8 Historic Train Journeys in Europe (2025 Guide)

Europe’s historical train routes... If the only thing that comes to your mind when you hear these words is transportation, grab a suitcase and think again! Because these routes are not just about getting from one place to another; they are about being transported to another time. These steaming dreams on tracks delight both history buffs and Instagram influencers at the same time. Simply put, I spent 13 years traveling across this continent by train – sometimes watching the sunset at a station, sometimes accidentally wandering into the locomotive cab and feeling like the train captain.

Wooden benches, windows filled with experiences, and stories told by the rails... This old carriage, before being restored, was like a silent witness. Even though it has been reborn in luxury and comfort today, in its plain state it still deeply conveys the spirit of the times.

Europe’s historical train routes offer not only nostalgia but also modern escapes blended with technology. With renewed panoramic windows, thematic night trains, gourmet carriages, and eco-friendly locomotives, these routes now cater not only to history enthusiasts but also to lovers of sustainable travel. Moreover, most routes can now be tracked directly via mobile apps. Listen to the call of the rails; it’s not just a journey, but a walk through the curves of time. And yes, don’t forget to bring your planner – because some views just want to be remembered, not shared.

1. El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo – Spain’s Hidden Treasure in the North

Starting Point: San Sebastián → Santiago de Compostela
Best Time: May – September
🍴 Gourmet Break: Fresh seafood and local cider in Viveiro

Among Europe’s historical train routes, there is hardly anything that deserves the word “luxury” as much as this journey. It doesn’t just take you from point A to B; it immerses you in a timeless experience. The historic carriages from 1923 have been restored with such care that as you walk inside, you feel like you’ve been invited to a gala in the Gatsby era. Only here, instead of a tuxedo, you’re admiring the ocean through a panoramic window. In 2025 the train’s Wi-Fi was improved, but let’s be honest – when faced with these views, one doesn’t even feel like checking Instagram.

This luxury train starts in San Sebastián and winds its way to Santiago de Compostela over 7 days. Along the route, you are accompanied by Asturian coastal villages, historic towns in Galicia, and endless green hills. Particularly, the stop in Viveiro, added to the program for the first time this year, immediately charms with its medieval streets and authentic seafood. Natural wonders like Praia das Catedrais turn this journey into an open-air museum.

A whole new world of gastronomy unfolds on board. Local olive dishes for breakfast, regional tapas at lunch, and Michelin-star menus in the evening... My personal highlight was the “bacalao a la gallega” (Galician-style cod), which still lingers on my palate. Moreover, in 2025 sustainable products were added to the menu and the vegan options increased. This train looks not only to the past, but also to the future.

If you’re saying, “I want to discover Europe by luxury train but I’m bored with the classic routes,” then this route is just for you. It offers both sea and mountain vistas, a mix of history and flavor, and even a digital detox opportunity. When packing your suitcase, remember: getting lost on El Transcantábrico is part of the charm. (Speaking from experience, I once wandered into the locomotive cab and later found myself sipping champagne in the wrong carriage.)

Buttons, levers, and analog gauges… This cab was the control center of an era where experience trumped technology. Today, digital systems are in charge, but this cockpit still keeps the pulse of the past.

2. Bernina Express – Between Ice and Sun, from Switzerland to Italy

Starting Point: Chur → Tirano
Best Time: December – April (snowy season), May – June (blooming mountain landscapes)
Innovation: QR-code-enabled audio guide system and new-generation panoramic coaches with ultra-view windows

Among Europe’s historical train routes, the Bernina Express is definitely one of the most Instagram-worthy. This impressive journey, which begins in Chur in Switzerland, takes you not only through the mountains but also through the changing seasons. On one side, snow-covered peaks; on the other, blossoming slopes... The train climbs up to 2,253 meters before making an elegant descent into Tirano, Italy. Every moment, every cent you spend on that window seat is justified by the views.

Wonders such as the Landwasser Viaduct, the Albula Tunnel, Lago Bianco, and the Morteratsch Glacier are essential parts of this route. Especially the Brusio Spiral Viaduct... Yes, the train actually rotates around itself! Don’t forget to wave out the window at that moment; later, you might find yourself waving back in the photos. Everyone who has experienced the Bernina Express agrees: this train derails not only your sense of time.

This year, the panoramic windows were made anti-reflective, and QR codes behind the seats now provide an audio commentary for every view. It’s not just an ordinary mountain pass; it’s a journey where the past, culture, and nature have something to tell you. Moreover, the silence is more pronounced now; thanks to eco-friendly updates, the train not only observes nature but does so without harming it.

