Are you planning a trip to Europe and want to explore its beautiful landscapes and breathtaking views? Then there’s no better way to do it than by taking a scenic train ride. Europe is home to some of the most picturesque train routes in the world, and in this blog post, we’ll take you on a tour of the 10 best scenic train rides in Europe. So sit back, relax, and let’s begin!
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Are you a train enthusiast looking for an adventure in Europe? Look no further than the Glacier Express in Switzerland. This train ride is one of the most famous and scenic train rides in Europe, taking passengers through the heart of the Swiss Alps.
The Glacier Express is a seven-and-a-half-hour journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz, passing through 91 tunnels and crossing 291 bridges. The train reaches an altitude of 2,033 meters (6,670 feet) at the Oberalp Pass, offering passengers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
One of the highlights of the journey is the Rhine Gorge, known as the “Grand Canyon of Switzerland.” The train travels along the edge of the gorge, providing passengers with breathtaking views of the rugged landscape.
The Glacier Express offers two classes of service, first and second class. Both classes offer comfortable seating and large windows to take in the stunning scenery. First-class passengers also have access to a panoramic viewing car.
The train also passes through charming Swiss villages, including Brig, Andermatt, and Chur. Passengers can stop in these villages to explore and experience the local culture and cuisine.
In conclusion, the Glacier Express is a must-see for anyone visiting Switzerland. This scenic train ride through the Swiss Alps offers breathtaking views and a unique travel experience. So, book your tickets, sit back, and enjoy the ride!
The Flam Railway, Norway
If you’re looking for an unforgettable train ride in Europe, the Flam Railway in Norway should be on your list. This 20-kilometer journey takes you through some of the most stunning scenery you’ll ever see.
The Flam Railway starts in the village of Flam, which is located in the heart of the Norwegian fjords. The train climbs 865 meters up the mountain, through 20 tunnels and across several bridges. The journey takes about an hour, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos and soak in the breathtaking views.
One of the highlights of the Flam Railway is the Kjosfossen waterfall. The train stops here so you can get out and take a closer look at the waterfall. You’ll also see a performance by “Huldra,” a mythical creature from Norwegian folklore.
The Flam Railway is also known for its engineering marvels. The train has to negotiate steep gradients and tight curves, which makes for an exciting ride. The track is also unique, as it’s built into the side of the mountain in some places.
If you’re planning a trip to Norway, make sure you add the Flam Railway to your itinerary. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t forget. Book your tickets in advance to ensure you get a seat, as this train ride is very popular.
The West Highland Line, Scotland
Another must-see scenic train ride in Europe is the West Highland Line in Scotland. This route takes you through the Scottish Highlands, offering breathtaking views of mountains, lochs, and forests.
The West Highland Line starts in Glasgow and goes all the way to Mallaig, passing through famous landmarks like Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, and the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The journey takes around 5 hours, but with so much to see, you won’t notice the time passing.
One of the highlights of the West Highland Line is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you may recognize from the Harry Potter movies. The train stops here, giving you the perfect opportunity to take photos of the stunning scenery.
Another highlight is the village of Mallaig, which is located on the coast and offers stunning views of the sea and nearby islands. You can also take a ferry from Mallaig to the Isle of Skye, which is another must-see destination in Scotland.
The West Highland Line is also known for its comfortable and luxurious train carriages. You can choose to travel in first class, which offers more space and complimentary food and drinks.
If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, make sure you add the West Highland Line to your itinerary. It’s a perfect way to experience the beauty of the Scottish Highlands in comfort and style.
In conclusion, the West Highland Line is a gem among Europe’s scenic train rides, offering stunning views, comfortable carriages, and famous landmarks. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this unforgettable journey on your next trip to Scotland.
The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
For a truly epic train journey in Europe, the Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia should be at the top of your list. This legendary route takes you across Russia, from Moscow to Vladivostok, covering a distance of over 9,000 kilometers.
