There’s no better way to see Europe than by train. It’s fast when you need it to be, slow when you want it to be, and almost always scenic.
From sleek high-speed lines connecting the continent’s great cities to slower routes that wind through mountains, vineyards, and coastal villages, train travel in Europe is as much about the journey as the destination.
Why Take the Train in Europe?
Beyond its beauty, it’s also incredibly practical. Europe’s rail network is one of the most extensive in the world, reliable, efficient, and surprisingly easy to navigate.
You can book individual tickets for specific routes or opt for a rail pass if you’re planning to explore widely. The Interrail Pass gives European residents unlimited travel across dozens of countries, while the Eurail Pass offers the same freedom for travellers from outside Europe. Both open the door to spontaneous detours and unplanned adventures, exactly what train travel is all about.
1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Route: London to Venice
Journey Time: Around 24 hours
Train Details: Vintage cabins, white-linen dining, and attentive service that recalls the golden age of rail travel
Ticket Information: Advance booking required via the Belmond website
Stops Along the Way: Paris, Innsbruck
The route from London to Venice passes through Paris, the snow-capped Alps, and quiet mountain villages, revealing some of Europe’s most breathtaking scenery. Inside, stewards in tailored uniforms serve gourmet meals on fine china, while glasses of champagne catch the light from crystal lamps.
When you travel on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express you step into another era, where travel was an art form. This isn’t just a train ride; it’s a moving piece of history, lovingly restored with polished brass fixtures, velvet upholstery, and wood-panelled cabins that glow with 1920s glamour.
The famous route makes it one of the most well known rail journeys in the world.
2. The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Journey Time: Around 8 hours
Train Details: Panoramic carriages, first-class dining, and large windows designed for uninterrupted mountain views
Ticket Information: Reservations required; tickets available through the Glacier Express website. The journey is included with both the Swiss Travel Pass and the Interrail/Eurail Pass (a seat reservation fee applies).
Stops Along the Way: Brig, Andermatt, Chur, Davos
Nicknamed the slowest express train in the world, the Glacier Express is less about speed and more about spectacle. Travelling between two of Switzerland’s most glamorous alpine resorts, Zermatt and St. Moritz, this eight-hour journey unfolds like a moving postcard through the heart of the Swiss Alps.
The train crosses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels, revealing snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and villages that seem to cling to the mountainside. The route winds past the Rhine Gorge, often called the “Grand Canyon of Switzerland,” and climbs the dramatic Oberalp Pass, the highest point on the line at over 2,000 metres.
Inside, everything is designed for comfort and views. Panoramic windows stretch from floor to ceiling, and onboard dining features freshly prepared Swiss dishes served at your seat — the perfect excuse to sip a glass of local wine while the Alps glide by.
The Glacier Express runs all year, and each season offers a different kind of beauty: green meadows and waterfalls in summer, golden forests in autumn, and snow-dusted peaks in winter. Whether you ride it end to end or join for a shorter section, it’s one of Europe’s most unforgettable rail journeys and a perfect showcase of Switzerland’s love of scenic travel.
Traveller Tip: If you’d like to break up the trip, you can get off at stops such as Andermatt or Chur and continue later on a regular regional train that follows the same line. These local services are fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass and Interrail/Eurail Pass, so you can explore at your own pace without needing another reservation.
3. The Bernina Express, Switzerland to Italy
Route: Chur or St. Moritz (Switzerland) to Tirano (Italy)
Journey Time: Around 4 hours
Train Details: Panoramic carriages with floor-to-ceiling windows, open-air photo stops, and commentary highlighting key landmarks
Ticket Information: Reservations required; tickets available through the Rhaetian Railway website. The journey is included with the Swiss Travel Pass and Interrail/Eurail Pass (a seat reservation fee applies).
Stops Along the Way: St. Moritz, Pontresina, Poschiavo
Crossing the Alps from Switzerland into Italy, the Bernina Express is a masterpiece of mountain railway engineering and one of Europe’s most breathtaking train journeys. The entire route is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhaetian Railway, celebrated for its stunning combination of natural beauty and human ingenuity.
