19 Breathtaking Scenic Train Journeys Across Europe For Your Bucket List
Europe is home to some of the world’s most scenic train journeys, offering travelers the chance to explore breathtaking landscapes in comfort and style. From the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps to the rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands, these iconic routes take you through diverse and stunning terrain. Whether you’re crossing vast mountain ranges, winding through lush valleys, or traveling along picturesque coastlines, these 19 scenic train rides provide an immersive way to experience Europe’s natural beauty. Perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind, these journeys are sure to leave lasting memories.
1. Flåm Railway – Norway (Myrdal to Flåm)
Embark on the Flåm Railway, one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world, offering an unforgettable journey through Norway’s stunning landscapes. This 12.4-mile ride ascends from sea level in Flåm to 2,844 feet at Myrdal, taking passengers through 20 tunnels and offering panoramic views of dramatic fjords, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls.
As the train climbs through the steep mountainsides, you’ll witness the beauty of Norway’s natural wonders, making this scenic ride one of the most awe-inspiring in the world. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, the Flåm Railway promises a truly breathtaking experience.
2. Bernina Express – Switzerland and Italy (Chur to Tirano)
Traverse the Swiss Alps aboard the Bernina Express, a UNESCO World Heritage route connecting Chur, Switzerland, to Tirano, Italy. This unforgettable 4-hour journey covers 121 miles, crossing 196 bridges and passing through 55 tunnels. As it climbs to elevations of up to 7,398 feet, the train offers spectacular views of alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and deep valleys. Along the way, you’ll witness an incredible transformation of landscapes, from the serene beauty of high mountain terrain to the warmer, palm-lined streets of Italy. The Bernina Express is truly one of the most scenic train rides in Europe, offering an unparalleled experience.
3. Glacier Express – Switzerland (Zermatt to St. Moritz)
Experience the Glacier Express, a panoramic train journey linking Zermatt to St. Moritz in Switzerland. Spanning nearly eight hours, this 181-mile ride takes you through 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, crossing the heart of the Swiss Alps. As the train winds its way through majestic landscapes, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of deep gorges, lush valleys, and towering, snow-capped peaks. The journey offers a unique perspective of Switzerland’s natural beauty, with its stunning Alpine scenery and pristine wilderness. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, the Glacier Express is a must-do experience for any traveler.
4. West Highland Line – Scotland (Glasgow to Mallaig)
The West Highland Line offers a captivating journey from Glasgow to Mallaig, showcasing the best of Scotland’s rugged beauty. This scenic route takes you through enchanting lochs, vast moorlands, and remote valleys, with a highlight being the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, famously featured in the Harry Potter films.
As you travel through the Scottish Highlands, you’ll experience breathtaking views of wild landscapes, including pristine forests and towering mountains. Voted the world’s most scenic rail journey, the West Highland Line provides an authentic taste of Scotland’s natural charm, making it an unmissable experience for any traveler.
5. Bergen Railway – Norway (Oslo to Bergen)
The Bergen Railway is a spectacular journey that connects Oslo to Bergen, cutting across Norway’s vast landscapes. Over a 7-hour ride, the train takes you through the stunning Hardangervidda plateau, the largest mountain plateau in Europe. Along the way, you’ll witness striking fjords, snow-capped peaks, and scenic waterfalls, all while crossing one of Europe’s most picturesque regions. The route offers a tranquil experience, giving travelers a chance to immerse themselves in Norway’s untouched wilderness. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this train ride is sure to leave a lasting impression.
6. Inlandsbanan – Sweden (Kristinehamn to Gällivare)
Hop aboard the Inlandsbanan for a journey through Sweden’s wild heart. This long stretch from Kristinehamn to Gällivare offers a captivating blend of serene lakes, dense forests, and rolling plains. As you travel over 500 miles through Sweden’s interior, you’ll have the chance to witness the untouched beauty of the Swedish countryside. The route also offers opportunities to spot wildlife like moose and reindeer, making it an adventure into the country’s true wilderness. Perfect for those who want to escape into nature, the Inlandsbanan is a peaceful, unspoiled escape.
7. Belgrade to Bar Railway – Serbia and Montenegro (Belgrade to Bar)
The Belgrade to Bar Railway is a fascinating journey through the heart of the Balkans, connecting Serbia and Montenegro. As the train navigates through the Dinaric Alps, it offers breathtaking views of rugged terrain, deep valleys, and rushing rivers.
Over 250 bridges and 20 tunnels bring you through this dramatic landscape, with each curve revealing a new, awe-inspiring view. This route provides a unique opportunity to experience the Balkan mountains in all their raw beauty, making it a must for travelers who enjoy an adventurous and scenic rail journey.
8. Gotthard Panorama Express – Switzerland (Lucerne to Lugano)
Set out on the Gotthard Panorama Express, a unique experience that blends a scenic train ride with a boat cruise on Lake Lucerne. Starting from Lucerne, the train cuts through the Swiss Alps, offering stunning views of towering mountains and lush valleys. After reaching Flüelen, you’ll transition onto a boat that glides across the lake, providing even more breathtaking panoramas of the Swiss landscape. This journey offers travelers the best of both worlds, with majestic alpine views on the train and a tranquil lake experience to cap off the ride.
9. Douro Line – Portugal (Porto to Pocinho)
The Douro Line invites you to travel through Portugal’s wine country, with a scenic journey from Porto to Pocinho. Winding through the Douro River valley, the train offers spectacular views of terraced vineyards, verdant hills, and charming riverside villages.
