Short Train Trip in Europe: 11 Stunning Routes!

A Short European Train Trip is one of the best ways to quickly reach cities and enjoy the journey! You can glide between major cities on high-speed trains or sit by the window on slower trains and savor the views of vineyards, rivers, and historic towns. Moreover, these journeys are not just about transportation—they offer an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a multi-day exploration, we’ve compiled the most beautiful train routes in Europe for you. So, pack your bag and hit the road!

1. Paris - Brussels (1 Hour 30 Minutes) | "Have Breakfast in Paris, Eat Chocolate in Brussels"

Starting your day in Paris is already wonderful, but what about having breakfast in Paris and lunch in Brussels? Thanks to the Thalys high-speed train, this is not a dream—it’s entirely possible! In just 1.5 hours, you can leave the romantic streets of Paris and arrive at the historic squares of Brussels.

A view from inside the Thalys: Its modern design, comfortable seating, and large windows make your journey enjoyable.

This train journey is a delightful escape that connects the most beautiful cities of France and Belgium. As you pass through rural areas, sit by the window and enjoy your coffee. When you get off the train, you’ll find yourself in a completely different world at Brussels’ famous Grand Place!

First, you must try Brussels’ world-famous waffles, because here eating waffles is never just a simple dessert choice, but a ritual! Top them with plenty of chocolate sauce, maybe some cream or fresh fruit… Every bite guarantees happiness! Then, give a nod to Manneken Pis, one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

At the end of the day, you simply can’t leave without stepping into the magical world of Belgian beers! Sit down in a small café, order a specially crafted Belgian beer, and enjoy this short but fulfilling train journey. Both the elegance of Paris and the sweet charm of Brussels are possible in one day!

In a famous beer bar in Brussels, Belgian beers with various aromas and colors are served for tasting. Each offers a unique experience!

2. Vienna - Salzburg (2 Hours 30 Minutes) | "A Journey to Mozart's Homeland"

Traveling by train from Vienna to Salzburg? Ahh, it sounds like a masterpiece of classical music, doesn’t it? 🎶 Especially when breathtaking views of the Alps await you along the way! This journey is not just a change of city, but is also considered one of Europe’s most enchanting train routes. As you look out the window, you’ll pass by stunning lakes, charming villages, and lush valleys—making you feel as if you’re in a movie scene.

When you arrive in Salzburg, you'll be greeted by a time machine! The city opens a door to the past with its baroque architecture, Mozart’s birthplace, and the famous Hohensalzburg Fortress. If you’re seeking some tranquility, take a walk in the Mirabell Gardens and enjoy the surrounding flowers, historic fountains, and magnificent statues.

Then, by visiting Mozart’s house, you can witness the childhood of this musical genius. The old pianos, manuscripts, and letters on display will immerse you in the magic of classical music. If you're a fan of Mozart, you might even catch a Mozart concert!

But you can’t leave Salzburg without trying its culinary delights! You absolutely must taste the world-famous Sachertorte. And order a cup of Austrian coffee with plenty of cream. If you have a sweet tooth, you can also try the local dessert called Salzburger Nockerl. We bet you'll want a second serving on the way back!

3. London - Edinburgh (4 Hours 30 Minutes) | "The Gateway to Scotland"

Traveling by train from London to Scotland is, quite literally, like a movie scene! Along the way, you’ll be accompanied by England’s pastoral countryside, lush valleys, and historic villages. During this 4.5-hour journey, as you gaze out the window, you might think, "Now I'm on the Hogwarts Express!"

When you arrive in Edinburgh, you'll be welcomed by stone streets infused with history and magic. Take a stroll down the Royal Mile, explore ancient castles, and don’t leave without visiting Edinburgh Castle! Don’t be surprised if you see people in traditional kilts—this is truly the heart of Scottish culture.

Of course, you must not leave without tasting Scottish whisky! If you want a true whisky experience, you can enjoy a tasting at The Scotch Whisky Experience and even discover one that suits your palate. Even if you're not a whisky fan, having a glass and saying, "We’ve come to Scotland, cheers!" is a great idea.

And for those who want to take the adventure to the next level: Haunted Tour! If you're curious about Edinburgh’s eerie past, you can join a ghost tour at night and listen to the mysterious tales of the city's dark alleys. If you're brave enough, you might also consider joining the Vaults Tour, which includes old dungeons!

