longest train journey europe

What is Europe’s longest train journey?

Sleeper and cross-country trains are in decline in favour of shorter, regional routes. So what is left of Europe's longest railway journeys?

By City Monitor Staff

Europe’s longest train journey? Where to begin? Maybe what’s longer? Britain’s longest train journey , or Germany’s ? So many questions.

On the one hand, Germany is quite a bit larger – its area is 70% more than Great Britain’s. On the other hand, Great Britain is a long, skinny island and Germany is much rounder – the distance from John O’Groats to Lands End is over 1,400km, but you never have to walk over 1,000km to cross Germany in any direction.

And it turns out these factors balance almost each other out. Britain’s longest train, the CrossCountry from Aberdeen in Scotland to Penzance in Cornwall, runs 785 miles or 1,263km. Germany’s longest train was the IC 2216 from Offenburg in the Black Forest to Greifswald on the Baltic coast, which was 1,300km. Though that route looks like it has now ceased operation, so the UK wins.

The Aberdeen to Penzance route isn’t really for people who want to go all the way across the country just to do Europe’s longest train journey. Instead, it’s a way to link together several railway lines and connect some medium-to-large cities that otherwise don’t have many direct services. “Cross-country” trains like these have existed for a century, but because they crossed multiple different company’s lines – and later, multiple British Rail regions – they tended to get ignored.

That’s why, when it privatised the railways, the government created a specific CrossCountry franchise so there was a company dedicated to these underused routes. If you want to get from Edinburgh to Leeds or Derby to Bristol , you’ll probably want a CrossCountry train.

The usual route is Edinburgh to Plymouth , but once a day they run an extra long one. Just one way though – there’s no Penzance to Aberdeen train. 

The longest train in Germany was weird – at 1,400 km, it’s substantially longer than the country itself. On the map, the reason is obvious – it took a huge C-shaped route. (It also doubled back on itself at one point in order to reach Stuttgart).

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This route took it down the Rhine, the biggest river in west Germany, and through the most densely populated patch of the country around Cologne and Dusseldorf known as the Ruhr. Germany’s second and third longest trains also have quite similar routes – they start and end in remote corners of the country, but all three have the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan area in the middle.

[Read more: Europe’s night trains are under threat – and campaigners are moving to defend them ]

You weren’t meant to take the IC 2216 all the way from north-east to south-west anyway – there are much more direct options available. Instead, it was for people who wanted to travel to these major cities. They could run two separate trains – say, Offenburg-Dusseldorf and Griefswald-Cologne – but making it a single route meant passengers benefited from a bit more flexibility.

France’s longest train exists for a very good reason. Most of France’s high-speed lines radiate out from Paris, and it’s very hard to get around the country without going to the capital. Usually, to get from Marseille on the Mediterranean to Nantes near the Atlantic, you’d need to take a TGV to Paris Gare de Lyon station, then get the Métro across the city to Gare Montparnasse.

Once a day though, this TGV avoids this faff by stopping in the suburb of Juvisy and turning around without going into the centre. This lets passengers travel direct between the coasts and reduces the traffic through Paris’s terminals during rush hour. The exact length of this route isn’t clear, but Wikipedia says it’s about 1,190km.

Spain’s longest train is very different. This is the Trenhotel sleeper service from Barcelona to Vigo, and it’s pretty fancy. This is a train for tourists and business travellers, with some quite luxurious sleeping cabins. But it is a regularly scheduled train run by the state operator Renfe, not a luxury charter, and it does appear in the timetables .

Being dry, hot and quite mountainous in its middle, most of Spain’s cities are on its coast (Madrid is the one major exception) and as a result, the train passes through relatively few urban areas. (Zaragoza, Spain’s fifth largest city, is on the route, but after that the next biggest city is Burgos, its 35th largest,)

This is partly why overnight trains work so well on the route – without many stops in the middle, most passengers can just sleep right through the journey, although there are occasional daytime trains on that route too if you want to savour the view on that 1,000km journey.

Finally, there’s Italy. This is another sleeper train, from Milan in the north to Syracuse on the island of Sicily. It goes via Rome and travels along the west coast of… wait, it’s a train to the island of Sicily? How, when there’s no bridge?

Well, this train takes a ferry. It’s just a train that they literally drive onto a ferry, sail across the water, and then drive off again at the other side.

Not the longest in Europe

Incredibly, the longest train in Europe doesn’t actually cross a single border. Unsurprisingly, it’s in Russia, but it’s not the Trans-Siberian – the vast majority of that route is in Asia, not Europe.

If you really want a long European train journey, head to Adler, just south of the Olympic host city Sochi. From there, you can catch a train up to Vorkuta on the edge of the Arctic Circle. The route zigzags a bit over its 89-hour, 4,200km journey, but it always stays on the European side of the Ural mountains.

[Read more: Why are trains in the UK so expensive?]

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Trans-Siberian Railway: All about the longest train journey in the world

The Trans-Siberian is the biggest railway in the world. It is also the dream of 9 out of 10 backpackers we have met in our travels. The original route is from Moscow to Vladivostok. It goes through 7 different time zones, 9289km (5806 miles) in a 7 days trip.

But what makes the Trans-Siberian travel so special?

We cannot answer for all. In our case, we always wondered how it would be to cross the biggest country in our planet by train. We thought of crossing the intriguing Siberia, an isolated zone with freezing areas where temperatures reach below 50 o C (-58 o F) over the winter.

Furthermore, we know little about Russia and the Russians (and if you are interested in some real curiosities we found about them, read it here !). During the Cold War, the information which reached the “west” about the Soviet Union was always twisted and negative. For this reason, why not checking it out with our own eyes?

And what is the Trans-Siberian travel?

There are a lot of misunderstanding when it comes to the Trans-Siberian travel. Some people think it is only a train doing one route and with difficult and restrict access. It isn’t quite like that.

The Trans-Siberian is nothing more than a train trip used by locals to commute from one place to another, with many stops along the way. You can start your trip from wherever you are (including London, actually!) and end up wherever is more convenient to you. The three final destinations are:

1) Vladivostok, at extreme east Russia, facing Japan;

2) Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital city; or

3) Beijing, in China. It will all depends of whatever you are looking for in your trip.

• Here it is our tip:  Crossing borders with the train will make your trip much more expensive.

Is the Trans-Siberian Railway worth going?

For us, very much! And what makes it so interesting?

A mix of the adventure of crossing from one end to the other the biggest country on earth through the largest railway ever built and, mainly, the Russian hospitality!

Many people have the image that Russians are obnoxious and rude, a stereotype reinforced by many Hollywood films. But let’s leave this media puerility aside and talk business here: They are really friendly!

