty of Montenegro – Kotor is always a great idea! – on the Montenegro Express. Journey through mountainous terrain, tunnels, and bridges as you make your way from Podgorica to the coastal town of Bar.

Rhodope Narrow Gauge: Septemvri – Dobrinishte, Bulgaria

Travel back in time on Bulgaria’s Rhodope Narrow Gauge, the country’s last remaining narrow gauge train. This picturesque route takes you through mountains, forests, and charming villages with minarets, immersing you in the beauty of the Balkan countryside.

Starting at the Pirin range, the train journey offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Bulgaria. Before embarking on your trip, make sure to check the train route information on the BDZ website for the latest updates.

The Bernese Oberland Railway: Interlaken to Jungfraujoch, Switzerland

Ascend to the “Top of Europe” on the Bernese Oberland Railway. Travel through lush meadows and snowy landscapes to reach Jungfraujoch, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.

The Settle-Carlisle Line: Settle to Carlisle, England, UK

Experience the scenic splendor of the Yorkshire Dales and Cumbrian Fells on the Settle-Carlisle Line. This historic route takes you through viaducts, tunnels, and picturesque countryside in northern England.

Tips to plan an unforgettable European adventure by train

Now that you have discovered these remarkable scenic train rides, it’s time to plan your perfect journey.

• Remember to consider the timing of your trips, using an online sunrise and sunset calculator to choose the best train times for enjoying the scenery.
• Also, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the stops along the route, as they often hold hidden treasures and unique experiences. Don’t worry about breaking the bank, as most of these scenic train rides are affordable regional services that locals use every day.
• If you have an Interrail Pass, you can even enjoy these train rides at no additional cost or with a small reservation fee.
• Also, don’t forget to consider the environmental impact of your travels with Omio’s platform, comparing sustainable options. Follow Omio on Instagram for inspiration and explore the new Ecosia x Omio green travel feature—combining sustainable travel with tree-planting initiatives!

Going beyond carbon cuts, slow and eco-friendly travel isn’t just about being green – it’s about digging deeper into meaningful journeys and dodging the chaos of airport headaches. Big ups to Eurostar links and the ever-growing high-speed train network, giving planes a run for their money on travel times.

Mix in some intercity, regional, and local train vibes, toss in ferry rides, bus adventures, and cycling or hiking trails, and voila! Europe has become this magical spot for eco-conscious explorers. 

So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes – a dream for hikers! – with these 24 best scenic train rides. Sit back, relax, and let the beauty of the continent unfold before your eyes.

1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, England to Italy

Nearest airport:, points of interest:, distance and duration:.

2. Flam Railway, Norway

3. West Highland Line, Scotland

4. Glacier Express, Switzerland

5. Cinque Terre Express, Italy

6. GoldenPass Line, Switzerland

7. The Little Yellow Train, France

8. Belgrade-Bar Railway, Montenegro

9. El Transcantabrico Gran Lujo, Spain

10. Odontotos Rack Railway, Greece

11. Bernina Express, Switzerland

12. The Black Forest Railway - Baden, Germany

Points of interest:.

7 scenic train rides in Europe to enjoy

Recently updated on April 23rd, 2024 at 04:49 pm

There’s something enchanting about taking the train – and it’s one of the best ways to experience Europe’s most stunning regions. All you have to do is sit back and watch a beautiful world chug by out of the window, taking in everything from the plunging fjords of Norway and the snowy Alps of Switzerland, to the lush mountains of Scotland. If you want a front-row seat to all this breathtaking scenery, here are 7 of the most scenic train rides in a Europe travel that you can’t miss. All aboard!

1. Glacier Express, Switzerland

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Glacier Express 🇨🇭 (@glacierexpress.ch)

The famous Glacier Express is undoubtedly one of the most scenic train rides in Europe, taking you through the pristine Alpine landscapes between Zermatt and St. Moritz. You’ll start in the shadow of the great Matterhorn, then cover 300 kilometres of scenic bliss in around eight hours. With 91 tunnels and 291 bridges, the Glacier Express is an incredible feat of engineering.

Keep your eyes peeled for the most impressive stretch when the train moves through the Oberalp Pass at 2,044m above sea level, surrounded by snowy peaks and glittering ice sheets. It’s easy to soak up all the beauty, as most carriages have large panoramic windows and glass skylights for nearly 360-degree views. So how do you get there? You can experience the magic of the Glacier Express on Trafalgar’s Switzerland trips .