And of course, at the destination Tirano, a delightful surprise awaits if the alpine air whets your appetite. Right near the station is the small but ambitious trattoria “Bernina Bites,” which serves risotto prepared with mountain cheese and a modern Italian twist. You might let the train slip away, but missing out on this flavor would be a real shame.

"Imagine a journey, between the snowy fangs of the Alps and the warm breath of the Mediterranean..."

3. Flåmsbana – Norway’s Small but Striking Train

Starting Point: Flåm → Myrdal
Best Time: June – September (green valleys), December – February (snowy landscapes)
Alternative: Option to descend by bicycle from Myrdal to Flåm

Among Europe’s historical train routes, Flåmsbana is the shortest yet perhaps the most striking. To those who ask, “What can you experience in 20 kilometers?” my answer is clear: this is the shortcut to the landscape. This train climbs 860 meters from Flåm to Myrdal, presenting Norway’s steep valleys, thundering waterfalls, and soaring mountain peaks right before your eyes. Along the way, you experience a natural wonder filled with countless tunnels and steep gradients.

On this route, not only your eyes but also your ears are delighted. One of the most impressive moments of the journey is the brief stop at the Kjosfossen waterfall. Without leaving the train, you almost immerse yourself in the sound of the falls by simply looking out the window. In the summer, traditional Norwegian folk dances may even be performed at this point. Before you ask, “What was that now?”, better have your camera ready – Norwegians are full of surprises, not just salmon.

In recent years, the train’s locomotives have been completely electrified, making the journey not only quieter but also more environmentally friendly. In 2024 the windows were renewed, promising selfies in maximum clarity – but honestly, put that phone aside and just enjoy the view. The scenery is so breathtaking that you might forget to take photos altogether.

When the train reaches Myrdal, you have two options: either hop back on to experience the same view in reverse, or rent a bicycle for a dreamy 20-kilometer descent through the valley. What did I do? Of course, I took the train back – because some romances aren’t ruined by a little pedaling.

"There are even people who married this train! I only took photos, I swear."

4. Centovalli Express – A Border Escape Between Switzerland and Italy

Starting Point: Locarno → Domodossola
Best Time: September – October, during the season of autumn colors and grape harvest
Stop: Visit a stone bridge in Intragna and a local pizzeria break in Domodossola

Among Europe’s historical train routes, the Centovalli Express stands out for its budget-friendly nature – the name means “hundred valleys,” and it is no exaggeration. This 52-kilometer-long route, which starts in the Swiss town of Locarno and stretches to the Italian city of Domodossola, winds its way through valleys, stone bridges, small villages, and vineyards. Every bend offers a new postcard-perfect scene.

This route is so slow that it makes you forget your habit of fast travel, yet it is packed with impressions so that not a minute is wasted. You cross bridges and tunnels repeatedly, and every passage feels like a short film. Especially the historic stone bridge in Intragna transforms into an open-air studio for eager photographers thanks to the brief slowdown of the train. This journey captivates not only with its views but also with the cultural and gastronomic treasures at each stop.

This year, special services have been planned on the Centovalli route in tune with local events. For the “vino e castagne” (wine and chestnuts) festival held in Domodossola in October, extra carriages have been added. In this small but impressive town, enjoying a chestnut dessert paired with wine can be the delicious finale of this journey.

And of course, an unforgettable moment: during the journey, a group of goats spread out over the tracks. The driver waited patiently, and then came the announcement: "Signori passeggeri, questa è una mucca svizzera testarda..." (Ladies and gentlemen, this is a stubborn Swiss goat.) Admittedly, the train was a bit delayed, but let’s face it – such things only happen on real train journeys.

"In a Swiss train, delays only happen because of goats. I give in."

5. Mariazellbahn – A Quiet Devotion in the Heart of Austria

Starting Point: St. Pölten → Mariazell
Best Time: In spring, when nature awakens, and in winter, when a fairytale snowy landscape prevails
Tranquility: A serene journey in the shadows of monasteries

Among Europe’s historical train routes, this one might be the one that touches your soul the most. In the heart of Austria, winding along the foothills of the Alps, this route turns train travel into a kind of meditation. You are accompanied by endless forests, lakes, small towns, and of course mountain monasteries. Traveling on this train feels less like going somewhere and more like escaping from yourself.

The Mariazellbahn is one of Europe’s oldest electrified narrow-gauge railways and remains true to its original spirit. With wooden benches, brass-adorned lamps, and the sound of birds from outside, you are carried away by the rhythm of the rails. Even though it has been modernized, the atmosphere inside the train seems to defy the passage of time. Nobody speaks loudly, and staring out the window becomes almost mandatory.

