Beautiful scenery, historic routes, and slower-paced adventures are just some of the features of opting for rail travel across the continent. Europe's railways are many things. Unlike the standard experiences one encounters while flying railways evoke a timelessness with their grand stations, storied history, and evocative destinations. Classic routes have been supplemented by high-speed services in recent decades, as the demand for climate-friendly travel grows and new choices, such as a recent influx of night trains, emerged.
The experience of travelling across Europe by train is unlike any other journey you will take. Many believe that travelling by rail is the best way to see Europe and the rest of the world because of the breathtaking views, the comfortable amenities provided on board, and the speed with which one can move from one city centre to another.
This is our selection of countries in Europe that offer the appealing combination of a well-connected network of trains in Europe, with fast city-to-city lines, epic scenic trains, and the option to explore the country's best sights by rail. Read on for our picks of the best countries in Europe to see by train, whether you're planning a trip that should be on your bucket list or just looking for a weekend getaway!
One of the world's most effective and scenic rail networks can be found tucked away within the small but stunning nation of Switzerland. Wooden chalets, snow-capped peaks, dramatic waterfalls, and mountain-fringed lakes dot the idyllic landscape, which is all easily accessible by train making for a journey with a view. From Zermatt to St. Moritz, take the well-known Glacier Express over dozens of dramatic viaducts with views of lush valleys. On the scenic train route that travels from Lucerne to Montreux via the Golden Pass, the train glides through vibrant wildflower fields. Or you can slowly make your way up to the "top of Europe" at the highest train station on the continent, which is near the top of Jungfrau Mountain, while admiring the stunning icy wonderland that surrounds you. Depending on your interests, Switzerland offers scenic delights throughout the year.
On this exciting rail vacation, take in Switzerland's lakes and mountains for the view of a lifetime. You can continue along the Golden Pass Line to Interlaken after spending some time at Geneva and Montreux. Before taking the Glacier Express through the Swiss Alps to Chur, take a memorable trip to the highest railway station on Jungfrau Mountain. On the Bernina Express to Tirano, complete this amazing journey with a day trip over stunning bridges and viaducts as you move past impressive glaciers.
Enjoy a night stay in fantastic St Moritz, where you take a ride on the dazzling Bernina Express train. Do take the stunning Glacier Express train to historic Zermatt and the Gornergrat Cog Railway will let you enjoy the famous Matterhorn Mountain. Take a peaceful break in the lakeside city of Lausanne, or continue along the Golden Pass line to the Swiss town of Lucerne. You can spend a few nights here and take day trips to Mount Pilatus, the world's steepest cogwheel train line, and the Jungfrau Railway, which takes you to the highest station in Europe.
Peaks of Switzerland from Wengen, one of our favourite scenic rail vacations, gives you firsthand access to some of Switzerland's most breathtaking peaks. Take the Eurostar from London to Paris and on to Basel, where you can spend some time learning about the city's diverse cultures. Travel to the picturesque mountain village of Wengen from Basel for adventure and relaxation in this picturesque alpine setting. Excursions to the summits of the Schilthorn, which was made famous in the 1969 James Bond film On Her Majesty's Secret Service, and Jungfrau, Europe's tallest peak, can be made with your included Swiss Flexi-Pass. You could also take the train back to Paris for a special night in the "City of Light"
It is common knowledge that travelling by train in Italy is more relaxing, faster, and more convenient than flying or driving. Fast and comfortable high-speed trains connect nearly all major cities from centre to centre without lengthy check-in lines, baggage fees, or weight restrictions. By rail Florence is just one and a half hours away from Rome, Venice almost four hours, Naples an hour and ten minutes to get to, and Milan just under three hours from Rome. You'll have seen the country by train before you know it! Italy's beautiful local trains clubbed together with the main city lines ensures you can reach everywhere with the country's superb train network. Scenic local trains offer an extraordinary glimpse into the true culture and flavour of the nation and its people, from the renowned Bernina Express, which spectacularly travels from southern Switzerland to northern Italy, to the regional lines that run along the vibrant cliffs and crystal-clear waters of the Amalfi Coast.
Discover the attractions and landmarks of the three Italian treasures of Venice, Florence, and Rome in a single scenic vacation via rail. See the cities in all their glory. Take a gondola ride down the canals of Venice, discover works of art in Florence, and marvel at the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Rome. Take advantage of fast train rides that connect these fascinating cities. You wouldn't want to miss this Italian adventure!
It would be impossible not to include the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and The Bernina Express in this list. A truly amazing European train vacation that combines the two famous train experiences on the way to the enchanting city of Venice in Italy! There is no better way for us to see these parts of Europe. From your own private compartment, take in the stunning views while enjoying the lavish Venice Simplon-Orient Express. Discover the fascinating history and picturesque canals of one of the world's most popular tourist destinations at Venice. You could spend a few nights in the lakeside resort town of St. Moritz by taking the Bernina Express through the Swiss Alps.