As you travel deeper into one of Europe’s oldest wine regions, you’ll be enveloped by the natural beauty and historical significance of the area. This ride offers more than just scenic landscapes; it’s an immersion into the culture and heritage of Portugal’s wine-producing heartland, making it a memorable experience.
10. Semmering Railway – Austria (Gloggnitz to Semmering)
Discover the Semmering Railway, a historic route that offers a journey through Austria’s stunning alpine landscape. Connecting Gloggnitz to Semmering, this 25-mile route traverses mountainous terrain, providing panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. With 14 viaducts and 16 tunnels, this railway showcases impressive engineering feats, as well as the natural beauty of the Alps. The slow pace of the train allows you to take in the spectacular scenery, from lush forests to rugged mountainsides. This route is a true testament to the harmony between human ingenuity and the grandeur of nature.
11. Black Forest Railway – Germany (Offenburg to Singen)
Board the Black Forest Railway for a charming ride through Germany’s most enchanting forested region. Stretching from Offenburg to Singen, the 90-mile journey takes you through dense woods, picturesque villages, and rolling hills. The train crosses numerous tunnels and viaducts, offering dramatic views of the Black Forest’s deep valleys and high ridges. This railway is a peaceful retreat into nature, where the quiet beauty of the forest and the quaint villages that dot the landscape make the Black Forest Railway a truly serene experience.
12. Centovalli Railway – Switzerland and Italy (Domodossola to Locarno)
The Centovalli Railway offers a breathtaking passage between Italy and Switzerland, taking you from Domodossola to Locarno. Known for its dramatic scenery, the train journeys through 32 miles of picturesque landscapes, passing over bridges, through tunnels, and along steep hillsides.
As you move through this stunning area, the train’s slow pace gives you time to appreciate the deep valleys, gorges, and alpine meadows that define the region. Whether you’re marveling at the Swiss Alps or the Italian countryside, the Centovalli Railway offers a journey full of unforgettable views.
13. Jacobite Steam Train – Scotland (Fort William to Mallaig)
Step back in time aboard the Jacobite Steam Train, a historic ride through the Scottish Highlands. Running from Fort William to Mallaig, the train offers a magical journey through rugged landscapes, including the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. As the train winds through tranquil lochs, expansive moors, and towering mountains, it captures the very essence of Scotland’s wild beauty. Featured in the Harry Potter films, the Jacobite Steam Train provides an unforgettable experience for both film fans and nature lovers, transporting you to one of the world’s most scenic and mysterious landscapes.
14. Le Train Jaune – France (Pyrenees)
Le Train Jaune, or the Yellow Train, offers a stunning ride through the Pyrenees, traveling from Villefranche-de-Conflent to Latour-de-Carol. As the train climbs high into the mountains, it provides striking views of jagged peaks, alpine meadows, and rolling hills.
The 1,500-meter ascent offers a dramatic change in scenery, transitioning from lush valleys to rugged mountain landscapes. This train journey is a unique way to experience the natural beauty of southern France, with the combination of high-altitude views and traditional Pyrenean charm offering a truly distinctive travel experience.
15. Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway – Switzerland and Italy (Locarno to Domodossola)
Embark on the Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway, a scenic route connecting Locarno in Switzerland to Domodossola in Italy. This 33-mile journey takes you through the stunning valleys and forests of the Swiss Alps, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The train’s leisurely pace allows you to appreciate the picturesque villages nestled in the hills and the natural beauty of both countries. As you travel through tunnels and across bridges, you’ll see dramatic landscapes unfold before your eyes, making this ride a memorable journey for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape.
16. Amalfi Coast Line – Italy (Amalfi Coast)
Experience Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast aboard a train that offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean. Traveling between Naples and Salerno, the Amalfi Coast Line runs along the cliffs, providing unparalleled vistas of turquoise waters, rocky shores, and sun-kissed villages perched above the sea.
As the train weaves its way through the coastline, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of Italy’s iconic coastal landscape. This train ride is the perfect way to experience the charm of southern Italy, with dramatic views of the coastline blending effortlessly with the region’s vibrant culture and history.
17. Transcantábrico – Spain (Northern Coast)
Take a luxurious journey aboard the Transcantábrico along Spain’s northern coast. From León to Santiago de Compostela, this 8-day route allows you to immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of the Cantabrian Mountains, with views of verdant meadows, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal villages.
The Transcantábrico offers a comfortable, leisurely pace, with stops that allow you to explore the region’s historical towns and stunning coastal scenery. This opulent train journey is perfect for those who want to combine cultural exploration with stunning natural beauty, offering a lavish way to experience northern Spain’s highlights.
18. Orient Express – Europe (Paris to Istanbul)
Indulge in the timeless elegance of the Orient Express, a luxury train journey that has become synonymous with glamour and sophistication. Historically connecting Paris to Istanbul, this legendary train takes you through a variety of European landscapes, offering a taste of the continent’s rich cultural heritage. As you travel through bustling cities, scenic valleys, and rolling hills, you’ll enjoy impeccable service and elegant surroundings. Whether you’re drawn to its storied past or its exquisite luxury, the Orient Express offers an unforgettable experience that captures the romance and charm of European rail travel.
19. Belmond Royal Scotsman – Scotland
The Belmond Royal Scotsman offers a luxurious journey through the heart of Scotland’s stunning Highlands. With its elegant interiors and impeccable service, this train provides an unforgettable way to explore Scotland’s rugged beauty.
As you travel through the rolling hills and deep valleys, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of serene lochs, vast moors, and historic castles. The train’s slow pace allows you to take in the scenery at your leisure, making it an ideal experience for those seeking a mix of comfort, adventure, and the natural grandeur of the Scottish Highlands.