The beauty of this line is that it offers a different mood in every season. In spring, lush green valleys; in summer, chirping birds; in autumn, tunnels of orange leaves; and in winter, sleepy village scenes under snow... When you arrive in Mariazell, the famous Baroque basilica awaits you, giving the train journey a almost spiritual finale. By the end of this journey, your spirituality might feel a little lighter. It may not be your suitcase that feels relieved, but perhaps your heart does.

There’s also one small but precious detail: at the end of the journey in Mariazell, you are greeted by Austria’s oldest jam shop. Not stopping by to grab a jar of raspberry jam would be a real regret.

"The romantic way on rails: no one talks, just exchanges glances."

6. The Brocken Railway – Germany’s Enchanting Harz Mountains

Starting Point: Wernigerode → Brocken
Best Time: October – December, during the foggy season and Halloween tours
Thematic: Witch tales, steamy nostalgia, and gothic vistas

Among Europe’s historical train routes, the Brocken Railway is one of those that create the most mysterious atmosphere. This route in Germany’s Harz Mountains not only offers scenery but also carries legends. The train, starting from the town of Wernigerode, slowly ascends to 1,141 meters up to Brocken. Along the way, foggy forests, twisted tree branches, and occasionally dilapidated stone structures greet you – almost like a gateway into Tolkien’s Middle-earth.

During the Halloween season, this train takes on an especially unique ambiance. Throughout the journey, stories full of legends are told; you can see for yourself why Brocken, which inspired Goethe’s Faust, is associated with witches. Yes, there truly is a kind of “Walpurgis Night” legend here, and some passengers even arrive in costume. So be prepared – and if a witch offers you cookies in your compartment, don’t be surprised.

In recent years, the train has switched to environmentally friendly steam technology. So yes, that dramatic smoke still billows, but now in a more sustainable way. Also, as of 2025, the carriages have been restored – preserving their nostalgic texture while enhancing comfort. The seats are more comfortable, the windows no longer fog up, and when you gaze out, you truly feel as if you’re inside a fairytale.

At the summit, you are met by a stone building, a strong wind, and often dense fog. When the view clears, you can almost take in the Harz region from a bird’s-eye view. A small local café is a hidden gem: a break with hot cocoa and an apple tart with cream is the perfect reward for the entire journey.

"As the German auntie says: 'Yes, this is Hogwarts, but the castle has been restored.'"

7. Douro Line – Portugal’s Colorful Vineyards

Starting Point: Porto → Pocinho
Best Time: September – October, during the grape harvest
Experience: A tasting chat with winemaker Maria

Among Europe’s historical train routes, the Douro Line is like a painting with its scenery and evokes the harvest season with its aroma. The train starts in Porto, winds along the Douro River, and greets countless vineyards, ancient villages, and stone bridges along the way until it reaches Pocinho. While the river flows like water, it also whispers tales from the past.

This line offers not only visual but also emotional experiences. Especially in autumn, when the vineyards change from yellow to red, looking out of the train window feels almost therapeutic. Grapes are harvested, barrels roll by, and a subtle scent of wine permeates the train – as if the aromas are being carried right to you.

The train slows down so much at small stops that you hardly need to make an effort to take a photo. Stops like Régua and Pinhão are treasures for both nature lovers and foodies. The traditional azulejos at Pinhão station and the wine tastings right by the river offer an unforgettable experience.

This year, the dining carriage was completely renovated. Now, throughout the journey, you can savor cheese platters, olives, and plenty of red wine that reflects the taste of the Douro valleys. My personal highlight? Meeting winemaker Maria. A chat that started beside a wine barrel turned into a legend about her grandmother’s vineyard story. As she said, "Good wine requires patience, just like this train."

"A sip of Douro means a lifetime of memories, apparently."

8. Trenino Verde – Sardinia’s Wild Heart

Starting Point: Mandas → Arbatax
Best Time: In spring when it’s flowery, in summer when it’s wild
Delicacy: Fresh cheese from the shepherd and a newly added gourmet carriage

Among Europe’s historical train routes, Trenino Verde on Sardinia is the slowest, yet perhaps the most heartfelt. "A train? Or are we on the trail of a shepherd and his goats?" – it’s that relaxed, natural, and peaceful a journey. The route from Mandas to Arbatax opens a gateway to the unknown heart of Sardinia.

