A great train journey turns transport into a highlight of the trip. These five European rides reward you with wide windows and unforgettable views.
1. Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy
This UNESCO-listed route crosses the Alps between Chur or St. Moritz and Tirano, climbing to more than 2,200 metres and passing glaciers, lakes and spiral viaducts.
2. Glacier Express, Switzerland
The scenic ride between Zermatt and St. Moritz takes about eight hours, with the Landwasser Viaduct, the Oberalp Pass and panoramic carriages along the way.
3. Flåm Railway, Norway
A 20-kilometre descent through fjord country, with waterfalls and steep valleys, all in about an hour.
4. West Highland Line, Scotland
From Fort William to Mallaig, the line crosses Glenfinnan Viaduct, familiar from the Harry Potter films, and skirts sea lochs and mountains.
5. Semmering Railway, Austria
Built in the mid-19th century, this was one of the world’s first great mountain railways and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We can combine rail passes, seat reservations and hotels into one smooth European rail holiday.
