Train rides in Europe are an essential part of the experience. You simply can’t come all the way to Europe and not embark on at least one train journey. So, what are the most memorable train journeys? We’ve listed our top picks, tried and tested, to help plan your adventure!
The Hogwarts Express
Though this isn’t technically the name of the train (muggles call it the Jacobite Steam Train), I’d be doing myself and my fellow Harry fans a disservice by not giving credit where credit is due. The Hogwarts Express is one of the most sought after train journeys in Northern Scotland, running from Fort William to Mallaig.
Journey time: 90 minutes
Read more: On Board the Hogwarts Express
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Commonly regarded as one of the most scenic train rides the world over, for me there is nothing and no other train ride that compares with the Glacier Express in winter. This is one of Switzerland’s most popular routes (especially if you’re heading up the slopes for a ski) so be sure to book in advance!
Journey time: seven hours
Read more: A guide to visiting Zermatt
Grand Hibernian, Ireland
Ireland is a landscape photographer’s dream. The evergreen backdrops are so pretty you’d be forgiven for thinking they aren’t real and there are so many twists and turns in the countryside that the Irish countryside never gets old. One of the best ways to see the landscapes of Ireland is by train and there is none more luxurious than the Grand Hibernian by Belmond.
Journey time: two nights
Read more: 8 Places you must visit in Ireland
Bergen Line with Flåm Railway between Oslo and Bergen via Flåm (Norway)
The landscapes of Norway are so vast and ever changing that you can sometimes feel as if you’ve stepped inside another world. The Bergen Line is one of the best ways to see the country and our favourite pit stop is the quaint village of Flåm (pictured above).
Journey time: nine hours
Read more: Visiting the Norwegian Village of Flam
The Orient Express
London to Venice is a route not many of us would say no to, but it is the journey in between these two iconic cities that is where the adventure really lies. The Orient Express is one of the world’s most sought after train journeys and is known the world over for its’ glamour, sophistication and impeccable service (which of course will set you back a pretty penny!)
Journey time: two days (one night)
Siberian Express
Moscow is just the beginning of your journey in to the depths of Russia’s far East when you board your train to Siberia. The Trans-Siberian is the longest railway in the entire world with connecting branches to China, North Korea and Mongolia.
Journey time: up to seven days
Rauma Line from Dombås to Åndalsnes (Norway)
Norway is undeniably one of the most scenic countries on the planet and so it comes at little surprise to see the country listed twice on the list of the world’s most epic train journeys! The Rauma line is a great way to see the epic landscapes of the country.
Journey time: 90 minutes
Bernina Express between Chur and Tirano (Switzerland & Italy)
Another winter wonderland favourite of many is the Bernina Express between Chur (Switzerland) and Tirano (Northern Italy). This journey is beautiful any time of year but we especially love it during winter and in Spring when the countryside comes back to life after the harsh winter.
Journey time: four hours
Read more: The best cities and towns to visit in Switzerland
Cinque Terre between Levanto and La Spezia (Italy)
Despite being under an hour in duration, the train journey between Levanto and La Spezia is one of the most popular in all of Europe, thanks to its enviable location on the coastline of Italy.
Journey time: 50 minutes
Read more: A guide to Cinque Terre
Central Rhine Railway between Bingen and Koblenz (Germany)
The romantic Rhine is one of Europe’s most sought after honeymoon destinations for wine lovers during the warmer summer and spring months. The railway between Bingen and Koblenz is some of the most beautiful German scenery you can encounter.
Journey time: 50 minutes
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