This article highlights the ten most scenic train rides in Europe, showcasing breathtaking views and unique cultural experiences. From the iconic Settle to Carlisle route in England to the stunning Bernina Express in Switzerland, each journey offers a different perspective of the continent’s landscapes. Travelers can enjoy diverse experiences ranging from luxurious sightseeing to affordable adventures, making train travel a notable consideration in future travel plans.
Train travel in Europe is an enchanting experience, showcasing breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, and cultural gems along the way. This article highlights ten of the continent’s most scenic train routes, blending luxury with affordability for leisure seekers. Each train journey offers a unique perspective on the region, from mountains and lakes to historic towns.
1. Settle to Carlisle, England – This 73-mile route delights with views of the Ribblehead Viaduct and expansive landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales. The journey lasts around 1 hour and 40 minutes, providing an exceptional experience whether aboard a steam train or a regular service.
2. Le Petit Train Jaune, France – Known as the Little Yellow Train, this 39-mile adventure through the Pyrenees is a 4.5-hour journey. With breathtaking vistas, including the Pont Gisclard, this train ride is ideal for those seeking unique scenery amid rolling forests.
3. Belgrade-to-Bar Railway, Serbia and Montenegro – Spanning 476 kilometers in 12 hours, this dramatic journey takes passengers over the stunning Mala Rijeka Viaduct to the Adriatic Coast. The train traverses canyons and Balkans’ natural beauty, rewarding travelers with rich cultural experiences.
4. The Bernina Express, Switzerland – Covering 156 kilometers in 4.5 hours, this UNESCO-listed journey from Chur to Tirano showcases turquoise lakes and alpine wonders. Known for its engineering marvels, the train crosses 55 tunnels and boasts spectacular mountain vistas.
5. Heart of Wales Line – This 121-mile line operates from Swansea to Shrewsbury, offering a surreal journey across diverse Welsh and English landscapes. The ride lasts approximately 4 hours, featuring quaint stations and scenic beauty that provides a glimpse into the region’s charm.
6. Munich to Venice on the Brenner Railway – This 350-mile trip takes about 6.5 hours, crossing Germany, Austria, and Italy. Scenic vineyards and majestic mountains await passengers, linking two historic cities while offering glimpses of their architectural splendor.
7. The Kyle of Lochalsh Line, Scotland – This 84-mile route from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh takes 2.5 hours and unveils majestic highland scenery. Travelers experience remote landscapes, idyllic glens, and access to the Isle of Skye, making it a poetic journey.
8. Nova Gorica to Jesenice, Slovenia – In just 2 hours, this 55-kilometer train connects picturesque sites including Lake Bled. The scenic ride provides breathtaking views of Slovenia’s natural beauty and charming Alpine towns along the way.
9. The Centovalli Express, Switzerland and Italy – A 52-kilometer journey lasting 2 hours, this route from Locarno to Domodossola features cascading waterfalls and stunning countryside views. With 83 bridges, it remains a hidden gem for rail enthusiasts in search of enchanting sights.
10. Bergensbanen, Norway – Stretching 308 kilometers between Oslo and Bergen, this 6.5-hour trip is a triumph of railway engineering. It showcases varied Norwegian landscapes, ascending mountains and navigating fjords, offering travelers a comprehensive experience of the nation’s raw beauty.
Original Source: www.lonelyplanet.com
