Train Journeys That Make the Travel Part of the Holiday
Not every trip needs to start with a long airport line or a crowded flight. Traveling by train can turn the journey itself into one of the best parts of your holiday. With wide windows, extra space, and ever-changing scenery, trains make it possible to relax and enjoy the ride. These routes prove that getting there can be just as rewarding as arriving.
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
This famous route between Zermatt and St. Moritz takes you through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Over several hours, the Glacier Express crosses deep valleys, mountain passes, and hundreds of bridges.
Panoramic windows reveal snow-covered peaks, small villages, and open meadows. Meals are served at your seat, and the pace is calm and unhurried. It is one of the best examples of slow travel in Europe.
The West Highland Line, Scotland
Running from Glasgow to Mallaig, this route showcases the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands. You pass quiet lochs, rolling moors, and distant mountains before reaching the coast. The train also crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films.
This journey feels peaceful and timeless. It is ideal for travelers who enjoy quiet reflection and dramatic scenery.
The Bergen Line, Norway
Connecting Oslo and Bergen, this line crosses one of Europe’s highest mountain plateaus. The views shift from dense forests to open tundra and finally to fjords and coastal villages.
Each season offers something different. Winter brings endless white landscapes, while summer adds bright lakes and long daylight hours. The trip gives a complete sense of Norway’s natural beauty in one day.
The Cinque Terre Express, Italy
This short but beautiful route links the five colorful villages of Cinque Terre. The train winds along the cliffs, with views of the sea and terraced vineyards between tunnels.
It is the simplest and most relaxing way to see the coast. You can stop at each village, explore on foot, then continue when you are ready. Every part of the journey feels unhurried and scenic.
The GoldenPass Line, Switzerland
The GoldenPass Line connects Lucerne and Montreux through lakes, valleys, and alpine forests. It combines several train sections into one route, giving passengers a full view of Switzerland’s changing landscapes.
Travelers can choose panoramic or vintage-style carriages, both offering comfort and clear views. The scenery moves slowly enough to appreciate every mountain, lake, and village along the way.
Final Thoughts
Train travel offers something flights cannot: time to think, rest, and watch the world unfold. The rhythm of the tracks and the endless scenery turn movement into meditation. On these routes, the journey becomes part of the story, not just the way to reach your destination.