Explore Europe's Scenic Rail Routes with the Eurail Pass

Embark on scenic European train journeys with a Eurail pass, discovering breathtaking vistas from the Swiss Alps to Italian coastlines. Explore iconic routes like the Rhine Valley, Semmering Railway, and Scandinavia’s wilderness for an unforgettable travel experience. Perfect for scenic lovers and culture seekers alike, these routes showcase Europe's natural beauty and engineering marvels, making your journey truly remarkable.

Europe's diverse terrains draw countless travelers each year, many opting for the Eurail pass to explore the continent's stunning landscapes by train. Traveling by rail allows visitors to fully experience Europe’s vibrant scenery, from lush mountains to historic rivers. For those planning an itinerary, here are some of the most scenic and must-ride train routes across Europe for an unforgettable journey.

Beautiful Swiss Rail Routes
Start your adventure from Lucerne to Montreux on the GoldenPass line to enjoy spectacular views of the Swiss Alps, lakes, and villages. While regular services run daily, the GoldenPass Classic and Panoramic trains offer more immersive experiences, operating less frequently. From Zweisimmen, witness charming hamlets surrounded by towering mountains, ensuring a memorable ride.

Travel along Germany’s Rhine Valley route between Mainz and Koblenz, where castles and vineyards stretch across scenic cliffs. This popular path offers a fairy-tale atmosphere, with trains running year-round and no reservation needed—though early booking is advised to secure prime seats. Delight in views of historic castles, vibrant vineyards, and lush landscapes along the way.

Vienna to Ljubljana

This route connects Austria to Slovenia, making it perfect for combining cultural exploration with scenic vistas. Depart from Vienna’s Meidling station at 8:05 am to enjoy a picturesque trip through rolling hills and quaint towns heading to Ljubljana, perfect for starting your day with adventure.

    Cinque Terre, Italy

Italy’s renowned coastline, Cinque Terre, presents some of Europe’s most breathtaking seaside views. Traveling by train from La Spezia to Levanto offers easy access to this UNESCO World Heritage site, with frequent daily services included in your Eurail pass. No reservations are necessary, making it a convenient scenic addition to your travel plans.

    Semmering Railway, Austria

This compact yet stunning line in Austria is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Connecting Wiener Neustadt and Bruck an der Mur, it features impressive stone bridges and tunnels through dramatic mountain scenery. An underrated gem combining engineering feats and natural beauty, perfect for scenic travelers.

    Inlandsbanan, Sweden

Discover Scandinavia’s pristine wilderness along this long-distance route from Kristinehamn to Gallivare. Operating mainly during June-August and December-April, the approximately 14-hour journey offers views of dense forests, lakes, and wildlife. Reservations are required despite Eurail’s coverage, ensuring a well-organized trip.

Extra Tips for Travelers

Consider exploring the route from Belgrade, Serbia, to Bar, Montenegro, featuring nearly 700 bridges and dozens of tunnels among stunning mountain scenery. Traveling Europe with a Eurail pass provides flexible, scenic, and hassle-free options—start planning your memorable European rail adventure today!