9 of the Best European Train Journeys for 2025

All Aboard: Your Guide to Europe’s Most Spectacular Rail Adventures

Forget crowded airports and motorway queues. The true heart of Europe reveals itself at a different pace, through the panoramic window of a train carriage. From the glacier-carved valleys of the Swiss Alps to the sun-drenched coastlines of the Italian Riviera, the continent is crisscrossed by railways that are destinations in themselves. These journeys offer more than just transport; they are curated experiences, combining breathtaking scenery with remarkable engineering and a touch of old-world romance.

This guide explores nine of the best European train journeys, each offering a unique window into the landscapes, culture, and history that make rail travel so unforgettable. Whether you’re seeking five-star luxury on an iconic sleeper or a rugged adventure through the Scottish Highlands, this list provides the practical details you need. We’ve organised this roundup to help you discover why travelling by train is one of the most immersive and civilised ways to explore the continent.

Inside, you will find a curated selection of standout routes, each detailed with:

• Route Highlights: Unmissable sights and scenic stretches you will encounter.
• Practical Details: Journey duration, key stops, and the best time of year to travel.
• Insider Tips: Actionable advice to enhance your experience, from booking the best seats to must-try local delicacies at station stops.

We have gathered all the essential information to help you plan your next great rail adventure. Many of these iconic trips can be organised through specialists, ensuring your journey is as smooth as the rails you travel on.

1. The Glacier Express (Switzerland)

Known affectionately as the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express offers an unparalleled journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps. This iconic route connects the glamorous alpine resort towns of St. Moritz and Zermatt, home of the Matterhorn. Far from a simple mode of transport, this is one of the best European train journeys, meticulously designed for sightseeing. The entire trip takes approximately eight hours, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of glaciers, dramatic mountain peaks, and verdant alpine meadows.

The train itself features panoramic, floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring you don’t miss a single moment of the spectacular scenery. As you travel, you’ll cross incredible feats of engineering that define this legendary route.

Route Highlights and Engineering Marvels

The journey is a testament to Swiss engineering, navigating challenging alpine terrain with grace. The numbers behind the journey highlight the scale of this achievement, showing just how integrated the railway is with the mountainous landscape.

This density of tunnels and bridges, including the famous Landwasser Viaduct, demonstrates why the journey is as much about the railway itself as the natural beauty it passes through. These structures allow the train to access remote valleys and climb to high altitudes, such as the 2,033-metre-high Oberalp Pass, the highest point on the route.

Actionable Tips for Travellers

To make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience, a little planning goes a long way.

• Seat Selection: For the best views of landmarks like the Landwasser Viaduct, book a window seat on the right side of the train when travelling from St. Moritz to Zermatt.
• Best Season: While stunning year-round, travelling in winter offers a magical snow-covered wonderland. For photography, the crisp winter light is exceptional.
• Class Choice: Consider upgrading to Excellence Class for the most luxurious experience, which includes a guaranteed window seat, a multi-course meal with wine pairings, and a dedicated concierge. First class also offers more space and at-seat meal service.
• Photography: Bring a camera with a polarising filter. This will help reduce glare from snow and ice, making the colours of the glaciers and sky more vibrant in your photos.

This journey is a centrepiece in many organised tours and a must-do for any rail enthusiast. To explore tour options featuring this route, you can find more information about European train holidays on traintours.com.au.

2. Orient Express (Various European Routes)

Stepping aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is like travelling back in time to the golden age of rail. This legendary service is the modern successor to the original Orient Express, offering an unmatched level of elegance and glamour. The journey is defined by its meticulously restored 1920s Art Deco carriages, which provide a setting of pure opulence. This isn’t just a train ride; it’s an immersive experience in classic luxury, connecting iconic European cities like London, Paris, Venice, and Vienna.

The experience is renowned for its white-glove service and gourmet dining, making it one of the most celebrated and best European train journeys for those seeking romance and nostalgia. The classic route from London to Venice, which winds through the breathtaking scenery of the Swiss Alps, remains a perennial favourite.

