There’s something undeniably magical about traveling Europe by train. As the rhythmic clickety-clack of wheels on tracks provides the soundtrack, spectacular landscapes unfold outside your window like scenes from a movie. Unlike the cramped quarters of airplanes or the constant focus required when driving, train travel offers a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and connection with the passing scenery.
Europe’s extensive rail network is a traveler’s dream, connecting major cities and remote villages through some of the continent’s most stunning terrain. From alpine passes that seem to touch the sky to coastal routes where the Mediterranean sparkles just beyond your window, these journeys aren’t merely transportation—they’re experiences in their own right.
The romance of European train travel has captured imaginations for generations. The Orient Express may have been immortalized in literature and film, but dozens of equally enchanting routes crisscross the continent today. Modern trains offer everything from budget-friendly seats to luxurious private compartments, making this mode of travel accessible to adventurers of all types.
What makes train travel particularly special is the way it allows you to absorb the changing landscape. Unlike the abrupt transitions of air travel, trains let you witness the gradual metamorphosis of one region into another—rolling pastures giving way to dramatic mountains, bucolic countryside transforming into vibrant urban centers. You’ll notice subtle shifts in architecture, from the half-timbered houses of Germany to the terracotta roofs of Italy, all while relaxing in your seat.
Environmental considerations have also brought renewed appreciation for rail travel. As one of the most eco-friendly transportation options, trains allow conscientious travelers to reduce their carbon footprint while exploring Europe’s diverse landscapes. Many routes now feature modern, energy-efficient trains powered by electricity from renewable sources.
For photographers, train windows frame countless perfect shots. For history buffs, many lines follow ancient trade routes or pass through stations that are architectural masterpieces in their own right. For food lovers, dining cars often showcase regional specialties as you pass through different culinary regions. And for anyone who values the journey as much as the destination, Europe’s scenic train routes offer an unhurried way to appreciate the continent’s extraordinary beauty.
Whether you’re planning a dedicated train vacation or looking to incorporate scenic rail journeys into a broader European adventure, this guide will take you through some of the most breathtaking routes the continent has to offer. We’ll explore alpine adventures that climb impossible gradients, coastal journeys with endless sea views, and historic lines that have transported travelers for over a century. Pack your bags, find your seat, and prepare to be captivated by the ever-changing panorama outside your window. Europe’s most spectacular scenery is about to roll by—and you’ve got a front-row seat.
The Most Spectacular Scenic Train Routes in Europe
The Bernina Express (Switzerland to Italy)
Perhaps Europe’s most celebrated train journey, the Bernina Express takes passengers on a four-hour odyssey from Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy. This UNESCO World Heritage route climbs to nearly 2,300 meters (7,500 feet) as it traverses the Swiss Alps, crossing 196 bridges and passing through 55 tunnels along the way.
The journey’s highlight is the passage over the Bernina Pass, where the train seems to float above an otherworldly alpine landscape. The dramatic Landwasser Viaduct, where the train emerges from a mountain tunnel directly onto a curved limestone bridge, provides one of the route’s most photographed moments. As the train descends toward Italy, passengers witness the remarkable transition from glaciers and snow-capped peaks to Mediterranean palm trees and vineyards.
Panoramic cars with oversized windows ensure unobstructed views throughout the journey, making this a year-round attraction. Summer brings vivid green meadows dotted with wildflowers, while winter transforms the landscape into a pristine white wonderland.
The West Highland Line (Scotland)
Made famous as the route of the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films, Scotland’s West Highland Line lives up to its cinematic reputation. Running from Glasgow to Mallaig on Scotland’s west coast, this journey cuts through the untamed wilderness of the Scottish Highlands.
The line’s most iconic feature is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a 21-arch structure that curves gracefully around a valley, offering spectacular views of Loch Shiel. Beyond this engineering marvel, the route passes remote moorlands, misty mountains, and mirror-like lochs that reflect the ever-changing Scottish sky.
The Jacobite Steam Train, which operates on part of this route during summer months, enhances the nostalgic appeal with its vintage carriages and billowing steam. The journey culminates at the fishing port of Mallaig, where passengers can catch ferries to the Isle of Skye, extending their Highland adventure.