The Trans-Siberian Railway is known for its stunning landscapes, which include the vast Siberian wilderness, the Ural Mountains, and the shores of Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest lake. The journey takes around 7 days, and you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the breathtaking scenery.
One of the highlights of the Trans-Siberian Railway is the city of Irkutsk, which is located near Lake Baikal. Here, you can take a boat tour of the lake, visit local villages, and even go dog-sledding in the winter.
Another highlight is the city of Yekaterinburg, which is located on the border between Europe and Asia. You can visit the famous Church on the Blood, which was built on the site where the Romanov family was executed in 1918.
The Trans-Siberian Railway is also known for its comfortable and well-equipped train carriages. You can choose to travel in first class, which offers private cabins and en-suite bathrooms.
If you’re planning a trip to Russia, the Trans-Siberian Railway is a must-experience journey that offers a unique glimpse into Russia’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
In conclusion, the Trans-Siberian Railway is a legendary scenic train rides in Europe that offers stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and comfortable travel. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on this epic journey and create unforgettable memories.
The Golden Pass Line, Switzerland
If you’re looking for a picturesque train ride in Europe, the Golden Pass Line in Switzerland should be on your list. This route takes you from Montreux to Lucerne, passing through the stunning Swiss Alps and picturesque towns along the way.
The journey on the Golden Pass Line is split into three sections, each offering unique and breathtaking scenery. The first section takes you from Montreux to Zweisimmen, where you’ll pass through vineyards, forests, and mountain villages.
The second section takes you from Zweisimmen to Interlaken, passing through the Simmental Valley and offering panoramic views of the Alps. You’ll also pass through the charming towns of Gstaad and Saanen.
The third section takes you from Interlaken to Lucerne, passing through the famous Brünig Pass and offering stunning views of Lake Brienz and Lake Lucerne.
One of the highlights of the Golden Pass Line is the panoramic train carriage, which features large windows that offer unobstructed views of the scenery. You can also choose to travel in first class, which offers more space and complimentary food and drinks.
Another highlight is the charming town of Montreux, which is located on the shores of Lake Geneva and offers stunning views of the lake and the Alps.
In conclusion, the Golden Pass Line is a must-see Scenic train rides in Europe, offering stunning scenery, comfortable travel, and cultural experiences. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the beauty of Switzerland on this unforgettable journey.
The Bernina Express, Switzerland
Are you looking for an unforgettable train journey through Europe? Look no further than the Bernina Express in Switzerland. This train ride offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and is a must-see for any traveler visiting Switzerland.
The Bernina Express travels through the Swiss Alps from Chur to Tirano, Italy, crossing 196 bridges and 55 tunnels along the way. The train reaches an altitude of 2,253 meters (7,391 feet) at the Bernina Pass, providing passengers with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
One of the highlights of the journey is the Landwasser Viaduct, a 65-meter-high (213 feet) railway bridge that spans the Landwasser River. The bridge is a masterpiece of engineering and is a popular spot for photos.
The train also passes through picturesque Swiss villages, including Poschiavo and Brusio. Passengers can stop in these villages to explore and take in the local culture.
The Bernina Express offers different classes of service, including standard, panoramic, and first-class. The panoramic and first-class cars have large windows that offer even better views of the stunning scenery.
The Caledonian Sleeper, Scotland
For a unique train journey in Europe, the Caledonian Sleeper in Scotland is a must-ride experience. This overnight train takes you from London to various destinations in Scotland, including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness, and Aberdeen.
The Caledonian Sleeper is known for its comfortable sleeper cabins, which offer a private space to rest and relax during the journey. You can choose between a range of cabin types, including Standard, Club, and Suite, each offering different levels of comfort and luxury.
One of the highlights of the Caledonian Sleeper is the stunning scenery you’ll pass through on the journey. You’ll travel through the Scottish Highlands, passing by rugged mountains, picturesque lochs, and charming villages.
