This article will discuss the best trip destinations for train lovers in Europe. The Glacier Express in the Swiss Alps and the West Highland Line in Scotland provide unmatched train journeys.
- Key Points & Top Train Travel Destinations in Europe for Scenic Journeys
- 10 Top Train Travel Destinations in Europe for Scenic Journeys
- 1. Glacier Express, Switzerland
- 2. West Highland Line, Scotland
- 3. Cinque Terre, Italy
- 4. Bergen Line, Norway
- 5. Bernina Express, Switzerland to Italy
- 6. Rhine Valley, Germany
- 7. Zermatt, Switzerland
- 8. Inlandsbanan, Sweden
- 9. Transcantábrico, Spain
- 10. Semmering Railway, Austria
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Train travelers enjoy remarkable views of the landscape, pretty towns, and famous sights. These train routes are an excellent combination of adventure, culture, and beauty.
Key Points & Top Train Travel Destinations in Europe for Scenic Journeys
| Destination | Key Train Experience |
|---|---|
| Glacier Express, Switzerland | Panoramic ride through the Alps with views of snowy peaks and deep valleys |
| West Highland Line, Scotland | Scenic journey past lochs and mountains, including the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct |
| Cinque Terre, Italy | Coastal train route connect colourful cliffside villages along the Ligurian Sea |
| Bergen Line, Norway | Mountain and fjord views from Oslo it Bergen, one of Europe’s highest railways |
| Bernina Express, Switzerland to Italy | UNESCO-listed alpine route with spirals, viaducts, and glacier views |
| Rhine Valley, Germany | Castles and vineyards line the tracks bezbetenie Koblenz and Mainz |
| Zermatt, Switzerland | Cogwheel train to Gornergrat with views of the Matterhorn |
| Inlandsbanan, Sweden | Remote wilderness ride through forests and lakes in northern Sweden |
| Transcantábrico, Spain | Luxury train through northern Spain with gourmet dining and coastal scenery |
| Semmering Railway, Austria | Historic mountain railway with tunnels and viaducts, a UNESCO World Heritage site |
10 Top Train Travel Destinations in Europe for Scenic Journeys
1. Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express train journey in Switzerland is a classic. Breathtaking, it links Zermatt and St. Moritz, and it is also referred to as the “slowest express train in the world.”
Passengers are treated to beautiful and rare panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, lovely and deep valleys, and charming little villages.
Along the 291 bridges, and 91 tunnels, and through spectacular landscapes, guests marvel at snow-capped mountains, crystal clear lakes, and beautiful meadows.
The journey is designed for comfortable photography and leisure, combining luxury travel and nature beautifully. A train enthusiast’s dream, this journey is a classic in Switzerland.
| Feature | Famous For |
|---|---|
| Scenic Views | Swiss Alps, valleys, and meadows |
| Landmarks | Matterhorn views, Oberalp Pass |
| Engineering | 291 bridges, 91 tunnels |
| Experience | Slowest express train in the world |
| Photography | Panoramic carriages, snow-capped mountains |
| Duration | 8 hours between Zermatt & St. Moritz |
2. West Highland Line, Scotland
The West Highland Line connects the Scottish cities of Glasgow, Fort William, and Mallaig. This train route showcases the beauty of the Scottish Highlands
Carrying passengers through the rugged mountains and remote stretches of the Highlands, as well as the region’s tranquil lochs.
It also features the Glenfinnan Viaduct, as popularized by the Harry Potter franchise. The train and small stations are vintage and comfy, creating an authentic rural Scotia experience.
The charm of the train ride is enhanced by the stunning wildlife, such as red deer and eagles, that can be spotted along the route.
This train line showcases a wonderful blend of Scottish culture and landscapes, historical rail engineering, and the natural beauty of Scotland.
| Feature | Famous For |
|---|---|
| Scenic Views | Scottish Highlands, lochs, and mountains |
| Landmarks | Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter) |
| Wildlife | Red deer, eagles, and highland cattle |
| Engineering | Remote mountain railways |
| Experience | Rugged landscapes & vintage stations |
| Duration | Glasgow to Mallaig, approx. 5–6 hours |
3. Cinque Terre, Italy
Italy’s Cinque Terre train route connects the five coastal villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso.
As the train runs along the Ligurian coastline, it offers breathtaking views of the sea, terraced vineyards, and medieval towns.
