Train journeys offer an eco-friendly and enjoyable alternative to plane flights, with the journey itself being as much a part of the experience as the destination. Byway, a train travel company, is celebrating the 200th anniversary of modern rail travel in 2025 and offers the opportunity to book some of the most spectacular train journeys across Europe. From the Le Petit Train Jaune in France, which offers whimsical views and climbs to the highest station in the country, to the West Highland Line in Scotland, known as the ‘Harry Potter train’ for its iconic viaduct, there are a variety of options for train enthusiasts to explore.
The Bergen Line in Norway is Scandinavia’s highest railway, connecting Oslo and Bergen with stunning views of fjords, waterfalls, and remote stations. Portugal’s Douro Line winds alongside the Douro River through wine country, offering opportunities to visit vineyards and traditional wine estates. England’s Settle to Carlisle line takes travelers through the Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines, crossing viaducts and offering access to tiny historic towns and villages. The Semmering Line in Austria, known for its marvels of engineering, navigates treacherous Alpine terrain with loops, tunnels, and viaducts, providing a slow travel alternative to a rollercoaster experience.
Switzerland’s Bernina Line features one of the highest tracks in Europe and the steepest in the world, with breathtaking views of bridges, viaducts, glaciers, and palm trees. Italy’s Cinque Terre Line links the picturesque towns along the Italian Riviera, offering a scenic journey perfect for exploring swimming spots and small plates. For a city-to-seaside combination, the Belgrade to Bar line in Serbia and Montenegro passes through stunning landscapes with monasteries perched on mountain summits, national parks, lakes, and old town streets. The Bohinj Railway from Slovenia to Italy traverses a beautiful landscape and includes a long tunnel beneath Mount Kobla and the longest stone railway arch in the world.
Train enthusiasts and travelers looking for a unique and scenic journey will find a variety of options across Europe to explore. With the increasing popularity of train travel and the convenience of booking through companies like Byway, celebrating the 200th anniversary of modern rail travel, the allure of train journeys continues to grow. From whimsical and iconic routes like the Le Petit Train Jaune in France and the West Highland Line in Scotland, to the stunning views of the Bergen Line in Norway and the Semmering Line in Austria, there are endless possibilities for unforgettable train experiences in Europe. Whether seeking jaw-dropping views of the Alps or meandering through wine country, train journeys offer a special way to explore the world while enjoying the journey itself.
