Best European Scenic Rail Journeys
Breathtaking Rail Journeys You Need to Experience
Introduction
Exploring Europe by train offers not only comfort but also an intimate connection with the continent’s diverse landscapes. Whether winding through the Swiss Alps or gliding past the vineyards of France, these scenic routes promise an unforgettable adventure. Here are seven rail journeys that capture Europe’s most stunning vistas.
The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
Experience the heart of the Swiss Alps.
Route Overview - Travel between Zermatt and St. Moritz, offering panoramic views of alpine valleys, deep gorges, and snow-covered peaks.
What Makes It Special - Often referred to as the "slowest express train," it allows passengers to fully absorb the beauty of Switzerland's iconic mountains.
Highlights Along the Way - The Landwasser Viaduct and the Oberalp Pass provide breathtaking viewpoints for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Best Time to Go - Winter offers a magical snowy landscape, while summer brings lush green valleys and wildflowers.
Sample Itinerary - https://www.holidaysbeckon.com.au/europe-holidays#VEN-BAS
Glacier Express Landwasser Viaduct - Image by Johannes Hofmann on Unsplash
Glacier Express Train Switzerland - Image by Karin Hugentobler on Unsplash
The Bernina Express (Switzerland and Italy)
Cross borders with spectacular alpine and Italian landscapes.
Route Overview - This journey connects Chur, Switzerland, to Tirano, Italy, traversing the UNESCO-listed Albula and Bernina lines.
What Makes It Special - The train climbs high mountain passes before descending into charming Italian towns, blending Swiss precision with Italian flair.
Highlights Along the Way - The train passes the Morteratsch Glacier and descends into Tirano’s palm-lined streets, offering a unique blend of snowy peaks and Mediterranean vibes.
Best Time to Go - Spring and autumn provide diverse scenery—from snow-capped peaks to vibrant autumn foliage.
Sample Itinerary - https://www.holidaysbeckon.com.au/europe-holidays#VEN-BAS
Bernina Pass - Image Credit hpgruesen on Pixabay
Bernina Express Switzerland - Image by Peter Wormstetter on Unsplash
West Highland Line (Scotland)
Explore Scotland's dramatic landscapes and lochs.
Route Overview - Depart from Glasgow and journey through the rugged Highlands to Mallaig.
What Makes It Special - This route showcases Scotland’s wild beauty, including views of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak, and the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.
Highlights Along the Way - Spot lochs, mountains, and perhaps even a red deer as the train weaves through remote glens.
Best Time to Go - Summer offers longer daylight hours, perfect for soaking in the views, while autumn brings vivid foliage.
Glen Finnan Viaduct Scotland - Image by Jack Anstey on Unsplash
Glenfinnan Viaduct Scotland - Image by Bryan Walker on Unsplash
The Cinque Terre Express (Italy)
Discover Italy's coastal charm.
Route Overview - This short yet scenic route links the five colourful fishing villages of the Cinque Terre along the Ligurian coast.
What Makes It Special - The train travels past terraced vineyards, turquoise waters, and picturesque cliffs.
Highlights Along the Way - Frequent stops allow travellers to explore the charming villages, each offering stunning coastal walks and authentic Italian cuisine.
Best Time to Go - Spring and early summer offer mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
Cinque Terre jmichaelmedia from Getty Images Signature on Canva Pro
Corniglia Station Italy - Image by Igor Wang on Unsplash
The Flam Railway (Norway)
Norway’s most beautiful train journey.
Route Overview - Connecting Myrdal and Flåm, this short but spectacular route offers views of fjords, waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains.
What Makes It Special - Known for its steep ascent, it’s one of the most dramatic railway climbs in the world.
Highlights Along the Way - Kjosfossen waterfall is a key attraction, and the train even stops for passengers to take photos.
Best Time to Go - Summer for vibrant green landscapes or winter for a snowy wonderland.
Myrdal to Flam - Image credit Daniele D Andreti on Unsplash
Flam Railway - Image by Jack White on Unsplash
The Douro Line (Portugal)
Experience Portugal's Wine Country by Rail.
Route Overview - This scenic journey travels from Porto to Pocinho, following the Douro River through Portugal’s famous wine region.
What Makes It Special - The Douro Line offers spectacular views of terraced vineyards, rolling hills, and charming riverside villages, showcasing Portugal’s viticultural heartland.
Highlights Along the Way - The train meanders alongside the river, with stops at traditional towns like Pinhão, where travellers can taste local wines or visit historic estates.
Best Time to Go - Spring and autumn are ideal for mild weather and vibrant vineyard colours, while the harvest season in late summer offers a unique glimpse into local wine-making traditions.
Douro Valley Railway - Image by David Gubler CC BY-SA 4.0 
Douro over pass pocinh image by Armando Oliveira on Canva Pro
The Semmering Railway (Austria)
A Journey Through Alpine Heritage and Engineering Marvels.
Route Overview - The Semmering Railway connects Gloggnitz to Mürzzuschlag and is known as one of the oldest and most beautiful mountain railways in the world, with its UNESCO World Heritage status. It passes through the Austrian Alps, offering travellers breathtaking views of alpine meadows, forests, and traditional Austrian architecture.
What Makes It Special - Constructed in the mid-19th century, it’s a marvel of early railway engineering, with impressive viaducts, tunnels, and stone bridges that blend harmoniously into the alpine landscape.
Highlights Along the Way - The route provides sweeping views of lush green valleys, quaint villages, and the distant snow-capped peaks of the Alps. The train crosses the Kalte Rinne viaduct, a stunning multi-arched stone structure perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Best Time to Go - Spring and summer showcase vibrant greenery and blooming wildflowers, while winter transforms the route into a snow-covered wonderland.
Aerial view of Kalte Rinne Viaduct Semmeringbahn Austria rusm Getty Images Signature on Canva Pro
Semmering Railway - Image credit Mario Eppinger on Pixabay
Tips for Making the Most of Your Scenic Rail Journey
Book in Advance - Scenic rail routes are popular, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking early ensures you get the best seats with panoramic views.
Choose the Right Time of Year - Research the best seasons for each route. For example, the Glacier Express is stunning year-round, but winter provides a magical snowy landscape, while summer highlights green alpine meadows.
Pack Essentials - Bring a camera for capturing the breathtaking views, comfortable clothing, and a guidebook to enhance your understanding of the landscapes and landmarks you’ll pass.
Check for Upgrades - Many of these journeys offer first-class options with enhanced comfort, meals, and even panoramic or observation cars for an elevated experience.
Plan Stopovers - Some of these routes pass through charming towns or UNESCO sites. If you have time, plan a stopover to explore these areas and enrich your journey.
Conclusion
Scenic rail journeys are more than just a mode of transport—they are a window into Europe’s most spectacular regions and an opportunity for adventure, relaxation, and discovery. Whether you choose a luxurious coastal ride along Spain’s northern coast, a historic trip through the Austrian Alps, or an epic alpine adventure in Switzerland, Europe’s railways offer unforgettable experiences. Hop on board, sit back, and let Europe’s stunning landscapes unfold before your eyes—one train ride at a time.
Call 1300 241 705 today to start planning your trip or learn more about these incredible destinations!