Where to see the most spectacular European landscapes by rail
With so many famous rail routes and scenic destinations to discover, it’s no wonder Europe is an international favorite for visitors. Traveling the most scenic train routes in Europe gives travelers a genuine and enriching way to discover its landscapes, cuisine, and historic and cultural attractions. These journeys appeal to families, empty nesters, couples looking for a romantic getaway, and adventurers of all ages, with the added comfort and convenience of train travel in Europe.
Spectacular European scenery accessible by rail
With the many benefits of rail travel and a long list of spectacular European destinations to discover, the hardest part will be choosing a destination!
Whether you’re looking for snow-capped mountains and scenic train routes in Norway and Switzerland or the sunny, warm coastlines that scenic train journeys in Portugal and Spain offer, scenic rail vacations have got you covered. Here’s our pick of the best European landscapes by rail, each one an unforgettable adventure.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
Glacier Express, SwitzerlandNo list of scenic train journeys would be complete without the Glacier Express. While this Swiss train journey that connects the mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz is often dubbed the ‘slowest express train in the world’, it is one of the most panoramic train routes in Switzerland. It traverses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels in just under eight hours, rewarding passengers with breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, deep gorges, and picturesque villages.
Quick facts about this Swiss rail route
- Countries: Switzerland
- Distance: 180 miles / 290 km
- Duration: 7.5 hours
- Rail Travel and Hotel Packages Available: Scenery and Elegance: Swiss Train Tour, Scenic Switzerland: Bernina Express
The Bernina Express, Switzerland
This UNESCO-listed rail journey from Chur in Switzerland’s Graubünden to Tirano in northern Italy through the Swiss Alps is our pick of the many panoramic train routes in Switzerland. In just four hours, you’ll see glacier-capped peaks as you pass cascading waterfalls, pristine lakes, and vast forests. This feat of engineering, with 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, is consistently rated as one of the world’s most scenic train trips.
Quick facts about this rail route through Switzerland
- Countries: Switzerland, Italy
- Distance: 90 miles / 144 km
- Duration: 4 to 4.5 hours
- Rail Travel and Hotel Packages Available: Scenic Switzerland: Bernina Express
Rhine Valley Line Scenic Train, Germany
Rhine Valley Line Scenic Train, GermanyThe Rhine Valley train route line takes you on an absorbing journey alongside the Rhine River as you pass medieval castles, charming towns, and vineyard-covered hillsides. The section between Koblenz and Mainz is particularly picturesque, with numerous castles perched high above the river.
Quick facts about this scenic German rail route
- Countries: Germany
- Distance: 112 miles / 181 km
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on trains taken
- Rail Travel and Hotel Packages Available: Rhine River Tour: Castles and Wine in Germany
West Highland Line, Scotland
Journey through wild and rugged landscapes aboard the West Highland Line on one of our favorite scenic train routes in Scotland. Taking you from Glasgow to Mallaig, this experience showcases Scotland’s untamed beauty, featuring atmospheric lochs, grand mountains, and vast moors. The trip’s highlight is undoubtedly crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films.
Quick facts about this rail route through Scotland
- Countries: Scotland
- Distance: 163 miles / 264 km
- Duration: 5.5 to 7 hours, depending on trains taken
The Cinque Terre Express, Italy
The Cinque Terre Express, ItalyItaly’s Cinque Terre is a string of five seaside villages perched on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. The short train ride along this spectacular stretch of beaches and cliffs offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea on one side, with terraced vineyards and colorful villages on the other. This journey is as panoramic as it is postcard-perfect and it is well-known as one of the most iconic scenic train routes in Italy.
Quick facts about this Italian rail journey
- Countries involved: Italy
- Distance: 11 to 12.5 miles / 18 to 20 km depending on town of departure
- Duration: 2-5 mins between towns/30 minutes one way
- Rail Travel and Hotel Packages Available: Your Italian Rail Package can be customized to include the Cinque Terre Express
Bergen Railway, Norway
Connecting Norway’s two major cities, Oslo and Bergen, the Bergen Line is one of the most scenic train routes in Norway, not to mention Northern Europe! The route traverses spectacular countryside featuring dramatic mountain ranges, charming villages, and the magnificent Hardangervidda, Europe’s highest mountainous plateau.