It is ideal for those who wish to see the villages without the strenuous hiking trails. With the frequency of the trains
It is easy to jump from town to town, and the trip is also wonderful for train lovers. With history, culture, and beautiful nature
The Cinque Terre train line is the only way to experience the destination in such a memorable way.
| Feature | Famous For |
|---|---|
| Scenic Views | Ligurian coast, terraced vineyards |
| Villages | Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, Monterosso |
| Culture | Colorful medieval villages |
| Experience | Short hop trains, easy village access |
| Photography | Coastal cliffs and Mediterranean scenery |
| Duration | 5–20 minutes between villages |
4. Bergen Line, Norway
Norway’s Bergen Line travels through the Hardanger mountain plateau. Famous for its beautiful landscape
The train travels through the deep fiords, tranquil lakes, and snow-capped Norway’s Bergen Line crosses Hardangervidda.
The passengers see the dramatic natural beauty of Norway from the comfort of modern, panoramic carriages.
The line is the highest in Europe and has several charming stations in remote areas that gives a perspective of the rural life.
Each season has its own distinctive beauty from the winter snow and summer verdure. The Bergen Line is a combination of engineering marvels and unforgettable scenery
And should serve as a testament for engineering and nature combination for every traveler in Norway. For train enthusiasts, this line is a marvel.
| Feature | Famous For |
|---|---|
| Scenic Views | Hardangervidda plateau, fjords, and mountains |
| Landmarks | High-altitude railway stations |
| Wildlife | Moose, reindeer, and birds |
| Experience | Modern panoramic trains through wilderness |
| Engineering | High railway crossing challenging terrains |
| Duration | Oslo to Bergen, ~7 hours |
5. Bernina Express, Switzerland to Italy
Connecting Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, the Bernina Express offers one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.
As the train crosses the UNESCO prestigious Bernina Pass, it offers vistas of glacial valleys and mountains, as well as alpine lakes.
The train offers passengers the opportunity to marvel at the breathtaking views of the landscape through panoramic windows, and as the train rides through bridges and tunnels specially built for this journey, the excitement builds.
The train journey seamlessly transitions from the snow-capped mountains of Switzerland to the Mediterranean landscape of Northern Italy, offering a beautiful contrast.
For an engineering marvel of the natural world, the diversity in landscape along the journey provides a sense of adventure for the traveller.
| Feature | Famous For |
|---|---|
| Scenic Views | Bernina Pass, glaciers, alpine lakes |
| Landmarks | UNESCO-listed route |
| Countries | Switzerland → Italy |
| Engineering | Bridges, spiral tunnels |
| Experience | Panoramic carriages for scenic viewing |
| Duration | Chur to Tirano, ~4 hours |
6. Rhine Valley, Germany
Germany’s Rhine Valley train route goes along the Rhine River, connecting Koblenz, Mainz, and Cologne.
While in the train, one can see spectacular views of middle-age castles, beautiful rolling vineyards, and lovely towns.
As the train is frequently scheduled, one can use the train to see and explore the historical landmarks, and take pictures during the trip.
This route is ideal for train and history lovers. Concordat’s regional train offers comfortable and relaxing rides to see the culture and wines of Germany.
The train rides through the Rhine Valley are perfect to see the beautiful blend of history, architecture, and nature. The Rhine Valley is a beautiful rail experience.
| Feature | Famous For |
|---|---|
| Scenic Views | Rhine River, vineyards, rolling hills |
| Castles | Burg Katz, Burg Rheinfels, Stolzenfels Castle |
| Culture | Wine towns and historic villages |
| Experience | Frequent regional trains, river views |
| Photography | Medieval castles along the river |
| Duration | Mainz to Koblenz, ~2–3 hours |
7. Zermatt, Switzerland
The trip to Zermatt is like taking a train to the foot of the Matterhorn. Zermatt is a car-free alpine village reached by cogwheel train as it navigates steep slopes, valleys, and snow capped trains.
Those traveling are rewarded with the astonishing view of beautifully painted chalets, alpine lakes, and splendid meadows.
During the winter season, the landscape is covered with snow while in the summer, the landscape is painted with wild flowers.
The line is a testament to Switzerland’s wonderful engineering and commitment to green travel.
