🏔 8 Scenic Train Rides Across Europe for the Perfect Slow Journey
Sometimes the best part of travel isn’t arriving — it’s watching the world pass by through a train window. Europe does slow travel better than anywhere else on Earth, with routes that glide past snowy mountains, mirror-still lakes, and storybook towns.
This winter, skip the airport rush and take the scenic way instead. Whether it’s a short day trip through vineyards or a multi-country adventure across the Alps, these eight train journeys prove that getting there can be the highlight of your trip.
✍️ Noah · October 18, 2025
1. Glacier Express – Switzerland
They call it the slowest express train in the world, and that’s a compliment. The Glacier Express links Zermatt and St. Moritz, crossing 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, and some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery imaginable. Huge panoramic windows frame frozen waterfalls, wooden chalets, and valleys blanketed in snow.
In winter, the mountains sparkle like glass. Order lunch onboard, sip a glass of Swiss wine, and just stare — it’s impossible to look away.
2. Bernina Express – Switzerland to Italy
Starting in Chur and ending in Tirano, the Bernina Express climbs high into the Alps before descending into Italy’s warmer landscapes. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage route, famous for its spiraling viaducts and 360-degree mountain views.
One minute you’re surrounded by snowfields and glaciers, the next you’re rolling past palm trees. It’s one of Europe’s most dramatic transitions — and you’ll do it all without leaving your seat.
3. The West Highland Line – Scotland
This is the route that inspired the Hogwarts Express, and it feels just as magical. Departing from Glasgow, the train winds through misty lochs, rugged moors, and tiny highland villages before reaching Mallaig on the coast.
The highlight is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, where the train curves gracefully above the valley — a moment that every traveler remembers. On cloudy days, the fog floats low over the water, turning Scotland into a living painting.
4. Cinque Terre Line – Italy
Short but spectacular, the local train connecting the five Cinque Terre villages hugs the Ligurian coastline. For most of the journey, you’ll be inside tunnels carved into the cliffs — but when the train bursts into the open, you get flashes of turquoise sea and pastel houses clinging to the rock.
In winter, the villages are quiet and peaceful. You can hop off, have lunch in a seaside trattoria, then continue to the next stop without crowds or rush.
5. The Bergen Line – Norway
Running between Oslo and Bergen, this seven-hour route crosses the Hardangervidda Plateau — Europe’s highest mountain plain. In winter, it’s a frozen wilderness of snow-covered peaks and icy lakes.
The sense of isolation is beautiful. You’ll see tiny red houses standing alone in endless white landscapes, herds of reindeer, and sunsets that last for hours. Bring warm clothes, a camera, and snacks — you’ll want to stay by the window the entire time.
6. The Rhine Valley Line – Germany
This journey between Mainz and Koblenz follows the curves of the Rhine River, passing medieval castles, vineyards, and half-timbered towns that look unchanged for centuries. In autumn and winter, fog settles on the water and church bells echo from across the hills.
It’s the perfect day trip if you love cozy scenery and old-world charm. Sit on the left side of the train heading north for the best views — and don’t miss the Loreley Rock, the setting of countless German legends.
7. The GoldenPass Line – Switzerland
Switzerland again, because they simply perfected scenic railways. The GoldenPass Line runs from Lucerne to Montreux, connecting lakes, forests, and alpine passes. Every stretch looks like a postcard.
The route changes character as it moves: snowy mountains give way to green meadows and finally to vineyards overlooking Lake Geneva. If you travel in October or November, the autumn colors are at their peak — reds, oranges, and gold everywhere you look.
8. The Inlandsbanan – Sweden
For true slow travel, nothing beats Sweden’s Inlandsbanan. Stretching 1,300 kilometers from Kristinehamn to Gällivare, it crosses endless forests, frozen lakes, and reindeer country. It’s not a luxury line — just simple seats, big windows, and raw nature outside.
In winter, daylight fades quickly, and you might see the Northern Lights flicker above the snow. This is a journey for dreamers — quiet, long, and deeply peaceful.
The Art of Slow Travel
Taking the train reminds you that travel isn’t always about moving fast. It’s about noticing the small details — the way frost forms on the window, the strangers who smile across the aisle, the landscapes that change hour by hour.
Europe’s railways were built for people who believe the journey matters as much as the destination. So next time you plan a trip, don’t rush for a flight — book a window seat instead.
✍️ This blog was written by Noah.