Another highlight is the opportunity to disembark at various destinations along the way and explore Scotland’s cultural and natural attractions. You can visit the historic Edinburgh Castle, explore the vibrant city of Glasgow, or take a boat tour of the famous Loch Ness.
The Caledonian Sleeper also offers a range of dining options, including a sit-down restaurant car and a café bar. You can enjoy a range of Scottish dishes and drinks, including haggis, whisky, and locally sourced seafood.
In conclusion, the Caledonian Sleeper offers a unique and unforgettable train journey in Scotland, with comfortable cabins, stunning scenery, and cultural experiences. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Scotland’s beauty and charm on this one-of-a-kind journey.
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The Belgrade-Bar Railway, Montenegro
For a unique train journey in Europe, the Belgrade-Bar Railway in Montenegro is a must-see experience. This route takes you from the Serbian capital of Belgrade to the Montenegrin coastal town of Bar, passing through stunning scenery and offering cultural experiences along the way.
The Belgrade-Bar Railway is known for its breathtaking scenery, as it passes through the rugged landscapes of Montenegro’s mountains and canyons. You’ll travel through the Tara River Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, and cross over the Mala Rijeka viaduct, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
One of the highlights of the Belgrade-Bar Railway is the opportunity to experience Montenegro’s cultural and historical attractions along the way. You can visit the historic towns of Kolasin and Podgorica, explore the medieval fortress of Ostrog, or relax on the beaches of Bar.
The Belgrade-Bar Railway offers a range of travel options, including first and second-class seats, as well as couchettes and sleeper cabins for overnight journeys. You can enjoy a range of onboard amenities, including a restaurant car, a bar, and stunning views from the train’s panoramic windows.
The Cinque Terre Express, Italy
Looking for the most breathtaking train rides in Europe? The Cinque Terre Express in Italy should be on your bucket list. This scenic train ride will take you through five charming seaside villages on the Italian Riviera, offering stunning views of the Ligurian Sea and colorful houses built into the rugged cliffs.
Starting from La Spezia, the Cinque Terre Express makes stops at Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. Each village has its unique character, with colorful houses, narrow streets, and charming harbors. You can hop off the train at any stop to explore and experience the local culture, cuisine, and stunning landscapes.
The Cinque Terre Express runs frequently during the day, making it easy to plan your itinerary. The trains are clean, modern, and comfortable, ensuring you have a pleasant and enjoyable journey. You can sit back, relax, and take in the beauty of the Italian Riviera as you travel between the villages.
In conclusion, the Cinque Terre Express is a must-do experience for any traveler seeking stunning train rides in Europe. Don’t miss the chance to explore the beautiful seaside villages of the Italian Riviera and capture unforgettable memories.
The Rauma Railway, Norway
For those seeking a scenic train ride in Europe, the Rauma Railway in Norway is an excellent choice. This train journey takes you through some of Norway’s most stunning landscapes, including towering mountains, deep valleys, and picturesque rivers.
One of the highlights of the Rauma Railway is the famous Troll Wall, Europe’s highest vertical rock face, which you’ll see towering above you on the journey. The train also passes by the Kylling Bridge, a popular spot for photos due to its dramatic setting over the Rauma River.
As you ride along the Rauma Railway, you’ll also have the opportunity to take in stunning views of the Romsdalen Valley, which is known for its dramatic mountain peaks and cascading waterfalls. You’ll pass through tunnels, over bridges, and across viaducts, offering a unique perspective on Norway’s rugged terrain.
Conclusion
Europe is home to some of the most scenic train rides in the world, each offering its own unique views and experiences. Whether you’re looking for stunning alpine scenery, charming coastal villages, or rugged landscapes, there’s a train ride in Europe that will take you there. So next time you plan a trip to Europe, consider taking one of these scenic train rides to experience the beauty of the continent in a unique and unforgettable way.
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