Want to explore Europe in a way that's relaxing, budget-friendly, and good for the planet? Then hop on board! Scenic train rides are your answer. In 2025, more travelers are choosing sustainable train travel, not just for the reduced carbon emissions, but also because it is affordable, comfortable, and a great way to discover hidden gems across European countries.

Imagine gliding through mountain valleys, sipping coffee in a panoramic carriage, or stepping off your train in the heart of a historic city. Train travel transforms the journey into part of the destination. And you do it all with a lighter footprint!

In this guide you'll find:

1. Top scenic train routes across Europe for 2025

2. Lesser known train routes worth your time

3. Seasonal travel tips and cost comparisons

4. Eco benefits of choosing trains over flights and cars

5. Smart ways to stay online during your entire trip

Why Train Travel in Europe is the Smart (and Green) Choice

Europe’s trains are fast, comfortable, and well-connected. Rail travel in Europe uses far less energy compared to cars or airplanes. Trains emit up to 90 percent less greenhouse gas than flying and use 60 to 80 percent less energy per passenger kilometer than cars. Choosing trains over planes helps you lower your environmental impact without sacrificing convenience. 

Instead of long drives or airport delays, trains depart from the heart of cities and bring you directly to your next destination. Many routes are operated by national rail operators using clean energy, including electricity and hydrogen. This makes them one of the most environmentally friendly forms of transport on the continent. 

You can travel in Europe with ease, enjoying panoramic windows, restaurant cars, and even hotel rooms on certain routes. Whether you're heading to the Scottish Highlands, crossing through Western Europe, or relaxing in France, the journey is just as rewarding as the arrival. With lower noise levels, smooth rides, and breathtaking views, trains are the greenest choice for modern explorers.

And thanks to Firsty, staying connected on the go is easy. No SIM card swaps, no roaming costs. Just fast, flexible internet, ready whenever and wherever you are.

The Best Scenic Train Rides in Europe for 2025

Ready to ride? These routes combine comfort, stunning landscapes, and a feel-good travel experience. Whether you're exploring iconic cities or heading deep into the mountains, these famous trains offer a journey to remember. 

1. Bernina Express, Switzerland

This one's a classic. The Bernina Express takes you through snow-covered peaks, glacial lakes, and picture-perfect villages between Chur and Tirano. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage route for a reason. With 196 bridges and 55 tunnels along the way, it’s an engineering masterpiece wrapped in alpine beauty. Think: panoramic windows, quiet luxury, and plenty of wow moments. Reaching over 2,200 meters in altitude, it is one of the highest railways in Europe and a stunning example of how energy efficient and powerful modern trains can be.

1. Ticket price: from €62 in second class, €89 in first class, plus €20 reservation fee.

2. Best time to travel: May to October for clear views.

3. Bonus tip: Book early. This is one of the most famous trains in Western Europe.

The panoramic windows offer views that rival any plane seat. Connections to St. Moritz and Lugano make it perfect for building a multi-city itinerary.

2. The Centovalli Express, Switzerland and Italy

If you like hidden gems, you’ll love this one. The Centovalli Express runs between Locarno and Domodossola, gliding past deep valleys, thick forests, and sleepy stone towns. It’s just two hours long, but it packs in enough views for a full day of adventure. Perfect if you want a scenic ride that’s also laid-back and easy to work into a bigger trip.

1. Ticket price: around €14 one way

2. Best time to travel: April to June or September for great weather and lighter crowds

3. Bonus tip: No reservation needed. You can hop on spontaneously 

The route links directly with Italy’s railways, making it perfect for extending your trip through the European rail network.

3. Settle to Carlisle, England

Looking for old-school charm? The Settle to Carlisle line is packed with it. You'll pass through the Yorkshire Dales and across the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct, with rolling hills and vintage stations that look straight out of a storybook. This one’s short and sweet ideal for a cozy afternoon on the rails. The Settle-to-Carlisle line in England offers views of the majestic Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines scenery.

1. Ticket price: from £16 one way

2. Best time to travel: Spring and summer for blue skies and green views

3. Bonus tip: Look out for heritage steam train days

The route was built in the 19th century and still feels like a step back in time. Stations along the way retain their historical charm, and there are multiple options for hopping off and exploring rural trails and local pubs. With vintage stations and sweeping hills, this is one of the best short distance regional trains for scenery lovers.

Underrated Routes That Deserve a Spot on Your List

Not every scenic ride makes the travel blogs, but these are seriously worth your time!

1. Le Petit Train Jaune, France

Bright yellow and full of character. Le Petit Train Jaune in France is known for its picturesque journey through the Pyrenees mountains from Villefranche-de-Conflent to Latour-de-Carol. You’ll get views of dramatic cliffs, medieval bridges, and pine-filled valleys all at a slow pace that invites you to soak it in. And because it’s powered by electricity, you can enjoy the ride knowing it’s a greener choice.