Throughout our travel, many passengers – including the Russian army, who are always present in the Trans-Siberian journey as they have discount on the tickets – offered us food, tea, coffee, cigarette and, undoubtedly, vodka.

Unlike many people think, Russian culture is very hospitable and the former Soviet Union remnants are still evident, providing them a strong sense of community which impressed us.

The landscape isn’t really the highlight of the trip as it offers much of the same, which in our case was: snow, mountain, trees, snow, snow, houses, villages, snow, and snow.

Oh, and the beds, as incredible as it might sound, they are quite comfortable. Moreover, the train swing makes any nap into a hibernation. Awesome!

Buying the tickets to the Trans-Siberian

We bought our tickets online. We used the official website rzd.ru (the site isn’t the easiest one to use, even the Russians feel confused sometimes when using it, thus, go straight to this link http://pass.rzd.ru/main-pass/public/en ).

Before, buying a train ticket not speaking Russian was an almost impossible mission. However, after the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games, many things were translated into English, including this website!

Today, as complicated as it still is, all the information is there. And that includes advises and tips such as:

• You will pay more depending on the station you are departing
• or the bed you chose (up or down)
• the number of buyers
• the train’s type
• the class, and so on. We will say in more details below.

You can also buy the tickets at the train stations, though you will hardly find a staff who speaks English to help you out. You also have the option to buy it at the machines in the train stations which offer the service in English as well. We heard that buying tickets online is more expensive, however we are not able to confirm it as at least for us they seemed to have the same price.

Should I contact a specialised travel agency?

There are many people who opt to buy the tickets through a travel agency, particularly travellers who need the visa to go to Russia. Brazilians do not need visa, so do not waste money with the middle man. In case you can apply for your visa separately than the train’s tickets, we advise you to buy the tickets on your own in order to save money.

Should I buy the tickets in advance?

We bought our tickets always with no more than three days in advance and had no problems at all regarding availability. There are many trains going to the same route and the majority of Russians only go for a short-distance trip. It is only tourists who want to do the Trans-Siberian route because they simply want to, the majority of Russians would take a plane – we were even asked if we were crazy because we wanted to cross Siberia on a train. We heard that the demand for tickets increases over the summer, so it might be a good idea to buy them a few days in advance to avoid undesired surprises.

By the way, the online booking requires you to make a registration and your ticket will be emailed to you. Note, you better have it printed off when boarding.

The train and the coach

If you are making a short-distance trip, your first selection will be the train you will take. But, if your destiny is not so near your departure, you will be obliged to take the long-distance train.

Short-distance train:  Mostly known as commuters – are generally slower and do not have beds. They are also more difficult to buy online as you will have to know the name of the train station you will alight instead of the name of the city.

Long-distance train:  There are some trains which are faster and more modern than others, consequently more expensive too. The slower and less modern ones will be cheaper.

Once you have chosen the train you will travel in, then you will choose the coach, which means, the class.

Which class to travel?

There are three couches’ options: 1 o , 2 o and 3 o class, classified into reserved seats (3 o ), compartments (2 o ) and soft (1 o ).

Reserved seats or 3 o class : They are a 9 cabin coaches with 6 beds in each cabin with practically nothing separating one from the other, thus a total of 54 beds.

The 6 beds cabin are formed by 2 bunk-beds with a table in between at the left side of the train and 1 bunk-bed towards the aisle at the right side of the train, where the inferior bed turns into a table.

There are one toilet, sometimes two, at the end of the aisle. There are no showers, though it can be arranged if the coach-maid understands you, as well as paid for, obviously.

There are also no plugs on the beds, just one in front of each toilet. However, there is normally a plug at the bed before the last one, at the right side where is only on bunk-bed, which will provide the comfort of charging your gadgets without having to stay there watching it.

There also is a big metal tank where you can have hot water as much as you want for your tea, coffee and instant food (do not forget your noodles!).

Advantage: A lot cheaper than other classes and lot easier to interact with Russians.

Disadvantages: There is not much privacy; possibly spending a night or two hearing people’ snores; when leaving the coach and come back, you will note the weird smell in there; in case of having booked the superior bed, relying on the person below you to use the table and sit down. But do not worry, Russians are always sharing!

Compartments or 2 o class : They are also a 9 cabin coach. But with 4 beds each and separated with doors. Thus, 36 beds in total. There are 2 bunk-beds in each bedroom and a table in between, plus the door.

Advantage: It will provide you with more privacy and security. The interaction with your roommates is more likely to be deeper than the third class, as you will be sharing the same closed space.

Disadvantage: You will still share your space with other people, in case this is a disadvantage. We have also heard that it can be a little claustrophobic as it is small and closed. And hope for your roommates to be nice as you will spend probably a long time sharing the same space.

Soft or 1 o class : This is a coach with only 8 divisions like bedrooms. However, with two beds only in each room and doors.

Advantage: Your privacy and security are practically guaranteed, besides access to shower and room service.

Disadvantage: You will pay 5 or 6 times more than the 3 o class and almost no interaction whatsoever with other passengers.

• All trains have a restaurant and bar, normally at the last (or first) coach. The access to all coaches is free and you can walk up and down if you feel like.

How much does it cost the Trans-Siberian travel?

As said previously, there are a lot of variants which affect the ticket’s price:

• The train (long-distance or commuters);
• the speed of the train (the faster and more modern ones are more expensive, just look at the time duration of the trip);
• the coach (which means, the class);
• the bed (superior is cheaper and inferior is more expensive);
• the number of passengers;
• the departure station (some cheaper than the others, watch out for that);
• choosing the bed sheets (when travelling third class, you can opt out for the bed sheets and have your tickets slightly cheaper);
• and obviously, your final destination.

The season will also influence the price of your ticket. It is more expensive over the summer than over the winter.

We travelled in October, autumn, and paid:

St. Petersburg to Vladimir (12h) = fast long-distance train, third class, superior and inferior bed (full bunk-bed) at the right side of the train where there is only one bunk-bed – RUB 1,100.00 (US$18).

Vladimir to Irkutski (72h) = fast long-distance train, third class, superior and superior bed, both at the right side of the train where there is only one bunk-bed and without bed sheets – RUB 5,606.90 (US$ 91.91).

Irkutski to Vladivostok (72h) = slow long-distance train, third class, superior and inferior bed (full bunk-bed) at the right side of the train where there is only one bunk-bed and without bed sheets – RUB 3,526.00 (US$ 57,80).

Thanks for this fabulous information. I was searching in different sites and blogs, but I found real info in your blog and I am planning to travel from Vladivostok to Moscow after the end of pandemic. Keep sharing. And one more thing, kindly share the information for europe travel by train.

