The 10 Best Train Journeys in Europe

There’s something magical about a long train journey, just relaxing in a comfortable seat while you wind your way through towering mountains and green pastures. If you’re planning a vacation to Europe, consider exploring the beautiful continent on an epic train ride. Not only is it an environmentally friendly form of travel, it’s the perfect opportunity to sit back, relax, and enjoy the views. To help inspire you, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best train journeys in Europe.

Train travel is one of the most comfortable means of transportation, and its romantic and ethereal charm makes any train ride a travel experience hard to forget. Plan a special kind of vacation and travel off the beaten path (or rails) for the ultimate adventure. All aboard!

1. Bernina Express, from Switzerland to Italy

Total Travel Time: around 4 hours
Distance Traveled: 156 km (96 mi)

Switzerland is famous for many scenic train routes, and the Bernina Express is undoubtedly one of the best. Connecting the town of St. Moritz with Tirano, Italy, this epic journey winds through the Swiss Alps, passing through the Bernina Landscapes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Leaving from eastern Switzerland, this narrow-gauge train is designed to navigate tight curves and rough, mountainous landscapes. Thanks to its engineering feats, travelers can experience one of the most scenic train routes in Europe!

Settle into your seat as the Bernina Express takes you through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges, where majestic mountains, shimmering lakes, and glistening glaciers come into view around every turn. Our favorite part of the route? When the train reaches the peak of the Bernina Pass, 2,253 m (7,391-ft) high—you have to see it to believe it!

Pro tip: be sure to book your seat reservation at least 3 months in advance, to avoid sold out trains. When you purchase the Swiss Travel Pass, seat reservations are all you need to take care of—access to the Bernina Express is included, making your journey a breeze.

2. Bergen Line, Scandinavian Splendor

Total Travel Time: 7 hours
Distance: 371 km (230 mi)

If you find yourself in the Norwegian capital, don’t miss out on this spellbinding 7-hour train journey through the rugged Nordic landscape. Travel from Oslo to Bergen, crossing the Norwegian countryside and marvel at the splendor of the fjords and glaciers passing by.

When it comes to the best train journeys in Europe, the Bergen Line is a top contender. One of the highlights of the route is crossing Europe’s longest mountain plateau, the Hardangervidda Plateau. Spanning 6,474 sq km (2,500 sq mi), chugging across the plateau is like stepping into a postcard.

Pro Tip: Don’t just admire the fjords from the train—stop at Myrdal station for a second adventure on the Flåm train.

This 20-km (12-mi) ride through Sognefjorden, Europe’s longest and highest fjord, offers breathtaking views of peaks and waterfalls. Its carriages have huge windows that give passengers the best views of the valley’s peaks and waterfalls, making this train ride in Norway even more special. Book your seat on the Flåm Train today and pair it with a boat ride along the Nærøyfjord for the ultimate experience!

3. West Highland Train, Where Magic Meets Folklore

Total Travel Time: 5.5 hours
Distance: 264 km (164 mi)

Scotland, known for its historic castles and breathtaking landscapes, also boasts one of Europe’s most scenic train journeys: the West Highland Train. Departing from Glasgow, this stunning ride takes you through the Scottish Highlands, revealing lochs, moors, and mountains.

One of the route’s main attractions is crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, known to fans as the ‘Harry Potter Bridge!’ Yes, you’ll be riding the same tracks as the Hogwarts Express—wands at the ready!

Pro Tip: The West Highland Train can be a bit of a hot commodity and sell out a few weeks in advance. Thankfully, it’s not the only scenic train journey leaving Glasgow. The Jacobite Train is another fantastic option that offers just as many amazing Scottish views and also crosses the iconic Hogwarts bridge.

And hey, if you’re really here for the Harry Potter of it all, check out this Harry Potter Train Tour during your visit for a magically good time.

4. Linha do Douro, Portugal’s Perfect Getaway

Total Travel Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Distance: 166 km (99 mi)

Hop aboard the Linha do Douro for a scenic ride through the Douro River Valley. While day cruises from Porto are the most popular, consider going off the beaten and opting for a train ride instead through this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As you travel, you’ll be treated to stunning landscapes that showcase the region’s beauty, all from the comfort of your seat.

Pro Tip: This train runs from Porto to Pinhao, leaving from Porto São Bento station. While São Bento is famous for its intricate and beautiful azulejo tilework, it’s not the only ceramic train station in Portugal!

Along the scenic train route, keep your eyes peeled as you pass each station—every one of them showcases the signature beauty of the famous blue and white tiles. Escape the hustle and bustle of the big city for a perfect day trip into the heart of Portugal’s incredible wine country.