Route Highlights and Engineering Marvels

While the primary allure is the onboard luxury, the routes themselves are carefully curated to include stunning landscapes and historic cities. The annual Paris to Istanbul journey is an epic, multi-day adventure that retraces the original, fabled route, traversing countries and cultures. Shorter, yet equally enchanting, trips link cities like Paris and Vienna or Verona and London, each offering a unique window into the European countryside.

The train itself is a marvel of restoration. Each carriage has been lovingly brought back to its former glory, featuring intricate marquetry, polished brass, and plush fabrics. The engineering is not of bridges and tunnels, but of craftsmanship and historical preservation, ensuring an authentic 1920s atmosphere from the moment you step on board.

Actionable Tips for Travellers

To fully appreciate this journey of a lifetime, careful preparation is key.

• Dress Code: Embrace the glamour of the era. Formal attire is expected for dinner, so pack your finest evening wear to fully immerse yourself in the sophisticated atmosphere.
• Cabin Choice: The historic cabins are cosy and authentic. For more space and the convenience of a private bathroom, consider booking a Grand Suite, which includes a double bed and a private marble ensuite.
• Booking Season: The train operates from March to November. For better availability and potentially milder weather for city exploration, consider travelling during the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn.
• Arrival and Departure: Arrive at the station early. This allows you time to soak in the pre-departure excitement, check in without haste, and perhaps explore the departure city for a few hours.

This journey epitomises the pinnacle of elegant rail travel and is a highlight of many curated holidays. To find out more about this and other similar experiences, you can explore a range of luxury train journeys on traintours.com.au.

3. The West Highland Line (Scotland, UK)

Stretching 264 kilometres from Glasgow to Mallaig on Scotland’s west coast, the West Highland Line is widely regarded as one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world. This route plunges you into the heart of the dramatic Scottish Highlands, travelling alongside vast lochs, through remote glens, and across the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter film series. As one of the best European train journeys, it offers an unforgettable showcase of Scotland’s wild and rugged beauty, including views of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain.

The journey is an experience in itself, whether you choose the regular year-round ScotRail service or the seasonal Jacobite steam train. The route is a testament to Victorian engineering, carving a path through some of the UK’s most challenging and beautiful terrain.

Route Highlights and Iconic Scenery

The West Highland Line is celebrated not just for its destination but for the breathtaking landscapes it traverses. It splits at Crianlarich, with one branch heading to Oban and the main line continuing to Fort William and Mallaig. The latter section is arguably the most spectacular, featuring Rannoch Moor, an expanse of peat bogs and lochans that was one of the most difficult sections of railway to build in the country.

The undisputed highlight for many is crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a 21-arch concrete marvel offering stunning views over Loch Shiel. This part of the journey feels truly cinematic, cementing its place as a must-do rail adventure. Regular ScotRail services offer daily travel, while the Jacobite steam train provides a nostalgic, historical experience during the warmer months.

Actionable Tips for Travellers

To ensure you have the best possible journey through the Highlands, a little forward planning is recommended.

• Seat Selection: When travelling northbound from Glasgow to Mallaig, book a seat on the left-hand side of the carriage for the best views of Loch Lomond, Loch Long, and later, Loch Eil.
• Best Season: Summer offers long daylight hours to enjoy the scenery, while autumn brings magnificent colours to the glens. Check weather forecasts, as clear days provide spectacular mountain visibility.
• Booking: The Jacobite steam train is incredibly popular and must be booked many months in advance. The regular ScotRail service is a fantastic alternative with the same views and can be booked closer to your travel date.
• Extend Your Trip: Upon arrival in Mallaig, consider taking the ferry across to the Isle of Skye for a multi-day exploration of the Inner Hebrides, creating a comprehensive Highland adventure.

This iconic journey is a cornerstone of many organised Scottish tours. To see how this route fits into a broader itinerary, you can discover more about this 9-Day Edinburgh & Highlands Rail tour.