The Bergen Line (Norway)
Norway’s Bergen Line connects Oslo to Bergen across the spine of the Scandinavian Peninsula, climbing to 1,222 meters (4,009 feet) at its highest point. This seven-hour journey showcases Norway’s dramatically varied terrain, from lush valleys to barren mountain plateaus.
The Hardangervidda plateau section is particularly striking, where the train traverses Europe’s largest mountain plateau—a vast, rocky wilderness that appears almost lunar in its desolation. In winter, snow walls can tower higher than the train itself, creating an otherworldly tunnel effect.
Many travelers choose to combine this journey with the Flåm Railway, a branch line that descends 866 meters over just 20 kilometers, making it one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world. The Flåm route passes cascading waterfalls and hugs the shore of the emerald-green Aurlandsfjord.
The Semmering Railway (Austria)
Built between 1848 and 1854, the Semmering Railway was the world’s first true mountain railway and remains an engineering marvel. This UNESCO-listed route connects Vienna with Graz, crossing the Semmering Pass through a series of tunnels and viaducts that blend harmoniously with the alpine landscape.
The journey is characterized by dramatic limestone formations, dense forests, and charming Austrian villages nestled in valleys. Sixteen viaducts and fifteen tunnels help the train negotiate the mountainous terrain, with some sections featuring gradients as steep as 1:40.
What makes the Semmering particularly special is how the railway structures themselves—elegant stone viaducts and tunnel portals—enhance rather than detract from the natural beauty. This harmonious relationship between engineering and environment makes the two-hour journey a masterclass in 19th-century railway design.
The Cinque Terre Railway (Italy)
Hugging the rugged Ligurian coastline in northwest Italy, the railway connecting the five pastel-colored villages of Cinque Terre offers some of Europe’s most stunning seaside views. The train tightly follows the contours of the coast, alternating between tunnels carved through rocky headlands and breathtaking stretches overlooking the azure Mediterranean.
This short but spectacular route links Levanto to La Spezia, stopping at the five main Cinque Terre villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each village offers its own unique charm, with clusters of colorful buildings seeming to defy gravity as they cling to steep cliffs above the sea.
The journey takes just 30 minutes if done non-stop, but most travelers use the train to hop between villages, exploring each one before continuing their coastal adventure. With limited road access to these protected communities, the train provides both the most convenient and most scenic approach.
The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
Billed as “the slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express takes nearly eight hours to cover the 291 kilometers (181 miles) between St. Moritz and Zermatt. This deliberately unhurried pace allows passengers to fully appreciate the breathtaking Swiss alpine scenery.
The route crosses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels as it navigates three high-mountain passes. Particularly impressive is the Rhine Gorge section, often called “Switzerland’s Grand Canyon,” where the train follows the young Rhine River through a dramatic limestone ravine.
The journey’s culmination at Zermatt offers stunning views of the Matterhorn, one of the world’s most recognizable mountains. Throughout the trip, panoramic cars with glass extending into the roof ensure passengers don’t miss any of the soaring peaks, pristine valleys, or charming Swiss villages.
Fun Facts About European Train Travel
- Europe’s highest railway station is Jungfraujoch in Switzerland, situated at 3,454 meters (11,332 feet) above sea level and nicknamed “The Top of Europe.”
- The Orient Express first ran in 1883 and originally connected Paris to Constantinople (now Istanbul), covering over 3,000 kilometers.
- The Eurostar train traveling through the Channel Tunnel between England and France reaches depths of 75 meters (246 feet) below sea level, making it the deepest undersea train route in the world.
- Switzerland’s rail network is so precisely timed that locals often set their watches by the trains’ punctuality.
- The railway station at Canfranc on the Spanish-French border was once the second-largest in Europe and served as a crucial espionage hub during World War II.
- Norway’s Bergen Line must sometimes be cleared by rotary snowplows that can cut through drifts up to 7 meters (23 feet) deep.
- The West Highland Line in Scotland crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which appears in the Harry Potter films as part of the route to Hogwarts.
- Europe’s oldest operational mountain railway is the Semmering Railway in Austria, which opened in 1854 and was immediately hailed as an engineering wonder.
- The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express still uses original 1920s and 1930s carriages, meticulously restored to their Art Deco glory.
