As slow travel and sustainability continue to gain popularity in 2025, train travel throughout Europe is turning into a green, visually spectacular option to flying. Panoramic windows, comfy seating, and an introduction to well-kept secrets await Europe’s railroads, which provide more than just transit—experience.
Whatever you seek – swoon-inducing mountain views, fairytale villages, or oceanic serenity – a breathtaking train ride is waiting to be found. Here we unveil the most breathtaking train rides in Europe that you simply have to take this year.
1. Bernina Express (Switzerland to Italy)
One of the most stunning railways in the world, Bernina Express travels along the Swiss Alps, connecting Chur, Switzerland, with Tirano, Italy. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed trip navigates along mountain viaducts, blue lakes, and white mountain summits—all without the benefit of a single tunnel.
Why it’s special: Alpine landscape, curved track, and over 2,000 meters of height gained.
2. Glacier Express (Zermatt to St. Moritz, Switzerland)
Dubbed the “world’s slowest express train,” this eight-hour trip is a visually-packed one. Following two private ski resorts, the train meanders through deep gorges, 291 bridges, and the Landwasser Viaduct.
Tip: Go Excellence Class for gourmet lunch with an eye-level view.
3. West Highland Line (Scotland, UK)
For anyone who loves raw and untamed beauty, the West Highland Line cannot be overlooked. It travels from Glasgow to Mallaig, through the very heart of the Scottish Highlands, from the internationally renowned Glenfinnan Viaduct, where the Harry Potter films were filmed.
When to travel: Late summer or early autumn when the moors are golden.
4. Cinque Terre Railway (Italy)
Linking the five colorful fishing villages of Cinque Terre, this short but spectacular route runs along the Ligurian coast. You’ll hug cliffsides and dive through tunnels, all while glimpsing the sparkling Mediterranean.
Bonus: Pair it with hiking for a balanced adventure.
5. Oslo to Bergen Railway (Norway)
Stretching 500 kilometers, the journey unfolds Norway’s untamed landscape—mature forests and glacial fjords, mountain plateaus with not a speck of green in sight. Comfortable restored carriages in 2025 accommodate tourists without a loss of scenery.
Don’t miss: The stop at Finse, Norway’s highest station, formerly used to film Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back scenes.
6. The Rhine Valley Line (Germany)
With the Rhine River between Koblenz and Mainz, this fairytale route is a love journey. Discover vineyards on hillside slopes, medieval castles, and riverside villages.
Travel tip: Photographers adore the golden hour moments of magic.
7. The Douro Line (Portugal)
Curving through the Douro Valley, this Portuguese gem runs from Porto to Pocinho, curving riverbanks of vineyard terraces and ancient villages.
Interesting fact: The Douro Valley is among the world’s oldest wine lands.
Why Train Travel Is the Way Forward in 2025
Train travel in 2025 isn’t just about appearances—it’s about ethics. As environmentally friendly modes are the choice of travelers, the train is an environmental-friendly, interactive mode of transport. And Europe’s expanding high-speed and scenic train network is nearer than ever.
From snow-capped mountains to sun-kissed beaches, Europe’s stunning train routes are more than transport—often, they’re a front-row experience to some of the world’s most stunning vistas. Whatever your bent—outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or simply curious globe-trotter—make 2025 the year you become part of the procession