Hey Raul, thank you so much for that! You will do the inverse of what we did. Do you know where to stop along the way already? We would be happy to help! It’s such a fantastic journey. About travelling Europe by train, yes! Sure thing. Though, it’s quite easy today with Eurorail and and others. We are focusing on doing Europe by bicycle now 🙂 If that’s something that interest you, we have a doc series on YouTube about our bike trips in Europe. Also, subscribe to our newsletter!! We don’t send it very often but there is always something interesting we share! Thanks again and safe travels

Thanks for this incredible amount of information about the trans-siberian! I’m highly interested in taking one of these trains in the future and needed exactly something like this!

Hello, Tim We are very happy to know you liked this post! And we definitely recommend this travel too 😉 As we said, it can get a bit confusing when buying tickets, so, if you need further assistance, please, do let us know!! Thanks

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• 23 January 2022

Railway in Europe 2022: The complete guide

• January 23, 2022

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You surely have heard or read somewhere about the railway in Europe , haven’t you? After all you are here hahaha, maybe you even came from how to travel within Europe by train: best routes to take! and you already know the best routes, the types of tickets and the advantages and disadvantages of travelling by train. But do you know absolutely everything about them? Which are the best railways ? Where is the safest railway , or the cheapest and most luxurious ? Or even the longest railway in Europe? Perhaps you are interested or curious to know which railway is the most cost-effective . In this post we will bring you all this and a little more to learn all about the railways in Europe in 2022 in a complete guide!

So get your ticket ready, get on board this station and travel with us along the railway tracks of Europe!

Railway in Europe: How to plan a train trip in Europe?

We know that travelling by train through Europe is something magnificent and fascinating, but for this you need to have a good planning. In our guide we will show you how to plan a train trip in Europe in a simple and practical way, you will only need to follow a few steps!

• First step : decide on the destinations you want to go and do some research! If you have doubts about some destinations, 10 days trip to Europe: Where to go? can help you with that. After that do some research, it is very important to know about your destinations and how and where they connect.
• Step two : choose an order with time in mind! You can waste a lot of time instead of saving if you don’t make a good choice, this is because journeys from one place to another spend different times. So, organise yourself to take the route that best favours your time.
• Step three : Research prices. If you are not going to make a reservation and decide to spend at the machines, it is good to research the value of the tickets in each city to have an idea of how much you will need to spend.
• Step four : focus on one area of Europe only! If you are only going to spend a short time, you have to know how to use it well. Our recommendation for trips around 2 weeks is to concentrate on just one region (East, West, Central, North or South).
• Fifth step : check the train timetables! It’s always good to keep an eye on the time so you don’t get lost or miss your journey. You can check them on the websites of the national railway companies or look for another site for foreigners, like Rome2rio .

Where can I buy tickets?

Wait, wait, wait! Before you board that train, you need a ticket, after all it is with it that your train journey will be allowed. That said, you have two options for securing your ticket on Europe’s railways:

• Buying the ticket from the machines
• Book your ticket online

You need not be afraid to go to a ticket machine, they are in English. However, we do not recommend this option for those looking for the best deals, as prices vary in each city.

Best ticket booking sites

The best places to shop and book are undoubtedly the official websites and apps. You can make your reservation on the official website of the railway companies of each European country.

• Train tickets in Germany : Deutsche Bahn and Thalys .
• Train tickets in Austria : ÖBB and Westbahn .
• Train tickets in Belgium : SNCB .

Train tickets in Denmark: DSB .

• Train tickets in Slovakia : Zeleznice Slovenskej Republiky (ZSR) .
• Train tickets in Slovenia : Zeleznice .
• Train tickets in Spain : Renfe .
• Train tickets in Finland : VR Train .
• Train tickets in France : Voyages SNCF .
• Train tickets in the Netherlands : NS Hispeed .
• Train tickets in Hungary : Mav Star .
• Train tickets in Ireland : Irish Rail .
• Train tickets in Italy : Trenitalia and Italo .
• Train tickets in Latvia : Latvijas Dzelzcels .
• Train tickets in Luxembourg : Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Luxembourgeois (CFL) .

Train tickets in Norway: Vy .

• Train tickets in Poland : Poland Rail .
• Train tickets in Portugal : Comboios Portugal (CP) .
• Train tickets in the UK : National Rail , Trainline and Eurostar .
• Train tickets in the Czech Republic : Ceské Dráhy (CD) .
• Train tickets in Romania : CFR SA .
• Train tickets in Russia : Russian Trains .
• Train tickets in Sweden : SJ AB .
• Train tickets in Switzerland : Schweizeizerische Bundesbahnen (SBB)/Swiss Pass.

*Ps : Thalys operates not only in Germany, but also in Belgium, France and the Netherlands.

Other ticket booking options

Another option is to book on third-party booking websites. And is that a good alternative? Of course it is! There are many reliable sites and you can book a multinational route and avoid problems with the language of the site and translations, as well as headaches with foreign credit cards denied on foreign sites. The most favourable options, with the best prices are:

• Official foreign distributor of European train tickets;
• Easy to use;
• No hassle with credit card payments;
• Prices can be more expensive than national services.
• No extra charges;
• It covers tickets from almost every country;
• Little or no marking charge.
• Easy booking process.

Train pass in 2022, is it still worth it?

If you’re planning a longer stay and a great trip, have your plans in place and know how to use them, the answer is definitely positive. The 2022 rail pass is well worth it! And you can be checking the available packages on booking websites, such as Eurail . It’s easy.

• Enter the train routes you wish to travel;
• Add the cost;
• Compare the packages;
• Choose the one that best meets your needs.

To give you an overview, we’ll show you some example packages.

10-day rail pass.

• Expiry date : 2 months.
• Number of trains per day : unlimited.
• Period of use : 10 days at any time within a 2 month period.
• Possible destinations : 9 to 11.
• Value : 355 USD or EUR314,25.

15-day rail pass.

• Period of use : 15 days at any time within the 2-month period.
• Possible destinations : 14 to 16.
• Amount : USD 437or EUR.386,83

Unlimited rail pass.

• Expiry : month.1
• Period of use : the whole month.
• Possible destinations : more than 20 destinations or a more flexible trip in fewer destinations.
• Value : 594 USD or EUR525,81.

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Which country has the best railway system in Europe?

Europe, as the most developed continent in the world, also has an excellent railway system . It is difficult to choose just one, but there is one country which is considered to be the best in Europe, and that is Switzerland .

According to the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) in its European Railway Performance Index (RPI) , Switzerland achieved the highest performance in Europe with a score of 7.2 out of 10, this a few years ago, which has been improving up to the current period. The reasons for the country being among the best railway systems in Europe refer to:

• Traffic intensity;
• Network use;
• Quality of service;
• Punctuality;
• Passenger rail culture;
• High safety score at all times;
• High technical standards ;
• 100% electrified railway network.