The train climbs from the crisp alpine landscapes of St. Moritz to the 2,253-metre-high Bernina Pass, before descending through spiralling loops and viaducts into the sun-soaked Italian town of Tirano. Along the way, it glides past glaciers, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped peaks that feel almost within reach.
One of the highlights is the spectacular Landwasser Viaduct, a six-arch stone bridge that curves dramatically out of a cliff face, one of the most photographed railway scenes in the world. Another is the Brusio Spiral Viaduct, a perfectly engineered loop that allows the train to navigate steep gradients while giving passengers a 360° view of the valley below.
The Bernina Express runs year-round, with scenery that changes just as dramatically as the altitude. Summer brings wildflowers and shimmering lakes, while winter transforms the route into a snowy wonderland.
Traveller Tip: The Bernina Express connects easily with the Glacier Express in St. Moritz or Chur, so you can combine the two for an unforgettable cross-Alpine adventure.
4. The Jungfraujoch Railway, Switzerland
Route: Interlaken to Jungfraujoch (via Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, Kleine Scheidegg)
Journey Time: Around 2 hours one way
Train Details: A series of connecting cogwheel trains climbing to Europe’s highest railway station at 3,454 metres
Ticket Information: Tickets and seat reservations are available via the Jungfrau Railways website. The journey is included with the Swiss Travel Pass and the Interrail/Eurail Pass (discounts apply; a supplement may be required). For the best experience, travel up one way via Lauterbrunnen and return via Grindelwald (or vice versa) to enjoy two completely different perspectives of the Bernese Alps.
Stops Along the Way: Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, Wengen, Kleine Scheidegg, Eigerwand, Eismeer
Known as the Top of Europe, the Jungfraujoch Railway is one of Switzerland’s most iconic and awe-inspiring train journeys. It begins in the lush valleys of Interlaken and climbs steadily through alpine meadows, forests, and picture-perfect mountain villages. Travelling up from Lauterbrunnen to Wengen and on to Kleine Scheidegg, the views are spectacular all the way, every turn reveals a new sweep of snow-capped peaks, tumbling waterfalls, and deep green valleys far below.
From Kleine Scheidegg, the final ascent becomes even more dramatic. The train enters the heart of the mountain, winding through tunnels carved inside the mighty Eiger and Mönch. Passengers can step off briefly at the Eigerwand and Eismeer viewpoints to peer out through windows cut directly into the rock face, where jaw-dropping glacier views stretch out beneath you.
At the summit, the world opens into a panorama of snow and ice that seems to go on forever. From the viewing platforms, you can look out over the Aletsch Glacier, the longest in the Alps and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Ice Palace, take a walk across the snow plateau, or simply stand and take in the silence of the high mountains, it’s an unforgettable experience.
Traveller Tips:
- The Jungfraujoch is one of Switzerland’s most popular attractions and can get very busy, especially during summer and school holidays. Try to travel early in the day or outside peak season if you can.
- Because it’s such an expensive journey, it’s worth checking the live webcams on the Jungfrau website before booking to make sure the weather is clear, on a cloudy day, visibility at the top can be almost zero.
- Temperatures at the summit are cold even in summer, so bring warm layers and sunglasses to handle both snow and sun.
2. Flåm Railway, Norway
Route: Flåm to Myrdal
Journey Time: Around 1 hour
Train Details: One of the steepest standard-gauge railway lines in the world, climbing 864 metres from fjord to mountain with a gradient of 1 in 18
Ticket Information: Tickets available online or at the station
Stops Along the Way: None, direct journey
Connections: Links with most day trains on the Bergen Railway between Bergen and Oslo
The Flåm Railway is often described as one of the world’s great train journeys, and it’s easy to see why. Departing just metres from the shimmering Aurlandsfjord, the train begins its climb through the steep and narrow Flåm Valley, where rivers carve deep gorges and waterfalls tumble from towering cliffs.
