There’s something undeniably magical about train travel in Europe. Picture this: you’re sipping coffee by the window, watching medieval towns, snow-capped peaks, and rolling vineyards glide past like a live painting. From the luxurious to the scenic, train travel across Europe is not just a means to an end—it’s the journey that becomes the adventure.
At Travel Express, we believe that every traveler should experience the romance of European rail travel. So we’ve handpicked some of the most iconic train journeys across the continent, whether you’re after heart-stirring alpine panoramas, coastal charm, or cultural immersion.
Here are the Top European Train Journeys that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
1. The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Duration: ~8 hours
Highlight: Breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps
Often referred to as the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express is anything but dull. Traveling between the glamorous ski resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz, this journey offers panoramic views of dramatic peaks, lush meadows, deep valleys, and stunning viaducts.
The most iconic sight? The Landwasser Viaduct—a 65-meter high stone bridge curving into a mountain tunnel.
đź’ˇ Travel Express Tip: Book a seat in the Excellence Class for a five-star dining experience and front-row panoramic windows.
2. The Bernina Express (Switzerland to Italy)
Route: Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy
Duration: ~4 hours
Highlight: UNESCO-listed Rhaetian Railway
This isn’t just a train ride—it’s a UNESCO World Heritage journey. The Bernina Express connects alpine Switzerland to the sunny vineyards of Italy, crossing 196 bridges and passing through 55 tunnels.
You’ll marvel at the Morteratsch Glacier, loop around the famous Brusio spiral viaduct, and descend from snowy mountain passes into palm-fringed Italian towns—all without changing seats.
đź’ˇ Travel Express Tip: Travel in spring or autumn for fewer crowds and dazzling seasonal colors.
3. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Across Europe)
Route: London or Paris to Venice (and beyond)
Duration: 1–2 days
Highlight: Ultimate luxury and 1920s glamour
If you’re craving old-world opulence, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is your dream ticket. Operated by Belmond, this legendary train harks back to the golden age of travel, complete with vintage carriages, polished wood, and liveried staff.
The route from London or Paris to Venice takes you through French countryside and Swiss lakes, culminating in the romantic waterways of Venice.
💡 Travel Express Tip: Dress the part—formal evening wear is encouraged for dinner in the dining cars.
4. The West Highland Line (Scotland)
Route: Glasgow to Mallaig
Duration: ~5 hours
Highlight: Harry Potter’s famous Glenfinnan Viaduct
This Scottish gem is often dubbed one of the most scenic railways in the world. From Glasgow, the train ventures into the rugged Scottish Highlands, past shimmering lochs, remote moorlands, and misty peaks.
The highlight? Crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films.
đź’ˇ Travel Express Tip: For an extra treat, ride the vintage Jacobite Steam Train during summer months on this same route.
5. Cinque Terre Train (Italy)
Route: La Spezia to Levanto (via Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore)
Duration: ~30 minutes (entire route)
Highlight: Coastal views and colorful villages
Though short, this route packs a punch. The Cinque Terre train connects five stunning cliffside villages along the Italian Riviera, offering Instagram-worthy views of the Ligurian Sea.
The train tunnels in and out of coastal hills, offering quick peeks at fishing boats, colorful homes, and terraced vineyards.
đź’ˇ Travel Express Tip: Hop off at each stop to explore local cuisine, tiny beaches, and hiking trails.
6. The Rhine Valley Line (Germany)
Route: Mainz to Koblenz
Duration: ~1.5 hours
Highlight: Castles, vineyards, and the mighty Rhine
For a fairytale journey through Germany’s castle country, hop aboard the Rhine Valley train. This scenic route hugs the riverbanks, winding past medieval villages, vine-clad hills, and over 40 castles perched dramatically above the Rhine.
Look out for the legendary Lorelei Rock—a cliff steeped in folklore and beauty.
đź’ˇ Travel Express Tip: Sit on the left side of the train for the best river views going northbound.
7. The Train des Pignes (France)
Route: Nice to Digne-les-Bains
Duration: ~3 hours
Highlight: Provence countryside
Escape the glitz of the French Riviera and head into the heart of Provence aboard the Train des Pignes. This narrow-gauge railway winds through lavender fields, olive groves, and sleepy hilltop villages.
The train feels like a trip back in time, perfect for those who want to explore rural France without the crowds.
đź’ˇ Travel Express Tip: Visit in June or July for blooming lavender fields.
8. The Lapland Santa Express (Finland)
Route: Helsinki to Rovaniemi
Duration: Overnight (approx. 12 hours)
Highlight: Northern lights and Arctic Circle magic
Want to meet Santa Claus? Take the Santa Express from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa and gateway to Lapland.
This sleeper train is perfect for families and adventure seekers. Ride through snowy forests, cross into the Arctic Circle, and if you’re lucky, catch the Aurora Borealis dancing in the sky.
đź’ˇ Travel Express Tip: Book a private sleeping cabin with a shower for extra comfort.
9. The GoldenPass Line (Switzerland)
Route: Lucerne to Montreux
Duration: ~5.5 hours
Highlight: Swiss lakes, chalet towns, and vineyards
Switzerland spoils travelers with epic train rides, and the GoldenPass Line is no exception. This route links the German- and French-speaking parts of the country, crossing Lake Lucerne, quaint chalets, alpine forests, and ending on the palm-lined shores of Lake Geneva.
With its stylish Belle Époque carriages, this journey combines comfort with timeless elegance.
đź’ˇ Travel Express Tip: Break the journey in Interlaken for a detour to the Jungfrau region.
10. Madrid to Seville on the AVE (Spain)
Route: Madrid to Seville
Duration: ~2.5 hours
Highlight: Speed meets southern Spanish charm
If you’re short on time but want to experience Andalusian culture, hop on the AVE (Alta Velocidad Española). This high-speed train zips you from Madrid to Seville, the sultry heart of southern Spain, in just a few hours.
You’ll pass olive groves, sunburnt plains, and vibrant cities—all while relaxing in first-class comfort.
đź’ˇ Travel Express Tip: Arrive in Seville in time for an evening flamenco show and tapas crawl.
Why Train Travel in Europe is Unmissable
- 🚉 Eco-friendly: Trains emit significantly less CO₂ than planes.
- 🧳 No baggage fees: Bring your favorite outfits without weighing your wallet down.
- 🌍 Seamless connections: Europe’s rail network is one of the best in the world.
- 🏞️ Views you can’t get from 30,000 feet: From mountain peaks to coastal towns, train windows offer the best front-row seats.
Planning Your European Rail Adventure
Before you pack your bags, consider these Travel Express pro tips:
- Rail Passes: If you’re traveling to multiple countries, consider a Eurail Pass for flexible, cost-effective travel.
- Seat Reservations: Some scenic and high-speed trains require reservations—book early!
- Travel Light: While there’s no strict baggage limit, compact luggage makes hopping on and off easier.
- Timing: Off-season (spring or fall) offers fewer crowds, lower prices, and beautiful colors.