4. The Bernina Express (Switzerland/Italy)

A masterpiece of railway engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Bernina Express offers one of the most diverse and dramatic scenic routes in Europe. This journey connects Chur in Switzerland with Tirano in Italy, traversing the majestic Swiss Alps from north to south. Over four hours, passengers are treated to a spectacular transition from high alpine glaciers and snow-capped peaks to the swaying palms and Mediterranean flair of northern Italy, making it one of the best European train journeys for scenic variety.

The train navigates the Alps using adhesion alone, without the help of cogwheels, a remarkable feat given the steep gradients. Its panoramic carriages provide unobstructed views, allowing you to witness the seamless blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity that defines this iconic route.

Route Highlights and Engineering Marvels

The Bernina Express is celebrated for its incredible engineering, particularly its ability to conquer extreme changes in elevation. The journey from the icy heights of the Alps down to the warmth of Italy is a core part of its appeal. It showcases how a railway can be harmoniously integrated into a challenging landscape.

The route’s most famous feature is the Brusio Circular Viaduct, an elegant nine-arched spiral that allows the train to manage a significant altitude change in a very tight space. The train reaches its highest point at Ospizio Bernina, standing at 2,253 metres above sea level, before beginning its breathtaking descent towards Italy. This journey is less about speed and more about savouring the ever-changing vistas.

Actionable Tips for Travellers

To get the most out of your Bernina Express adventure, some forward planning can make all the difference.

• Seat Selection: For the best view of the famous Brusio Circular Viaduct, a seat on the right-hand side of the train (when travelling south to Tirano) is recommended.
• Best Season: Summer offers lush green valleys and vibrant wildflowers, while autumn provides a stunning display of golden larches. A winter journey transforms the landscape into a pristine, snow-covered wonderland.
• Extend Your Trip: Don’t end your journey in Tirano. This charming Italian town is the perfect gateway to explore the beautiful Lake Como region, just a short regional train ride away.
• Practicalities: Pack layers of clothing as you will experience significant temperature changes between the high alpine passes and the lower valleys. Also, download offline maps, as mobile reception can be unreliable in the more remote mountain sections.

5. The Flåm Railway (Norway)

Often cited as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, the Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana) is a masterpiece of Norwegian engineering. This relatively short, 20-kilometre branch line plunges from the high-altitude mountain station of Myrdal down to Flåm, nestled at the end of the Aurlandsfjord. Despite the journey lasting only an hour, it packs in some of the most dramatic scenery Norway has to offer, making it a contender for one of the best European train journeys for those seeking intense, concentrated beauty.

The train descends 863 metres through the steep, narrow Flåm Valley, offering passengers views of cascading waterfalls, deep ravines, and snow-capped peaks. The vintage-style carriages with their wooden interiors add a touch of nostalgia to this spectacular ride.

Route Highlights and Engineering Marvels

The Flåm Railway is one of the steepest standard-gauge railway lines in the world, with nearly 80% of the line having a gradient of 5.5%. Building it was an extraordinary challenge, with 20 tunnels carved by hand through the mountainside. One of these, the Nåli tunnel, even includes a dramatic 180-degree horseshoe curve inside the mountain.

A major highlight is the five-minute photo stop at the powerful Kjosfossen waterfall. Here, passengers can disembark onto a special platform to feel the spray and watch a surprise performance of a mythical “Huldra” (a wood nymph from Norse folklore) dancing and singing amidst the thundering water. This unique blend of raw nature and local culture makes the journey unforgettable.

Actionable Tips for Travellers

To get the most out of this popular Norwegian experience, planning is essential.

• Booking and Seating: Tickets sell out fast, especially from June to August. Book well in advance. For the best views of the valley and waterfalls when travelling from Myrdal down to Flåm, try to secure a seat on the right-hand side of the train.
• Best Season: Summer offers lush green landscapes and powerful waterfalls. However, travelling in late spring allows you to see snow on the peaks while the valleys are bursting with life.
• Combine Your Trip: The Flåm Railway is a key component of the famous “Norway in a Nutshell” tour. For a complete fjord experience, combine the train ride with a fjord cruise on the Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Photography: The train moves slowly and even stops for photos, but conditions near waterfalls can be misty. Bring a lens cloth and consider a waterproof cover for your camera to protect it from the spray at Kjosfossen.

