The scenic train routes in Europe are among the most spectacular train rides in the world and the routes are just as scenic as their destinations, including dramatic mountain ranges, sparkling lakes, charming villages, historic cities, and unforgettable landscapes.
As opposed to flying or driving, you can chill out on the train, with panoramic windows offering a view of snow covered Alpine peaks, deep fjords, emerald valleys, rugged coastlines, and centuries old castles. From daring over the famous mountain passes of Switzerland to meandering through the stunning fjords of Norway and the vibrant seaside of Italy, Europe’s rail system promises unparalleled adventures for travelers of all sorts.
Many people travelling by train has increased significantly over the last few years, as more and more people are looking to explore the European continent in a more sustainable and comfortable way. The iconic European cities and landmarks are now linked through efficient modern rail networks which maintain the romance and titillating excitement that have made journeys by train a hallmark of Europe for many generations.
This guide will help you find the best scenic train routes in Europe, and determine which ones should make it to your bucket list.
Why Scenic Train Routes in Europe Is Worth Experiencing
Riding the trains of Europe makes travel a part of the holiday. Rather than being afforded a view through a small airplane window or focusing on the traffic beyond the rear window, the passengers are afforded unrestricted panoramic view, spacious seats, onboard dining and large observation windows, making the experience relaxing and luxurious.
Another benefit is that it’s easy to access. There are numerous scenic train routes in Europe that run through remote areas that would be difficult to drive through or would need multiple forms of transportation. Railway lines ascend mountain passes, pass over historic viaducts, undercut glaciers, and follow coastlines which roads cannot. Each season has a different flavor to it. Spring has wildflowers in the valleys, summer has green and rich forests, autumn has golden and reddish mountainsides, and winter is a magical, snowy wonderland in Europe.
Slow travel is encouraged by scenic trains as well. Instead of being in a hurry to go between popular tourist destinations, tourists enjoy visiting local culture, local villages, local food, and the local tourist spots that are not on the tourist trail. A lot of stations are within walking distance from historic town centers, which makes it easy to explore the town.
What Makes a European Train Route Scenic?
Not every beautiful railway earns international recognition. The best scenic train routes in Europe is the engineering, the amazing places and the natural wonders. Many of the great railways of Europe were built over 100 years ago and the technological feats of crossing a spiral loop, a mountain pass or a tunnel still amazes today.
Several factors distinguish truly spectacular railway journeys:
- Diverse landscapes throughout the trip
- Large panoramic windows
- Historic bridges and tunnels
- Mountain, lake, or coastal scenery
- Comfortable onboard experience
- Easy access to charming destinations
- Seasonal beauty throughout the year
Due to their engineering achievements or cultural significance, many award winning routes are also known to UNESCO. These railways are not only still in service for modern travelers but also still serve as a reminder of history.
Best Time to Experience Europe’s Railway Landscapes
Each season brings a different aspect to the beautiful trains in Europe. In the summer there are long hours of daylight and it’s great for capturing the majestic peaks, green valleys and shimmering lakes. There are also numerous opportunities for hiking at many of the stops along the trails.
Fall is a great time for photographers to take pictures of colorful fall foliage and less people. Sightseeing is more pleasant due to cooler temperatures, particularly in southern Europe.
Alpine railways are memorable snow-covered experiences in the winter. Trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express turn into a magical journey passing through frozen landscapes, white mountain peaks.
Spring brings blooming meadows, melting snow-fed waterfalls and beautiful weather before the winter tourist season starts.
20 Best Scenic Train Routes in Europe You Should Ride
Check out the list of the best scenic train routes in Europe with stunning train rides, tips, top routes and must see landscapes.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express is the world’s slowest express train, which runs between Zermatt and St. Moritz, and provides one of the most spectacular scenic train routes in Europe. The trip takes about eight hours and reveals the magnificence of the Swiss Alps from the panoramic windows.
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Duration: About 8 hours
Best for: Alpine scenery and luxury rail travel
Top attractions:
- Landwasser Viaduct
- Oberalp Pass
- Deep valleys and mountain villages
Best time to visit: June to September and December to February
Why ride it?
The Glacier Express is one of the ultimate rail experiences in Europe, offering stunning mountain scenery, excellent onboard service and comfortable panoramic coaches.
Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy
The Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage railway that connects Switzerland with northern Italy. It is well known for its ability to ascend high passes on the alpine ridges without the use of a cogwheel system and is packed with fantastic scenery along the route.
Route: Chur or St. Moritz to Tirano
Duration: About 4 to 4.5 hours
Best for: Glaciers, lakes, and mountain views
Top attractions:
- Brusio Spiral Viaduct
- Bernina Pass
- Lago Bianco
Best time to visit: Year round
Why ride it?
It is a route that offers a once in a lifetime chance to visit two countries and see some of Europe’s very scenic mountain landscapes.