GET INSPIRED BY: Contrasts of Switzerland

2. Bergen Line, Norway

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Norway’s best (@norwaysbest_)

Possibly one of the most scenic train rides in Europe, Norway’s Bergen Line runs between Oslo and Bergen through some unforgettable landscapes. You’ll pass by rugged mountains, rivers, waterfalls and meadows on this epic 500-kilometre journey. It’s also the highest railway in northern Europe , reaching 1,222 metres above sea level at Finse.

One of the best parts is the famous Flåm Railway. This spectacular route between Flåm and Myrdal takes you through the Sognefjorden, the longest and deepest fjord in Europe. The railway also drops 867 metres in just 20 kilometres, making it the steepest line on the continent. Imagine picture-perfect lakes, thundering waterfalls, fairytale peaks and even hand-carved tunnels… Don’t forget to bring your camera for this one! You can experience the dreamy Flåm Railway and Bergen Line with Trafalgar on our Norway trips .

GET INSPIRED BY: Scenic Scandinavia and its Fjords

3. West Highland Line, Scotland

View this post on Instagram A post shared by West Coast Railways (@westcoastrailways)

Sit back and take in the enchanting Highland scenery on the West Highland Line. It runs for 264 kilometres or five hours from Glasgow to the port town of Mallaig in the Scottish Highlands. You’ll be amazed by the lush green countryside, rugged mountains, misty lochs, heather moors and craggy coastline of the west coast of Scotland. It’s said to be the most scenic train rides in Britain and there’s plenty of incredible sights along the way.

Harry Potter fans will love crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct where Harry and Ron came face to face with the Hogwart’s Express in the Flying Ford Anglia. Trainspotting film fans might also recognise the station at Corrour, which is also one of the highest train stations in Britain at 408 metres above sea level. 

RELATED CONTENT: 13 Scottish destinations every Harry Potter fan should visit

4. Central Rhine Railway, Germany

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Germany Tourism (@germanytourism)

One of the best ways to see the beautiful Rhine Valley is on the Central Rhine Railway. The line between Bingen and Koblenz offers up some mesmerising landscapes that have been plucked straight from a fairytale. In just 61 kilometres or 50 minutes, you’ll see picturesque villages, green hillside vineyards, and magical castles that inspired Walt Disney himself.

This line is even UNESCO-listed thanks to the 40 or more castles and fortresses dotted on the hillsides. You’ll also see the famous Loreley Rock in St. Goarshausen, where legend says that Loreley’s siren song once lured sailors to their death. This stunning train ride is short and sweet, but if you’d like something a little longer, try starting in Mainz and getting off in Cologne, for a scenic three-hour journey.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Germany

5. Centovalli Railway, Switzerland & Italy

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ferrovia Vigezzina Centovalli (@ferroviavigezzinacentovalli)

If you’re after dramatic views, you can’t miss the Centovalli Railway from Locarno, Switzerland, to Domodossola, Italy. This scenic train runs through the spectacular “Hundred Valleys”, the Centovalli, famed for its spellbinding spectacle of waterfalls, vineyards, valleys, chestnut groves, old villages and lush landscapes.

As you cross 83 bridges and 31 tunnels, don’t miss the Sorno viaduct (Itragna) and the gorge connecting Re and Intragna. You’ll even pass the glittering Lake Maggiore! This beautiful European train journey takes around two hours and it’s one of the best ways to see Switzerland and Italy.

RELATED CONTENT: The great train travel revival – why more of us are choosing to travel by rail

6. Bernina Express, Switzerland

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If you’re not taking the Glacier Express, then it’s got to be Switzerland’s Bernina Express, one of the most famous and scenic train trips in Europe. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the line takes you on a spectacular four-hour journey between Chur in Switzerland and Tirano in Italy.

You’ll pass 196 bridges and 55 tunnels as you go from the lakeside St. Mortiz up the Bernina Pass, where you’ll marvel at the Morteratsch Glacier and the peak of Piz Bernina. There are snowy mountains, alpine lakes and lush meadows in summer and the line along the Landwasser viaduct is especially breathtaking. If you’d like to experience the wonders of the Bernina Express, Trafalgar will get you there on our Switzerland trips .