6. The Cinque Terre Express (Italy)

Connecting the five iconic villages of the Cinque Terre, this coastal railway offers one of the best European train journeys for those wanting to explore the Italian Riviera. The line is an essential link, burrowing through cliffside tunnels and revealing breathtaking glimpses of the turquoise Ligurian Sea, terraced vineyards, and colourful houses that cling to dramatic cliffs. This route is less about a single, long-distance journey and more about providing a wonderfully scenic and practical way to hop between the UNESCO World Heritage-listed villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare.

The journey between each village is remarkably short, often lasting only a few minutes, but each segment offers a unique perspective on this stunning coastline. It’s a perfect blend of convenience and beauty, allowing you to experience the distinct character of each village at your own pace.

Route Highlights and Coastal Access

Unlike alpine railways that conquer mountains, the Cinque Terre Express masters the coast. It’s an engineering solution that makes this rugged landscape accessible, connecting communities that were once only reachable by sea or mule paths. The railway’s primary function is linking these five gems, making it a lifeline for locals and the backbone of tourism.

Instead of long, continuous sightseeing, the thrill comes from the rapid succession of dark tunnels followed by bright, spectacular coastal reveals. This “peek-a-boo” effect builds anticipation as you travel from one postcard-perfect village to the next, making the train an integral part of the Cinque Terre experience itself.

Actionable Tips for Travellers

To navigate this popular route effectively, especially during peak season, some planning is essential.

• Cinque Terre Card: Purchase the Cinque Terre Treno MS Card. It provides unlimited train travel on the Levanto – Cinque Terre – La Spezia line and grants access to the national park’s famous hiking trails.
• Avoid Peak Crowds: Travel very early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the intense midday crowds. This also offers better light for photography.
• Strategic Positioning: The trains can be very crowded. Stand near the doors if you’re making a quick stop, as you may only have a minute or two to disembark in each village.
• Combine with Hiking: Use the train for flexible travel. Hike the scenic trail between two villages, such as Monterosso to Vernazza, and then take the train back or onward to the next town to rest your legs.

7. The Golden Pass Line (Switzerland)

The Golden Pass Line is not a single train but a spectacular journey connecting Central Switzerland with Lake Geneva. This route traverses some of the country’s most diverse landscapes, linking Lucerne to Montreux via Interlaken. It masterfully combines serene lakeside scenery, rolling green hills dotted with traditional chalets, and the dramatic peaks of the Bernese Alps. As one of the best European train journeys, it offers a cross-section of Switzerland’s iconic beauty in one seamless trip.

The journey is actually composed of three distinct railway sections, each with its own character. Special panoramic and Belle Époque-style carriages are used on parts of the route, designed with large windows to maximise your connection with the magnificent passing scenery. The entire experience showcases Switzerland’s transition from gentle pastures to high-alpine grandeur.

Route Highlights and Engineering Marvels

The Golden Pass Line travels from the German-speaking heartland to the French-speaking riviera, offering a cultural as well as a scenic transition. The journey is celebrated for its gradual but impressive ascent into the mountains and its equally breathtaking descent towards the shores of Lake Geneva, passing through the renowned Gstaad resort.

A key highlight is the steep descent from the hills above Montbovon down to Montreux. The train navigates a series of tight curves and tunnels, revealing stunning, panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps. This section is a remarkable piece of railway engineering, allowing travellers to experience a dramatic change in elevation and landscape in a short period. The diversity, from the Brünig Pass to the vineyards of Lavaux, is what makes this route truly special.

Actionable Tips for Travellers

To get the most out of your Golden Pass Line adventure, thoughtful planning is essential.

• Train Changes: Be prepared for train changes in Interlaken and Zweisimmen. These are well-organised and offer a chance to stretch your legs. The new GoldenPass Express now offers a direct, change-free connection between Montreux and Interlaken.
• Seat Selection: For the dramatic final descent into Montreux, a seat on the right-hand side of the train offers the best views of Lake Geneva. When travelling from Lucerne to Interlaken, the right side also provides superior views of the lakes.
• Break Up the Journey: The route is perfect for stopovers. Consider spending a night in the adventure hub of Interlaken to explore the Jungfrau region or in the charming village of Gstaad for a taste of alpine luxury.
• Booking in Advance: For the best experience, reserve a seat in the panoramic carriages. The prestigious front “VIP” seats on some trains (in Prestige class on the GoldenPass Express) are extremely popular and should be booked months ahead.