The one-hour journey is a masterclass in engineering and beauty combined. Built between 1923 and 1940, this 20-kilometre line includes 20 hand-dug tunnels and even a remarkable horseshoe-shaped spiral tunnel that loops in and out of the mountain. The train rises nearly 900 metres to reach Myrdal, connecting seamlessly with the Bergen–Oslo line.
Summer brings waterfalls and wildflowers; winter turns the valley into a snowy wonderland. It’s stunning either way.
Before or after your trip, it’s worth visiting the Flåm Railway Museum beside the station. Entry is free, and it offers fascinating insight into the challenges and craftsmanship behind one of Norway’s steepest and most daring railway projects.
For those with extra time, the journey pairs beautifully with other local adventures. You can hike or cycle back down the valley, take a fjord cruise on the nearby Nærøyfjord, or even ride Scandinavia’s longest zipline before following the Navvies’ Road back to the fjord.
Whether you ride it under the midnight sun or through winter snow, the Flåm Railway is a journey that perfectly captures the drama, beauty, and ingenuity of Norway.
3. The West Highland Line, Scotland
- Route: Glasgow to Mallaig.
- Journey Time: Around 5 hours.
- Train Details: Scenic route through Scotland’s rugged west coast and highlands.
- Ticket Information: Tickets available online or at stations.
- Stops Along the Way: Fort William, Arisaig, among others.
The West Highland Line takes you through some of Scotland’s most beautiful and remote areas.
The journey from Glasgow to Mallaig is filled with stunning views of lochs, moors, mountains, and the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.
It’s a must-do for anyone wanting to experience the mystical beauty of the Scottish Highlands and one of the UK’s most popular train journeys.
4. Bernina Express, Switzerland to Italy
- Route: Chur/Davos to Tirano.
- Journey Time: Around 4 hours.
- Train Details: A scenic journey through the Swiss Alps, offering spectacular views, especially from the Landwasser Viaduct and Bernina Pass.
- Ticket Information: Advanced booking recommended, available online.
- Stops Along the Way: St. Moritz, Poschiavo, and others.
The Bernina Express is not just a train ride but a voyage through the heart of the Alps.
Connecting Switzerland and Italy, the route is a visual feast, showcasing the stark beauty of the Engadin Alps and descending into the lush Italian valleys. The train’s panoramic windows make this a picture-perfect journey.
5. The Arctic Circle Train, Sweden
- Route: Stockholm to Swedish Lapland.
- Journey Time: Overnight journey.
- Train Details: An adventurous route that crosses the Arctic Circle, offering a chance to see the Northern Lights in winter.
- Ticket Information: Can be booked online or at Swedish Railways stations.
- Stops Along the Way: Uppsala, Östersund, and others.
The Arctic Circle Train is a magical journey to the northernmost part of Sweden.
From the comfort of your carriage, witness the stunning change in landscapes as you head towards Lapland, a region known for its unique wildlife, Sami culture, and, during the winter months, the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
6. Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
- Route: Moscow to Vladivostok.
- Journey Time: About 7 days.
- Train Details: The longest railway line in the world, crossing diverse landscapes.
- Ticket Information: Various options available, can be booked through travel agencies or Russian Railways.
- Stops Along the Way: Kazan, Yekaterinburg, Irkutsk, and others.
Spanning across Russia, the Trans-Siberian Railway is more than just a train journey; it’s an epic travel experience.
As the world’s longest railway, it offers a unique glimpse into the vastness and diversity of Russia’s landscape and culture.
From the Ural Mountains to the shores of Lake Baikal and the Siberian plains, this journey is a bucket-list adventure for avid travelers.
7. Cinque Terre, Italy
- Route: La Spezia to Genoa.
- Journey Time: Varies, but typically around 1-2 hours.
- Train Details: Regular regional trains offering spectacular coastal views of the Ligurian Sea and the five iconic villages of Cinque Terre.
- Ticket Information: Tickets can be bought at stations or online; Cinque Terre Rail Pass available for unlimited travel.
- Stops Along the Way: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, Monterosso.
The train journey through Cinque Terre is a colorful ride along Italy’s rugged coast, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean and quaint, cliffside villages. It’s a convenient and scenic way to explore each of the five famous towns, with their vibrant buildings and terraced vineyards.
