Europe’s breathtaking landscapes, from towering mountain ranges to golden coastlines, make it an ideal destination for rail travel. With a growing focus on sustainable tourism—now a priority for 83% of travelers, according to a Booking com report—trains are becoming the preferred choice for scenic and eco-friendly exploration.
Recognizing this trend, Lonely Planet has released its ranking of the world’s most remarkable train journeys for 2025. Among them, eight European routes have been highlighted, including a UK journey named the most picturesque in the region. Additionally, National Geographic’s latest ranking of the 19 best train trips worldwide features several European gems, including routes in Norway, Switzerland, Germany, and Portugal.
Whether you seek an under-the-radar adventure or a luxury sleeper experience, here are eight train journeys that promise unforgettable views and experiences in 2025.
1. Settle to Carlisle, UK
Ranked as Europe’s most scenic train journey by Lonely Planet, this route stretches through the Yorkshire Dales and the Eden Valley, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills and charming countryside stations. A highlight is the Ribblehead Viaduct, a 104-foot-high structure that provides panoramic views across the national park.
- Operator: Northern Railway
- Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Ticket Price: From £10
2. The Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy
This world-famous route, part of the UNESCO World Heritage list, connects Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy. The train traverses 55 tunnels and crosses 196 bridges, including the stunning Landwasser Viaduct, while showcasing alpine landscapes, charming villages, and distant coastlines.
- Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
3. The Bergensbanen, Norway
This lesser-known but equally captivating route between Oslo and Bergen is Northern Europe’s highest railway. The train glides past dense forests, glassy lakes, and fjords, reaching its peak at Finse Station, located 1,222 meters above sea level.
- Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes
4. The Caledonian Sleeper, UK
One of Europe’s finest sleeper trains, the Caledonian Sleeper connects London Euston to Fort William in Scotland. The journey offers a striking transition from London’s urban sprawl to Scotland’s wild landscapes, including lochs, moors, and Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak.
- Duration: 12 hours 45 minutes
5. The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Switzerland is renowned for its rail travel, and the Glacier Express is one of its most spectacular routes. The train journeys from St. Moritz to Zermatt, crossing 291 bridges and 91 tunnels while offering unobstructed views of snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, and alpine meadows.
- Duration: 8 hours
6. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
The legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) continues the legacy of the original Orient Express, made famous by Agatha Christie. The luxurious train travels between major European cities such as Paris, Geneva, Rome, and Venice, offering vintage-style elegance, gourmet dining, and breathtaking scenery.
- Duration: Two days
7. Nova Gorica to Jesenice, Slovenia
This hidden gem of a route showcases Slovenia’s stunning mountain landscapes. Modest regional trains traverse stone bridges over sparkling rivers, leading travelers to the majestic Julian Alps. One of the journey’s highlights is passing Lake Bled, a serene blue-green lake with a picturesque island church.
- Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
8. Cannes to Menton, France
This affordable yet stunning coastal route takes travelers along the French Riviera, passing through glamorous destinations such as Antibes, Nice, and Monaco. With the deep blue Mediterranean on one side and the rugged Massif de l’Esterel on the other, this journey is perfect for those seeking both beauty and budget-friendly travel.
- Operator: SNCF
- Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Ticket Price: Around £12
Why Train Travel in 2025?
With sustainability at the forefront of travel trends, train journeys offer a lower-carbon alternative to flights while delivering breathtaking views and comfortable travel experiences. Whether you seek adventure through rugged alpine passes or a luxurious ride across Europe’s iconic cities, these eight train routes provide something for every traveler in 2025.
For more travel updates, visit News Xpress Online.