This elegant vacation takes you to the stunning Amalfi Coast through the fascinating cities of Geneva and Florence. Explore the stunning Sorrento, overlooking the Mediterranean, on the Amalfi Coast via the Alps. In one of Europe's most beautiful regions, browse elegant boutiques for Italian gifts, wander through orange and lemon groves, and take a boat trip to the dramatic prehistoric caves that sit along the coast.
Scotland is an incredible destination at any time of the year because of its wild, vibrant, and majestic scenery, as well as its rich history and tradition. When you travel by train, you can take in the stunning scenery from the comfort of your seat. There really isn't a better way to see this part of the world than by train. You can choose from overnight train adventures to luxury sleeper experiences, travelling from the cities to wide-open spaces.
See Scotland's most famous landscapes and attractions, and you'll see Scotland in all its splendour. Travel along the West Highland line between Fort William and Mallaig to see the enchanting Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle, as well as the gateway to the Scottish Highlands in Inverness. As you travel from city to city, you can take in the ever-changing scenery at Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond, and Edinburgh Castle.
The Caledonian Sleeper's scenic route through Grand Inverness and the Highlands is sure to please travellers. There are a lot of interesting places to visit, great museums, and Highland charm in Inverness. Explore every aspect of the town. Visit Glen Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness as you explore the Highlands. For unforgettable mountainous landscapes, travel to the fabled Isle of Skye. The Scottish Highlands are awaiting you!
Onboard the Royal Scotsman, take in the breathtaking scenery of the Scottish Highlands, where you will be treated to impeccable service and exquisite dining. The Rothiemurchus Estate has a castle from the 13th century, the Culloden Battlefields have lush scenery and a fascinating history, and the famous Strathisla distillery has a whiskey tasting session. Let yourself unwind in the lavish environs of the Illustrious Scotsman as the stunning Scottish scenery rolls past your window on an excursion that can only be described as epic.
If you want to get a real sense of France and French living then plan a trip there via train. It's easy, romantic, and most importantly quick to take the train between the most famous French cities and towns! The country's renowned TGV travels from city to city at up to 199 mph in quiet, scenic comfort. The majority of the country's most popular cities can be reached in less than three hours from Paris, including Lille in just one hour, Bordeaux in just over two hours, and Lyon in just under two hours!
Visit Paris, Avignon, and Nice for a romantic getaway to three stunning French cities. First explore the famous sights and sounds of Paris, including the stunning Giverny gardens and the magnificent Versailles Palace. Avignon is a city full of culture and delicious cuisine, and it is best known for its stunning Palace of the Popes. Spend three days touring the city's attractions before travelling by train from Avignon along the stunning French Riviera to Nice. Spend some time exploring Nice by strolling along the Promenade des Anglais, which elegantly stretches along the Mediterranean coast, going to the pretty markets, and eating delicious seafood.
One of France's culinary capitals is one to remember. Take in the sights and tastes of each city's local cuisine while relaxing on board the renowned TGV trains. We can guarantee that you will bring a few things home with you at the end of this wonderful rail vacation, so pack light. You can see the stunning Sacre Couer Church in Paris, the walled town of Beaune, the Cité du Vin complex, and a great deal more.
At Côte D'Azur, take in the glittering Mediterranean coastline in the south of France. The French Riviera is the ideal vacation spot with its beaches, boutiques, and exclusive Principality of Monaco. Head to Nice or Cannes while stopping by for a day trip to Monaco.
Rail travel in Germany is as quick and efficient as you would expect, but what you might not anticipate are the breathtaking views on the numerous scenic routes that wind throughout the country. Think of mountains covered in snow, dramatic castles, dense forests, and sparkling lakes. One of these trains is also the shortest in Germany: it travels along the Rhine River from Koblenz to Mainz in 55 minutes and features picturesque castles and lush vineyards on the river's banks. And this is only a tiny glimpse of the memorable train journeys for which Germany is famous.
Plan a Berlin, Prague, Vienna, and Budapest train trip, where you can see all four Imperial capitals in one fantastic trip. Take in breathtaking views as you travel by high-speed train through Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary. You will be able to get the most out of your time in these wonderful places with included city passes, hop-on, hop-off tours, skip-the-line passes, and exciting extras.
Take a rail vacation that lets you explore Munich, Vienna, and Prague. Before taking the train to Vienna and exploring the city's abundance of museums, imperial palaces, and baroque architecture, spend a few nights in Munich, the capital of Bavaria. After that, travel to Prague for breathtaking sightseeing in one of the world's most romantic cities.
Visit Cologne, Munich, and Berlin by train to explore these three exciting and historic German cities. Stay at Cologne, where you can explore the Old Town and take in the Dom before travelling to Munich, the capital of Bavaria. Visit a typical Bavarian tavern, to take in the Gothic architecture of this picturesque town and try some local beers. Then head to Berlin to explore the numerous shops and restaurants in this remarkable city as well as the fascinating history of the Berlin Wall.
Wonder where to head to? Talk to our travel experts at (+968) 24400822 or contact@zaharaholidays.com to find the best Rail package for you.