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Switzerland

7. Semmering Bahn, Austria

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This impressive railway is not only one of the most scenic train rides in Europe, but also one of the most extraordinary feats of engineering. It was built over the towering mountains of Austria between 1848 and 1854 and was the first single gauge track alpine railway in Europe.

Today, the UNESCO-listed line stretches over 41 kilometres, rolling from Gloggnitz to Mürzzuschlag, over the Semmering Pass. You’ll pass through 14 tunnels, 16 viaducts and over one hundred curved stone bridges as you wind your way through the wonderland of forests, cliffs and mountains. 

RELATED CONTENT: All aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, the luxury train ride that takes you through the Rocky Mountains

What are your favourite scenic train travel experiences in Europe? Let us know in the comments below!

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The top 10 most scenic railway journeys in Europe revealed

Including four beautiful routes in the UK

There's nothing quite like taking in the scenery on a long, relaxing train journey. The more stunning the landscape, the better the trip. On certain routes, even an everyday commute can be a treat.

The expert team at Which? , asked the public to rate their favourite scenic train journeys across Europe and compiled the results into a must-visit list of ten amazing trips by rail. Better still, you can enjoy four of the routes without ever having to leave the UK – perfect for staycations and quick weekend trips!

These are the top ten most picturesque train rides in Europe:

Ffestiniog Railway, Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog (Wales)

Bergen railway, oslo to bergen (norway).

• Bernina Express , Chur (Switzerland) to Tirano (Italy)
• Glacier Express , Zermatt to St Moritz (Switzerland)

Brocken Railway, Wernigerode to Brocken Summit (Germany)

• Talyllyn, Tywyn to Abergynolwyn (Wales)
• Welsh Highland Railway , Porthmadog to Caernarfon (Wales)
• West Highland Line , Fort William to Mallaig (Scotland)

Flam Railway, Myrdal to Flam (Norway)

• Golden Pass, Lucerne to Montreux (Switzerland)

This is the world’s oldest narrow-gauge railway, spanning 13.5 miles between the harbour at Porthmadog and the slate mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. You'll take in dense forests, stone houses and scenic lakes - it's almost like travelling back in time. If you want to go all out, opt for a seat in the first-class Pullman carriage.

Connecting the capital city of Oslo to the striking fjords of the west coast, this railway runs for 308 miles, past crystal clear lakes and tall spruce trees. In winter you'll enjoy a snowy landscape, but in summer, greenery for as far as the eye can see.

Bernina Express, Chur (Switzerland) to Tirano (Italy)

Taking you all the way from Switzerland to Italy, the Bernina Express weaves through the Alps for four breathtaking hours. This is one of the highest railways in Europe, promising spectacular views as it passes across bridges anchored in the rock face.

Glacier Express, Zermatt to St Moritz (Switzerland)

This is the most luxurious way to see the Swiss Alps, with the option of a seven-course tasting menu and wine pairing. The journey takes you past the hulking Matterhorn, through the three cantons of Valais, Uri and Graubunden and past the Rhine Gorge.

RIDE THE BERNINA EXPRESS WITH CL

Take a traditional steam train to the summit of Brocken, taking in the beautiful scenery of the Harz Mountains National Park as you go.

Talyllyn Railway, Tywyn to Abergynolwyn (Wales)

The Talyllyn Railway is the first preserved railway in the world, running from Tywyn to Abergynolwyn. The route crosses over 7 miles of spectacular scenery, all within sight of one of Britain’s highest mountains, Cadair Idris.

Welsh Highland Railway, Porthmadog to Caernarfon (Wales)

The UK's longest heritage railway, spanning 25 miles of the beautiful Welsh countryside. The journey takes you from sea level to 650ft up on the foothills of Snowdon and through the magnificent Aberglaslyn Pass.

EXPERIENCE IT WITH CL

West Highland Line, Fort William to Mallaig (Scotland)

Take the West Highland Line to Mallaig to travel the Glenfinnan Viaduct – used in the Harry Potter films for the Hogwarts Express. You're sure to be impressed by the dramatic moors, lochs and mountains you pass.

Travel the mountains of Norway, taking in dramatic scenery as you go. You'll pass through hand-built tunnels, historic villages and agricultural landscapes.