The landscape along the way is truly pastoral. Olive groves, abandoned villages, goat herds, and rocky outcrops where even the wind seems to pause to admire the view... The train moves so slowly that you might even wonder, "Should I not just walk?" But then the silhouette of a mountain in the background appears so beautifully that you simply lean back and smile.

Enjoy the pure pleasure of doing nothing – no book to open, no screen to turn on – just your eyes and your heart. During a brief stop in the village of Laconi, a shepherd offered me some cheese he made by hand. "No trade, just sharing," he said. That is exactly the spirit of Trenino Verde: not racing against time, but befriending it.

This year, a new gourmet section featuring regional specialties was added to the train’s carriages. Fresh ricotta, Sardinian bread, island olives, and a chilled Vermentino transform the journey into a culinary fairytale. When you get off at Arbatax and are greeted by the salty scent of the sea, all you can think is: "I wish this train would go a little slower."

"Is the train slow? Yes. But who’s in a hurry when heading to paradise?"

Life on the Rails

A train journey along Europe’s historical train routes isn’t just about getting from one place to another; it’s about passing through history, becoming a little more human at every station. Behind every locomotive lies a story, and every carriage window reflects a memory. These routes don’t just move on tracks – they carry you to childhood memories, youthful dreams, and even parts of yourself you never knew existed. You might not have a travel diary, but these journeys will open one in your heart.

In today’s fast-paced, consumption-driven age, these routes serve as a reminder of the value of slow travel, respect for nature, and the desire to connect with culture. Away from automated routines, the tracks offer a conscious escape. It is said that trains carry not only space, but also emotions – and they do exactly that.

If you have a free week ahead, a route map in hand, and a bit of curiosity and romance in your heart – don’t hesitate. Buy your ticket. Step onto a train with closed windows but open your heart wide. Don’t bring coffee, but bring an old planner – because some views want only to be remembered, not shared. And some moments, they’re written on the rails.

"Flying saves time. Traveling by train, however, gives life meaning."

The rails may be old, the paths perhaps outdated, but may your heart remain ever young.

Bonus: A Book for Every Route – Companions to Read by the Window

El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo: “Along the Coasts of Galicia” – Manuel Rivas
Bernina Express: “Heidi” – Johanna Spyri
Flåmsbana: “Norwegian Wood” – Haruki Murakami
Centovalli Express: “The Consciousness of Zeno” – Italo Svevo
Mariazellbahn: “Silence” – Patrick Roth
Brocken Railway: “Faust” – Goethe
Douro Line: “The Wine Journal” – John H. Salisbury
Trenino Verde: “Mediterranean Diaries” – Norman Lewis

May the pages of these books accompany you on these magical journeys along the rails. Who knows, perhaps before one chapter is finished, the carriage is already arriving at a new landscape…

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. In which season are these train routes at their most beautiful?

Each route has its own unique charm. While Bernina and Brocken offer white postcard motifs in winter, Douro and Centovalli evoke a dream of the harvest in autumn. El Transcantábrico enchants in summer with ocean views, and Flåmsbana displays a thousand shades of green in spring.

2. Where can I buy tickets?

You can usually purchase train tickets through the official website of the respective railway company or via international platforms like Rail Europe and Omio. For thematic trains, early booking is recommended.

3. Is the Interrail Pass valid on these routes?

On some routes the Interrail Pass is valid, while on certain special routes (such as El Transcantábrico or Trenino Verde) there may be exceptions or additional fees. It is advisable to check the specific conditions for each route.

4. Are the carriages comfortable?

Most of the historical routes feature modernized carriages. While Bernina and Flåmsbana employ modern panoramic coaches with large windows, routes like Mariazellbahn or Brocken Railway retain their nostalgic charm. On luxury trains such as El Transcantábrico, you enjoy hotel-like comfort.

5. Where are the best spots for photography?

The Brusio Spiral Viaduct (Bernina), Kjosfossen Waterfall (Flåmsbana), Praia das Catedrais (El Transcantábrico), and Brocken (Brocken Railway) are must-see stops for photography enthusiasts. The azulejos at Pinhão Station on the Douro Line are also a true work of art.

6. Is there food and beverage service on these routes?

Yes! Especially on the Douro Line, El Transcantábrico, and Trenino Verde, there are diverse gourmet options available. On other routes, local cafés at the stops are waiting to be discovered.

7. Is it safe to travel alone?

Absolutely. Europe’s historical train routes are ideal for solo travelers – not only because they are safe but also because they are inspiring. The people you meet along the way can be as unforgettable as the train itself.

Important Notice:

All the routes mentioned in this article have been active since 2025. For tickets, thematic tours, and up-to-date timetables, be sure to visit the official railway websites.

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