8. The Rhine Valley Line, Germany
Route: Mainz to Koblenz.
Journey Time: About 1 hour.
Train Details: A relaxing journey along the Rhine River, known for its castles, vineyards, and picturesque towns.
Ticket Information: Tickets can be bought at stations or online.
Stops Along the Way: Bingen, Bacharach, St. Goar, among others.
Traveling along the Rhine Valley Line is like stepping into a fairy tale. The route takes you past medieval castles perched on hillsides, charming wine villages, and stretches of the scenic Rhine Gorge. It’s an ideal way to experience the romantic heart of Germany.
9. The Golden Pass Line, Switzerland
- Route: Lucerne to Montreux.
- Journey Time: Approximately 5 hours.
- Train Details: Traverses the beautiful Swiss Alps with options for panoramic viewing cars.
- Ticket Information: Reservations recommended, available online.
- Stops Along the Way: Interlaken, Zweisimmen, Gstaad.
The Golden Pass Line is a feast for the eyes, showcasing Switzerland’s diversity—from the crystal-clear lakes of Lucerne to the glamorous ski resorts of Gstaad and the palm-lined streets of Montreux. This journey is a seamless blend of alpine beauty and luxury.
10. Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, Scotland
- Route: Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh.
- Journey Time: Around 2.5 hours.
- Train Details: Offers dramatic views of the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye.
- Ticket Information: Tickets available at stations or online.
- Stops Along the Way: Dingwall, Strathcarron, Plockton.
The train journey from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh is a window into Scotland’s soul, with its rugged landscapes and serene lochs. This route takes you to some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the Highlands, ending near the gateway to the Isle of Skye.
11. Douro Valley Line, Portugal
- Route: Porto to Pocinho.
- Journey Time: Approximately 3.5 hours.
- Train Details: A scenic route along the Douro River, through Portugal’s famous wine country.
- Ticket Information: Tickets can be bought at stations or online.
- Stops Along the Way: Régua, Pinhão, among others.
The Douro Valley Line is a picturesque journey through Portugal’s renowned wine region. The train snakes along the Douro River, with stunning views of terraced vineyards, traditional quintas, and sleepy villages. It’s a delightful way to experience the charm of rural Portugal.
12. The Bergen Line, Norway
- Route: Oslo to Bergen.
- Journey Time: About 7 hours.
- Train Details: Crosses Norway’s mountainous terrain, including Finse, the highest station on the line.
- Ticket Information: Tickets available online or at stations.
- Stops Along the Way: Myrdal, Voss, among others.
Connecting Norway’s capital with its second-largest city, the Bergen Line is a journey through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in Scandinavia. This route offers views of Norway’s vast mountains, deep fjords, and sprawling plateaus, including a stretch near the Hardangervidda National Park.
13. Belgrade to Bar, Serbia and Montenegro
- Route: Belgrade to Bar.
- Journey Time: Around 12 hours.
- Train Details: A spectacular route through the Balkans, known for its mountainous scenery and impressive viaducts.
- Ticket Information: Tickets can be bought at stations or online.
- Stops Along the Way: Podgorica, Cetinje, among others.
The train journey from Belgrade to Bar is an underrated route, offering a unique view of the Balkan landscapes. It traverses gorges, lakes, and tunnels, providing an authentic experience of the region’s rugged beauty and cultural diversity.
14. Eurostar, London to Paris/Brussels/Amsterdam
- Route: London to Paris/Brussels/Amsterdam.
- Journey Time: London to Paris – about 2 hours 20 minutes.
- Train Details: High-speed rail service connecting the UK with continental Europe, traveling through the Channel Tunnel.
- Ticket Information: Tickets available online; booking in advance is recommended.
- Stops Along the Way: Depends on the route; stops may include Lille, Calais, and Rotterdam.
The Eurostar revolutionized travel between the UK and mainland Europe. It’s a fast, convenient, and comfortable way to journey between some of Europe’s most iconic cities, bypassing the hassle of airports. The train’s quick passage through the Channel Tunnel is a remarkable experience in itself.