West Highland Line, Scotland
The West Highland Line is one of the most famous and picturesque railway lines in Europe, passing through the rugged Scottish Highlands. It is a popular route for nature enthusiasts and photographers, offering scenic views of the countryside.
Route: Glasgow to Mallaig
Duration: About 5.5 hours
Best for: Highland scenery and Harry Potter fans
Top attractions:
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Rannoch Moor
- Loch Shiel
- Coastal views near Mallaig
Best time to visit: May to September
Why ride it?
This is a route that’s sure to enjoy a lot of natural beauty, Scottish history, and cinematic scenes. This is an indelible train ride through one of the most picturesque areas in the UK.
Bergen Railway, Norway
The Bergen Railway is the fastest train route between Oslo and Bergen, passing through Norwegian spectacular landscapes. From snow covered plateaus to deep valleys and sparkling lakes, every section of the journey offers breathtaking scenery.
Route: Oslo to Bergen
Duration: About 7 hours
Best for: Mountain landscapes and fjords
Top attractions:
- Hardangervidda Plateau
- Finse Station
- Waterfalls and alpine lakes
- Traditional Norwegian villages
Best time to visit: June to September and December to March
Why ride it?
One of the finest railway trips in Scandinavia, the Bergen Railway provides a panoramic view all year long. It goes really well with a journey on the Flåm Railway.
GoldenPass Express, Switzerland
The GoldenPass Express links Montreux to Interlaken, linking the beautiful lakes with the Swiss Alps. The panoramic coaches offer a continuous view of the vineyard, pretty villages and mountain peaks.
Route: Montreux to Interlaken
Duration: About 3 hours 15 minutes
Best for: Swiss countryside and panoramic views
Top attractions:
- Lake Geneva
- Gstaad
- Alpine meadows
- Traditional Swiss chalets
Best time to visit: May to October
Why ride it?
This journey combines lakes, mountains, and picturesque villages in one seamless trip. It is ideal for travelers seeking classic Swiss scenery.
Cinque Terre Railway, Italy
Cinque Terre Railway is a train that runs between the five picturesque villages of the Italian Riviera. It is one of the most pleasant rail journeys in Europe owing to its short journey and beautiful Mediterranean scenery.
Route: Levanto to La Spezia via the Cinque Terre villages
Duration: Around 30 to 40 minutes end to end
Best for: Coastal scenery and village hopping
Top attractions:
- Monterosso
- Vernazza
- Manarola
- Riomaggiore
- Mediterranean Sea views
Best time to visit: April to June and September to October
Why ride it?
Frequent trains make it easy to explore all five villages without driving. It is the most convenient way to experience one of Italy’s most beautiful coastlines.
Semmering Railway, Austria
The Semmering Railway is the world’s first true mountain railway and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a great design, not only for its engineering feats, but also for its scenic beauty in the Alps and its historic nature.
Route: Gloggnitz to Mürzzuschlag
Duration: About 1.5 hours
Best for: Railway history and mountain landscapes
Top attractions:
- Stone viaducts
- Scenic tunnels
- Forested mountains
- Traditional Austrian villages
Best time to visit: May to October
Why ride it?
This historic railway showcases how engineering and nature blend beautifully together. It is an excellent choice for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Flåm Railway, Norway
The Flåm Railway is one of the world’s steepest standard gauge railways, and provides stunning views from the mountains to the shores of Aurlandsfjord. Although it’s only a short distance, it offers unparalleled scenery.
Route: Myrdal to Flåm
Duration: About 1 hour
Best for: Fjords, waterfalls, and mountain views
Top attractions:
- Kjosfossen Waterfall
- Aurlandsfjord
- Steep valleys
- Scenic mountain farms
Best time to visit: May to September
Why ride it?
The Flåm Railway is a spectacular ride through some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. An absolute must see route for all Norway visitors, and it is an ideal combination with fjord travel.
Rhine Valley Railway, Germany
The Rhine Valley Railway runs along the picturesque Rhine River, through one of the most picturesque regions of Germany. The path is dotted with medieval castles, hillside vineyards and picturesque villages, and the spectacular views of the river.
Route: Koblenz to Mainz
Duration: About 2.5 hours
Best for: Castles, vineyards, and river scenery
Top attractions:
- Lorelei Rock
- Rhine River
- Historic castles
- Wine producing villages
Best time to visit: April to October
Why ride it?
This journey blends history, culture, and natural beauty in one unforgettable trip. It is perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes and charming riverside towns.
Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland
The Jacobite Steam Train is one of the world’s most well-known heritage railways. It winds through the Scottish Highlands, is full of historic appeal, its beauty is extraordinary and it is the setting for the iconic Harry Potter route.