The Swiss railways are a modern, well-used system in their condition, and their trains are frequently used, fuelled by the heavy passenger traffic, earning them high marks for punctuality, safety and quality of service. Its main railway company, the Schweizeizerische Bundesbahnen (SBB) , even bases its original structure on:

• Passenger services market;
• Production of passenger services;
• Real estate;
• Infrastructure Division

Which country has the best railways?

Despite having the best railway system in Europe, Switzerland is not the country with the best railway in Europe. That nomination goes to another country.

The best railway in Europe

Also according to the European Railway Performance Index , which ranked Europe’s 50 best railways from best to worst, it has London’s St Pancras at the top of its ranking with a score of 116 out of 139. The UK’s international railway terminus is then considered the “ best railway station in Europe “. Its high score is due to the Eurostar ‘s fast connections to Belgium, France and more recently Holland, as well as its convenience.

• The railway, apart from everything else, is a great and sought after tourist attraction , very beautiful with its modern terminals harmoniously mixed with some older areas.
• It is well signposted and easy to access, as well as to get around, as it has clear panels mirrored throughout the station and also train and metro connections directly from the station.
• The terminals open only 1 hour beforehand, and you still have to go through immigration like at the airports. This being the case, you can take advantage of your arrival to visit the many shops there are or try a hot drink at Le Painéis Quotidien .
• In the metros that go to the main attractions of the city you can get to where you want to go very quickly, like the London Eye, the famous Big Ben, in about 10 minutes.

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The country with the best railway in Europe

Even though it has not reached the first place of the best, Germany cannot be left out when mentioning a country with the best railways for not only having one, but several railways in the list of the best in Europe , obtaining the second, third and some other positions in the ranking, maintaining its solid and constant presence. The stations on the list are the Bahnhofs of the centres of:

Munich Hauptbahnhof is one that stands out, in addition, of course, to what is considered the best railway in Germany, located in the eastern city of Leipzig , ranking third. The great East German railway is huge and still offers a huge list of international connections.

What is the most luxurious train in Europe?

Who hasn’t seen a scene from a movie or a picture that exudes luxury and wanted to be a part of it? That’s exactly how you’ll feel when you see Europe’s most luxurious train, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express .

• With sophisticated cars adorned with elegant Art Deco, you feel an old school atmosphere with a subtle touch of glamour.
• The dishes served along the route are exquisite, with lobsters from Brittany or crispy tomatoes from Provence served for dinner.
• At the champagne bar, you will return to the golden age of luxury travel.

Since 1982, the train has been bringing the power of luxury to its passengers, making their dreams of luxury come true with softness and lightness. Its most famous destinations are London and Venice , with stops in Paris and Verona on the way, as well as a journey to Istanbul and Berlin , the latter being the train’s final stop.

• One of the highlights of travelling on this train is being immersed in a fascinating and memorable place and still enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way.
• The train offers single and shared suites.
• They still have the best chefs in the world preparing their meals.
• To close, the bar that will drive you wild is well stocked along with a lounge, also having a dining car.
• A trip from Venice to London takes around 16 hours.
• A ticket to be on board the Venice Simplon Orieng Express costs around £2,700.

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Which is the longest railway in Europe?

One of the great highlights of Europe is its railway network and the size of it, which is 250,000 kilometres long, connecting more than 20 countries. That’s a lot, and implies long railway lines , long trains and long journeys .

Europe’s longest railway line

Of all the stations, the longest railway line in Europe is in Germany, at exactly 39,299 kilometres. Quite a long line, isn’t it? Well, every day more than 12.5 million people travel across the country on trains.

Europe’s longest railways

It is difficult to know which in fact is the longest railway in Europe, so we will name them.

Copenhagen Metro, Denmark

Built between 1998 and 2007, the metro comprises 34 trains and runs 21 kilometres from Copenhagen and Frederiksberg , connecting 22 stations designed to hold up to 300 people and nine underground stations.

Lötschberg Base Tunnel, Switzerland

Currently 34.57 kilometres long, the Lötschberg Base Tunnel (LBT) runs through the Bernese Alps under the Lötschberg Tunnel . It is very popular, as it is also the longest railway tunnel in the whole of Switzerland and the third longest in the world. More than 100 trains pass through the LBT.

Budapest metro line

The Budapest metro is the third oldest railway in the world. It has grown alongside the region’s tourist infrastructure, adding four lines that ultimately total 38.6 km.

High speed train from Bologna, Milan

It is part of the Trans-European high-speed rail network. It is 214 kilometres long, with 67 trains running per day.

Europe’s longest train journey

After seeing about the longest lines and railways, surely you must have wondered what the longest journey is, right? At least that has piqued your curiosity! Well, Trans-Siberian Express is the longest train journey in Europe .

• With a distance of 5,722 miles and lasting over 6 days, the journey starts in Moscow and ends in Vladivostok.
• The journey follows several different time zones through which the passengers pass.
• Trains leave every 48 hours (on this trip).
• Among the amazing passages of the tour is Lake Baikal and the Ural Mountains.

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Who has the safest railway in Europe?

With an impressive safety record of over 12 years with no fatalities from train accidents, according to the Annual Health and Safety Report , the UK has the safest railways in Europe ! As well as leading the way in passenger safety , it is third in Europe for staff safety and fifth for trespassing , according to the ERA safety indicators.

Among the companies operating across the region, Grand Central was ranked by Transpor Focus in the National Rail Passenger Survey (NRPS) as the best long-distance train operator.

• The company had good ratings from long haul customers on its service and value for money.
• On trains there is more space in the accommodation.
• Travel to London is entitled to free coffee and tea.
• There are sockets throughout the carriages and free wi-fi is available.

What is the best railway in Europe?

Grand Central stops at railway stations:

• London Kings Cross;
• Northallerton;
• Eaglescliffe ;

The truth is that railways all over Britain provide fantastic passages with beautiful scenery. You could be opting for the scenic journeys with the old trains and learn more about British history, as you can opt for city trains.

Since we are talking about safety, but of course including a good view and comfort, the best rail option is London Kings Cross . In addition to being able to enjoy all of this, you can still get to know the beautiful city that nurtures ties with the incredible Harry Potter stories.

Cost-effective: quality and good value, which is the cheapest railway in Europe?

Talking about travel without talking about low price is almost impossible, so throughout this article you must have asked yourself “which is the cheapest train travel in Europe?”, right? But obviously it’s no use having a good price and not being comfortable, so here’s the question that hangs more on the cost-benefit , after all the quality has a pretty significant weight.

That said, the cheapest railway in Europe is in Ukraine , on a journey from Kyiv to Lviv ! You can move quickly, safely, comfortably and efficiently between these two points on a 360-mile railway in a journey lasting around 7 hours with 3 stops and 5.5 hours on direct connections.

