5 Of The Best Train Routes In Europe To Take In 2019

To enjoy Europe in its purest form, you’ll need to try train travel. It’s certainly one of the best ways to enjoy traveling through Europe’s countryside, landscapes and cities. Not only is it a convenient way to travel it can be beautifully scenic too.

The reasons for considering train travel over other means of transport are plentiful. You won’t have to stand in queues or land in the middle of nowhere. Train travel in Europe will help you arrive in the middle of any city you wish in no time. All you’ll have to do is sit back and enjoy the mountains and colourful landscapes through your window. Remember to keep your camera handy for some lovely shots from the train.

If you are looking for some great places to travel by train in Europe then we’ve got you covered. Train holidays in Europe are easy to book and you’ll be exploring in no time. Here are the best 5 train routes to take in Europe this year:

THE GLACIER EXPRESS- Switzerland

If you’re wondering how to enjoy Switzerland as much as you can, then you’re invited to try this scenic rail journey in the Alps. Why not try the most famous rail route, The Glacier Express which is a train ride that lasts for 7 hours through the amazing scenery?

But don’t expect a Glacier. In fact, you can hardly see them from train, that’s because they’re up on the mountains you may just catch a glimpse. What you’ll be seeing on the other hand is absolutely stunning scenery.  The route is full of mountains, rock formations, plenty of snow if you go in the winter and gorgeous streams and rivers.

This train route is made up of four sections; in each one you’ll be getting a whole different experience. This route connects Zermatt to St. Moritz so you’ll be passing by Brigg, Andermatt and Chur too!

Section 1: Zermatt to Brig

In this one you’ll be enjoying the massive rock walls of 4000m and will also be able to check the highest peak of the Swiss Alps.

Section 2: Brig to Andermatt

Make sure to sit on the right side of the train because the view is much better.

Section 3: Andermatt to Chur

In this section you’ll be able to see the bare landscapes covered in snow and will also be able to get a glimpse of Swiss Grand Canyon.

Section 4: Chur to St. Moritz

Enjoy the Domleschg Valley and the ruins as you’re passing by and if you’re looking to enjoy the Landwasser Viaduct then sit on vethe right side of the train.

VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT-EXPRESS

Make sure to pack your finest clothes because you’ll be going for a ride into the past when you take this route. You’ll be transported back in time to the 20’s where everything was much simpler but also more sophisticated at the same time. The train is a work of art, with its polished wood, antique fixtures and traditional atmosphere.

You’ll be enjoying the restored historic carriages of one of the many routes on offer. Go from London to Paris, Verona and Venice.  Or perhaps the Orient Express running via Munich, Vienna and Budapest. While this one “Simplon Orient Express” runs from Paris to Milan, Venice, Trieste, Zagreb, Belgrade, Sofia and Istanbul. A real European adventure.

It has been maintained and preserved to give you a glimpse of the aristocrats lived in the 20s with afternoon teas, fine dining and dressing for dinner. It’s certainly one of the most exquisite travel experiences.

THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER-Canada

In 1990, Rockies by daylight which is a national Canadian rail operator was sold to Rocky Mountaineer Vacations which made this route become The Rocky Mountaineer. This route has now become a famous travel experience that lures many tourists to come try it.

It’s certainly one of the most luxurious train travel routes that will take your breath away with all of the scenery you’ll be experiencing. It has four different routes in the Canadian Rockies and in each one of them there’s a unique experience. You can take a two-day rail journey and adventure full of delicious food, unique quality of service, and beautiful picturesque landscapes.

You’ll also be able to see all sorts of animals and wildlife if you’re lucky. Look out for the elusive bald eagles, and native ospreys, deer and bears. And if you’re even luckier you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of grizzly bears that are less spotted than black bears in this part of the world.

THE FLAM RAILWAY-Norway

The flam railway has been described as one of the most stunning train journeys for a person to try. This is why it’s no surprise that it is one of the top tourist attractions in Norway. Over the course of one hour, the train will take you to the Myrdal Mountain station from sea level at Sognefjord.

The scenery on this ride will truly take your breath away. Get ready to see sprawling farmlands, waterfalls, mountainside, picture-worthy landscapes and so much more. Next you’ll pass by the rugged mountain landscapes to the wonderful Hardangervidda Plateau to Norway’s highest station. If you visit at the right time you might even get a glimpse of some icy glaciers on the way too.

One thing is for sure, you’ll be left in awe of the beautiful scenery you will see during this ride. Flam railway connects main cities in Norway too so it is easy to get to. Meaning you can enjoy all or part of the total nine-hour journey.

WEST HIGHLAND LINE-Scotland

Considered by so many as one of the most scenic routes in Scotland, West Highland Line has won so many fans with its spectacular views and famous for its use in Harry Potter. One and a half hours ride will delve you deep into the west coast and will leave you breathless as you take in the scenery.

Remember the Hogwarts Express from the Harry Potter film? Well, to enter, all you have to do is take this line to Mallaig, so you can travel to the Glefinnan Viaduct. But aside from the Harry Potter reference, this ride has so much more to offer.

You’ll find out why it’s one of the most famous train journeys as you pass by the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. You’ll be able to see the beautiful countryside of Scotland, the mountains, the landscapes and the wildlife that exists as far as the eye can see.

Which railway tour will you choose?

If these destinations piqued your interest and made you think of how to choose one of them, then it’s going to be a hard decision to choose your next destination.  If you try these routes you won’t regret it. Perhaps if you try one you will want to continue travelling by train in Europe every time you visit?

And just a final tip before you start packing your travel gear. Make sure you remember that some of these most of these routes are very long. So before you travel, you should make a plan and prepare for one of these best train routes in Europe.