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15 scenic train rides across Europe

Posted: March 16, 2024 | Last updated: March 16, 2024

For tourists, Europe is synonymous with train travel, and there is truly no better way to explore the continent. All the options make it difficult to choose one — or two, or even a few — for your transatlantic adventure. That’s why we’ve rounded up 15 of the most scenic train rides across the region!

Munich, Germany to Salzburg, Austria

Bavaria is known as the most beautiful region in Germany and Austria, and if you spend even just a few minutes there, it’s easy to see why. This part of Europe is a true fairytale, with snowy mountain peaks, charming alpine cabins, and rushing rivers. And while road trips here are fun, the train ride between the two major cities, Munich and Salzburg, lasts about two hours and provides some of the best views of the Bavarian Alps and surrounding villages.

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Sarajevo to Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina

The Balkans aren’t known to have an amazing rail system. However, one train ride that is a must on any visit to the area is the two-hour journey between Sarajevo and Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina. Travel through the Dinaric Alps and catch sights of elevated bridges, waterfalls, and peaks that would otherwise be hard to reach.

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Oslo to Bergen, Norway

This seven-hour journey is a full day of travel, but not one that you should dread, thanks to the spectacular scenery through the heart of Norway! You’ll enjoy glimpses of fjords, rivers, and the lovely Norwegian countryside. The Oslo to Bergen route is at its best in winter when Norway is blanketed with snow. It’s also much less nerve-wracking than driving this route in cold weather conditions.

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Athens to Meteora, Greece

When you picture Greece, sandy island beaches and vibrantly blue water probably come to mind. But that’s not all there is to the country. It has epic mountains as well. The four-hour ride (but budget longer, Greek trains are notoriously slow and late) from Athens to Meteora takes you through the heart of the peaks and ends in the perfect spot for a walking adventure. You can hike from the main towns of Kalambak or Kastraki to the various monasteries that dot the mountains.

Luxembourg, Luxembourg to Cologne, Germany

No, the tiny country of Luxembourg isn’t part of Germany, but it is right next door and ideally located for terrific train rides across Europe. The one from the capital city, also called Luxembourg, to Cologne takes approximately three and a half hours and usually requires a change in Koblenz. But it will take you along the Moselle River, dotted with vineyards, castles, and adorable towns that make the ride fly by.

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Glasgow to Mallaig, Scotland

The West Highland Line is the most picturesque in all of the United Kingdom. You’ll follow the Clyde River into the country and through Trossachs National Park and Rannoch Moor. The five-and-a-half-hour journey is perfect for those looking to see a bit of Scotland in a short amount of time.

Kristinehamn to Gällivare, Sweden

The most fantastic train ride in all of Sweden (and that’s saying something in this country) is this just-over 800-mile journey through the interior. The summer-only route operates between mid-June and late August annually. You’ll see the verdant forests of Sweden and the breathtaking backcountry dotted with wildflowers. 

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Jesenice, Slovenia to Trieste, Italy

The Bohinj Nostalgia Train is a three-and-a-half to four-hour ride through some of the prettiest parts of Slovenia. Visit the breathtaking Vintgar Gorge and the imposing Julian Alps before crossing into Italy. It’s the perfect way to see the area without a car!

Zermatt to St. Moritz, Switzerland’s Glacier Express

Switzerland is known for top-notch public transportation, which is efficient and charming. It is not cheap, but the smooth ride and out-of-this-world window views are absolutely worth it. The all-day, eight-hour Glacier Express will take you through the heart of Europe’s most famous Alps, the Rhine Gorge, and multiple tunnels.

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French Riviera Regional Line

The Cote d’Azur was legendary long before Emily in Paris  visited the coast. And while cruising around in a convertible might be stylish, it’s not exactly realistic for most visitors. Plus, one of the best ways to see the South of France is by a regional RER train. Sure, it’s not the super quick TGV, but that just means you’ll see more of the lovely area. There are multiple lines, and most tickets can be bought on the day of travel.

Lucerne to Interlaken, Switzerland

This isn’t a standard commuter rail between two domestic cities; it’s an experience. The two-hour ride will take passengers through the lovely Swiss countryside. Before departing, you’ll see alpine blue lakes, cascading waterfalls, and quaint mountain villages.

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Dublin to Galway, Ireland

Ireland is a delightful country, full of rolling green hills and a stunning coastline. Most visitors opt to rent a car, but if you’re not keen to drive or want to enjoy the sites without worrying about traffic, the train is a great option. The route between Dublin and Galway takes passengers through the heart of Ireland, perfect for a scenic ride!