8. The Transcantábrico (Northern Spain)

Experience the romance of vintage rail travel aboard The Transcantábrico, a luxury hotel on wheels that glides through the lush landscapes of Northern Spain. This journey offers a unique blend of scenic daytime travel and comfortable overnight stays on the stationary train. The classic route connects the historic pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostela with the elegant city of León, offering an immersive 8-day, 7-night exploration of “Green Spain,” a region known for its dramatic coastline, verdant mountains, and rich cultural heritage.

The train itself is a masterpiece of early 20th-century design, featuring exquisitely decorated saloon carriages and private suites with full ensuite bathrooms. It’s more than just transport; it is a rolling sanctuary that allows you to discover the heart of Asturias, Cantabria, the Basque Country, and Galicia in unparalleled style, making it one of the best European train journeys for those who value comfort and culture.

Route Highlights and Cultural Immersion

The Transcantábrico’s itinerary is meticulously planned to showcase Northern Spain’s most compelling attractions. Each day, passengers disembark for guided excursions led by a multilingual guide, exploring everything from the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao to the prehistoric cave paintings at Altamira and the stunning Picos de Europa National Park.

The journey is also a celebration of the region’s world-renowned gastronomy. Onboard breakfasts are lavish, while lunches and dinners are served in acclaimed local restaurants along the route, allowing you to sample authentic regional specialities and wines. This focus on cultural and culinary immersion provides a deep connection to the destinations visited. The combination of exclusive excursions and fine dining transforms a simple train trip into a comprehensive cultural tour.

Actionable Tips for Travellers

To ensure you have an unforgettable journey on The Transcantábrico, consider these practical tips.

• Book in Advance: With only a limited number of suites, this exclusive journey sells out months, sometimes even a year, ahead. Early booking is essential to secure your place.
• Packing Strategy: Pack comfortable walking shoes for the daily excursions, as you will be exploring medieval towns and natural landscapes on foot. Also include some smart-casual attire for the elegant dinners.
• Language: While guides are multilingual, learning a few basic Spanish phrases like “Hola” (Hello) and “Gracias” (Thank you) will be appreciated by locals and enrich your interactions.
• Best Season: Consider travelling in the shoulder seasons of late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather, fewer crowds at popular sites, and beautifully green scenery.

9. The Caledonian Sleeper (Scotland/England, UK)

Combining the romance of overnight rail travel with modern convenience, the Caledonian Sleeper offers a truly unique way to journey between London and the heart of Scotland. This isn’t just a means of transport; it’s a hotel on wheels, allowing you to fall asleep in the bustling English capital and awaken to the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. The service connects London with key Scottish cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, and Fort William, making it one of the most practical and enchanting European train journeys.

Recently revitalised with a new fleet of carriages, the train offers a contemporary and comfortable experience. It is an excellent choice for travellers looking to maximise their time, avoiding the hassle of early morning flights and gaining an extra day of sightseeing. The gentle rock of the train and the promise of a Scottish adventure make for an unforgettable start to any holiday.

Route Highlights and Unique Experience

The Caledonian Sleeper operates on two main routes: the “Highlander” and the “Lowlander.” The Lowlander service travels to Glasgow and Edinburgh, while the Highlander takes you further north to Aberdeen, Inverness, and Fort William. The latter is particularly spectacular, as the final leg of the journey into Fort William travels along the world-renowned West Highland Line, often considered one of the most scenic rail routes globally.

Waking up as the train glides past misty lochs and dramatic glens is the primary highlight. Unlike daytime scenic journeys, the magic here is in the transition from night to day, revealing a new world outside your window. The service is famed not just for its destination but for the civilised and relaxing experience it provides, immortalised in film and literature.