5. Cinque Terre Express, Views of the Italian Riviera

Total Travel Time: 40 minutes
Distance: 20 km (12 mi)

If Italy is on your travel radar, then Cinque Terre should definitely be at the top of your travel list! The Cinque Terre Express offers a quick yet scenic ride along the Italian Riviera, allowing you to soak in the stunning coastal views while minimizing your impact as a traveler.

Leaving from La Spezia, this train connects five picturesque villages nestled between towering cliffs and vibrant turquoise waters.

Pro Tip: Some of the best times to visit Italy are during the shoulder seasons, that is, right before and after peak travel season. So plan your trip around early May/June or September/October. And how about that, the Cinque Terre Express conveniently runs from April to October! Book a Cinque Terre Train Tour and fall in love with the Italian Mediterranean.

6. Rhine Valley Line, Germany’s Wine Country

Total Travel Time: 2.5 hours
Distance: 152 km (94 mi)

While many travelers may think first of Germany’s famous cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, or Munich, there’s also a charming wine country waiting to be discovered. And the best part? You can experience it all by train!

The Rhine Valley Line is one of Germany’s most scenic train routes, running along the beautiful Rhine River. A train ride through this region is filled with stunning views of vineyards, medieval castles, and charming villages along the picturesque riverbank.

The Rhine Valley Line is divided into two parts: the Left Bank Line and the Right Bank Line, with both offering a distinct charm and allure.

Pro Tip: The Left Bank Line takes you through major cities like Mainz and Cologne, perfect for indulging in local Riesling wine tastings. With frequent train service, you can easily plan day trips and explore several towns along the way!

7. Le Petite Train Jaune, the Little Engine that Could

Total Travel Time: 4.5 hours
Distance: 63km (39 mi)

So far, we’ve explored tranquil train journeys that showcase breathtaking scenery. Now, let’s elevate the experience with Le Petit Train Jaune, or the Little Yellow Train.

This remarkable rack railway takes you from Villefranche-de-Conflent to Latour-de-Carol, offering not only stunning views but also a little dose of adrenaline.

Perched atop the Pyrenees straddling the borders of France, Spain, and Andorra, this train ride is a rockin’ good time. With open-top carriages, you won’t miss a second of the scenery as you make your way up to the highest train station in France!

8. The Golden Eagle Danube Express, Travel in Luxury

Total Travel Time: 7 days
Distance: 1,832 km (1,138 mi)

Train travel comes in all shapes and sizes, from quick day trips to epic long-haul journeys. While most of the routes we’ve highlighted so far can be completed in a day, the Golden Eagle Danube Express takes things to another level.

For travelers who want more than just breathtaking views and winding through stunning landscapes, the Danube Express offers a luxurious experience. Embark on this unforgettable journey, where you’ll have time to explore the rich history and iconic landmarks of the cities along the route!

9. The Transcantábrico, Northern Spain’s Unseen Beauty

Total Travel Time: 8 days
Distance: 670 km (416 mi)

Northern Spain is a truly captivating place, where rugged mountains, lush meadows, and stunning coastal landscapes come together to create something special. This region has it all—majestic peaks, charming beaches, and dramatic cliffs—making it a must-visit for anyone looking for beauty and adventure.

Journey along the stunning Cantabrian coast aboard the Transcantábrico, a luxurious train route that goes from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela. As you traverse charming towns like Oviedo, Luarca, Santillana del Mar, and Bilbao, you’ll be pampered in the utmost comfort of its opulent carriages, making this a truly unique and unforgettable way to explore the wonders of northern Spain.

10. The Orient Express, Where Glamour Meets Mystery

Total Travel Time: 24 hours
Distance: 1,636 km (1,016 mi)

When you think of train travel, the name Orient Express surely comes to mind. Created in 1883 to connect Paris with Giurgiu, in its heyday this train passed through cities like Strasbourg, Munich, Vienna, Budapest, and Bucharest. Six years later, its railway line was extended to Istanbul, and it was considered one of the most luxurious trains in the world.

 The Orient Express peaked between World War I and II, with three weekly departures from Paris. Royalty, diplomats, millionaires, and illustrious personalities traveled on the Orient Express worldwide.

Despite the discontinuation of many of its operations, the Venice Simplon-Orient Express line is still up and running! Travel from London to Venice in sheer opulence, aboard train cars full of belle époque beauty. Experience the golden age of rail travel!

Train travel in Europe offers not just a means of transportation, but a memorable experience filled with breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and the romance of the journey itself.

Whether you’re seeking a quick getaway or a luxurious adventure, these train journeys are sure to inspire your next vacation. So, grab your tickets, sit back, and enjoy the ride on one of the best train journeys in Europe.