Traveling through Europe by train is one of the most scenic and convenient ways to explore the continent’s diverse cultures, landscapes, and cities. With well-established rail networks that connect some of the most stunning destinations, taking a train in Switzerland, France, Norway, and across Europe is a dream for many travelers. The beauty of train travel lies not only in the comfort but also in the opportunity to witness panoramic views, experience the luxury of European rail service, and seamlessly hop between regions without the hassle of airports.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the best train routes in Switzerland, France, Norway, and Europe that every traveler must consider. From the iconic Glacier Express to scenic routes in the French countryside, these train journeys are sure to provide unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, a city explorer, or someone keen to witness history through your window, there’s a route suited for everyone.
1. Glacier Express (Switzerland)
When you think of Switzerland’s natural beauty, the Glacier Express is one of the most iconic and unforgettable train routes you can take. Connecting two of the most famous Swiss destinations—Zermatt and St. Moritz—this eight-hour journey takes you through some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in the world.
Key Highlights:
•Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
•Duration: 8 hours
•Distance: 291 kilometers
•Scenic Views: The train travels through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges, crossing the Swiss Alps with panoramic views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and quaint Swiss villages.
This train is known for its luxurious service, complete with large windows designed for sightseeing and comfortable seating. It’s perfect for those looking to explore Switzerland’s iconic mountains and valleys at a relaxed pace. The journey includes stops at some of the country’s most picturesque towns, where passengers can enjoy Swiss hospitality and perhaps even venture out for a bit of hiking or a scenic walk.
2. GoldenPass Line (Switzerland)
If you’re seeking a route that takes you through some of Switzerland’s most beautiful landscapes, the GoldenPass Line offers a truly scenic journey. This train connects Montreux on Lake Geneva with Lucerne, offering passengers the chance to witness the incredible views of the Swiss Riviera, the Alps, and traditional Swiss towns.
Key Highlights:
•Route: Montreux to Lucerne
•Duration: 5 hours
•Distance: 135 kilometers
•Scenic Views: The GoldenPass Line passes through the Vaudois Alps, Lake Geneva, and quaint villages, allowing you to experience the very essence of Swiss landscapes.
This train offers a combination of luxury and local culture, allowing passengers to relax in style while taking in the stunning views of vineyards, lakes, and mountains. If you’re looking for a quintessential Swiss train experience that blends scenic beauty with convenience, this is one of the best options to consider.
3. TGV Lyria (France-Switzerland)
For those traveling between France and Switzerland, the TGV Lyria provides an incredible high-speed train experience that connects Paris with Geneva, Lausanne, and Zurich. This train offers a smooth, efficient ride and is ideal for travelers who want to explore the beauty of both countries in a short amount of time.
Key Highlights:
•Route: Paris to Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich
•Duration: 3 hours (Paris to Geneva)
•Distance: Varies based on the route
•Scenic Views: Passengers can enjoy views of the French countryside as well as the Jura Mountains and Swiss Alps.
The TGV Lyria is famous for its speed, comfort, and convenience. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, this high-speed train makes it easy to hop between two major European countries without the hassle of airport security or lengthy travel times.
4. Paris to Nice (France)
The train from Paris to Nice offers one of the most beautiful train journeys in France, taking you from the city of lights to the glamorous French Riviera. As the train travels south, you’ll witness the changing landscapes, from the lush vineyards of Provence to the sparkling blue of the Mediterranean.
Key Highlights:
•Route: Paris to Nice
•Duration: 5 hours and 40 minutes
•Distance: 930 kilometers
•Scenic Views: The journey takes you through the heart of Provence, offering views of picturesque villages, vineyards, and stunning coastlines. The final stretch into Nice is especially beautiful, with views of the Mediterranean Sea.
This is one of the best train routes for travelers looking to experience the charm and beauty of southern France. The comfortable TGV service allows you to relax while soaking in the stunning views, making this a must-do for anyone visiting the French Riviera.
5. Venice to Milan (Italy)
Italy’s train system is renowned for its efficiency and speed, and the route from Venice to Milan is one of the most popular for travelers looking to explore two of Italy’s most iconic cities. As you travel through the Italian countryside, you’ll witness beautiful rolling hills, picturesque villages, and charming farmland.
Key Highlights:
•Route: Venice to Milan
•Duration: 2 hours and 25 minutes
•Distance: 270 kilometers
•Scenic Views: As you travel from Venice to Milan, you’ll pass through the stunning northern Italian countryside, with views of vineyards, lakes, and the Alps in the distance.
This high-speed route allows travelers to move between two of Italy’s major cities quickly and efficiently, making it perfect for those who want to explore Milan’s fashion scene and Venice’s canals in one trip.