Actionable Tips for Travellers

To ensure a comfortable and memorable overnight journey, a little preparation makes a significant difference.

• Accommodation Choice: For the best experience, book a Caledonian Double with a double bed and en-suite, or a Club Room with twin bunks and an en-suite. Both include priority club car access and an inclusive breakfast.
• A Good Night’s Sleep: While the new carriages are smoother, light sleepers may benefit from bringing an eye mask and earplugs to ensure an uninterrupted rest.
• Dining Onboard: Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a meal or a nightcap in the Club Car. It serves a range of Scottish-sourced food and drink, including whisky, providing an authentic taste of Scotland before you even arrive.
• Booking in Advance: Cabins, especially the Caledonian Doubles, are limited and sell out quickly. Book well in advance, particularly for travel during peak seasons like summer or the Christmas holidays.

Top 9 European Train Journeys Comparison

Embark on Your Own European Rail Story

From the panoramic domes of the Glacier Express winding through the Swiss Alps to the rugged, untamed beauty of Scotland’s West Highland Line, this exploration of Europe’s railways reveals a profound truth: the journey itself is the destination. We’ve traversed routes steeped in luxury like the legendary Orient Express and uncovered hidden gems like Spain’s Transcantábrico, a rolling five-star hotel along the Bay of Biscay. Each of these trips offers a unique lens through which to view the continent, trading the frantic pace of airports for the civilised, rhythmic click of the tracks.

The real value of choosing rail travel lies in its ability to connect you directly with the landscape. You are not flying over it; you are moving through it. You witness the subtle shift from Italian vineyards to Swiss mountain passes on the Bernina Express and feel the intimate scale of coastal villages aboard the Cinque Terre Express. These experiences are immersive, allowing you to appreciate the journey’s gradual unfolding in a way that other forms of travel simply cannot replicate.

Turning Inspiration into Your Itinerary

Realising your own European rail adventure involves more than just picking a destination. It requires thoughtful planning to transform a great idea into a seamless, unforgettable experience. As we’ve detailed, mastering the nuances of each journey is key.

• Booking Strategy: Remember that for premier services like the Glacier Express or the Golden Pass Line, booking well in advance is not just recommended; it’s essential, particularly for securing those coveted panoramic seats. For regional services like the Flåm Railway, consider the shoulder seasons of late spring or early autumn to enjoy stunning scenery with fewer crowds.
• Maximising the Experience: The best European train journeys are about more than just the view from your window. On the Caledonian Sleeper, for example, the experience is enhanced by arriving refreshed in the heart of London or the Scottish Highlands. For a journey like the West Highland Line, getting off at a station like Corrour to hike a Munro amplifies the adventure tenfold. Don’t just ride the train; engage with the destinations it unlocks.
• Choosing Your Class of Travel: Your comfort level can define your trip. While the historic opulence of the Orient Express is in a class of its own, many other services offer significant upgrades. Opting for Excellence Class on the Glacier Express, for instance, guarantees a window seat, a concierge, and a multi-course meal, transforming a scenic trip into a truly luxurious event. Always weigh the standard offering against the premium alternative to see what best fits your travel style.

The Enduring Allure of the Tracks

Ultimately, what makes these train journeys the best in Europe is their shared ability to foster a deeper, more meaningful connection with your surroundings. They invite you to slow down, to observe the world with intention, and to create memories built not on rushing from one point to another, but on the rich, textured moments in between. Whether you are a solo traveller seeking quiet contemplation, a couple celebrating a milestone, or a family wanting to share a unique adventure, the rails offer a path to a more civilised and rewarding way to explore. The diverse landscapes, historic routes, and engineering marvels we’ve covered are not just items on a list; they are invitations to write your own travel story, one scenic kilometre at a time.

Planning these intricate, multi-faceted journeys can be complex, but it doesn’t need to be. As an Australian-owned specialist, Train Tours is dedicated to curating these extraordinary global journeys, handling all the details so you can simply enjoy the view. Explore our range of European rail holidays and let us help you craft your perfect itinerary by visiting Train Tours.