Quick facts about this Nordic rail route
- Countries: Norway
- Distance: 318 miles / 505 km
- Duration: 6.5 to 7.5 hours
Douro Line, Portugal
Winding along the Douro River, this enchanting rail journey from Ermesinde to Pocinho takes you through the heart of the Portuguese wine country on one of the standout scenic train journeys in Portugal. The landscape is a mesmerizing canvas of terraced vineyards, almond groves, and olive trees. Visit during the harvest season to see the vineyards in their full glory.
Quick facts about this Portuguese rail route
- Countries: Portugal
- Distance: 99 miles / 160 km
- Duration: 3 hours and 20 minutes
The Belgrade-to-Bar Railway, The Balkans
The Belgrade-to-Bar Railway, The BalkansThe Belgrade-to-Bar railway is an unforgettable 12-hour journey through the Western Balkans, connecting the Serbian capital with Montenegro’s coast. En route, the railway traverses the Dinaric Alps passing through numerous tunnels and across many bridges, as well as deep canyons, and a glacial lake. Exploring these European landscapes by rail rewards adventurous travelers with dramatic changes in scenery, traditional Balkan culture, and unspoiled natural beauty that are off most tourist maps.
Quick facts about this popular Balkan rail route
- Countries: Serbia, Bosnia Herzegovina
- Distance: 296 miles / 476 km
- Duration: 11 to 12 hours
The Bohinj Railway, Slovenia
This lesser-known but superbly scenic rail route travels through Slovenia’s Alpine region between Nova Gorica and Jesenice, connecting with Trieste in Italy. From the Italy-Slovenia border, the train winds upwards along the Soča River, past mountain towns, Lake Bohinj, and Lake Bled. This trip is one for adventurers and photographers—or anyone who wants to experience European rail travel at its finest.
Quick facts about this scenic rail route in Slovenia
- Countries: Slovenia, can extend the trip to Italy
- Distance: From Jesenice to Nova Gorica is 55 miles / 89 km and from Nova Gorica to Trieste is an additional 33.5 miles / 54 km
- Duration: 3.5 to 4.5 hours
- Rail Travel and Hotel Packages Available: Customize your Italian Rail Escape adventure to include this route.
Odontotos Rack Railway, Greece
Nature lovers and rail enthusiasts will enjoy the historic journey from Diakopto to Kalavryta, which showcases the stunning Vouraikos Gorge and panoramic views of the Greek countryside. Be intrigued by the train’s unique rack-and-pinion system, essential for navigating the track’s steep slopes and sharp turns past waterfalls and through tunnels.
Quick facts about this scenic Greek rail route
- Countries: Greece
- Distance: 13.6 miles / 22 km
- Duration: 60 minutes
The Little Yellow Train, France
The Little Yellow Train, FranceThis brightly colored yellow train, nicknamed “canary,” winds through the Pyrenees Mountains in southern France, taking you on an adventurous route through its heartland. On a three-hour journey from Villefranche-de-Conflent to Bolquère Eyne—highest railway station in France—you’ll enjoy spectacular mountain scenery while passing historic sites and charming villages.
Quick facts about this scenic rail route through France
- Countries: France
- Distance: 37 miles / 60 km
- Duration: 2.5 hours
El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, Spain
Take an opulent eight-day journey along Spain’s northern coast for a luxurious blend of countryside, cuisine, and cultural immersion. From San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela, the train winds through spectacular landscapes, villages lost in time, and ecological treasures. Experience Northern Spain’s beauty while you enjoy gourmet meals aboard and exclusive excursions.
Quick facts about this scenic Spanish rail route
- Countries: Spain
- Distance: 416 miles / 670 km
- Duration: 8 days/ 7 nights, with a shorter route of 4 days/3 nights available
- Rail Travel and Hotel Packages Available: Customize your Spanish Rail Escape package to include this journey
Explore Europe’s scenic wonders by rail
Whether you’re a railway enthusiast or simply seeking a relaxed and eco-friendly way to travel, train journeys promise unforgettable scenery and attractions while you slow down and enjoy the trip.
When you travel Europe by train, you can experience more than just transportation the way the locals like it—enjoy a feast for the senses as you immerse yourself in authentic culture and breathtaking scenery whilst discovering new European landscapes by rail.
Our rail travel and hotel packages deliver expertly crafted experiences and customizable self-guided itineraries as you explore the European continent in comfort and style. Browse our scenic rail travel routes and start planning your next rail adventure across Europe today.
