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IN BRIEF
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In 2025, traveling across Europe by train is not just a matter of transport, it’s a true adventure through breathtaking landscapes and rich cultures. This article highlights a selection of enchanting routes that promise to awaken your senses and enrich your travels. Whether you are a lover of majestic mountains, picturesque beaches, or historic cities, there is a train line for each of your exploration desires.
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The Little Yellow Train in the Pyrenees #
The Little Yellow Train, a symbol of the Eastern Pyrenees, is much more than just a means of transport. This train, built in the early 20th century, runs a distance of 63 km between Villefranche-de-Conflent and Latour-de-Carol. This journey takes you through spectacular alpine landscapes while ascending to the Bolquère station, which reaches an altitude of 1,592 meters, the highest in France. Along the way, you will be amazed by the panoramas offered by the Séjourné viaduct and the Gisclard bridge, which overlooks an 80-meter void.
The West Highland Line in Scotland #
The West Highland Line, also known as the “Harry Potter train”, is a must for lovers of Scottish landscapes. This journey connects Glasgow to Mallaig and crosses spectacular wild nature, offering relaxing views of sparkling lochs and imposing mountains. This line, built during the Victorian era, will introduce you to an authentic and timeless Scotland while taking you through remote areas of the Highlands.
The Bergen and Flåm Train in Norway #
The Bergen Line is considered a masterpiece of Norwegian engineering. Stretching over 496 km between Oslo and Bergen, this route allows you to explore the Hardangervidda plateau, one of the highest in Europe. With nearly 180 tunnels, you will constantly be amazed by the breathtaking views of fjords and waterfalls. By connecting with the Flåm, you will have the opportunity to explore one of the steepest lines in the world, further immersing yourself in the stunning nature of this region.
The Douro Line in Portugal #
The journey aboard the Douro Line is a true escape for lovers of wine country landscapes. Departing from Porto, you will follow a 160 km route along the Douro River, known for its vineyards and rolling hills. The trip, which lasts about three hours and twenty minutes, allows for stops at renowned wineries. The sunset views are particularly enchanting, when the golden light floods the surrounding valleys.
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The Semmering Line in Austria #
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Semmering Line represents an engineering feat of the 19th century. Stretching over 42 km, it crosses the Alps with impressive complexity, comprising 16 viaducts, 15 tunnels, and nearly 100 bridges. This captivating journey will immerse you in alpine landscapes of breathtaking beauty, while allowing you to visit picturesque villages and traverse vast forests.
The Bernina Express in Switzerland #
The Bernina Express is an unforgettable experience that connects Switzerland to Italy. This route crosses landscapes of incredible richness, including glaciers, impressive viaducts, and dizzying gorges. This route culminates at over 2,000 meters in altitude before descending towards the palm trees of Tirano, in Italy. With almost 200 bridges and stops in historic villages, the Bernina Express is an immersion into the magnificent hierarchy of the Alps.
The Cinque Terre Line in Italy #
The journey on the Cinque Terre Line connects five charming villages perched on the Italian Riviera: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. This short trip between La Spezia and Levanto offers a glimpse of hidden beaches and local specialties. By stopping in each village, you will immerse yourself in Italian culture and discover stunning Mediterranean panoramas.
The Route from Belgrade to Bar #
This line connecting Belgrade in Serbia to Bar on the Adriatic coast of Montenegro is one of the most spectacular journeys. With its 476 km built in the 1970s, this 11-hour trip offers breathtaking landscapes, perched monasteries, and traverses several national parks. A fascinating blend of modernity and tradition in the heart of Montenegro’s dark mountains awaits you.
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The Bohinj Railway in Slovenia #
The Bohinj Railway connects Jesenice in Slovenia to Trieste in Italy. This journey crosses lush landscapes and includes an impressive 6,327 meter tunnel under Mount Kobla, as well as the Solkan bridge, known for its unique stone arch. Stops include picturesque destinations like Lake Bled, famous for its local pastries, and the Vintgar Gorge.
These railway routes, beyond their utilitarian function, reveal themselves to be immersive experiences within landscapes of unparalleled beauty and rich histories, to be discovered in 2025.
