There are many great reasons to take a rail journey through Europe, but one of the best reasons is the stunning scenery that you'll see along the way. Europe is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, from snow-capped mountains and winding rivers to quaint villages and bustling cities.

Traveling by train allows you to sit back, relax, and take in the breathtaking views as you glide past them. Unlike flying or driving, you don't have to worry about navigating or dealing with traffic, which can be stressful and take away from the overall experience.

Additionally, traveling by train allows you to connect with the local culture in a way that other modes of transportation do not. You can stop at small towns and villages that you may not have otherwise seen and experience the unique flavors and customs of each place. The train stations themselves can also be a hub of activity, with vendors selling local foods and crafts.

Overall, taking a rail journey through Europe is an unforgettable experience that combines the convenience of modern transportation with the charm and beauty of old-world Europe. Ready to start planning your rail journey through Europe? Check out our list of 7 Stunning Rail Routes to Add to Your Summer Travel Bucket List

The Bernina Express (Switzerland and Italy)

Switzerland is a country that offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich history and modern innovation. With its towering alps, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque valleys, Switzerland is truly a feast for the eyes. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and cycling in the summer, Switzerland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Also, Switzerland has managed to preserve its traditional culture and heritage. The country is famous for its cheese, chocolate, and watchmaking industries, and its picturesque villages and historic cities are a testament to its rich cultural history.

One reason to take this rail journey? One reason to travel the Bernina Express is the stunning views of the Swiss Alps and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Rhaetian Railway. The journey takes you through breathtaking mountain scenery, past glaciers, and over-dramatic viaducts, including the famous Landwasser Viaduct. The Bernina Express also offers panoramic windows and an open-air viewing platform, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning scenery along the way.

The Flåm Railway (Norway)

Norway is a country with a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the Viking era. Today, Norway is known for its stunning natural beauty, friendly people, and vibrant culture. One of the most popular attractions in Norway is the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. This natural phenomenon occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth's atmosphere, creating a stunning display of colorful lights in the sky. Norway is one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights, and visitors come from all over the globe to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle. Norway is also famous for its breathtaking landscapes, including its undulating mountains, fjords, and multitude of islands. From hiking and skiing in the winter to sailing and kayaking in the summer, Norway offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

One reason to take The Flåm Railway journey? One reason to take the Flam Railway in Norway is to experience the breathtaking scenery of the Norwegian fjords. The Flam Railway is considered one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, taking passengers on a 20-kilometer journey through some of Norway's most stunning landscapes, including cascading waterfalls, deep ravines, and soaring mountains. Along the way, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the Aurlandsfjord and the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, which is known for its narrow passages and steep cliffs. The Flam Railway also passes through several tunnels, including the famous 10.5-kilometer-long tunnel through the mountain of Hallingskarvet.

The West Highland Line (Scotland)

In Scotland, explore the country's mountainous terrain and beautiful scenery and cities that are rich in history and culture. Experience the natural beauty of the Scottish landscape up close with a guided tour of the mountains, including the highest peaks in the United Kingdom, learn about the legendary monster of Loch Ness, visit well-known city highlights such as the Royal Mile in Edinburgh and the Glasgow Cathedral and adventure in the rugged landscape of the Isle of Skye, where you can hike to the top of the Old Man of Storr or take a boat tour to see the local wildlife.

One reason to take this rail journey? One reason to ride the West Highland Line in Scotland is to experience some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. The train passes through the heart of the Scottish Highlands, taking in magnificent views of misty lochs, rolling hills, and snow-capped mountains. Along the way, passengers can admire the majestic Ben Nevis, which is the highest mountain in the British Isles, as well as the beautiful Glenfinnan Viaduct, which is famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter movies. The West Highland Line also passes through several charming towns and villages, including Fort William, which is known as the outdoor capital of Scotland, and Mallaig, which is a picturesque fishing village on the west coast of Scotland.

Al-Andalus Train (Spain)

From the Prado Museum in Madrid and the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona to the beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts of the Costa del Sol; Spain offers endless destination and attractions filled with a rich culture, impressive architecture, delicious foods and distinctive regions to explore.

One reason to take this rail journey? The Al-Andalus train is a luxury tourist train that operates in southern Spain. The train offers a variety of itineraries that showcase the history, culture, and natural beauty of Andalusia, one of Spain's most vibrant regions. The train is operated by Renfe, the national railway company of Spain, and features elegant carriages that have been meticulously restored to their former glory.

The TGV (France)

One reason to travel to France is to experience the country's rich history, culture, and art. France is known for its iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral, as well as its world-famous cuisine, wine, and fashion. France has a long and fascinating history, and visitors can explore historic sites such as the Palace of Versailles, the Roman city of Nimes, and the D-Day landing beaches in Normandy. In addition, France is home to some of the world's most renowned museums, such as the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, and the Centre Pompidou. These museums house some of the greatest works of art from throughout history, including masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Monet, Picasso, and many others. Whether you're interested in history, art, cuisine, or culture, there's something for everyone in France, making it a truly unique and rewarding travel destination. 

One reason to take this rail journey? One reason to take the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) this summer in France is to experience the convenience and speed of this high-speed train. The TGV allows you to travel quickly and efficiently between major cities in France, such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Nice, without the hassle of airport security or traffic. This means that you can spend more time enjoying your destination and less time in transit. Additionally, taking the TGV can also be a more environmentally friendly option, as trains emit fewer greenhouse gases per passenger than cars or airplanes. Overall, the TGV is a great way to explore France this summer and make the most of your time in this beautiful country.

The Eurostar (England, France, Belgium)

England offers a wealth of attractions and regions to explore, from the historic landmarks of London to the stunning natural beauty of the Lake District and beyond. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventure, there's something for everyone in England.

One reason to take this rail journey?  One reason to travel on the Eurostar is to experience the unique journey through the Channel Tunnel. The Channel Tunnel is an engineering marvel, stretching 50 kilometers (31 miles) beneath the English Channel and connecting London with Paris and Brussels. Traveling through the tunnel on the Eurostar is a truly unique and unforgettable experience, offering passengers the chance to travel between two countries in just a matter of hours. The tunnel is also home to the world's longest undersea section of any tunnel, making it a fascinating engineering feat. Additionally, passengers can enjoy stunning views of the French and English countryside as they pass through the tunnel, adding to the overall experience. Overall, the Eurostar offers a convenient, comfortable, and unique way to travel between London, Paris, and Brussels, and the chance to experience the wonder of the Channel Tunnel.

Orient Express in Europe 

From the ancient ruins of Rome and the world's most famous art and architecture in Florence to the stunning beauty of Sicily and Venice, the iconic city built on water that is unlike any other in the world, with its canals, bridges and stunning architecture; Italy offers a wealth of attractions and destinations to explore!

One reason to take this rail journey?  This iconic train journey through the heart of Europe, from London to Venice, passing through the French and Swiss Alps. You will glide by historic cities, beautiful countryside and stunning landscapes. The route takes around 24 hours and offers luxurious accommodations and dining options.

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