Visual odyssey: Top scenic train routes in Europe covered by rail passes

Traveling by train in Europe is more than just connecting from A to B. The journey is an experience in itself, for beautiful backdrops often frame it. Europe train passes cover the most iconic train journeys on the continent. Imagine yourself on the window seat of a cozy train moving past mighty rivers, thick forests, and beautiful valleys to the soft rumble of the train. Now, make this pretty vision a reality, by riding along some of the recommended scenic routes with Europe train passes.

Bernina Express
Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre

  • Country: Italy
  • Route: La Spezia - Levanto

Colorful, old seaside houses and vineyards decorate the terraced cliffs that meet the waters of the Ligurian Sea. This post-card-worthy picture, with a coast lined with fishing boats, are views that will greet you on the Cinque Terre train route. Hop on and off the trains on the five different villages that compose the Cinque Terre and soak in the beauty of this famous coast to your heart’s content.  

Bergen Railway

Bergen Railway

  • Country: Norway
  • Route: Oslo - Bergen

As per the season you travel in, the Bergen Railway offers a completely different experience. Majestic fjords, lakes, waterfalls, and lush greenery to icy mountain tops paint the backdrop to your ride along the Bergen Railway. It is a 7-hour journey that is made super comfortable with the modern trains, with special coaches for families. The Bergen railway is included in your Europe train pass, however, you will be required to make additional seat reservations. 

Black Forest Railway

Black Forest Railway

  • Country: Germany
  • Route: Konstanz - Offenburg

Escape the hustle and bustle of the urban spaces and travel to the very comforting heart of nature on the Black Forest Railway. Green fields quickly transform into pine trees and dark foliage as you advance on this route. Your journey will weave in and out of many tunnels as well. Be sure to use your Europe train pass to access this beautiful train route in Germany. 

West Highland Line

West Highland Line

  • Country: Scotland & Great Britain 
  • Route: Fort William - Mallaig

You might recognize the West Highland Line from the Glenfinnan Viaduct, through which steams past the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. A new side of Scotland will be revealed to you as you trundle past viaducts, Loch Lomond, and the Trossachs National Park. Moors, glens, and rolling hills will soon have your face pressed against the window. Europe train passes are valid on the regional trains that run along the West Highland Line. 

Belgrade-Bar Railway

Belgrade-Bar Railway

  • Country: Serbia & Montenegro
  • Route: Belgrade - Bar

Take the day train on the Belgrade-Bar Railway with your Europe train pass to capture some magnificent views. The ride which lasts 12 hours and connects two countries, also has the distinction of crossing the tallest viaduct in Europe. You will travel along more than 400 bridges and 200 tunnels in this train ride cutting through the Dinaric Alps to reach the coast of Bar on the Adriatic Sea.

Rauma Line

Rauma Line

  • Country: Norway 
  • Route: Dombås - Åndalsnes

The 90-minute journey between Dombås and Åndalsnes in Norway or the Rauma Line is a short yet sweet journey. The trains trundle past famous attractions like Trollveggen and Romsdalshorn. Get onboard with your Europe train passes and pin your noses to the window to witness mighty fjords and charming mountain villages.

Centovalli Railway Line

Centovalli Railway Line

  • Country: Switzerland & Italy
  • Route: Locarno - Domodossola

Centovalli or “Hundred Valleys” is a magical place traversed by the Centovalli Railway Line. Use your Europe train pass to take the two-hour ride on first, second class, or panoramic train coaches from Locarno in Switzerland to Domodossola in Italy. Reservations are available on this route, dotted by pretty waterfalls, romantic villages, and lush greenery.

Arlberg line Scenic Route

Arlberg line Scenic Route

  • Country: Austria
  • Route: Innsbruck - Bludenz

A steep railway line that pushes past the Tyrolean Alps, the Arlbergline train route is a remarkable two-hour ride from Innsbruck to Bludenz in the western part of Austria. You can use Europe train passes to access this route. Look out the window to see the Trisanna Bridge, the Wiesberg Castle, beautiful valleys, and meadows. 

The Douro Line

The Douro Line

  • Country: Portugal
  • Route: Porto - Pocinho

The Douro Line moves along the Douro River and offers spectacular views, inaccessible to those taking river cruises. Steep, terraced vineyards line the route that leads to Pocinho. Old and quaint little train stations offer an added charm. Embrace the slow life on the Douro Line journey with your Europe train pass and make an intermediate stop at Pinhão for lunch.