- Europe’s rail network is so comprehensive that it includes approximately 230,000 kilometers (143,000 miles) of track—enough to circle the Earth nearly six times.
Compelling Reasons to Experience European Train Travel
Unmatched Scenery Access
Many of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes are best viewed by train. Railways often follow routes inaccessible by road, cutting through mountain passes, hugging coastlines, and traversing remote wilderness areas that would otherwise remain hidden from travelers.
Stress-Free Travel Experience
Unlike driving, which requires constant attention, or flying, with its security lines and cramped seating, train travel allows you to relax completely. There’s no navigation to worry about, no traffic to fight, and plenty of space to stretch your legs as the scenery rolls by.
Environmental Benefits
Trains are among the most eco-friendly transportation options, with significantly lower carbon emissions per passenger than cars or planes. Many European rail networks now run on electricity from renewable sources, making your scenic journey environmentally responsible as well as beautiful.
Cultural Immersion
Trains often serve as a microcosm of local culture. You’ll have opportunities to interact with locals, observe daily life in the passing towns and countryside, and perhaps enjoy regional food and drink in the dining car.
Historic Significance
Many scenic routes have fascinating histories, from engineering breakthroughs that made seemingly impossible journeys possible to their roles in world events. Traveling these lines connects you with generations of previous passengers who have marveled at the same views.
Photography Opportunities
The steady movement and large windows of trains create perfect conditions for landscape photography. Many scenic routes include slow sections or strategic stops at particularly photogenic locations.
All-Weather Appeal
Unlike many travel experiences that depend on perfect weather, scenic train journeys offer something special in every season. Summer brings lush greenery and clear mountain views, autumn offers spectacular foliage, winter transforms landscapes into snowy wonderlands, and spring showcases wildflowers and waterfalls at their peak flow.
Main Attractions Along Europe’s Scenic Rail Routes
- Landwasser Viaduct (Bernina Express) – The curved limestone bridge emerging from a mountain tunnel
- Glenfinnan Viaduct (West Highland Line) – The 21-arch viaduct featured in Harry Potter films
- Flåm Railway Waterfalls (Norway) – Spectacular cascades including the powerful Kjosfossen
- Rhine Gorge (Glacier Express) – Switzerland’s “Grand Canyon” with medieval castles perched on cliffs
- Cinque Terre Villages (Italy) – Five colorful cliffside communities overlooking the Mediterranean
- Semmering Pass Viaducts (Austria) – Elegant 19th-century stone bridges blending with alpine scenery
- Duoro Valley Vineyards (Portugal) – Terraced wine estates falling steeply to the river below
- Lake Bled (Slovenia) – A fairy-tale lake with an island church and mountain backdrop
- Brenner Pass (Austria-Italy) – The historic alpine crossing between Austrian and Italian cultures
- Mont Blanc (France-Italy) – Europe’s highest peak, visible from several scenic train routes
- Scottish Highlands (West Highland Line) – Misty mountains, reflective lochs, and remote moorlands
- Hardangervidda Plateau (Norway) – Europe’s largest mountain plateau with its barren, otherworldly landscape
- Amalfi Coast (Italy) – Dramatic Mediterranean cliffs dotted with pastel-colored towns
- Swiss Alpine Glaciers (various routes) – Ancient ice rivers visible from multiple Swiss scenic lines
- Lake Geneva Vineyards (Switzerland) – Terraced UNESCO-listed wine region with lake and mountain views
Things To Do Along European Train Routes
Photography Opportunities
European train routes offer countless perfect shots for photographers of all levels. To make the most of these opportunities:
Window Seat Strategy: Request a seat on the side of the train that will face the most dramatic scenery. Research in advance which side is best for your particular journey.
Reflection-Free Photos: Get close to the window and use a polarizing filter or simply cup your hands around your lens to minimize reflections on the glass.
Panoramic Car Advantages: When available, panoramic or observation cars offer the best views with minimal obstruction. Some trains like the Bernina Express are entirely composed of panoramic cars.
Golden Hour Planning: If possible, time the most scenic portions of your journey to coincide with early morning or late afternoon light, when colors are richer and shadows add dimension to landscapes.
Between-Car Photography: On trains where it’s permitted, the spaces between cars sometimes offer open-air photography opportunities—just be sure to follow all safety guidelines.