Morning-afternoon trains

The often most sought after option are tickets for the morning and afternoon shifts. The journey has great prices, but you can still get an even lower scarf if you book in advance.

• Average ticket price: 18 USD ( 16EUR);
• Ticket with booking discount : 13 USD (11 EUR).

Night trains

If you are not in such a hurry and are willing to take a slower journey, night trains are a good option, with a big advantage of even lower prices.

• Price for 2nd class : between USD12 10 (EUR 10) and USD 17 (EUR 15)

Still on the night trains there is another option, even more comfortable and economical. These are the overnight journeys, with three service options.

• Compartment with max. 4 passengers
• Compartment with max. 2 passengers

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? BOOK A TICKET NOW

The railways in Europe are truly amazing, therefore ranking excellent in several aspects, being consecrated as one of the best in the world. Now with this guide you know everything you needed to know about the best choices of railways and can choose the one that best fits your taste and your budget! So what are you waiting for? Choose your destination, go to the official website we’ve left here, book your ticket and have one of the best experiences of your journey, after all, travelling through Europe by train is simply magnificent.

If you’re still not sure how to plan your itinerary, check out our tips in the first mentioned post or see:

How to plan a trip during the pandemic?  

Can Europe restrictions last longer?

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The World's Longest Train Journeys

Train journeys.

Trains have always been an exciting way to travel, whether it involved Great Britain's elegant and speedy Mallard steam locomotive of late 1930s vintage or more modern state-of-the-art high-speed rail systems such as Japan's Shinkansen, France's TGV or Germany's ICE. As some parts of the world such as the UK and Israel finally experience some relief in their battles against Covid-19 through widespread vaccination, people are finally starting to dream about traveling again. For rail enthusiasts planning for some spectacular post-pandemic experiences, now is certainly a good time to plan ahead and chart a journey on some of the longest train routes on the planet.

An interesting feature published by The Telegraph took a look at the longest direct rail routes that do not involve changing train. The Trans–Siberian Railway which connects Moscow with the Russian far east is still the world's longest direct rail route, running for 9,259 kilometers or 5,753 miles. The journey passes through the Ural Mountains, Siberia's birch forests and Lake Baikal, taking six days according to The Telegraph. The second-longest route without changing can be found in Canada with the journey from Toronto to Vancouver covering 4,466 kilometers or 2,775 miles. Third place goes to China where the stretch between Shanghai and Lhasa covers 4,373 kilometers of 2,717 miles.

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This chart shows the longest direct rail journeys that do not involve changing train (by distance).

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22 of the best rail journeys in Europe

See Europe how it was meant to be seen: from the window of a train! From mountain climbs to luxury sleepers, here’s the rail adventures you must add to your bucket list…

1. Glacier Express, Switzerland

Glacier Express, Switzerland (Shutterstock)

Best for… Seeing Switzerland in the slow lane

The journey: Zermatt to St Moritz (290km; seven and a half hours)

We say… Don’t be fooled by its name: the Glacier Express averages 38kph, but who wants to rush when the scenery is this spectacular?

Linking two of Switzerland’s best-loved ski resorts, the route is an opus of snowcapped peaks, rugged valleys, 291 bridges and wild tangles of alpine forest. The view will keep you glued to the train’s panoramic windows – though the traverse of the towering Landwasser viaduct might have you reaching for a second glass of Valais wine.

Top tip: In Zermatt you can extend your trip by taking Europe’s highest cog railway to the summit of Gornergrat (3,089m). The view of the Matterhorn is worth it.

Read next : Switzerland’s most stunning rail journeys

2. odontotos rack railway, greece.

Odontotos Rack Railway, Greece (Shutterstock)

Best for… Peaks and valleys

The journey: Diakopto to Kalavrita (22.5km; one hour)

We say… Making delightfully slow work of a wild Peloponnese gorge, this heritage railway – built in 1895 – is one of southern Greece’s final remaining narrow gauge lines.

It starts in the seaside town of Diakopto and weaves up to the mountain town of Kalavrita through hand-carved tunnels and plane-tree forests. En route, you’ll cross 49 bridges in total, as the Vouraikos River roils far below.

Top tip: To visit nearby Olympia’s ancient temples and stadium, take the small train from Katacolon – yet another narrow-gauge survivor.

3. Rhine Valley Line, Germany

The Rhine Valley Line, Germany (Shutterstock)

Best for… A riverside ramble

The journey: Cologne to Mainz (152km; two and a half hours)

We say… The Rhine Valley Line finds its muse just after Bonn, where it starts to tightly hug the waterline. Sure, you could take the high-speed intercity route and save yourself an hour on your journey, but then you’d miss out on the patchwork of vineyards, Koblenz’s hilltop fortress and the legend of Lorelei Rock.

Top tip: Interrail passes are valid on this line – and get you a discount on KD Rhine Line boats.

4. Venice Simplon Orient-Express, UK, France & Italy

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Shutterstock)

Best for…The ‘golden age’ of rail

The journey: London to Folkestone; Calais to Venice (1,636km; 24 hours)

We say… While the final descendent of the real Orient Express met its end in 2009, a US businessman had long since bought up 1920s and ‘30s carriages (many belonging to the original service) and resurrected its route to Venice.

This journey is played out on two heritage trains – the British Pullman on the UK leg and the VSOE between Calais and Venice – and as the mountains and meadows slip by, you can sip martinis in the piano bar, devour lobster in its Étoile du Nord restaurant car and just dream.

Top tip: Though the southbound journey is popular, the northbound experience is just as fabulous – and doesn’t book up so quickly.

Read next: The best new rail routes around the world for 2022

5. west highland line, scotland.

Glenfinnan Viaduct on the West Highland Lane, Scotland (Shutterstock)

Best for… The wildest of Scottish rides

The journey: Glasgow to Mallaig (264km; five and a half hours)

We say… After slipping away from Glasgow, the West Highland Line weaves some of Britain’s wildest scenery: to lonely moorlands, forest-bound lochs and crumbling castle ruins.

Up here, you’re more likely to spot red deer than humans – though the Glenfinnan Viaduct is familiar thanks to its cameo in the Harry Potter films. If travelling southwards, sit on the right-hand side of the train for the best views.

Top tip: The Royal Scotsman and Jacobite Steam Train are rather luxurious – if pricey – alternatives to this £16.80 (one-way) ScotRail journey.

6. Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy

Bernina Express (Shutterstock)

Best for… Jaw-dropping (and ear-popping) views

The journey: Landquart to Tirano (163km; five hours)

We say… Starting this summer, you get even more bang for your buck on the Bernina Express , as its trans-alpine journey has been extended for around 50km. It now starts (or terminates) at Landquart before looping through the Prättigau mountains and over Zügen Gorge’s sheer-sided ravines.

