10 Best Train Journeys in Europe You Must Take for a Lifetime Experience

You’ve probably heard the saying, “the journey matters as much as the destination,” from seasoned travellers. When you’re on a train in Europe, it actually feels true when you pass through mountains, lakes, and random tiny villages that appear to be right out of a storybook. With train stations in the city center and the opportunity to skip the whole airport hassle, the best train journeys in Europe are not only popular but also a convenient option.

Picture yourself on a trip via WanderOn Europe holiday packages and travelling on routes like the Glacier Express through the Swiss Alps, the Douro Line across Portugal’s wine valleys, or the West Highland Line in Scotland. In addition to the picturesque views, you can get up, walk around, grab something to eat, and even stretch a bit when you are travelling via train.

These scenic experiences are especially ideal for couples looking to add a romantic touch to their journey with Europe honeymoon packages, where every route becomes a memorable part of the trip.

Here is a handpicked list of Europe’s most memorable train rides, where the experience matters just as much as the scenery.

1. Glacier Express (Switzerland)
   Picture sitting on a train and feeling like being inside a moving glass box with the views of snow-covered Alpine peaks. You can experience one of the best train journeys in Europe on the Glacier Express that runs between Zermatt and St. Moritz. The 8-hour journey takes you through deep valleys and tiny mountain villages, covering a distance of about 290–300 km. One of the coolest moments on the journey is when you cross the Landwasser Viaduct, the dramatic stone bridge that curves straight into a tunnel.

1. Bernina Express (Switzerland to Italy)
   While riding the Bernina Express from Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, you can see a change in scenery just like your mood as you pass through some of the most beautiful countries in Europe.

You go from icy Alpine landscapes to almost Mediterranean vibes in just 4-5 hours on this famous train trip in Europe. It’s also part of the UNESCO-listed Rhaetian Railway and promises you a sight of crystal-clear alpine lakes like Lago Bianco and Morteratsch Glacier.

1. West Highland Line (Scotland)
   Running from Glasgow to Mallaig, the West Highland Line is among the best train rides in Europe, taking you deep into the remotest parts of the Scottish Highlands. When you see the Glenfinnan Viaduct, you’ll probably be instantly reminded of those Harry Potter scenes. It is among the longer train journeys, which take you through endless stretches of moorland and hills.

2. Flåm Railway (Norway)
   The Flåm Railway, which runs from Myrdal to the fjord-side village of Flåm, is among the most beautiful train rides in Europe. Though it’s an hour-long journey, it takes you through steep valleys, tunnels, and past waterfalls that seem to appear out of nowhere. One of the highlights of this trip is that you can hop off for photos at the Kjosfossen waterfall.

3. Cinque Terre Train (Italy)
   Looking for famous train trips in Europe where you can get off, explore a new village along the coast of Italy, and hop back on when you’re ready? The Cinque Terre Train in Italy runs every 20 minutes between the five Cinque Terre villages of Levanto, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, and La Spezia. The best part of this trip is that you’ll get constant sea views without the need to plan much and just have fun.

4. GoldenPass Line (Switzerland)
   When you are riding on the GoldenPass line in Switzerland, you’ll be next to a lake at one time, then you’re climbing into the mountains, and by the end, you’re passing through vineyards. Passing through Swiss villages from Lucerne to Montreux makes it one of the best train journeys in Europe. If you’re lucky, you can get one of the front-seat “VIP” or driver-view seats that give a direct view of the tracks ahead.

5. Jacobite Steam Train (Scotland)
   If you’re even a little into old-school train travel, the Jacobite Steam Train is one of those experiences that just feels special right from the beginning. Often called the Hogwarts Express, it runs between Fort William and Mallaig and passes through Lochs and rugged Highland landscapes of Scotland. You can experience this 2-hour vintage train journey to understand how an actual steam train, with that classic look, sounds, and even the smell that kind of takes you back in time a bit.

6. Black Forest Railway (Germany)
   When you take the Black Forest Railway, you can explore Germany’s famous Black Forest region, known for its deep forest areas, quiet valleys, and small towns. While you may feel the route is quieter, but the scenery keeps on enchanting you with every turn. It runs from Offenburg to Singen for a distance of 149 km.

7. Douro Line (Portugal)
   You can explore the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while riding on the Douro Line that runs from Porto to Pocinho. The 3-4 hour journey offers some superb views of vineyards and the steep terraced slopes of Portugal. If you are looking for a slower and more relaxed train journey, then the Douro Line is among the best train journeys in Europe.

8. Transcantábrico (Spain)
   You need to experience it yourself to understand why the Transcantábrico along northern Spain is often mentioned among the best luxury train journeys in Europe. With private cabins, gourmet meals, and guided excursions built into the trip, this train journey is like a hotel on rails. In addition to the charm of places such as Santander, Oviedo, Gijón, and Bilbao, the train also treats you to ever-changing coastal views and lush green landscapes.

Some Honest Tips Before You Book

Have your reservations for scenic train trips in Europe, like the Glacier Express and Bernia Express well in advance.

On some routes, one side of the train has noticeably better views, so it’s advised that you check in advance during your ticket booking.

Plan your trip considering the best season for train rides and keeping track of weather conditions in mind.

Are you ready to add a new chapter to your European adventures about the one told through scenic train journeys that are so much more than just lines on a map? These scenic train trips in Europe give you more than just ease of travel across countries. All you need to do is sit there and look out the window while the changing landscapes make it a kind of experience that you cannot forget easily.