Train Travel in Europe: The Scenic Routes You Must Ride Before You Die

Watching life go by through the enormous train windows has a certain appeal, almost like a scene from a film. At 36,000 feet above ground, you escape the turbulence of airports and the misery of densely packed seats.

Although flying is quicker, train travel in Europe offers a closer link to the center of the continent . You instead embrace the calming beat of the tracks, relish sweeping views resembling exquisite postcards, and savor the luxury of taking your time. Some train routes are just as much about the trip as they are about getting to your destination, whether you travel across snowy mountains, glide by shimmering lakes, or follow a sunlit coast.

Below are the most beautiful train journeys around Europe—experiences everyone should experience at least once in their life.

🚂 1. Glacier Express – Switzerland

Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz

Duration: ~8 hours

Why ride it: The greatest scenic experience is this train. Often referred to as the "world's slowest express train," it meanders through the Swiss Alps, passing 291 bridges, traversing 91 tunnels, and attaining an elevation of more than 2,000 meters at the magnificent Oberalp Pass.

Imagine: snow-covered mountains, beautiful alpine villages, and steep gorges—all viewed via big windows extending to the ceiling.

Pro tip: If your budget allows, book a seat in "Excellence Class." It provides a lavish trip replete with gourmet food and spectacular vistas.

🌲 2. Flåm Railway – Norway

Route: Myrdal to Flåm

Duration: ~1 hour

Why ride it: It’s short—but spectacular. This scenic train descends nearly 3,000 feet through steep mountains, cascading waterfalls, and fjord-filled valleys.

You’ll pass traditional Norwegian farms clinging to hillsides and glimpse the Kjosfossen waterfall from a platform where folklore dancers perform in summer.

Insider tip: Sit on the right side of the train when descending for the best views.

🌊 3. Cinque Terre Express – Italy

Route: La Spezia to Levanto (via Cinque Terre)

Duration: ~30 minutes

Why ride it: Short, sweet, and stunning. This coastal line links the five colorful cliffside villages of the Cinque Terre, with intermittent ocean views, terraced vineyards, and tunnels that burst into daylight with postcard-worthy moments.

Insider tip: Hop off at each village for seafood, wine, and gelato. A Cinque Terre Train Card offers unlimited rides in one day.

🏔️ 4. Bernina Express – Switzerland to Italy

Route: Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy

Duration: ~4 hours

Why ride it: This UNESCO World Heritage train takes you from glacial valleys to palm-lined streets—all without changing seats. You'll cross the Landwasser Viaduct, spiral through mountain tunnels, and coast through the dramatic Bernina Pass.

Ending your ride in Italy with a scoop of gelato? That’s just the bonus.

Insider tip: Take the optional Bus to Lugano from Tirano afterward for a full Alps-to-Lake adventure.

🌾 5. West Highland Line – Scotland

Route: Glasgow to Mallaig

Duration: ~5.5 hours

Why ride it: If you’ve seen the Harry Potter films, you’ve glimpsed this route—the Glenfinnan Viaduct is where the Hogwarts Express puffed along.

But this isn’t just for film fans. You’ll pass lochs, moors, misty highlands, and sheep-dotted fields. It’s wild, raw, and hauntingly beautiful.

Insider tip: Book the Jacobite Steam Train (summer only) for the full magical experience.

⛅ 6. Bergen Line – Norway

Route: Oslo to Bergen

Duration: ~7 hours

Why ride it: Europe’s highest mainline railway takes you across the Hardangervidda plateau—icy tundras, deep forests, and glassy lakes all roll past your window.

Winter rides feel like entering a snow globe. In summer, the green landscapes stretch into the sky.

Insider tip: Combine this with the Flåm Railway and a fjord cruise for Norway’s “Norway in a Nutshell” experience.

🌻 7. Thello Night Train – France to Italy (currently under re-evaluation)

Route: Paris to Venice (service paused, but expected to relaunch)

Duration: Overnight (~14 hours)

Why ride it: Sleep in Paris, wake up floating into Venice. This route combines romance and efficiency.

While Thello trains were paused due to COVID and reorganization, the European night train revival movement is strong, and a relaunch is highly anticipated.

Insider tip: Once it’s back, choose a sleeper cabin—not just a reclining seat—for the full nostalgic magic.

🧳 Why Train Travel Is Making a Comeback in 2025

Eco-friendly: Trains emit significantly less CO₂ than planes.

Comfort: More legroom, scenic windows, no airport security drama.

Connectivity: Wi-Fi, power outlets, and snack carts galore.

Flexibility: Many scenic routes allow hop-on, hop-off passes or local exploration.

Mindfulness: Slow travel lets you connect deeply with the landscapes—and yourself.

In an age of digital burnout and climate anxiety, slow travel feels like a healing rebellion.

✨ Final Thoughts: Ride the Journey, Not Just the Destination

In Europe, the journey is the destination. These trains aren’t just transportation—they’re an experience.

Whether you're chasing glaciers, cliffside vineyards, or wild highlands, every one of these scenic routes offers something flights never will: time to reflect, to breathe, and to fall in love with the places you pass.

So don’t just check cities off a list. Let the rails carry you deeper. Let the windows tell you stories. Let slow travel remind you what travel used to be—and what it should be again.