1. Ticket price: around €10 to €15 depending on distance

2. Best time to travel: Late spring through early autumn

This route climbs to over 1,500 meters in elevation and operates on a narrow-gauge railway. It is ideal for travelers interested in lesser-known adventures and unique regional engineering.

2. Nova Gorica to Jesenice, Slovenia

This two-hour journey through Slovenia is like flipping through a picture book of lakes, forests, and hills. Keep your camera ready for Lake Bled, one of the region's postcard-perfect sights. Ideal for travelers seeking less energy use and more tranquility, this route shows how scenic train travel supports sustainable tourism.

1. Ticket price: around €9 one way

2. Best time to travel: September and October for autumn colors

This scenic route is popular with hikers and cyclists, as it connects to several mountain trails. It is also a great alternative to bus travel, offering far better views and a more comfortable ride.

Heart of Wales Line, Wales and England

The Heart of Wales Line offers a scenic journey through the picturesque landscapes of Wales and England. Running from Swansea to Shrewsbury, this line spans 194 kilometers (121 miles) and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm. One of the notable features of this journey is the opportunity to disembark at Sugar Loaf Station for a walk or picnic, adding a delightful touch to the travel experience.

1. Ticket price: from £10 to £25 depending on route

2. Best time to travel: Summer for longer days and countryside walks

The Heart of Wales Line is known for its friendly conductors, small rural stops, and the opportunity to stop for walks along the way. Trains are infrequent, so check timetables in advance. It's a peaceful way to travel through two countries on the British rail network, connecting rural communities and showcasing natural beauty.

Scenic AND Affordable? Yes, It's Possible!

Worried about the cost? You don't have to be. The Eurail Pass lets you explore international travel with one flexible ticket.

1. Price: from €194 for four travel days in a month

2. Youth, senior, and child discounts available

3. Off-season deals: sometimes as low as €150

4. Usable in almost every European country

Want more space and perks? Go for a first class upgrade. Many top scenic routes cost under €50 if booked early. And if you travel between April and June or September and early November, you will avoid crowds and get the best prices.

For comparison: a flight from Milan to Zurich can easily cost over €100 and includes airport wait times, while a train on the same route costs less and offers scenic views through the Alps.

Tips to Travel Smarter

A good prep means more time enjoying the view and less time figuring things out, so here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Book ahead for popular routes like the Bernina Express

2. Pack light and bring a layer or two (the weather can shift fast)

3. Use train apps to check real-time updates

4. Travel midweek or during off-peak seasons to save money

5. Pick a seat with a view when you can, especially in panoramic cars

Most importantly: stay online to share your beautiful and sustainable journey with your friends and family with Firsty. 

Stay Connected on the Rails with Firsty

You’re watching the Swiss Alps roll by from a panoramic carriage or planning your next stop while crossing the Yorkshire Dales. Scenic train travel is all about freedom, but that doesn’t mean you want to go offline.

With Firsty, you can check real-time train schedules, message your accommodation, or share your journey with friends, all without the hassle of swapping SIM cards or paying unexpected roaming fees. Whether you're crossing borders, relaxing in a restaurant car, or arriving in a new city, Firsty keeps you connected when it counts.

Why choose Firsty for your train journey?

• No plastic, no waste: Firsty uses eSIM technology, so there's no packaging, plastic, or shipping delays. Just a fast digital setup that's better for the planet and ready for your next departure.

• Global coverage: Stay connected to the best local networks across Europe. Whether you're crossing borders or riding regional trains, there's no need to change SIM cards along the way.

• Affordable pricing: Only pay for what you use. Firsty offers clear, upfront pricing with no surprises—perfect for short city breaks or long scenic rides.

• Flexible options: Add data, switch countries, or change plans whenever your route shifts. From spontaneous weekend trips to month-long rail adventures, you're in control. 

• Reliable connection: Use your data for maps, schedules, bookings, or sharing Alpine views from the Bernina Express. Firsty works in cities, rural towns, and on the move between destinations. 

Conclusion

Scenic train travel in Europe is more than just a way to get from A to B, it's an experience in itself. From world-famous journeys like the Bernina Express and Centovalli Express to lesser-known gems like Le Petit Train Jaune and the Heart of Wales Line, the continent offers breathtaking views and unforgettable moments, all from the comfort of a train seat.

It’s a greener, calmer, and more budget-friendly way to travel. Thanks to options like the Eurail Pass and smart planning during off-peak seasons, stunning scenery and cultural richness are within easy reach without stretching your wallet.

And with Firsty helping you stay connected every step of the way, your journey becomes even smoother. Whether you’re sharing snapshots or navigating your next stop, you’ll stay online without any hassle.

So embrace the journey, explore freely, and let Europe’s railways take you somewhere unforgettable.