From dreamy landscapes to the dramatic historic sites, Europe has so much to offer when it comes to scenic beauty. It has puffing volcanoes to churning oceans, white sand beaches to shimmering blue glaciers. Several experiences that are hard to miss when you are in Europe involve train journeys, which are considered the best way for sightseeing and to witness the beauty of Europe. These train journeys are filled with unforgettable views. Some of the train journeys that you can’t miss are listed below:
Let’s Explore the Best Scenic Train Journeys in Europe
1. The Glacier Express
The Glacier Express connects Zermatt to Davos, offering mesmerizing views, and is specifically designed for sightseeing. It covers a distance of 291 kms and takes about eight hours to complete the journey. The snow-capped mountains will make you spellbound by their beauty, so you will not be able to think about anything else. The main attractions include traversing 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, the Oberalp Pass, which is 6706 feet above sea level. The train gives you a comforting experience as it is limited to only 20 passengers with fine meals paired with wine. If you want to enjoy this train ride to the fullest, December to April is the right time to experience this train journey.
2. The Orient Express
Are you a person who loves art, vintage designs, and stuff? So you are at the right place. The Orient Express offers an experience of original cars from the 1920s and 1930s. Witness the artistic decor while experiencing a six-day journey crossing over seven countries. A dining experience that you will not forget, with high-end cuisine and savory wine, your train journey will be worth it.
Do you know what is more interesting? Agatha Christie, the famous author who wrote the novel “Murder on the Orient Express,” links the train to a mystery, romance, and suspense, which makes it even more fascinating to experience.
3. The Bernina Express
The Bernina Express offers a picturesque landscape that runs from Chur, Switzerland, to Tirano, Italy. A distance of 122 km (76 miles) is covered in four hours by this train. The most classic railway structure in the world is included in this journey, which is the Landwasser Viaduct, which is a 65-meter-high bridge that spans a deep gorge. Do you know that the Bernina Express is a part of the Rhaetian Railway, which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, making it a center of attraction. The stunning views of the Swiss Alps, the various landscapes, the beauty of the forests, glaciers, and valleys are all a part of this beautiful train journey.
4. The Flam Railway
The Flåm Railway is one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world, offering landscapes and beauty that are hard to miss. It runs 12 miles from the mountain station Myrdal down to the fjord village of Flam, the route descends nearly 3000 feet. In just about an hour, the train passes through deep valleys, waterfalls, and snowcapped peaks. This journey offers you the stunning view of Kjofossen waterfall. The train makes a stop here and allows you to experience the perfect view of this waterfall. If you want to experience something extraordinary, you might spot a mythical Huldra dancer in summer, which you can’t miss. The breathtaking views along the journey will make you not want to go back, and you will just enjoy the moment.
5. The West Highland Line
Are you a Harry Potter fan? The West Highland Line is famous for the spectacular Glenfinnan Viaduct, which is the Harry Potter train bridge, and also for carrying the historic Jacobite steam train, which is the real Hogwarts Express. The train starts from Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig. On the journey, you are going to witness various highlights
- Rannoch Moor: It is a beautiful bogland that is away from human civilization till now.
- Corrour Station: It is Britain’s highest and most remote railway station, which is only accessible by train or a lengthy hike
- Mallaig Extension: Here, passengers take the historic Jacobite steam train to the fishing port of Mallaig.
Also Read: Hostel vs Airbnb: What’s Cheaper in Europe?
Bottom Line
Experiencing the beauty of Europe while being on a train journey is a lifetime experience. The dreamy journeys will not make you feel any less than being in a movie.
The Glacier Express provides you with the breathtaking scenic views, the Bernina Express offers you the opportunity to witness UNESCO’s World Heritage site, the Flam Railway is the steepest standard gauge railway, and a Harry Potter fan will love being on the West Highland Line. All of these suggestions have some key features that you need to experience in order to get the best out of your European trip.
