Unbelievable Scenic Train Routes in Europe
I recently enjoyed a journey through the European Alps, spending five days on trains, passing through Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy. Today I'm sharing my top three most impressive scenic train routes.
1) Swiss GoldenPass Line: Montreux - Zweisimmen - Interlaken - Lucerne
This renowned train route truly lives up to its name. The carriages boast not only oversized windows but also glass roofs, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding landscapes. The route winds past turquoise lakes, majestic snow-capped mountains, and tranquil countryside – so stunning that you'll want to stay on board forever.
The most captivating stretch is arguably the ascent up the mountainside near Montreux. From here, you can take in panoramic views of Montreux, Lake Geneva, and the snow-covered peaks behind.
Another breathtaking viewpoint is near the town of Spiez, featuring a small lakeside church and charming, fairytale-like old houses.
The section from Montbovon to Zweisimmen is also unforgettable, passing through quintessential Swiss meadows, villages, pine forests, lakes, and mountains – it feels like travelling through a painting.
During my trip, part of the Interlaken to Lucerne section was replaced by bus travel due to maintenance, so I didn't get to fully experience it. I've heard this part is also very beautiful, so if you've traveled on that section, please share your experience!
Along the way, there are many places worth exploring further. For example, Montreux is home to the famous Chillon Castle, and nearby are Lausanne, Geneva, and the French border, making it easy to visit Zermatt.
Interlaken is a hub for reaching Jungfrau and Grindelwald – some of the most famous destinations in the Swiss Alps.
Lucerne is close to Mount Rigi and the city of Zurich – both highly recommended destinations.
2) Innsbruck - Woergl - Zell am See - Salzburg
Innsbruck and Salzburg are two prominent tourist cities in Austria. If you're in a hurry, you can take the express train in approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, but you'll miss many scenic spots.
I suggest splitting the journey: Innsbruck – Woergl, then Woergl – Zell am See – Salzburg, which takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, requiring only one train change at Woergl.
Notably, this route doesn't follow the express train line often suggested on apps, but instead the RE1523 line – a slower train that travels through picturesque regions such as Kitzbühel, St. Johann in Tirol, Zell am See, and Kuchl. You might even catch a glimpse of the Watzmann mountain – the second highest mountain in Germany.
3) Innsbruck - Garmisch-Partenkirchen
When travelling from Innsbruck to Munich, most express trains follow the valley eastward. However, if you choose the mountain railway route northwards, through Garmisch-Partenkirchen, you'll experience a truly rewarding scenic journey.
As soon as you enter Germany, the landscape opens up to reveal the Zugspitze mountain range – Germany's highest peak – and the majestic cliffs of the Alps looming in the distance. Closer by are small villages, lush green meadows, forests, and lakes – all blending together to create a stunning panorama that will leave you in awe.
These are the three most beautiful scenic train routes I've experienced so far. Due to time constraints, weather, and some technical issues, I didn't have the chance to try other classic routes like the Glacier Express in Switzerland or the mountain routes in France and Italy.
If you have any memorable experiences with other European train routes, please share them in the comments below!
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