4. Rome - Florence (1 Hour 30 Minutes) | "Renaissance and a Taste Stop"

With one of Italy's fastest trains, you can travel from Rome to Florence in just 1.5 hours! This short but unforgettable train journey is tailor-made for those who want to explore the trifecta of history, art, and cuisine. Along the way, you’ll be accompanied by the lush hills of Tuscany, vineyards, and quaint stone houses. Grab a seat by the window, enjoy an espresso, and take in the view!

As soon as you arrive in Florence, your first stop should be the Uffizi Gallery! Here, you can explore the pinnacle of Renaissance art. Seeing Botticelli’s painting The Birth of Venus up close is like walking through history. And of course, you can’t leave without paying homage to Michelangelo’s David!

If you’re tired of art, get ready to lose yourself in the famous streets of Florence! You can stroll over the Ponte Vecchio, admire the mesmerizing view of the Arno River, and enjoy a glass of Chianti in one of the city’s wine shops. And naturally, a trip to Florence isn’t complete without a slice of authentic Italian pizza! A Margherita pizza, with melting mozzarella, the fresh aroma of basil, and perfectly baked to perfection, awaits you.

At the end of the day, it’s a must to head up to Piazzale Michelangelo and watch the sunset! This spot offers one of the most beautiful views of the city and is truly breathtaking. If you're planning a romantic European getaway, this should be at the top of your list!

5. Berlin - Prague (4 Hours 30 Minutes) | "A Fairytale Journey Along the Elbe"

Traveling by train from Berlin to Prague is an excellent choice to discover both history and nature! This 4.5-hour journey offers a visual feast with castles along the Elbe, vineyards, and the most enchanting towns of Central Europe. As you sit by the window, watching postcard-like views of Germany and the Czech Republic, it feels like a journey through time.

When you step off the train, Prague’s historic atmosphere will embrace you. Your first stop in the city should, of course, be the Old Town Square and the Astronomical Clock. Walking through the square as the clock’s bells chime, you truly feel the medieval spirit of Prague. Then, take a stroll on the Charles Bridge and admire the baroque statues adorning it while surrendering to the magic of the Vltava River!

Of course, a Prague tour is not complete without exploring Czech cuisine! Order a large plate of Svíčková (traditional Czech beef dish) and don’t leave without tasting one of the famous Czech beers! Legendary flavors such as Pilsner Urquell, Budvar, or Kozel await you. And if you have a sweet tooth, Trdelník (a cinnamon-sugar pastry) is just perfect for you!

If you truly want to experience Prague, consider joining a Gothic Architecture Tour in the evening or take a boat tour on the Vltava River. When the city’s silhouette is bathed in red hues at sunset, Prague will become unforgettable!

6. Madrid - Seville (2 Hours 30 Minutes) | "The Flame of Andalusia"

Traveling from Madrid to Seville by train is one of the most delightful ways to discover the soul of Spain! With the AVE high-speed train, you can leave the sunny streets of Madrid in just 2.5 hours and step into the historic and enchanting atmosphere of Andalusia. Along the way, you'll be accompanied by golden Spanish plains, dazzling orange groves, and distant villages. As you take in the view, it’s quite likely you’ll crave a glass of Sangria!

When you arrive in Seville, a whole new world awaits you. The city is one of the places where Spanish culture is felt most deeply. Exploring the magnificent Alcázar Palace is like stepping into a fairy tale! Its exquisite architecture, colorful tiles, and stunning gardens will captivate you. As you wander around, you might even feel like you’re in a scene from Game of Thrones, as some of the series’ scenes were filmed here!

And of course, when you’re in the heartland of Flamenco, you simply cannot leave without watching a Flamenco show! Seville has many tablaos (Flamenco clubs). The live guitar music, passionate dance, and emotional songs in these performances completely mesmerize the audience. If you truly want an unforgettable experience, we recommend visiting the authentic Flamenco clubs in the Triana district.

Finally, enjoy the flavors of Spanish cuisine! Seville is the birthplace of the tapas culture, and it’s a tradition to stroll around while enjoying tapas! Gazpacho, patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and churros con chocolate are essential in Seville. After your meal, you can end the day with a walk along the Guadalquivir River. As the sun sets and the city lights reflect on the river, Seville transforms into a truly enchanting scene!