Running between May and October, its climax is the 2,253m-high Bernina Pass, the gateway to Italy. It’s a smooth ride but one that’s big on drama, encompassing dizzying and panoramic views from the Brusio Spiral viaduct along the way.

Top tip: For the best views, grab a seat on the rig.

7. Mariazell Railway, Austria

The Narrow Gauge or Mariazell Railway in the Austrian Alps (Shutterstock)

Best for… Alpine hikes and hijinx

The journey: St Pölten to Mariazell (78km; two and a half hours)

We say… Traversing one of the wildest regions of the Austrian Alps, this narrow-gauge service is officially split into two sections: ‘Valley’ and ‘Mountains’.

The former stretches from St Pölten to Frankenfels, a land of pretty grazing meadows and gentle pathways (tickets allow you to hop on and off), while the latter climbs up through the ruggedly handsome Erlauf gorge and the peaks of Ötscher-Tormäuer Naturpark. Allow a full day – at least.

Top tip: For widescreen views, grab a first-class panorama carriage (May to October on weekend and holiday services), while heritage rail fans love the 100-year-old Ötscherbär train that runs from June to late September.

8. Inlandsbanan, Sweden

Inlandsbanan train pulling into Mora, Sweden (Shutterstock)

Best for… A jovial jaunt

The journey: Kristinehamn to Gällivare (1,288km; from two days)

We say… The Inlandsbanan is slow travel at its best, heading up past the Arctic Circle and into Swedish Lapland. In fact, its drivers love an excuse to stretch their legs, and scheduled stops to take a dip in Lake Siljan or visit Sami villages and their reindeer herds along the way are worth it.

Before you know it, you’re cooing over moose and foraging for berries under midnight sun (June to early July) – all thoughts of the timetable long forgotten.

Top tip: At each stop you can order fresh dishes from local restaurants, such as smoked Arctic char and lingonberry crumble.

9. Trenino Verde, Sardinia, Italy

The Green Train travelling through Italy (Shutterstock)

Best for… Island adventures

The journey: Palau to Tempio (59km); Sindia to Bosa (33km); Mandas to Laconi (37km); Mandas to Sadali (58km); Arbata to Gairloch (62km); times vary

We say… The best way to get under the skin of Sardinia is by catching the Trenino Verde – or Green Train – for a picturesque pootle around the island. The Mandas-Laconi line weaves through wild woodlands, the Palau-Tempio track culminates in a town famed for its cork groves, and Sindia–Bosa forges from the island’s untamed interior out to its western coast.

Top tip: Don’t be surprised if the conductor hops out to shoo sheep off the line, or to stop traffic at level crossings. Slow travel at its purest.

Read next: Italy’s most spectacular rail journeys

10. la ligne des cévennes, france.

La Ligne des Cévennes, France (Shutterstock)

Best for… Gallic grandeur

The journey: Clermont-Ferrand to Nîmes (304km; six and a half hours)

We say… Every twist and turn of this train line is an engineering marvel: it ticks off a mighty 106 tunnels and over a thousand bridges, as well as the seriously lofty (46m high) Chamborigaud viaduct.

With 29 long-legged arches arranged in a semicircular loop, Chamborigaud is a scene-stealer – although the track reaches its pinnacle on the summit at La Bastide (1,023m). There are gentler pleasures still to be found in the rolling vineyards of the Auvergne, the chestnut forests of Cévennes National Park and the track’s picturesque dalliance with the River Allier.

Top tip: Visit in springtime to see the area’s wildflowers in bloom.

11. Derry/Londonderry to Coleraine, Northern Ireland

Derry/L:ondonderry, Northern Ireland (Shutterstock)

Best for… A budget Irish beauty

The journey: Derry/Londonderry to Coleraine (55km; 38 minutes)

We say… This route doesn’t need five-star cabins or steam locomotives for wow-factor: it’s all about the scenery. Explore a banquet of windswept beaches, razor-edged cliffs and wild views on the no-frills Translink service.

Sit on the left-hand side (if travelling eastwards) and settle in for a ride that Sir Michael Palin hailed in his Great Railway Journeys series as “one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world”, as you hop-skip peregrine falcon habitats and the thread the longest railway tunnels in Ireland.

Top tip: Stop for a yomp on the wide, wild sands of Benone beach.

12. Linha do Douro, Portugal

Pinhão Station, Portugal (Shutterstock)

Best for…Giving the city the slip

The journey: Porto to Pocinho (160km; three and a half hours)

We say… Don’t take a day cruise from Porto: hop on the Linha do Douro instead. Most boat trips only venture as far as the port-producing village of Pinhão, but this train line ploughs further into the heartlands, past great walls of rock and rambling quintas (wine estates).

Better yet, the track swaps between shores, so there’s no such thing as a duff seat. Pinhão Station must be one of Europe’s prettiest terminals, trimmed with intricate azulejo tilework, but look out, too, for the towering gorge around Régua and the ancient rock art of the Côa Valley at Pocinho.

Top tip: In Pocinho, linger over lunch and local port at Taberna da Julinha (+351 965 398 826) – its steaks are worth the trip alone.

13. Septemvri to Dobrinishte, Bulgaria

Tsepina on the Septemvri to Dobrinishte, Bulgaria (Shutterstock)

Best for… Making new friends

The journey: Septemvri to Dobrinishte (125km; five hours)

We say… Bulgaria’s only operating narrow-gauge railway is a lifeline to its remote south-west, so make room for the babas (grandmothers) heading to market.

The train travels at a glacial speed (you can walk beside it in parts), but it’s a journey to savour, with stops for hiking in Bansko, Velingrad’s hot springs and Belitsa’s dancing bear sanctuary.

Top tip: The train only has a simple café on board, so bring a picnic.

14. El Transcantábrico Clásico, Spain

León, Spain (Shutterstock)

Best for… Exploring the north

The journey: León to Santiago de Compostela (643km; four to eight days)

We say… Never has the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela felt so indulgent. El Transcantábrico ’s lavish compartments and plentiful excursions make for an easy, enlightening ride.

The Clásico itinerary hugs the northern coast, with stop-offs at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, seafood suppers in Santander and, on longer trips, hiking in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Picos de Europa National Park.

Top tip: The rail network actually runs between San Feliz and Ferrol – a few kilometres shy of León and Santiago de Compostela – so the trip is bookended by brief coach journeys.

Read next: 6 of the world’s most luxurious sleeper trains

15. belgrade to bar, serbia, bosnia & montenegro.

Mala Rijeka Viaduct, Serbia (Shutterstock)

Best for… A cross-country caper

The journey: Belgrade to Bar (476km; 10 hours)

We say… This Balkan line can’t be booked online with national operators, so you’ll need to get tickets at the counter, but once on board you’ll hop ravines and rivers with the greatest of ease, thanks to its 254 tunnels and 435 bridges.