French Alps Regional Line

Like its neighbor down south, the regional RER line through the French Alps is one of the best ways to see the mountains and villages. Relax in style and enjoy snowy peaks with a cup of hot chocolate aboard one of the many daily trains between alpine towns and cities.

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The Orient Express, London, England to Venice, Italy

The original route might have gone from Paris to Istanbul (and the French rail operator is working on getting this route ready for the 2024 Olympics), but now you can travel from the British Isles to Italy. In 2023, La Dolce Vita began running and provides luxury train travel in carriages reminiscent of another time. You’ll also enjoy superb Italian dining on this two-day overnight journey!

Levanto to La Spezia, Italy

Cinque Terre is one of the most magical destinations in Italy, but it can be a bit tricky to get around. But the train from Levanto to La Spezia, which lasts just under an hour, is the perfect solution. You’ll catch epic coastline views and candy-colored houses in the hills of the villages.

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7 First-Class Train Journeys Worth Splurging On

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• Experience a luxurious train journey across Europe on the Venice Simplon Orient Express for an opulent and stylish travel experience.
• Step aboard the Glacier Express in Switzerland for an unforgettable scenic ride through the stunning Swiss Alps, perfect for luxury travel enthusiasts.
• Enjoy the first-class amenities and breathtaking views on the Amtrak Coast Starlight route from Seattle to Los Angeles for a grand western U.S. adventure.

Long-haul train journeys are worth the splurge. Those who plan to travel across the country and wish to travel in ample comfort and style should look no further than first-class train options. Whether you spend the night on board or several hours of your day, plush seating, complimentary food, and top-class service make the train ride unforgettable. Train companies across the globe are offering first-class services so their passengers can get from point A to B comfortably.

From journeys through the Swiss Alps to those from southern to northern U.S. states, there are train trips that cater to all travel desires. Avoid traveling on an airplane, as you won't get to witness the scenic vistas in the same way. You can see it all and more when you jump on board a luxury train service and see the sights from the panoramic windows. Let's jump in and explore the best first-class train journeys worth splurging on, from luxurious Amtrak vacations to Switzerland's luxurious scenic trains .

How Much Would You Spend On A Luxury Train Vacation?

Amtrak vacation packages offer a convenient and easy way to plan your next rail vacation, but some come at a higher price tag than others. How much would you be willing to spend on a luxury train trip? Where would you go and for how long?

7 The Venice Simplon-Orient Express, Across Europe

Travel as they did in the golden age on the venice simplon-orient express.

The Venice Simplon Orient Express is an opulent and stylish way to travel across Europe. The private luxury train service offers single (or multiple-night journeys), during which passengers sleep in plush cabins and dine like they did in the 1920s.

On the Venice Simplon Orient Express, guests can travel from Paris to Budapest, Rome to London, Amsterdam to Venice, and more. There are plenty of routes for those who wish to travel in luxury. Iconic actors, royalty, and socialites have traveled on board the Venice Simplon Orient Express, so expect to be impressed by the opulence and Art Deco interior when you travel across Europe for a night or two on board the Belmond Train.

6 Amtrak's California Zephyr, Chicago To Emeryville

Enjoy scenic vistas of the midwest on board amtrak's california zephyr.

Amtrak trains offer more than 30 routes throughout the U.S., from south to north and east to west. The most popular is the California Zephyr train , which takes passengers from Chicago to Emeryville, San Fransisco's Bay Area, to see eight national parks .

On board, passengers will be overwhelmed by the endless views of the Midwest. On their way across the country, you'll pass by the Rocky Mountains and the beautiful Sierra Nevadas. Guests aboard the California Zephyr approach the 51-hour and 20-minute journey into two, three, or four segments. Passengers might wish to splurge on the first-class private rooms, which can accommodate one or two travelers. The room includes complimentary meals, lounge access, and a first-class attendant to help with any queries.

7 Amtrak Stations That Are Even Better Than The Trains Themselves

Amtrak train rides are among the most scenic in the U.S. However, some Amtrak stations provide more magic than the journeys themselves.

5 Glacier Express, Switzerland

Famed for its sweeping views of the swiss alps, jump on the glacier express for a swiss train ride you'll never forget.