For train lovers, Zermatt is both a destination and a journey, combining breathtaking scenery with the charm of traditional Swiss mountain culture.
| Feature | Famous For |
|---|---|
| Scenic Views | Matterhorn, alpine meadows, lakes |
| Landmark | Car-free mountain village |
| Experience | Cogwheel trains up steep inclines |
| Winter Activities | Skiing, snowboarding |
| Summer Activities | Hiking, climbing |
| Duration | Brig to Zermatt, ~1 hour |
8. Inlandsbanan, Sweden
Inlandsbanan is in Sweden and it spans 1,200 kilometers from Kristinehamn to Gällivare and supplies a one of a kind trip though faraway northern landscapes.
The scenic trip by train passes through thick forests, numerous rivers and lakes, and a vareity of wildlife where one can escape the pressures of everyday life and calm the soul.
The carriages are cozy with large windows where passengers can enjoy the view of the landscape and nature.
During the winter months, many travelers seek the Inlandsbanan in the winter to view the northern lights and during the summer to observe the lush greenery.
Inlandsbanan is perfect for train lovers as it offers a peaceful, remote, and scenic route while celebrating the landscape and engineering history of Scandinavia.
| Feature | Famous For |
|---|---|
| Scenic Views | Forests, lakes, rivers, and northern landscapes |
| Wildlife | Moose, elk, and birds |
| Experience | Remote, slow scenic journey |
| Culture | Swedish rural towns and lifestyle |
| Seasons | Northern Lights in winter, green landscapes in summer |
| Duration | Kristinehamn to Gällivare, 1,200 km |
9. Transcantábrico, Spain
Luxury Transcantábrico train offers a view of the scenic Cantabrian coast of Spain from the region of León to Santiago de Compostela.
Passengers can make a stop at the mountains, lecture, and the rich forests with a gourmet meal.
Additionally, the cozy cabins provide several elegant suites, with culture excursions with meals and gourmet integration.
The adventure comfort is visiting the UNESCO World Heritage and picturesque village ports. Vintage admiration and fastidious vintage train control.
This is ideal train for slow advocates. The Cross Spain Transcantábrico is style and sight is needed.
| Feature | Famous For |
|---|---|
| Scenic Views | Cantabrian coast, mountains, and forests |
| Luxury | Vintage train carriages, gourmet dining |
| Culture | UNESCO sites, historic towns |
| Experience | Multi-day luxury rail journey |
| Photography | Coastal cliffs and rural landscapes |
| Duration | León to Santiago de Compostela, ~7 days |
10. Semmering Railway, Austria
UNESCO status, the Semmering Railway connects Gloggnitz and Mürzzuschlag. Built in the 19th Century, it was one of the first mountain railways in Europe and one of the engineering marvels of the world.
The route features spiral tunnels, viaducts, and stunning views of the spartan European Alps. Passengers view the sheer ice cliffs, rocky forests, and scattered alpine villages. The line is historically important and ideal for train and mountain enthusiasts.
The Semmering Railway is unsurpassed for its beauty of engineering, heritage and magnificent views. It is undoubtedly one of the best train journeys in Europe.
| Feature | Famous For |
|---|---|
| Scenic Views | Austrian Alps, cliffs, and forests |
| Engineering | Spiral tunnels, viaducts (19th century) |
| Heritage | UNESCO World Heritage railway |
| Experience | Historical mountain rail experience |
| Culture | Quaint alpine villages |
| Duration | Gloggnitz to Mürzzuschlag, ~1.5–2 hours |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Europe provides train lovers with some of the most remarkable travel experiences available, showcasing stunning scenery, historical railroads, and famous places around the continent.
Every itinerary, from the frosty Swiss Alps to the stone Highlands of Scotland and the coastal splendor of Italy and Spain, intertwines brilliant engineering with rich cultural heritage as well as natural beauty.
For epic train journeys, the European continent guarantees adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.
FAQ
What is the Glacier Express famous for?
It’s known as the slowest express train in the world, offering panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.
Which train route in Scotland is iconic?
The West Highland Line, famous for the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Highland scenery.
Can I explore Cinque Terre by train?
Yes, trains connect all five villages, providing stunning coastal views.
What makes the Bergen Line special?
It crosses Norway’s Hardangervidda plateau with fjords, mountains, and wildlife views.
Which countries does the Bernina Express pass through?
Switzerland and Italy, featuring glaciers, alpine lakes, and mountain passes.