Route: Fort William to Mallaig
Duration: About 2 hours each way
Best for: Steam train enthusiasts and movie fans
Top attractions:
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Loch Shiel
- Highland mountains
- Atlantic coastline
Best time to visit: April to October
Why ride it?
Traveling on a historic steam train through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes is a truly memorable experience. It combines nostalgia with some of the country’s finest scenery.
Black Forest Railway, Germany
The Black Forest Railway winds through Germany’s famous Black Forest, offering a relaxing journey past dense woodlands, rolling hills, and traditional villages. It is known for its impressive tunnels and viaducts.
Route: Offenburg to Singen
Duration: About 2 hours
Best for: Forest landscapes and traditional German villages
Top attractions:
- Triberg
- Black Forest
- Historic viaducts
- Scenic valleys
Best time to visit: May to October
Why ride it?
This railway combines beautiful countryside with remarkable engineering. It is an excellent choice for travelers looking to experience Germany’s natural beauty.
Mariazell Railway, Austria
The narrow gauge electric railway of Mariazell is the longest in Austria. After a ride through tranquil mountain landscapes, forests and charming villages, it leads to the old town of Mariazell.
Route: St. Pölten to Mariazell
Duration: About 2.5 hours
Best for: Quiet countryside and cultural experiences
Top attractions:
- Mariazell Basilica
- Alpine valleys
- Forest landscapes
- Traditional Austrian villages
Best time to visit: May to October
Why ride it?
This route offers a relaxing escape from busy tourist destinations. It combines scenic beauty with Austria’s rich cultural heritage.
Centovalli Railway, Switzerland and Italy
The Centovalli Railway is a beautiful route that takes you through Swiss valleys, waterfalls, forests and lovely villages to cross the border from Switzerland to Italy. The name of “One Hundred Valleys” is very fitting to the route.
Route: Locarno to Domodossola
Duration: About 2 hours
Best for: Cross border rail adventures
Top attractions:
- Deep valleys
- Waterfalls
- Stone bridges
- Traditional mountain villages
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn
Why ride it?
The trip is an excellent combination of natural beauty and cultural diversity. One of the best-kept secrets of the European railway system.
Rauma Railway, Norway
The Rauma Railway is one of the wonders of Norway, with its stunningly beautiful mountains, valleys and rivers. The route is well known for having spectacular views of the Romsdal Valley.
Route: Dombås to Åndalsnes
Duration: About 1 hour 40 minutes
Best for: Mountain scenery and photography
Top attractions:
- Kylling Bridge
- Troll Wall
- Rauma River
- Romsdal Valley
Best time to visit: June to September
Why ride it?
Some of the best of Norway’s scenery is accessible on this railway in a fairly short distance. For travelers who enjoy the outdoors and photography, it’s a great option for some memorable shots.
Douro Line, Portugal
One of the most beautiful railway routes in Portugal, the Douro Line winds through scenic landscapes and picturesque villages, passing through rolling hills and vineyards along the Douro River. It is especially popular with wine lovers and travelers seeking a relaxing countryside experience.
Route: Porto to Pocinho
Duration: About 3.5 hours
Best for: River views and vineyard landscapes
Top attractions:
- Douro Valley
- Peso da Régua
- Pinhão vineyards
- Historic wine estates
Best time to visit: September to October for the grape harvest or April to June for pleasant weather
Why ride it?
The Douro Line is a scenic tour along the river as well as Portugal’s famous wine region. This is a great option for those who wish to enjoy culture, nature, and local cuisine in one trip.
Belgrade to Bar Railway, Serbia and Montenegro
The Belgrade to Bar Railway is one of Europe’s most underrated long distance rail journeys. It travels through rugged mountains, deep canyons, and scenic countryside before reaching Montenegro’s beautiful Adriatic coast.
Route: Belgrade to Bar
Duration: About 11 hours
Best for: Adventure travel and mountain scenery
Top attractions:
- Mala Rijeka Viaduct
- Dinaric Alps
- Tara River Canyon
- Adriatic coastline
Best time to visit: May to September
Why ride it?
This trail will lead you through spectacular views and amazing engineering work along the way. It’s ideal for those who want to visit less touristy regions of Europe.
Inlandsbanan, Sweden
The Inlandsbanan, or Inland Railway, takes passengers through Sweden’s untouched wilderness, offering peaceful views of forests, lakes, rivers, and Arctic landscapes. One of the most unusual rail adventures in the country.
Route: Kristinehamn to Gällivare
Duration: Multi day journey with flexible stops
Best for: Nature lovers and wildlife spotting
Top attractions:
- Swedish forests
- Arctic Circle
- Lakes and rivers
- Traditional Sami culture
Best time to visit: June to August
Why ride it?
This train offers a true impression of the natural beauty and remote country of Sweden. Perfect for the avid travelers who like slow travel and outdoor activities.
