While a plane might get you to your destination quicker, there’s something special about a truly amazing train journey – where the trip itself is half the joy. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the very best train trips in Europe you need to experience at least once in your life.
Whistling through lush countryside, reading as you watch the scenery go by has a certain charm. What better way to see the continent?
The best train trips in Europe for 2019
1. Glacier Express, Switzerland
This scenic train connects two major mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz in the center of the Swiss Alps. The Glacier Express is often known as the slowest express train in the world.
Passengers can enjoy an 8-hour journey through the Swiss Alps, covering 291km of tracks, passing through 91 tunnels and across 291 bridges.
2. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: London – Venice
One of the most famous train services in the world, it’s no surprise to see The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express come out on top. While there are a few different routes you can take, the most popular is the London to Venice journey.
3. The West Highland Line: Scotland
Travelling along the West Highland Line, the Jacobite Steam Train is probably best known for the role it plays in the Harry Potter movies – as the Hogwarts Express.
4. The Brocken Railway: Harz Mountain Range, Germany
On this particular route you’ll climb the 1,142m-high Brocken, the highest peak in northern Germany, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
5. The Bergen Line: Bergen – Oslo, Norway
During its 7-hour journey, the train travels through the desolate Hardangervidda plateau, at an ear-popping 4,058ft above sea level, spending almost 60 miles above the tree line.
6. The Little Yellow Train: French Pyrenees
The Little Yellow Train takes you through the French Pyrenees, starting in Villefranche-de-Conflent and ending in Latour-de-Carol-Enveitg. It’s a super scenic route and among the best train trips in Europe.
7. The Nordland Railway: Norway
The 729km journey takes you through a variety of different landscapes. The highlight has to be the Saltfjellet mountain range, where you cross the Arctic Circle.
Co-founder of Big 7 Travel, Sarah created the company through her passion for championing the world's best food and travel experiences. Before her career in digital media, where she previously held roles such as Editor of Food&Wine Ireland, Sarah worked in the hospitality industry in Dublin and New York. Contact [email protected]