6. EuroCity (Switzerland-Germany-Italy)
For those looking to explore a broader swath of Europe, the EuroCity trains are a perfect choice. These trains connect major cities across Switzerland, Germany, and Italy, providing a seamless way to travel between three of Europe’s most interesting countries.
Key Highlights:
•Route: Zurich to Milan (via Basel, Lucerne, or other cities)
•Duration: 7 hours
•Distance: 350 kilometers
•Scenic Views: The journey includes beautiful views of the Swiss Alps, Italian lakes, and picturesque towns along the way.
This train offers an elegant, comfortable journey, combining the best of Swiss precision with the charm of Italy and the efficiency of Germany’s rail system. It’s a great way to combine city exploration with scenic views of Europe’s most famous landscapes.
7. The West Highland Line (Scotland, UK)
If you’re looking for a truly scenic and somewhat unique train journey, consider the West Highland Line in Scotland. This route takes you from Glasgow to Mallaig, passing through some of Scotland’s most rugged and breathtaking landscapes. Think vast moors, dramatic mountains, and crystal-clear lochs.
Key Highlights:
•Route: Glasgow to Mallaig
•Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
•Distance: 261 kilometers
•Scenic Views: The West Highland Line passes through the Scottish Highlands, offering views of lush valleys, snow-capped peaks, and the famous Loch Ness.
This train journey is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a truly immersive experience in one of the UK’s most beautiful regions. If you’re interested in history and culture, you’ll find many interesting stops along the way.
8. The Bernina Express (Switzerland and Italy)
The Bernina Express is one of the most scenic routes in Switzerland and Italy, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and Italian landscapes. It connects Chur (Switzerland) to Tirano (Italy), taking passengers on a remarkable 4-hour journey.
Key Highlights:
•Route: Chur (Switzerland) to Tirano (Italy)
•Duration: 4 hours
•Distance: 140 kilometers
•Scenic Views: The Bernina Express passes through rugged mountains, alpine forests, and the picturesque lakes of both Switzerland and Italy. The route also features the famous Landwasser Viaduct, a feat of engineering.
This train is one of the best choices for those who want to experience both Switzerland and Italy’s landscapes in a single journey. It’s a fantastic option for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
9. London to Edinburgh (UK)
The train journey from London to Edinburgh is one of the best ways to travel between two of the UK’s most famous cities. As you leave the hustle and bustle of London behind, the train takes you through the beautiful English countryside, offering plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and relaxation.
Key Highlights:
•Route: London to Edinburgh
•Duration: 4 hours and 30 minutes
•Distance: 330 kilometers
•Scenic Views: The journey offers views of rolling hills, quiet villages, and even the coastline as you approach Scotland. It’s a peaceful way to travel and enjoy the landscapes of the UK.
This train route is perfect for those looking to explore Scotland from England or simply enjoy a comfortable and scenic journey.
10. Flåm Railway (Norway)
One of the most famous and stunning train journeys in Norway is the Flåm Railway, connecting the small village of Flåm with Myrdal. The journey takes passengers through the beautiful Norwegian fjords, offering some of the most picturesque views in the world.
Key Highlights:
•Route: Myrdal to Flåm
•Duration: 1 hour
•Distance: 20 kilometers
•Scenic Views: As the train winds its way down the mountains, you’ll pass by dramatic waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and verdant valleys. The route is particularly famous for its steep gradient and panoramic views of the Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord.
This is one of the most scenic and unique train journeys in Europe, making it a must for nature lovers and anyone keen to experience Norway’s stunning landscapes from the comfort of a train.
11. Rauma Railway (Norway)
Another gorgeous train route in Norway is the Rauma Railway, which travels between Dombås and Åndalsnes. This route is considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in Europe due to the spectacular views of the Romsdalen Valley, the Rauma River, and the towering peaks of the Norwegian mountains.
Key Highlights:
•Route: Dombås to Åndalsnes
•Duration: 1 hour 50 minutes
•Distance: 114 kilometers
•Scenic Views: Passengers will witness some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes Norway has to offer, including the famous Trollveggen (Troll Wall), Europe’s tallest vertical rock face, as well as dramatic gorges and waterfalls.
This route is ideal for those who love rugged natural beauty and want to experience the raw power of Norway’s landscapes in a truly unforgettable way.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Europe and Scandinavia by train offers some of the most scenic, comfortable, and efficient travel experiences you can have. Whether you’re journeying through the Swiss Alps, cruising the French Riviera, or enjoying the spectacular views in Norway, there’s a train route that suits every traveler. With stunning landscapes, comfortable amenities, and seamless connections between countries, these train journeys offer the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation.
No matter where you’re headed, these scenic train routes will allow you to discover the beauty of Switzerland, France, Norway, and beyond, making your trip all the more special. So, book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey across Europe and Scandinavia!