A train trip across Europe is not just about convenience and punctuality—though those are certainly key features. It’s also about the opportunity to unwind in a comfortable compartment while taking in breathtaking views of some of the continent’s most stunning landscapes.
Train travel in Europe has become an attraction in itself, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its scenic routes, with sweeping vistas of Alpine glaciers and the chance to savor delicious meals in charming, vintage dining cars. Here are some of the best European train journeys.
The Bernina Express, Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy (above image)
The Bernina Express is a narrow-gauge train that ascends to 7,931 feet before descending to 5,905 feet, offering passengers a journey through some of the most picturesque scenery imaginable. This train route crosses 196 bridges, passes through 55 tunnels, and includes a unique 360-degree spiral. Despite its name, “Express” refers to how quickly tickets tend to sell out, not the speed of the train. Other highlights of this extraordinary journey include passing through one of Switzerland’s oldest towns and traveling through areas that are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from London to Venice
The journey from London to Venice aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express spans two days and one night, but it’s well worth the time. This iconic train, which dates back to the 1920s, played a significant role in the Golden Age of European rail travel. Today, it continues to offer a unique travel experience, having restored 35 classic sleeping cars to their original elegance, charm, and luxury. If you’ve ever read romantic novels about captivating European train journeys, chances are the legendary Orient Express was the inspiration behind many of them!
The Danube Express from London to Istanbul
Another popular train journey from London is the Transylvanian Odyssey. It takes 8 days (including stays in Istanbul and Budapest) and is considered to be one of the most luxurious train journeys on the planet. From fine dining experiences to classic elegance and luxury amenities, the Danube Express really does have it all. The journey also penetrates the beautiful heart of Transylvania and offers walking tours in medieval era towns as well.
The Chocolate Train from Montreux to Broc
The Chocolate Train takes approximately 10 hours for a round trip journey, and is one of the most charming rail journeys in Europe. The train operates during the summer and fall seasons and passes through the fascinating Lake Geneva and the medieval town of Gruyeres. You can tour the cheese factory, enjoy a local lunch, explore the castle and then board the train for your journey to Broc. The trip also includes tours to the Cailler-Nestle chocolate factory which is located between the Lake Gruyeres and surrounding mountain peaks. The factory boasts of a brand new visitor center that traces the history of Swiss chocolate, all the way back to the Aztecs. And there’s plenty of chocolate available for consumption!
Eurostar Disney from London to Disneyland Paris
A journey from London to Paris onboard the Eurostar is one of the best travel experiences for any family trip. It is sure to fuel a childlike curiosity in the most avid travelers since many tracks are actually submerged in the English Channel, and the fact that the Disneyland Paris lies in store for travelers at the end of the journey is only bound to make things more exciting. The excitement begins even before the train begins its journey from the St. Pancras Station, as live bands welcome travelers and send them off on their exciting journey.
TER Mediterranee, Marseille, France to Ventimiglia, Italy
The TER Mediterranee is a high-speed, high-tech train that runs on one of the most notable routes in France, the Mediterranean line. While the train itself might not be exceptionally beautiful, it more than makes up with the mindboggling sights on display, as it straddles the picturesque French Riviera coastline for close to 4 hours. The train also makes leisure stops at many of the quaint villages, old world towns and hidden beaches that crop up along the way.
Elipsos Train-Hotel, Spain
Offering train journeys through Spain the Elipsos Train-Hotel is perhaps one of the most luxurious train journeys on the planet. You can easily substitute your hotel stay with this train ride, for the train actually resembles a hotel in terms of its comfort. Sure, the space might be cramped, but the experience makes it totally worth it and downright appealing. The premier compartments offer amenities such as morning newspapers, en-suite showers and complimentary breakfast.
The Castles of Britain, Inverness, Scotland to Gwynedd, Wales
The Castles of Britain Journey lets you relive the Age of Chivalry like no other. It takes 15 days to complete this scenic itinerary which also offers entry to close to 580 attractions that can be found along the way. Travelers start their journey in Inverness, Scotland with a tour to the Urquhart Castle. Other major sights and attractions include the Stirling Bridge, Edinburgh Castle, Dover Castle and Caernarfon Castle. This train ride is perhaps the best way of exploring British heritage at its beautiful best.
William Tell Express, Switzerland
The William Tell Express has become popular for offering one of the most scenic journeys on the planet. It takes you through an array of Swiss natural wonders, and features a 5-hour boat-train combo ride which brings you closer to some of the most fabled areas in Switzerland – Ticino, Bernese Oberland and Lake Lucerne.
It’s finally time to say goodbye, and we surely had a blast introducing you to The European Dream theme. Hopefully, by now, you would have realized that a tour to Europe and its magical gems is something that simply cannot be missed. The rich history, beautiful culture, old world attractions, ancient architecture, fascinating cuisines, world-class cities and breathtaking natural beauty that can be found here makes the continent perfect for all sorts of travelers.
Don’t forget to check our that other European Dream articles: