Europe is a continent best explored at a slower pace, one that lets you soak in its timeless charm, rolling landscapes, and centuries-old architecture.
While booking flights may get you to your destination faster, nothing compares to the romance, comfort, and scenery of traveling by train. From the snow-capped Alps to the coastal cliffs of Italy, Europe’s railway routes promise some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever experience.
Whether you’re an adventurer, a romantic, or simply someone seeking beauty in motion, here are the best European train journeys that capture the heart and soul of the continent.
1. The Glacier Express, Switzerland
No list of the best European train rides is complete without mentioning the Glacier Express. Running between Zermatt and St. Moritz, this luxurious train takes passengers through 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, and countless picture-perfect landscapes. As the train winds through the Swiss Alps, you’ll witness deep valleys, snow-covered peaks, and charming villages glistening under the winter sun.
Large panoramic windows make the experience even more magical, allowing you to take in every mountain curve and frozen waterfall as if you’re part of a live postcard.
2. The Bernina Express, Switzerland to Italy
For travelers who want a route that combines beauty with a touch of cross-border adventure, the Bernina Express stands out among the best European train journeys. It connects Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, crossing the UNESCO-listed Bernina Pass.
The train climbs to over 7,000 feet above sea level, offering jaw-dropping views of glaciers, lakes, and alpine meadows. The red carriages contrast brilliantly with the white snow, making it one of the most photographed train journeys in the world.
3. The West Highland Line, Scotland
The West Highland Line is often hailed as one of the best European train rides for nature lovers. It carries passengers from the vibrant streets of Glasgow to the remote beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Along the way, you’ll see misty lochs, rugged mountains, and charming stone bridges straight out of a fairytale.
A highlight of this route is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films. Watching the train curve across this scenic bridge feels nothing short of magical, whether you’re a movie fan or not.
4. The Cinque Terre Train, Italy
Italy’s Cinque Terre train might not be the longest journey, but it’s certainly one of the best European train experiences for its coastal beauty. Running between La Spezia and Levanto, the route passes through tunnels carved into cliffs and opens up to sweeping views of the Ligurian Sea.
Each stop brings you to a different colorful seaside village, where you can step off, stroll through narrow streets, and enjoy authentic Italian gelato while overlooking the Mediterranean. Few train rides capture the laid-back charm of coastal Europe quite like this one.
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5. The Flåm Railway, Norway
For travelers craving dramatic natural beauty, the Flåm Railway in Norway is a must. Frequently listed among the best European train rides, it covers one of the steepest standard-gauge railway tracks in the world. Running from Myrdal to Flåm, this hour-long journey descends through deep valleys, cascading waterfalls, and towering cliffs.
Each turn reveals a new wonder of Norway’s fjord country, and there are several stops where you can step off and take photos of waterfalls that seem to appear from the clouds themselves.
6. Austria to Slovenia
Stretching between Austria’s Graz and Slovenia’s Ljubljana, the Transalpine Express (not to be confused with the New Zealand route) is another of the best European train journeys that blends alpine charm with cultural exploration.
Travelers cross scenic valleys, green hillsides, and serene lakes while gliding through tunnels and across viaducts. The journey showcases the changing architecture and landscape as you move from Austria’s elegance to Slovenia’s relaxed beauty—a perfect route for those who enjoy cross-country adventures.
7. The Rhine Valley Line, Germany
Running between Mainz and Koblenz, the Rhine Valley Line is one of the best European train routes for travelers who love history and romance. The train follows the Rhine River, offering spectacular views of medieval castles, terraced vineyards, and picturesque villages.
You’ll pass iconic landmarks like the Lorelei Rock and see countless fortress ruins perched on the hillsides. It’s the kind of journey that feels like traveling through a storybook, complete with wine-tasting stops and riverside strolls along the way.
8. The Inlandsbanan, Sweden
If you crave solitude and untouched wilderness, Sweden’s Inlandsbanan is one of the best European train routes for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. This 800-mile journey from Kristinehamn to Gällivare crosses forests, lakes, and even the Arctic Circle.
You’ll encounter reindeer herds, small villages, and landscapes so serene that time seems to slow down. It’s a journey made for reflection and immersion in pure Scandinavian beauty.
9. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
When it comes to the best European train rides, nothing compares to the glamour of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This luxurious train connects major European cities like Paris, Venice, and Prague, all while maintaining the vintage elegance of the 1920s.
Onboard, polished wood, plush armchairs, and silver service dining create an atmosphere of old-world sophistication. Each carriage tells a story, and the journey feels less like a trip and more like stepping into a bygone era of refinement and romance.
10. The GoldenPass Line, Switzerland
The GoldenPass Line links Montreux to Lucerne, weaving through the Swiss countryside with views that look like they belong on postcards. It’s one of the best European train experiences for travelers who want scenic beauty without extreme heights.
The route includes three different trains, each offering panoramic carriages that frame Switzerland’s lakes, mountains, and charming villages in stunning detail. The ever-changing landscape—from vineyards to alpine meadows—keeps you captivated throughout the ride.
Discover Europe’s Beauty One Track at a Time
Europe’s railway system is more than just a means of transportation—it’s a portal to the continent’s soul. From the luxury of the Orient Express to the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, each route offers its own rhythm, scenery, and magic. Whether you crave snow-capped peaks, coastal cliffs, or rolling vineyards, these are truly the best European train journeys that reveal the diversity and wonder of the continent.
Turn your dream trip into reality with JustBuyTravel, where you can find the best routes, book scenic journeys, and plan unforgettable European adventures one train ride at a time.
1. What makes these the best European train journeys?
These routes are considered the best European train journeys because they combine comfort, convenience, and breathtaking scenery. Travelers experience dramatic landscapes, historic towns, mountains, rivers, and coastlines while enjoying smooth rail travel that allows for panoramic views and photography, making each ride both relaxing and visually spectacular.
2. Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended for popular routes such as the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Advance bookings ensure guaranteed seats, access to panoramic carriages, and sometimes lower prices. Peak seasons like winter holidays or summer months require early reservations to avoid sold-out trains.
3. Are these train journeys suitable for families?
Absolutely, many of these train journeys are family-friendly. Children can enjoy the novelty of train travel while adults soak in the scenery. Routes like the Bernina Express and Cinque Terre train provide safe, comfortable seating and large windows, making the experience enjoyable for travelers of all ages.
4. Can I travel with luggage easily on these trains?
Yes, most European trains accommodate luggage with overhead racks and storage areas at carriage ends. For longer journeys like the Glacier Express or Orient-Express, dedicated luggage services may be available. Travelers are advised to pack efficiently and keep essentials in a small bag for easy access during the trip.
5. What should I bring for a scenic train journey?
Bring a camera or smartphone for photos, snacks, water, and comfortable clothing for varying temperatures. A travel guide or map can enhance the experience. Binoculars are useful for wildlife or distant scenery, and a light sweater or jacket ensures comfort in air-conditioned or mountain-route carriages.
