Exploring Europe by train can be the most relaxing and scenic way you can travel and discover new European cities, see the vast landscape and visit small traditional European villages all from the comfort of a train carriage, not to mention scenic trains in Europe are incredibly affordable and budget-friendly.
Trains are a fantastic way to travel when you consider the many beautiful train rides in Europe, it’s hard to consider traveling any other way across Europe! Traveling Europe by train is hassle-free, especially when using a rail pass. There is no need to check-in, wait in queues, meaning you spend more time appreciating and discovering the most scenic rail journeys in Europe.
Here are the top picks of the most scenic train trips in Europe. You can take a glimpse at lochs, waterfalls, quaint towns, and medieval bridges and mountains on your railway line.
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Train Travel Itinerary Scotland
Start your incredible journey in Scotland in Glasgow and travel the West Highland line in and discover hidden gems with secluded, rugged countryside. If you are a fan of Harry Potter, make sure to travel across the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for appearing in the movie, this train trip is by far the most scenic train trips in Europe, where you can experience the best of Scotland and see the breathtaking highlands, Scottish lochs, ancient castles and you may even spot some wildlife such as Scottish deer and highland cows! The trains are regular and run on time in Scotland, and the railway system is well connected to even the most remote and picturesque Scottish villages.
Train Travel Itinerary Italy
Explore and experience the most enchanting and best rail journeys in Europe. You will fall in love with the rolling valleys, charming traditional villages and Mediterranean culture which you can immerse yourself in, add a train trip to Italy to your routes around Europe.
Interrailing in Italy has so much to offer and there is so much to see, including the iconic Italian regions such as Tuscany, the colorful villages of Cinque Terre, fashion capital Milan, food lovers can eat their way around Pisa and discover the rich history and culture in Florence. Train travel is very cheap in Italy and is undoubtedly one of the most scenic train trips in Europe.
Train Travel Itinerary Switzerland
You can discover so much rugged landscape when traveling by train, this magical country has railway tracks that cut through the Swiss Alps, you can peek at the icy glaciers and pine forests from your carriage seat. The train service in Switzerland is safe, with high-speed modern trains with eco-friendly rail service.
You can even take a connecting train trip from Italy to Switzerland, making it simple and hassle-free when traveling Europe by train itinerary. The stunning Swiss Alps and authentic swiss villages make Switzerland one of the best scenic train rides in Europe.
Train Travel Itinerary Croatia
Croatia has many hidden gems waiting to be discovered and is one of the most scenic rail journeys in Europe. You can even explore the thousands of islands surrounding Croatia by ferry.
Discover the buzzing capital city of Zagreb as well as the other Croatian cities such as Dubrovnik, Split and Pula. Each city can be visited by train all charming in their own ways. Enjoy the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Croatian coast and get lost in the vibrant cities.
Train Travel Itinerary Norway
Norway is not as popular as the other well-known destination. This makes the experience all the better, you can enjoy the great Norwegian natural landscape, gasp at the fjords, waterfalls, snowy mountains and serene lakes.
The Bergen Railway is the most scenic rail journeys in Europe and takes you from Bergen to Oslo, where you can sit back and take in the rugged scenery. Enjoy one of the most scenic train routes in Europe with jaw-dropping scenery in Norway.
What are the advantages to travel by train in Europe
There are many benefits when it comes to traveling by train. Here are some of the best advantages to consider.
It’s Affordable
Save money by purchasing a rail pass, you’ll be happy to hear that best rail journeys in Europe won’t break the bank, and you can travel as much as you like across Europe. On the other hand, if you’d rather be a bit more comfortable and enjoy luxury along the views, you can also hop on a luxury train journey in Europe.
It’s Comfortable
The carriages across Europe are spacious and accommodating, with plenty of room for your luggage with comfortable travel routes around Europe.
It’s Quick
Traveling by train allows you to reach your destinations quickly. Bonus: even the boarding is quicker. This means you won’t have to waste your precious time in airports. The train stations are also often right in the city centres which is normally much better than airports being far from the cities.
You Can See More
Major train routes in Europe allow you to stop off in big cities and continue onto more remote stops and quintessential villages, you can see so much more of Europe when traveling Europe by train. Discovering a country by train is pretty unique – you can even opt for a tailor made rail holiday featuring the best-handpicked experiences in Europe.
Are you train travel ready?
If you’re planning your European train trip, make sure you packed everything you could need! After experiencing train travel in India and in Europe, here are a few things you should bring with you.
- Universal adapter: make sure you can charge your devices in Europe!
- Eye mask and earplugs: sleeping on a train can sometimes be a bit challenging, so make sure you know how to minimize the distractions to get better sleep.
- Something against motion sickness: if you easily feel motion sickness, you should find something to help you have a great experience. Traveling by train can be smooth, but better be safe than sorry!
- Travel insurance: did you get your travel insurance already?