El Transcantábrico, Spain
El Transcantábrico is one of Europe’s most luxurious train journeys, traveling across northern Spain’s beautiful coastline. It combines elegant accommodations with guided excursions, gourmet dining, and spectacular scenery.
Route: San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela
Duration: About 7 to 8 days
Best for: Luxury rail vacations
Top attractions:
- Cantabrian coastline
- Picos de Europa
- Historic towns
- Fine dining onboard
Best time to visit: May to October
Why ride it?
This luxury train delivers a complete travel experience that blends comfort, culture, and breathtaking scenery. It is perfect for travelers seeking a premium European rail holiday.
Venice Simplon Orient Express
The Venice Simplon Orient Express is one of the world’s most iconic luxury trains. Famous for its elegant Art Deco carriages and exceptional service, it offers a timeless rail experience through some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes.
Route: Various European cities including Paris, Venice, and London
Duration: Depends on the itinerary
Best for: Luxury travel and historic rail experiences
Top attractions:
- Vintage Art Deco interiors
- Gourmet dining
- Personalized service
- Scenic European countryside
Best time to visit: April to October
Why ride it?
This legendary train combines world class hospitality with unforgettable scenery. It remains one of the most prestigious rail journeys in the world.
Little Yellow Train, France
The Little Yellow Train is a picturesque mountain train that runs through the French Pyrenees. The carriages are bright yellow and pass through deep valleys, beautiful bridges and charming mountain villages, providing a beautiful view on the way.
Route: Villefranche de Conflent to Latour de Carol
Duration: About 3 hours
Best for: Mountain landscapes and family trips
Top attractions:
- Gisclard Bridge
- Pyrenees Mountains
- Open air carriages
- Historic villages
Best time to visit: May to October
Why ride it?
The Little Yellow Train offers a peaceful and scenic journey through one of France’s most beautiful mountain regions. Its open air coaches make it a memorable experience for travelers of all ages.
How to Choose the Best Scenic Train Route in Europe
A perfect railway trip is for people who have different taste, interests and timing of their trip. For dramatic mountain scenery, Switzerland and Norway are some of the best places to experience in the world. If you prefer the coast and colorful villages, then Italy, Portugal or northern Spain are ideal choices.
Before booking your trip, consider these factors:
| Travel Preference | Recommended Routes |
|---|---|
| Snow covered mountains | Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Bergen Railway |
| Coastal scenery | Cinque Terre Railway, Douro Line |
| Luxury travel | Venice Simplon Orient Express, El Transcantábrico |
| Historic railways | Semmering Railway, Jacobite Steam Train |
| Hidden gems | Rauma Railway, Belgrade to Bar Railway, Inlandsbanan |
Booking well in advance is recommended for premium panoramic trains, especially during summer and the winter holiday season. Flexible rail passes can also provide excellent value for travelers planning multiple scenic journeys.
Travel Tips for Scenic Rail Adventures
A little preparation can make your railway journey even more enjoyable.
- Reserve panoramic seats whenever possible.
- Travel during daylight hours for the best views.
- Carry a camera with extra battery power.
- Sit on the recommended side of the train if scenic highlights favor one direction.
- Allow extra time to explore towns along the route instead of treating the train as simple transportation.
- Pack light to make station transfers easier.
- Check seasonal schedules, as some scenic trains operate only during specific months.
Conclusion
Europe’s railway system is much more than just a means of getting from here to there. Every trip is unique, with stunning scenery, impressive engineering, and a plethora of cultural experiences. Whether it’s hiking on the high peaks of Switzerland, exploring the fjords of Norway, the vineyards of Portugal or the misty highlands of Scotland, these journeys make for a truly memorable experience.
From a luxury multi day train trip to a scenic day trip, the best scenic train routes in Europe give you the opportunity to take your time and enjoy the ride, while exploring destinations that many travelers cruise by. If Europe is on your travel bucket list, then it’s time for at least one train trip of a lifetime. What you chose to see through the window of the train can be the best part of your travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most scenic train route in Europe?
The Glacier Express and Bernina Express are among the most scenic routes, famed for their spectacular Alpine scenery and engineering masterpieces, and their panoramic coaches.
What is the best time to travel on scenic European trains?
The late spring, summer and early autumn provide excellent views and nice weather. Winter is a great time to visit if you’re interested in seeing snow covered mountain scenery.
Are scenic trains in Europe included in rail passes?
Many scenic routes are covered by European rail passes, although premium panoramic trains often require mandatory seat reservations or supplemental fees.
Which scenic train is best for first time visitors?
The Bernina Express is an excellent choice for first time visitors because it offers stunning scenery, crosses from Switzerland into Italy, and can be completed in a single day.
How far in advance should I book scenic train tickets?
In the case of popular trains like the Glacier Express, Bernina Express or luxury trains, reservations are recommended two to six months ahead of time, especially in peak travel seasons.