Iconic Tunnel Exits: Some routes are known for dramatic moments when the train emerges from a tunnel to reveal spectacular views. Be ready with your camera at these key points.
Beyond Windows: Don’t forget to capture the train experience itself—the elegant dining cars, historic stations, and fellow travelers all contribute to the story of your journey.
Events Not to Miss
Many European regions celebrate their railway heritage with special events throughout the year:
Steam Train Festivals: Throughout Europe, particularly in the UK, Germany, and Switzerland, heritage railways hold weekend events featuring historic steam locomotives.
Christmas Markets by Rail: In December, special Christmas market trains connect the famous festive markets of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
Alpine Railway Centenary Celebrations: Historic mountain railways often host special events on significant anniversaries, featuring historical reenactments and special commemorative journeys.
Wine Harvest Trains: In autumn, regions like the Rhine Valley and Portugal’s Douro Valley offer special trains that stop at vineyards during harvest season for tastings and celebrations.
Railway Photography Competitions: Several scenic railway operators host annual photography contests, with winning images featured in calendars and promotional materials.
Northern Lights Trains: Winter evening trains in northern Norway, Sweden, and Finland offer opportunities to view the aurora borealis from the comfort of heated carriages.
Music Trains: During summer festivals, special evening trains featuring live music traverse scenic routes in countries like Switzerland and Austria.
Cycling Adventures
Many European train routes cater to cyclists, allowing you to combine rail travel with two-wheeled exploration:
Bike-Friendly Trains: Most European trains accept bicycles, though often require reservations. Some scenic routes have dedicated bike carriages during summer months.
Rail & Ride Packages: Popular in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, these packages allow unlimited train travel with designated bicycle routes between stations.
Danube Cycle Path & Rail: Perhaps Europe’s most famous cycle route, the Danube path can be combined with train travel for sections where you need a break or want to skip less scenic areas.
Bike Rental at Stations: Many European train stations offer bicycle rental services, allowing you to explore local areas before continuing your rail journey.
Alpine Pass Routes: In Switzerland and Austria, trains can transport you and your bike to mountain passes, allowing for thrilling downhill rides through spectacular scenery.
Coastal Cycling Connections: Along routes like Italy’s Cinque Terre or Croatia’s Adriatic railway, trains connect coastal towns that can then be explored by bicycle.
Folding Bike Advantage: Travelers with folding bicycles enjoy the most flexibility, as these can usually be carried as regular luggage without additional reservations.
Camper Van and Overlanding Connections
For those exploring Europe with camper vans or overlanding vehicles, train routes can provide valuable connections:
Car Trains: Several European routes offer car-carrying trains (Autozug in German-speaking countries), allowing you to load your vehicle onto the train for certain legs of your journey.
Alpine Tunnel Transport: Rather than driving challenging mountain passes, services like the Lötschberg Car Train in Switzerland transport vehicles through mountain tunnels.
Strategic Train Breaks: Overlanders can park vehicles at stations and use train trips for car-free days exploring cities or particularly scenic areas.
Island Connections: Train-ferry combinations allow vehicle travelers to easily reach islands like Sicily or Sardinia without long drives.
Winter Alternative: During snowy months, train travel offers a safer alternative to mountain driving while still accessing alpine regions.
Camper Van Sites Near Stations: Many European train stations have nearby campsites or designated overnight parking areas for recreational vehicles.
Hiking Trails Accessible by Train
Europe’s extensive rail network provides access to world-class hiking opportunities:
Swiss Alpine Club Routes: Numerous trailheads for Switzerland’s extensive hiking network are accessible directly from train stations in the Alps.
Cinque Terre Coastal Path: The famous trail connecting Italy’s five coastal villages runs parallel to the train line, allowing hikers to complete sections and return by rail.
Norwegian Fjord Hikes: The Bergen Line and its branches provide access to spectacular fjord hikes, with trains returning hikers to their starting points.
Alpine Pass Routes: In Switzerland, the PostBus network connects with trains to create endless hiking possibilities, from gentle valley walks to challenging mountain traverses.
Scottish Highland Trails: The West Highland Line stops at stations giving access to famous long-distance paths like the West Highland Way.