The Glacier Express is Switzerland's most luxurious train and arguably the most scenic train ride in the world . Passengers can travel to and from Zermatt to St.Moritz and witness sweeping views of the Swiss Alps. The scenic and comfortable ride takes passengers on an 8-hour day trip across the country, spanning 180 miles.

The Excellence Class cabin is ideal for those seeking first-class travel. Passengers can indulge in spacious seats, fine dining, huge windows for undisturbed views, and exclusive access to the Glacier Bar. Whether you wish to travel to Zermatt or St.Moritz, the Glacier Express is the most luxurious and unforgettable way to get there.

4 Grand Canyon Railway's Premium Service, Williams To Grand Canyon Village

Combining history with natural beauty, the grand canyon railway's premium service is the way to travel to the geologic wonder.

The Grand Canyon Railway's Premium Service is the best train journey for reaching the Grand Canyon National Park , a geological wonder and ancestral wonderland. In Williams, Arizona, guests can explore the diverse wildlife before jumping on board the luxury train ride that takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes to reach the famous national park.

Passengers can enjoy a combination of history and natural beauty on the train ride as they will be entertained by Western musicians on board the old 1901 train while taking in the sights from the window. Guests will see ponderosa pines and views of the Grand Canyon from afar before reaching the park as their final destination.

On board the historic Grand Canyon Railway's Premium Service, take a journey to experience breathtaking landscapes from prairie to high desert. The luxury parlor class cabin is the most luxurious, offering passengers a plush car with a private bar and snacks.

You Won't Believe The Luxuries On These 9 Extravagant Train Rides

Who said the train can't be luxurious? Travel in luxury with these extravagant train rides!

3 Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Cross canada's most spectacular landscapes on the rocky mountaineer for a luxury travel experience.

The Rocky Mountaineer is a first-class train journey that primarily serves Canada. While there are routes in the U.S., the Canadian scenery is much more breathtaking. Passengers can travel on board the bucket list train from Vancouver to Banff /Calgary to witness undisturbed views of the Rocky Mountains and its cute towns .

The train journey provides a sensory experience, offering lavish onboard meals, jaw-dropping scenery, excellent rail service, off-board accommodations, and unforgettable tours. The GoldLeaf Service option offers passengers more space, complimentary beverages and snacks, multi-course gourmet meals, and an external viewing platform.

The First Passage to the West route takes travelers on a 2-day or 5-day journey from Vancouver to Banff, stopping in Kamloops. The Short Journey offers a 1-night stay in Kamloops, while the Circle Journey provides guests with a 5-day tour, including 2 nights in a midpoint hotel (1 to 2 nights in Vancouver and 2 or more nights in the Rockies).

2 Amtrak's Coast Starlight, Seattle To Los Angeles

Head on a grand west u.s. train adventure from seattle to los angeles via the amtrak coast starlight.

Amtrak's Coast Starlight is a popular western U.S. train route for its stunning coastal and mountainous views. Passengers can jump onboard in either Seattle or Los Angeles for a 35-hour trip that passes by the Pacific coastline, the Cascade Mountains and its cute towns , and lush forests. The daily train route stops in the San Fransisco Bay Area, Portland, Sacramento, and Santa Barbara if passengers wish to jump on elsewhere.

The longer journey entitles passengers to use the Superliner Sleeper Car, which offers private rooms with a bed, a big picture window, quality linens, lounge access, and complimentary meals. For a memorable trip, those seeking coastal views of the western U.S. should splurge on Amtrak's Coast Starlight route.

LA To NYC: How Much This 17-Day Amtrak Train Trip Costs

From Los Angeles to New Orleans up to New York City, Amtrak's Southern Trail is the ultimate U.S. coast-to-coast adventure.

1 Shinkansen Gran Class, Japan

Experience japan's high-speed trains on the shinkansen gran class from tokyo to aomori city.

Japan is famed for its high-speed trains that travel up to 200 miles per hour . The Shinkansen Gran Class is a fascinating first-class luxury bullet train experience offering passengers the chance to travel to and from Tokyo and Aomori City. The 130-mile-per-hour train ride might be slower than other Japanese bullet trains, but there's a reason: The Shinkansen Gran Class is a sophisticated train that allows guests to witness the city views without a mad rush.