7. Zurich - Lucerne (50 Minutes) | "Alpine Views and Lake Delights"

Are you looking for a short but impressive journey? Here’s a route just for you! You can travel from Zurich to Lucerne in just 50 minutes and even in that brief time, you’ll feel as if you’re inside a Swiss postcard. Along the way, you’ll be greeted by the Rhine River, lush valleys, and snow-capped mountain peaks. Settle by the window, grab a cup of hot chocolate, and enjoy nature’s magnificent show!

Once you arrive in Lucerne, there’s plenty to do. First, visit the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), one of the city’s most famous landmarks. The historic paintings on its wooden panels will take you on a mini time travel back to the 14th century. Then, take a walk along Lake Lucerne, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the Alpine scenery. For great photo opportunities, you can find the best spots at the foot of Pilatus and Rigi Mountains.

Lucerne’s famous Chapel Bridge, with its historic structure and its stunning reflection in the water, is one of Switzerland’s most iconic landmarks.

If you want to go even higher, board the world’s steepest cogwheel train from Lucerne to Mount Pilatus! This train climbs with a 48% gradient, taking you to the summit and presenting you with a panoramic view of the Swiss Alps right at your feet. Once you reach the top, enjoy a warm bowl of soup and fully savor this natural wonder.

Lastly, you can’t leave without exploring Swiss cuisine! In Lucerne, you must try Switzerland’s famous cheese fondue. As you dip crispy bread into the fondue, you’ll experience a delightful treat for your taste buds. And if you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on the famous Lucerne Chügelipastete (a savory, creamy puff pastry)!

In short, the Lucerne journey is truly a paradise for both nature lovers and food enthusiasts!

8. Amsterdam - Brussels (2 Hours) | "A Sweet Journey from the Netherlands to Belgium"

Traveling by train from Amsterdam to Brussels is one of the most fun ways to explore two different cultures in a short time! In just a 2-hour train ride, you can leave the relaxed, bicycle-friendly atmosphere of the Netherlands behind and arrive in Brussels, the capital of chocolate and beer. Along the way, you’ll see the flat fields of the Netherlands and the lush countryside of Belgium rolling past.

Brussels' Grand Place in the heart of the city, with its elegant Gothic architecture and enchanting atmosphere, is one of Europe's most impressive squares and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When you arrive in Brussels, your first stop should be at a chocolate shop! Belgium is one of the places where the world’s best chocolates are made. You can visit stores of world-famous chocolate brands such as Neuhaus, Leonidas, and Pierre Marcolini and buy delicious treats for yourself or your loved ones. If you want to try a true Belgian dessert, don’t leave without tasting the sugary and crispy waffles!

Then, visit the Atomium, one of Brussels' most iconic landmarks. This gigantic steel molecule structure is one of the city’s most interesting tourist attractions. Climbing the Atomium and enjoying the panoramic view of Brussels will be an amazing experience. If you prefer a more classic tour, you can stroll around the Grand Place and admire the architecture of the historic buildings.

And of course, you can’t leave Brussels without tasting Belgian beers! In the city, you can find hundreds of different Belgian beers in legendary beer bars like Delirium Café. If you want a snack with your beer, you can enjoy some crispy fries served with special Belgian sauces – a perfect match.

This route is perfect for those seeking a short yet delicious escape! You can experience both the relaxing energy of the Netherlands and Belgium’s unique gastronomic culture in one day. So, chocolate or beer? The choice is yours!

9. Copenhagen - Stockholm (5 Hours) | "A Nordic Fairytale"

Traveling by train from Copenhagen to Stockholm is one of the most beautiful ways to explore the enchanting nature of Northern Europe! Along the way, you’ll feel as if you’re gliding over the Baltic Sea via the Öresund Bridge. In an instant, you leave Denmark and enter Sweden, accompanied by the deep blue sea, lush forests, and charming Scandinavian villages – an unforgettable journey awaits you.

When you arrive in Stockholm, your first stop should be Gamla Stan (the Old Town)! With its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful historic buildings, and cozy cafés, it’s like stepping into a fairytale. Take a coffee break at Stortorget Square and soak in the Scandinavian atmosphere. If you are a history buff, don’t forget to visit the Royal Palace and the Nobel Museum!

For those looking to explore Swedish cuisine, here’s a tip: "No fika, no return!" That means, sit in a café, order a cinnamon bun (kanelbulle) and your coffee, and enjoy this traditional Scandinavian treat. If you’re looking for something more filling, the famous Swedish meatballs (Köttbullar) are an excellent choice! Served with lingonberry sauce and mashed potatoes, this dish truly makes you feel Sweden.