15. Alfa Pendular, Portugal
- Route: Braga to Faro, connecting major cities along Portugal’s coastline.
- Journey Time: Varies; Lisbon to Porto is about 3 hours.
- Train Details: High-speed train offering comfortable and quick travel between Portuguese cities.
- Ticket Information: Available at stations or online; advance booking recommended.
- Stops Along the Way: Porto, Coimbra, Lisbon, among others.
The Alfa Pendular is Portugal’s answer to high-speed rail travel. It connects the northern and southern ends of the country, passing through key cities. This service offers a smooth and efficient way to explore Portugal’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural hubs.
16. The Danube Express
- Route: Various routes in Central and Eastern Europe.
- Journey Time: Multi-day luxury tours.
- Train Details: A luxury hotel on wheels, featuring deluxe compartments and refined dining.
- Ticket Information: Advanced booking required; available through specialty travel agencies.
- Stops Along the Way: Varies by itinerary; includes cities like Budapest, Istanbul, Prague.
The Danube Express offers an enchanting rail experience across Europe’s heart. With its meticulously restored cars and personalized service, the train takes guests back to the golden age of rail travel, journeying through historic cities and breathtaking landscapes in unparalleled style.
17. The Levante Express, Turkey
- Route: Ankara to Izmir.
- Journey Time: About 14 hours.
- Train Details: A comfortable option to travel across Turkey, offering sleeper and dining cars.
- Ticket Information: Tickets available at stations or on the Turkish Railways website.
- Stops Along the Way: Eskişehir, Kütahya, among others.
The Levante Express connects Turkey’s capital with its Aegean coast. The journey offers a unique view of Turkey’s diverse landscapes, from the central Anatolian plateau to the verdant valleys of the Aegean region, making it an excellent way to experience the country’s geographical and cultural richness.
18. Helsinki to Rovaniemi, Finland
- Route: Helsinki to Rovaniemi.
- Journey Time: About 9-12 hours.
- Train Details: Offers both day and overnight travel options, with sleeper services available.
- Ticket Information: Can be booked online or at Finnish Railways stations.
- Stops Along the Way: Tampere, Oulu, among others.
The train journey from Helsinki to Rovaniemi is a gateway to the Arctic. It’s a fantastic way to traverse Finland’s vast landscapes, leading to the official hometown of Santa Claus in Lapland. In winter, the journey is especially magical, offering a chance to see the Northern Lights.
19. TGV Duplex, France
- Route: Various routes across France.
- Journey Time: Varies depending on the route.
- Train Details: Double-decker high-speed trains, offering fast and efficient travel across France.
- Ticket Information: Tickets available at stations or online; booking in advance is recommended.
- Stops Along the Way: Major French cities like Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, among others.
The TGV Duplex is an iconic symbol of French rail travel. These high-speed trains connect major cities across France, slicing through the countryside at impressive speeds. The upper deck offers panoramic views of France’s diverse landscapes, from vineyards to coastal vistas.
20. The Rauma Line, Norway
- Route: Åndalsnes to Dombås.
- Journey Time: About 1.5 hours.
- Train Details: A scenic route through Norway’s rugged terrain, featuring views of the Rauma River and Trollveggen wall.
- Ticket Information: Tickets can be purchased at stations or online.
- Stops Along the Way: Bjorli, among others.
The Rauma Line is a lesser-known but incredibly scenic train journey in Norway. It travels through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country, including views of the famous Trollveggen cliff. The journey is particularly popular with nature enthusiasts and photographers.
22. Warsaw to Krakow, Poland
- Route: Warsaw to Krakow.
- Journey Time: About 2.5-3 hours.
- Train Details: Fast and modern service connecting two of Poland’s most important cities.
- Ticket Information: Tickets available at stations or online.
- Stops Along the Way: None, direct service.
The train journey between Warsaw and Krakow is a comfortable and efficient way to travel between Poland’s capital and its cultural heart. The route offers a glimpse into the country’s changing landscapes and is an excellent option for those looking to explore the rich history and vibrant city life of Poland.