Passengers can indulge in the luxuries of plush leather seats, constant food and drink service, and little extras that will make you feel like a celebrity. The Gran Class on the Shinkansen train is the newest addition, a first-class option for those who want to splurge on lavish extras. It's a 3-hour journey, so choosing the highest class makes sense for ample comfort and the best views.

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BRANDED CONTENT

From a scenic scandi train ride to ice skating in the balkans: autumn and winter tours for your year-end getaway, experience the changing seasons with unique and unforgettable journeys in europe and the us, all curated by trafalgar and insight vacations.

For those seeking new adventures and respite from Singapore’s heat, trade the tropical humidity for crisp autumn air and winter wonderlands in Europe and the US this year end. 

Imagine scenic train rides through Norway's largest and deepest fjord, sipping port wine with loved ones in Portugal’s Douro Valley (where harvest season starts in September) or lobster dinners amid Maine’s fall foliage.

In winter, Christmas markets in Germany and Austria come alive with the aroma of mulled wine and gingerbread. Go off the beaten track in Croatia, with its rich history dating from Roman times, and swing by Zagreb’s award-winning festive market for traditional goodies. 

Don’t want the hassle of planning your trip? Let tour experts handle the logistics and unlock extraordinary experiences while you focus on making memories. 

For authentic experiences beyond the usual tourist trail, Trafalgar offers opportunities to connect with locals. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, the  ‘ Business Class’ Tours offered by Trafalgar’s sister brand,  Insight Vacations ,  provide even more comfort with premium coaches, stellar hotel stays and exclusive guided experiences. 

At the upcoming Natas Travel Fair, happening from Aug 16 to 18, both Trafalgar and Insight Vacations are offering up to 25 per cent off, plus a $188* discount per couple.

Get inspired for your next autumn and winter journeys here.

Autumn Wonders

Witness the transformation of landscape colours with a scenic train ride in Norway and road trips in Boston and Maine. Engage with locals over farm-to-table feasts in Bergen and visit vineyards near Porto, during harvest season to sip locally made wine. The season’s cooler temperatures are also ideal for exploring historic cities and Unesco sites, minus the bustling summer crowds. 

Embark on a scenic Norwegian train ride amid autumn colour

Experience the Nordic countries like never before as Denmark, Norway and Sweden unveil landscapes cloaked in autumnal splendour. Trafalgar’s 14-day journey, Scenic Scandinavia and its Fjords , takes you past meandering lakes, serene forests and majestic fjords. 

Ride the spectacular Flam Railway along Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, and explore Bergen’s colourful Bryggen district.

You will also get to dine with a local family – the Ovre-Eide family will be your hosts as they welcome you to their historic livestock farm, which has been a working farm since the 1500s. 

This is just one of hundreds of Trafalgar’s signature “Be My Guest” experiences , designed to enable meaningful connections between local hosts and travellers. 

In Copenhagen, discover the real stories behind the beloved fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen, and visit the Amalienborg Palace Quarter with its gorgeous 18th-century facades. Or embrace your inner child at the Tivoli Gardens, Europe’s oldest amusement park.

Immerse in history and go wine tasting in Portugal

For those looking to explore the region’s rich heritage, the Country Roads of Portugal tour by Insight Vacations balances premium comfort – like stays at the five-star Corinthia Hotel Lisbon – with intimate cultural encounters.

The 11-day adventure starts in Lisbon’s historic downtown district before venturing to the hilltop village of Monsaraz – one of the best places to soak in panoramic vistas stretching from the Spanish plains to the azure waters of Alqueva Lake. 

Take a step back in time at Tomar, the former seat of the Knights Templar and home to the 12th century Templar Castle and its magnificent rotunda. In the Unesco World Heritage town of Porto, culture and history buffs can admire old world architecture and iconic painted tiles.

This is followed by a meal paired with locally-produced port wine – a sweet red wine produced in Portugal’s Douro Valley – at an authentic Porto restaurant.  A few hours away is the fortified town of Obidos, where visitors are welcome to wander its narrow medieval streets with houses adorned with flowers.

Embark on a journey around New England filled with captivating fall colours and nature 

Across the Atlantic, witness more autumnal beauty on Trafalgar’s Autumn Colours tour . The nine-day journey from Boston to Maine features some of the best spots for scenery and blissful weather. 

In North Conway, traverse “The Kanc”, a scenic American byway that cuts through the White Mountain National Forest offering postcard-worthy views of the autumn foliage .  