It took railway engineers decades to blast through the Dinaric Alps, traverse the thick birch forests, skirt the shores of Lake Skadar and build the 200m-high Mala Rijeka viaduct, which, until 2001, was the tallest railway bridge in the world.

Top tip: Local sources state this train is currently only operating a night time service. Boo we say! But look out for the return of its day time schedule.

16. Golden Eagle Danube Express, Turkey to Hungary

Golden Eagle Danube Express (Shutterstock)

Best for… The east with ease

The journey: Istanbul (Turkey) to Budapest (Hungary) via Bulgaria & Romania (1,832km; seven days)

We say… On the Danube Express ’s ‘Castles of Transylvania’ route, you’ll whizz between two of Europe’s most beguiling cities in the lap of luxury.

Off-train excursions allow for easy exploration of medieval towns and Romanian castles, while the onboard experience includes opulent perks: think plush double cabins, starched linens and piano recitals.

Top tip: Spend your time socialising in the cocktail lounge; this journey tends to attract fascinating souls.

17. North York Moors Railway, England

Vintage passenger train on the North York Moors Railway (Shutterstock)

Best for… A time-travelling treasure

The journey: Whitby to Pickering (38.6km; one hour, 45 minutes)

We say… With a shrill whistle and a scorching blast, this steamy trip into the North York Moors National Park begins in lively Whitby, so spare time to visit its recenty reopened Abbey.

From there, it travels windswept dales, lush carpets of heather and, so it seems, time itself. Though devoid of most mod cons, the NYMR’s hundred-year-old steam trains make surprisingly quick work of these rolling moors, as you stop off for picnics and village walks along the way.

Top tip: For a taste of life at the steamy end, join the railway’s ‘experience days’ and ride on the footplate.

18. Bohinj Railway, Slovenia & Italy

Bohinj Railway, Slovenia (Shutterstock)

Best for… Slovenia made simple

The journey: Jesenice to Trieste (approx 150km; three hours)

We say… To ford the peaks of the Julian Alps to the northernmost sliver of Italian coastline, the Bohinj Railway must slice a route it has plied for over 110 years.

It was built as a strategic network for the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, but these days it’s catnip for hikers and cyclists who revel in the easy connections to Most na Soci, Lake Bled and Nova Gorica’s wineries.

Top tip: For a special trip, catch the heritage steam train (May to November) between Jesenice and Nova Gorica, where staff still don the uniforms of the old Austro-Hungarian Empire.

19. Semmering Railway, Austria

Semmering Railway, Austria (Shutterstock)

Best for… UNESCO-listed joys

The journey: Gloggnitz to Mürzzuschlag (41km; 40 minutes)

We say… Praised by UNESCO as ‘one of the greatest feats of civil engineering’, the Semmering teeters on two-storey viaducts and narrow mountain passes, with twists and steep inclines aplenty.

The reward for your fortitude? Swoon-worthy views of the Austrian Alps, and opportunities for great hiking or skiing. It took six years and 20,000 labourers to build this track, and this pioneering project from the 1850s became the blueprint for mountain railways all over the world.

Top tip: Gloggnitz is just an hour by train from Vienna, so don’t miss out.

20. Bergen Railway, Norway

Bergen Railway, Norway (Shutterstock)

Best for… Scandi splendour

The journey: Oslo to Bergen (500km; six and a half hours)

We say… Even in the cosy comfort of your compartment, Norway’s desolate Hardangervidda plateau will send a shiver down your spine. While the forests and lakes outside Oslo are beautiful, it’s the Bergen Railway ’s eerily empty mountain passes that steal the show.

Stretch your legs at Finse, the highest station on the line (1,222m), to see where Robert Falcon Scott and his crew trained in advance of their infamous 1912 South Pole expedition. A lonely spot indeed.

Top tip: Hop off at Myrdal and pick up the extraordinary 20km branch line to Flam (one hour), whose spiral tunnels and steep gradient will sweep you up further into these breathtaking mountains.

21. Brocken Railway, Germany

Brocken Railway, Germany (Shutterstock)

Best for… Saving your legs

The journey: Drei Annen Hohne to Brocken (19km; 51 minutes)

We say… The summit of Brocken (the Harz mountains’ loftiest point) is a doddle for these steam trains (which, if you book online, you’ll have to do in German). They climb thick pines and wildflower meadows up to the 1,141m peak, forming one of three lines on the Harz Railway, Europe’s longest network (140km) still running daily steam trains.

Top tip: Buy a one-way ticket and hike back down, walking the famed trail to Torfhaus.

22. Ffestiniog Railway, Wales

Ffestiniog Railway, Wales (Shutterstock)

Best for… Steaming Snowdonia

The journey: Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog (21.7km; one hour 15 mins)

We say… Operated by the oldestsurviving train company in the world, the Ffestiniog Railway has run for almost 200 years through Snowdonia National Park, and has a gleaming troupe of steam locomotives. The route is a rich feast of rivers, waterfalls, mountains and ancient woodlands, with a looping spiral section lending some thrills.

Top tip: Add on the Welsh Highland Railway – Ffestiniog’s sister route – between Porthmadog and Caernarfon to extend your fun.

You may also like:

• Switzerland’s most stunning rail journeys
• Spectacular rail journeys in the USA
• Britain’s most scenic rail journeys

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Longest Train Journey Europe – See As Much As Possible on This Train Ride

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Some people think that trains belong to bygones of the past and that no one uses them anymore for anything other than to transport goods, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth.

There are many train lines that crisscross the continent of Europe on both a domestic and international level, carrying passengers to their destinations over vast distances on a regular basis.

Continue reading to learn more about the longest train journey legal passengers can enjoy on the continent of Europe.

What is the Longest Train Journey in Europe?

Naturally, many people will instantly think of the Trans-Siberian Express as the longest train journey in Europe or, indeed, the whole world. 

They aren’t technically wrong, but a good proportion of the Trans-Siberian Express crosses over borders into the continent of Asia, which can disqualify it as the longest train journey in Europe for some.

In actuality, the longest train ride you can legally take that stays in Europe in its entirety is not very well-known. 

It is a simple train line that runs from Sochi, the host city of the 2014 Winter Olympics, in the south of Russia, to the city of Vorkuta in northwestern Russia, above the Arctic Circle.

This about 2402.8-mile journey (just short of 3900 kilometers) runs on a daily basis as it zigzags up Russia, staying just west of the Ural mountain range (often used as a natural designation of where Europe and Asia meet).

When Should You Take the Longest Train Journey in Europe?

Most of the tickets that can be booked for the longest train journey in Europe are probably wealthy businessmen and women willing to commute over long distances for a week or two at a time. 

