Nothing speaks of European opulence and grandeur like a train ride through the old world’s finest scenery. This experience of a lifetime can only be found by taking some of the most glorious train rides that Europe has to offer. At best, these trips send passengers through some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes and cities, seeing the world through a slow, smooth, and luxurious lens. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most grandiose train trips you can take across Europe. From steam trains to ICE (Inter-City Express) trains, we have the ultimate list of Europe’s most glorious train rides.
Eurostar
The Eurostar train service is the perfect companion to your trip to Europe. This high-speed train operates between Paris, London, Amsterdam, and most other major European cities, reaching speeds of up to 186 miles per hour. With other routes expanding, the Eurostar has grown to become one of the continent’s most popular transportation options.
Cisalpino
Another great example of a European train network is Cisalpino. Unlike the Eurostar, this train runs between a few different cities in various countries. This includes Milan, Turin, Venice, Genoa and Rome, with trips taking up to 4 hours. The Cisalpino also travels between these cities at full speed, allowing for a comfortable, enjoyable journey.
EuroCity
The EuroCity, or EC, is a network of express and high-speed passenger trains which can be found throughout many European countries. This system of trains operates daily between major city pairs and via transnational services. These trips have the ability to link cities together, making it a popular choice for passengers.
Belleville 347
The Belleville 347 is a local, steam-powered locomotive that runs between Metz and Verdun in France. This train is a relic from the 1930s, and to this day, it carries passengers on its historic journey ranging from 60 to 100 miles. It is a beautiful journey as passengers enjoy the sights and sounds of the countryside from the comforts of their window-side perch.
Trenhotel
The Trenhotel provides a luxurious experience and is the ideal choice for anyone looking for a special evening escape. It is the perfect option for a romantic journey on one of the many routes across Europe.The Trenhotel offers a variety of cabins, with fine surroundings and furniture, as well as a restaurant, bar and lounge car.
Glacier Express
The Glacier Express, running daily between Zermatt and St. Moritz, Switzerland, is one of the world’s most famous trains. This 8-hour journey connects two of Switzerland’s most stunning towns, with postcard-worthy views along the way. The journey is filled with remarkable landscapes – from snow-capped mountains and alpine meadows to deep ravines and glaciers.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, operated by the Belmond Company, is widely known as a symbol of luxury, class, and refinement. This timeless train service offers a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience, taking visitors from Paris to Venice via train in a single day. During the trip, guests can indulge in exquisite cuisine and be mesmerized by the ever-changing European scenery.
Romantic Train
The “Romantic Train” is operated by the Tren Italia Company, running between the cities of Naples and Rome. This is a tourist line, with a journey time of around an hour and a half. It is a special journey, with views over some of Italy’s most picturesque countryside.
Lyria TGV
The Lyria TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) is a high-speed passenger train entirely designed for passengers travelling between France and Switzerland. This service operates at speeds of up to 186 miles per hour, making the journey between Paris and Zurich a mere 3 hours.
Eastern Europe
Eastern Europe is the continent’s best kept secret when it comes to train travel. Ukraine alone is home to some of the most unique and scenic routes in all of Europe. From historical Kiev to the virgin Bukovel Mountains, nature-lovers are spoilt for choice when taking this journey. Most trips include stops in Lviv, Ivano-Frankivsk, Chernivtsi, and Uzhgorod.
Berlin-Warsaw Express
The Berlin-Warsaw Express is an international service operating between Berlin, Germany and Warsaw, Poland. This train operates daily and stops at numerous cities, including Poznań, Łódź and Kraków. It is considered to be one of the most enjoyable experiences you can have in Europe, as the trip passes through some of the most captivating landscapes of Central Europe.
The Alps
The Alps, Europe’s impressive mountain range, are home to some of the continent’s most luxurious train journeys. The Bernina Express, for example, takes passengers from Milan through the alpine landscape of Switzerland to Saint-Moritz. Meanwhile, the Glacier Express travels between Zermatt and Saint-Moritz and offers a route that is unbelievably picturesque. There is also the new Alpine Classic Express, which is a highlight of the railway journey across Europe.
Inter-Regio
The Inter-Regio is a Swiss regional train system that connects cities within the country. This railway line supports more than 200 communes, including Engadine, Valais, Graubünden, Liechtenstein, and the Principality of Monaco. It runs alongside beautiful landscapes, including snowed-in valleys and picturesque lakes.
There’s no doubt that the train is still one of the best ways to explore Europe’s varying beauty. From the Cisalpino to the Inter-Regio, these trips open up a world of cultural, historical, and architectural wonders like never before. Whether you’re looking for an intimate journey on the Romantic Train, or you’re keen for an exciting adventure on the Glacier Express, you can rest assured that these railway trips will remain etched in your memory for many years to come.