Walk on crisp fallen leaves as you participate in a unique experience with Raven Wildlife Programs, gaining insights into local ecology and wildlife with a local specialist. 

At Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island, join a local specialist and naturalist to learn about the lobster fishing industry, marine ecology and local ecosystems before completing the day with a classic lobster dinner. 

Early birds will enjoy the first sunrise in the United States at Cadillac Mountain. Marvel at the intense hues of New England’s forests and mountains as you head south before making a pitstop at the iconic 1879 Nubble Lighthouse. Journey past fisheries and seaside dwellings that have sheltered everyone from local lobstermen to holidaying presidents.

Winter Escapades

For a magical winter holiday, soak in the atmosphere of traditional Christmas markets at lesser-known European fairytale destinations and join the locals as you feast on festive delights. Alternatively, celebrate the season in a more unconventional destination like Zagreb, where you can ice-skate and discover the city’s charming streets.

Explore Germany’s oldest Christmas market and iconic landmarks

Trafalgar’s eight-day German Christmas Markets tour takes you to some of the country’s most iconic Yuletide markets from Frankfurt to Berlin. Half-timbered houses in the medieval town of Rothenburg form a picture-perfect backdrop, as does the Old Town Hall with its romantic architecture. 

At the famous Christmas market in Nuremberg, the stalls are redolent with freshly-baked gingerbread. In Weimar, embrace centuries of festive spirit at the Eisenach Christmas market – held in the Unesco World Heritage Wartburg Castle. 

Journey to Dresden to admire the magnificent restoration of a city ravaged during World War II. Christmas traditions abound as you browse the stalls at Dresden’s Striezelmarkt, Germany’s oldest Christmas market. 

For the gourmands, the tour includes the chance to savour an authentically German Christmas feast of Swabian and South German flavours, with a local family. 

Go off the beaten track in the Balkans

For the ultimate winter escapade, go for the eight-day Insight Vacations tour of Christmas Markets of Croatia, Slovenia and Austria . The ‘ Business Class ’  Tours in Vienna, Ljubljana and Zagreb provide premium accommodations, exquisite dining, and curated experiences. 

In Zagreb, ice-skate at King Tomislav Square and explore Croatia's historic capital, which has boasted the best Christmas market in Europe for three years in a row.

In Slovenia, visit the subterranean wonders of the Postojna Caves, before continuing to the capital Bratislava. The city’s rich history is influenced by various cultures, from Austrians and Bulgarians to Hungarians and Germans. 

Vienna’s grandiose advent markets offer seasonal gifts and treats to surprise loved ones at home. 

Go on an exclusive guided tour of the grand Schonbrunn Palace, with its marvellous frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded ornaments.

Transforming rail: More convenient and sustainable train travel in the EU

Travelling by train in Europe is becoming more convenient and sustainable thanks to recent EU initiatives. New regulations for the trans-European transport network  (TEN-T) to improve rail connectivity and make travel greener have recently entered into force. This means better and more efficient rail services across Europe .

The EU's Action Plan to boost long-distance and cross-border passenger rail services is a key part of these efforts. It aims to double high-speed rail traffic by 2030 and triple it by 2050 . Launched in 2021, this plan focuses on removing obstacles, improving interoperability, modernising passenger rail infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of services across EU countries.

To further support cross-border travel, the European Commission has announced its support for 10 pilot projects to boost cross-border rail services . This will improve cross-border rail connections across the EU and make travel faster, easier and more affordable.

Young travellers can particularly benefit from the DiscoverEU  programme, which regularly offers free travel passes to 18-year-olds to explore Europe by train . This programme encourages cultural exchange and highlights the environmental advantages of rail travel. The next call for applications should be published in autumn 2024.

Passenger rights are also a significant focus of the EU’s transport policy. Travellers in Europe are well-protected in case something goes wrong during their trip. EU passenger rights  cover delays, cancellations, and accessibility issues.

The EU is committed to making train travel a top choice by improving regulations, creating ambitious plans, and supporting special programmes. These efforts aim to make rail travel more sustainable, efficient, and well-connected across Europe.

For more information

An Action Plan to boost long-distance and cross-border passenger rail services

Connecting Europe by train: 10 EU pilot services to boost cross-border rail

Mobility strategy

Know your EU passenger rights before you travel

Rail passenger rights

Travelling in Europe 2024

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