If you’re thinking about your next getaway, you might like to consider a rail holiday. The best train journeys aren’t only adventurous and exciting, they take you through beautiful and varied landscapes and allow you to see far more than you would otherwise.
With Europe on our doorstep, hopping on a train also means you can avoid the stress of flying. And, even better, because rail is one of the greenest forms of travel, you’ll be doing the world some good, too.
So, if you’re curious about a train holiday and would like to know more, here are five inspirational rail journeys in Europe.
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1. Puglia, Italy
Puglia might not be as celebrated as Tuscany, Rome, or the Amalfi Coast, but that’s what makes it perfect for a rail holiday. Located in the sunkissed heel of the Italian boot, Puglia’s remoteness means that it’s far less touristy than other regions – and there’s so much to see and do here.
You can visit whitewashed villages, Baroque cities, and secluded beaches, and enjoy learning about Puglia’s history and culture. Cities like Bari and Lecce, the latter of which is called ‘Florence of the South’, are famed for their spectacular architecture. Why not visit the curious cone-shaped houses of Alberobello and the Sassi di Matera, which are ancient cave dwellings carved into a ravine?
Shuttling through this glorious landscape on a train is a great way to take in the views. And being able to savour Italian wine and Puglia’s delicious cuisine is a huge plus.
2. Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Swiss Alps are one of the most famous mountain ranges in the world and it’s difficult to adequately convey their beauty. From chocolate-box towns to sky-high peaks, this is a landscape that’ll truly take your breath away.
And if you’d like to explore in style, why not board the world-famous Glacier Express and travel along some of Switzerland’s most spectacular railways? Known as ‘the slowest express train in the world’, you’ll be able to appreciate the magnificent views as they unfold around you.
The picturesque town of Tiefencastel is located inside Parc Ela, Switzerland’s largest natural park, and is well worth a visit. As is the glitzy ski resort of St Moritz. Here, you can visit stylish bars, glamorous shops, and excellent restaurants at your leisure.
And for even more rail adventure, you could board the narrow-gauge Bernina Express, which glides through the dramatic Grisons and Graubünden regions and provides magnificent views of thundering waterfalls and gleaming glaciers.
3. Catalonia and Little Trains of the Pyrenees, Spain
The Catalan Coast is home to captivating cities, pristine beaches, and lively seaside towns; and the Pyrenees are full of stunning natural scenery. If you’ve never been before – or if you have and are longing to go back – why not explore these unique regions via rail?
Travellers often visit the authentic fishing town of Roses, which has a lovely relaxed ambience and a sweeping sandy beach. It backs onto Cap de Creus National Park, where you can enjoy hiking in the wild landscape. Or, if you’d prefer to take it easy, you could relax in Roses town itself, feasting on Catalonian cuisine and soaking up the local culture.
The Little Red Train is what makes this area so perfect for a rail holiday as you can journey alongside the Pyrenees in its cheery crimson carriages. Whether you decide to enjoy a scenic trip from Rivesaltes to the little town of Axat or head to the open-air carriages to get closer to the passing scenery, there’s plenty to soak in.
Another option is to visit the well-preserved medieval Spanish town of Girona, a wondrous maze of secret alleys, bright buildings, galleries, and museums. If you’re hoping to try some authentic Spanish tapas, this is the place to do it. Figueres also has plenty to offer – from gothic architecture to unique shops and restaurants.
Or, to experience even more of the impressive natural beauty of the Pyrenees, you could hop onto the Nuria Valley Rack Railway, which will take you into peaceful Nuria Valley itself.
4. Lake Garda, Italy
The Italian Lakes are famous for their beauty, and if you’ve ever dreamed of visiting this stunning region, you might like to consider a rail tour. This is a place that’s all about romance, and because trains are often seen as the most romantic mode of travel, it’s a fitting way to explore! Rolling past shimmering blue waters and vibrant green valleys is something you’ll remember forever.
Lake Garda, the largest of the lakes, makes a perfect base. Hugged by hulking mountains and with gleaming cerulean waters, it’s an incredibly scenic spot. You can enjoy swimming and sailing in the lake, hiking in the surrounding hills, or simply relaxing in one of Garda’s many excellent restaurants.
Other towns on the shores of Lake Garda, like Malcesine and Sirmione, are also worth exploring. Or, if you’re after some hustle and bustle, you could head to Venice to enjoy a gondola ride and sip Aperol in canalside bars. Alternatively, why not hop on the train and visit the UNESCO-listed city of Verona?
5. Jungfrau Express, Switzerland
When asked to picture Switzerland, there’s a good chance that it’ll be images of the Bernese Oberland that first spring to mind. This part of the country is home to many of Switzerland’s most remarkable sights and natural attractions.
Being able to travel on the Jungfrau Express, Europe’s highest railway, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The whole Jungfrau region is utterly enthralling, boasting glittering glaciers, turquoise lakes, soaring mountain peaks, and roaring waterfalls – and travelling by rail allows you to enjoy unrivalled views of this sensational Alpine landscape.
The Schynige Platte Railway is also popular and takes you to the Alpine Ridge, where you can admire the picturesque meadows and chalet houses of the Bernese Highlands. From here, you could visit Interlaken, a resort town tucked between two lakes, where you can admire its medieval castle and explore the historic centre. Or, if you’re feeling energetic, you might like to try paragliding, canyoning, or rafting.
If you’d rather relax, you could enjoy cruising on Lake Brienz, a spectacular glacier lake which is famous for its intense turquoise waters. Encircled by forest-shrouded mountains and fairy-tale villages, the views are incredible.
Final thoughts…
As this article hopefully shows, there are many reasons to book a rail trip for your next holiday. The beauty of travelling by rail is that you can visit more places than you might usually on holiday, all while sitting back, relaxing, and taking in stunning views from the train window.
For further inspiration, head over to the travel section of our website. Here, you’ll find articles like 8 of the best rail journeys for foodies and 12 of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe. Or, you can browse rail holiday deals below.
Have you been on a train holiday before? Are you tempted to visit any of these locations? We’d love to hear about your travel plans and experiences in the comments below.