Julian Alps Adventures: Slovenia’s scenic railway provides access to the stunning hiking trails of Triglav National Park.
Mont Blanc Circuit: Various sections of the famous Tour du Mont Blanc can be accessed via the scenic mountain railways of France, Italy, and Switzerland.
Travel Tips and Practical Information
Reservation Requirements
While many regular European trains allow flexible travel, scenic routes often require advance reservations:
- Panoramic Trains: Services like the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and similar tourist-oriented trains typically require reservations, sometimes months in advance during peak season.
- Regular Services: Many scenic routes are also served by regular regional trains that may not require reservations and often cost less, though they might not have panoramic windows.
- Rail Passes: Eurail and Interrail passes cover most scenic routes, but often require additional seat reservations for panoramic trains.
Best Seasons for Travel
Each season offers different advantages for scenic train travel:
- Summer (June-August): Longest daylight hours and generally clear weather, but also the busiest season with the highest prices.
- Shoulder Seasons (April-May, September-October): Fewer crowds and often beautiful light conditions, with spring waterfalls or autumn foliage adding interest.
- Winter (December-March): Magical snowy landscapes on alpine routes, though shorter daylight hours and potential for weather disruptions.
Photography Tips
To capture the best images from moving trains:
- Camera Settings: Use a fast shutter speed (at least 1/250s) to counter train movement.
- Window Positioning: Sit with the sun behind you when possible to reduce glare.
- Clean Windows: Bring a small microfiber cloth to clean your section of window.
- Between-Car Opportunities: On trains where permitted, the spaces between cars sometimes offer open-air photography.
Accessibility Information
- Most modern scenic trains offer accessible facilities, but historic trains may have limited options.
- Always check with the specific rail operator about accessibility needs before booking.
- Many railway stations along scenic routes have been modernized with elevators and ramps.
Money-Saving Strategies
- Regional Alternatives: Regular regional trains often follow the same routes as premium panoramic services at a fraction of the cost.
- Rail Passes: For multiple journeys, Eurail or Interrail passes can offer significant savings.
- Advance Purchase: Many scenic train operators offer early booking discounts.
- Off-Peak Travel: Prices are often substantially lower outside the summer high season.
Packing Recommendations
- Layers: Mountain weather can change rapidly, so dress in layers even in summer.
- Window-Cleaning Supplies: A small microfiber cloth can improve your views and photos.
- Power Bank: Not all trains have outlets, so bring backup power for devices.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Alpine air can be dehydrating, and train journeys often last several hours.
- Snacks: While many scenic trains have dining cars, bringing supplemental snacks is always wise.
Final Thoughts
Europe’s scenic train journeys offer far more than transportation—they provide a window into the continent’s soul. Through the rhythmic clickety-clack of wheels on tracks, passengers witness landscapes that have inspired artists, challenged engineers, and shaped cultures for centuries. These rail adventures represent travel in its purest form, where the journey itself becomes as meaningful as any destination.
What makes these experiences particularly special is their accessibility. Unlike many of the world’s great adventures that require physical prowess or specialized skills, these magnificent vistas can be enjoyed by almost anyone. Young or old, athletic or mobility-challenged, budget or luxury travelers—all can find appropriate options among Europe’s diverse rail offerings.
The environmental benefits of train travel add another dimension to these journeys. As travelers increasingly seek sustainable ways to explore our planet, railways represent a responsible choice that doesn’t compromise on experience. In fact, the slower pace and immersive nature of rail travel often creates richer memories than faster alternatives.
Perhaps most importantly, train journeys foster a particular mindset. The enforced slowing down, the changing panoramas outside your window, and the gentle rocking motion all encourage contemplation. In a world of constant digital distractions and hurried schedules, these journeys provide rare opportunities to simply be present—to watch the light change across a mountain face, to notice the subtle transitions between regions, to engage in unhurried conversation with fellow travelers.
Whether you’re drawn to the engineering marvels of Switzerland’s mountain railways, the wild beauty of Scotland’s remote lines, or the Mediterranean splendor of coastal routes, Europe’s trains offer experiences that will linger in your memory long after the journey ends. So find your seat, settle in, and prepare to be captivated as some of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes glide past your window. The adventure awaits—all aboard! / photo credit.
