Best Train Rides In Europe

13 ranked items · community-voted

Best Train Rides In Europe

This list showcases some of the most breathtaking and iconic train journeys across Europe, offering travelers unparalleled scenic vistas and cultural experiences. From historic routes to luxury experiences, these train rides provide a unique perspective of Europe's diverse landscapes and rich history.

Bernina Express

1.Bernina Express29085 votes

The Bernina Express connects Switzerland to Italy, traveling across the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bernina Railway line, offering spectacular views of glaciers, mountains, and lush valleys. Its panoramic windows allow passengers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking alpine scenery.

💡 It traverses over the Landwasser Viaduct and offers views of the Morteratsch Glacier, among other highlights.

 Glacier Express

2. Glacier Express26514 votes

Known as the 'Slowest Fast Train in the World,' the Glacier Express offers a leisurely tour through the Swiss Alps, crossing 291 bridges and 91 tunnels. It showcases some of Switzerland’s most iconic mountain scenery, including the Oberalp Pass and Rhine Gorge.

💡 It takes approximately 8 hours from Zermatt to Davos or St. Moritz, making it a full-day scenic adventure.

Eastern & Oriental Express

3.Eastern & Oriental Express14258 votes

This luxury train journey takes travelers through Southeast Asia, from Bangkok to Singapore or Kuala Lumpur, offering a blend of opulence, culture, and scenic landscapes. It features vintage carriages and gourmet dining onboard, passing through lush rainforests and historical sites.

💡 Offers themed journeys like the 'Malacca & Penang' route, featuring local cultural performances and fine dining.

The Trans-Siberian Railway

4.The Trans-Siberian Railway13132 votes

The longest railway line in the world, stretching over 9,289 km from Moscow to Vladivostok. It offers travelers a unique cross-section of Siberian landscapes and cultural diversity.

💡 Completed in 1916, it played a vital role in uniting Russia and remains an iconic journey for adventurous travelers.

The Flam Railway

5.The Flam Railway9500 votes

Running between Myrdal and Flam in Norway, this scenic train ride ascends steeply into the mountains, offering breathtaking views of fjords and waterfalls. It’s considered one of the most scenic train journeys in Europe.

💡 The Flam Railway was originally built to transport lumber and was opened to passengers in 1940.

The Bergen Line

6.The Bergen Line7465 votes

Connecting Oslo and Bergen in Norway, this historic line traverses mountains, forests, and fjords, with stunning views of rural Norway. It has been operating since 1907 and remains one of the most scenic train routes in Europe.

💡 The line has a reputation for scenic beauty and was originally built to connect remote rural areas to the capital.

The Douro Line (Vía de la Plata)

7.The Douro Line (Vía de la Plata)6323 votes

This historic train route traces Portugal's Douro River, offering stunning river valley views and vineyard landscapes. It provides a unique way to explore the Douro wine region in northern Portugal.

💡 The route has been operational since the late 19th century and is renowned for its panoramic landscapes.

The Nordland Line

8.The Nordland Line5444 votes

Stretching from Trondheim to Bodø, this Norwegian route crosses the Arctic Circle, offering spectacular views of mountains, waterfalls, and coastal scenery. It’s notable for being one of the northernmost railway lines in Europe.

💡 The journey can be combined with visits to the Lofoten Islands and Arctic regions, making it a unique polar experience.

The Saarbrücken to Paris TGV

9.The Saarbrücken to Paris TGV4698 votes

This high-speed train connects Saarbrücken in Germany to Paris, providing swift access between the two cities in under 3 hours. It offers travelers a comfortable and efficient way to experience Europe’s cultural hubs.

💡 Allows for seamless travel across borders, fostering cultural exchange and tourism.

The Bernina Railway

10.The Bernina Railway2515 votes

Running from Switzerland to Italy, this route crosses the Bernina Pass, offering spectacular views of glaciers, mountains, and lakes. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhaetian Railway network.

💡 The Bernina line is famous for its engineering marvels, including spiral tunnels and the Landwasser Viaduct.

Cinque Terre Express

11.Cinque Terre Express1908 votes

This train connects the five picturesque villages of Cinque Terre along Italy's Ligurian coast. It offers travelers a convenient and stunning way to explore colorful villages perched on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

💡 The route is especially popular for its breathtaking coastal views and easy access between the villages.

The West Highland Line (Mallaig Extension)

12.The West Highland Line (Mallaig Extension)1514 votes

This scenic train route in Scotland runs from Glasgow to Mallaig, passing through stunning Highland landscapes, lochs, and mountains. It offers breathtaking views and a unique experience of rural Scottish beauty.

💡 Known as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the UK, featuring the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway

13.Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway1269 votes

This narrow-gauge heritage railway in Wales takes visitors through the stunning Snowdonia National Park, from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog. It provides a nostalgic journey through lush landscapes and historic mining areas.

💡 One of the oldest narrow-gauge lines in the UK, offering vintage steam train experiences.

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