If you're in an adventurous mood, visit the Vasa Museum! Here, you can see the 17th-century warship that was salvaged, and take a short journey into Viking history. If you love nature, you can head to Djurgården Island to explore lush parks, or take a nostalgic tour at the ABBA Museum.

This route from Copenhagen to Stockholm is a Nordic dream that combines history, nature, and gastronomy! If you, like the Vikings, want to embark on a bold exploration, pack your bag and set off!

10. Munich - Salzburg (1 Hour 30 Minutes) | "A Taste Route from Bavaria to Austria"

Traveling by train from Munich to Salzburg is a short but equally impressive journey. The lush valleys of Bavaria, pastoral villages, and the distant peaks of the Alps turn this route into a scene straight out of a fairytale. As you sit by the window watching this natural wonder, you’ll feel as if you’re in a Grimm fairytale.

When you arrive in Salzburg, you are welcomed by the city where Mozart was born! You can take a walk through the historic Mirabell Palace Gardens and visit the statue of the famous composer at Mozartplatz. If you're interested in classical music, visiting Mozart's birthplace should definitely be at the top of your list.

For those in pursuit of culinary delights, Salzburg is a true gastronomic paradise! The city is famous not only for its music but also for its sweets. Take a seat in a café and try the legendary apple strudel. Enjoy it with a cup of Melange coffee with plenty of cream! If you’re looking for something more substantial, the Salzburger Nockerl (a light, cloud-like soufflé) is an experience not to be missed.

If you prefer a more active plan, climb up to Hohensalzburg Fortress and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city. From here, you can admire the full baroque beauty of Salzburg and the striking view combined with the Alps. Finally, don’t forget to shop on the historic Getreidegasse! This narrow and charming street will take you on a journey through time with its local products and historic atmosphere.

In short, the Munich - Salzburg route is ideal for both nature lovers and culture enthusiasts! Those who love the trifecta of sweets, history, and breathtaking views should not miss this route!

11. Koblenz - Luxembourg (2 Hours 30 Minutes) | "Among the Vineyards of the Moselle Valley"

And now we come to our suggestion for the most enjoyable slow route! Traveling by train from Koblenz to Luxembourg means embarking on a journey through one of the most beautiful river valleys in Europe, accompanied by nature and history. Unlike high-speed trains, this route offers a calm and romantic experience. The railway winding along the Moselle River takes you on an unforgettable journey through hills covered with vineyards, charming towns, and fairytale castles.

Along the way, you can get off at historic towns like Cochem and Traben-Trarbach and make small discoveries. Visiting Cochem Castle to feel the medieval atmosphere and wandering through the narrow streets of the town is truly a mesmerizing experience. If you are fond of wine culture, this is a paradise! Tasting the world-famous Riesling white wines of the Moselle Valley is an absolute must on this journey.

When you arrive in Luxembourg, you'll be greeted by a magnificent city that blends modernity with historical charm. Discover the Luxembourg Old Town on the UNESCO World Heritage List, get lost in the historic streets of the Grund district, and enjoy the unique views along the Chemin de la Corniche! This is a great spot for taking photos.

The Adolphe Bridge in Luxembourg City and the La Banque et Caisse d'Épargne de l'État building showcase the elegant architecture and historical charm of the country.

This route is a perfect choice for those who want a romantic weekend getaway, nature lovers, and wine enthusiasts! If you love slow travel by train in Europe, the Koblenz - Luxembourg route is just for you!

Train journeys are not just a means of transportation but also a unique experience where you can collect unforgettable memories! We have compiled some of the most beautiful train routes in Europe for you. So, which one is the most suitable for you?

If you prefer a quick city change, routes like Paris - Brussels or Madrid - Seville are perfect for you. If you dream of a journey immersed in nature with breathtaking views, you can choose routes like Zurich - Lucerne, Munich - Salzburg, or Koblenz - Luxembourg. If you prioritize culture and history, options like London - Edinburgh, Berlin - Prague, or Rome - Florence await you. And if delicious meals and gourmet experiences are important to you, then Amsterdam - Brussels or Vienna - Salzburg hit the mark!

The latest trends show that slow travel and exploring by train are among the most popular travel trends in 2025! Traveling by train is an excellent option to reduce your carbon footprint, get to know local cultures more closely, and enjoy a relaxed journey.

Which one is your favorite? Share your choice in the comments and tell us why you prefer this route!

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