That being said, the average cost of a ticket on the longest train ride in Europe isn’t unattainable at $180 per person. It seems that most, if not all, of the trains also originate in Vorkuta before ending up way further south in Sochi.

What this means is that it is probably best to buy tickets to experience the northwestern region of Russia during the summer months when temperatures aren’t as bitter cold, and inclement precipitation is less likely to be causing issues for travel and sightseeing.

Which Countries do You Pass Through while Taking the Longest Train Journey in Europe?

Unfortunately, the only country that you will pass through while on the longest train journey in Europe while on the Vorkuta-Sochi line is Russia. 

Even so, it is possible to get some rather scenic views along the route, especially as the climate begins to shift and give way to new environments or biomes.

If you’re more interested in visiting as many countries as possible instead of taking the longest train journey in Europe, try something known as “interrailing” across the mainland countries of the European Union.

Why Should You Book a Ticket for the Longest Train Journey in Europe?

The start and end points (Vorkuta and Sochi, respectively) are both interesting places to visit before embarking on the longest train trip in Europe.

Vorkuta is a city steeped in the history of the Soviet Union’s coal mining operations as well as the forced labor camp known as Vorkutlag. Learning about these topics can be rewarding and humbling for many people.

The city is also situated close to the permafrost of the Arctic, so if you are looking to experience some of the colder, natural temperatures on the planet, Vorkuta is a good place to start.

On the tail end of the journey, Sochi is home to where the 2014 Winter Olympics were held. But, if competition isn’t what you like, Sochi also offers both natural and historical attractions beyond the grounds of the Winter Olympics. 

Leaving Vorkuta to go to Sochi would be a good idea in the summer since Sochi is going to be so much warmer, which then affords you the opportunity to load up on attractions such as the beach.

Aside from what the cities have to offer, taking the longest train ride in Europe allows you to brag about knowing the correct answer to that question, as well as mentioning that you have ridden that train line is another great reason to book a ticket.

When all else fails, the scenery as it passes by the closest window will make for picturesque or stunning memories.

How Much Does the Longest Train Journey in Europe Last?

This question has multiple answers, which may surprise some people. The average duration of a train ride from Vorkuta to Sochi (or vice versa) lasts three days and 3 hours (a total of 75 hours or so).

However, this is the average time it takes for the daily train between Vorkuta and Sochi to make it from each place. The fastest train shaves off an impressive 10 hours or so from the average time giving it a journey time of just two days and 17 hours.

Likewise, there are trains on the slower side of the spectrum that can add another 10 to 12 hours to the average journey time, especially if the train is operating on a weekend or holiday.

Final Thoughts on the Longest Train Journey Europe

The Vorkuta-Sochi train line may not be as memorable or as easy to say as the Trans-Siberian Express, but it is truly a delight to be able to ride the longest train journey in Europe. 

Especially when you plan a vacation with the right timing. Just make sure to bring something to entertain yourself with for a bit during those long days spent on the train.

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8 of the World's Longest Train Rides

The Trans-Siberian Express

Distance: 5,772 miles

Duration: More than six days

The longest rail journey in the world (and getting longer ) is the stuff of legend—a train ride that starts in Moscow and ends, more than six days later, in Vladivostok. Over the course of the journey, the train crosses time zone after time zone and the landscape changes constantly, from the Ural Mountains to Lake Baikal and all the steppes one could want in between. Trains depart every two days.

Eastern & Oriental Express

Distance: About 1,200 miles

Duration: Three to four days

This classic journey aboard the Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express winds through Southeast Asia from Singapore to Bangkok (and vice versa), with stops at River Kwai and the Malaysian district of Kuala Kangsar. You can choose from routes lasting either three or four days, usually stretching over the weekends. Accommodations are private and richly decorated but compact, making the trip a great option for solo travelers .

The Canadian

Distance: 2,775 miles

Duration: Three days

There’s no Wi-Fi on VIA Rail's transcontinental jaunt, so be prepared for hours of watching the scenery. Luckily, what you'll see—snow-capped Rocky Mountains, the forest of the Canadian Shield, and the rest of Canada ’s strikingly empty landscape—is breathtaking. Beginning in Toronto and ending in Vancouver , the ride is made even better by comfortable sleeper cars and the chances of seeing moose, deer, and even bears from the windows.

California Zephyr

Distance: 2,438 miles

Duration: 51 hours, 20 minutes

With each trip taking a little more than two days, this Chicago -to- San Francisco journey is the longest in the U.S. It covers 2,438 miles along the trail of the pioneers, taking in the Rockies, the canyons of Colorado’s Western Slope, and the Sierra Nevadas, but you can also jump off at Reno if you're ready to trade nature for neon.

The Indian Pacific

Distance: 2,704 miles

Duration: Four days

Over the course of four days and three nights, the Indian Pacific traverses the width of Australia , from Perth to Sydney . It stops in Adelaide, the ghost town of Cook, and Broken Hill (an artist colony that was once a mining town). From the comfort of your seat, you'll see the Australian outback as well as the forests and waterfalls of the Blue Mountains; meanwhile, off-train excursions have been added for travelers headed east.

Vivek Express

Distance: Around 2,650 miles

Duration: Approximately four days

This 80-plus-hour trip on the Vivek Express is the longest train journey in India and one of the world’s longest as well, clocking in at approximately 2,650 miles. It takes between three and four days aboard the train to arrive, traveling the length of the country at an average speed of 32 miles an hour. There are 57 stops in total, beginning in the far north at Dibrugarh and ending in Kanyakumari, at India’s southern tip (pictured).

Beijing-Guangzhou Bullet Train

Distance: 1,200 miles

Duration: Eight hours

At roughly 1,200 miles, this isn’t a competitor for the longest journey, but it takes the prize for the fastest long-distance train. This high-speed train service launched in 2012, and has cut the 21-hour trip down to eight, reaching speeds of 186 miles per hour. At this pace the scenery flies by, but there are 35 stops, most in major cities like Wuhan.

The Blue Train

Distance: 994 miles

Duration: 27 hours

Spot wild game on the savannah from the windows of South Africa ’s famously decadent Blue Train, which crosses the country in just over a day. Traveling from Pretoria to Cape Town , the train is more like a fast-moving luxury hotel, with butler service, Cuban cigars, and gourmet dinners. But the main attraction is the view of the country’s spectacular farmlands, forests and vineyards.

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New silk road: the world’s longest train journey.

Story highlights

Yixin'ou, a Chinese freight train, completed the world's longest train journey

The 21-day train trip left China in November and spanned eight countries, completing its run in Spain

The journey was a test run for regular cargo service between China and Spain

China is known for chasing superlatives – now it can add marathon train journeys to its growing list of unparalleled achievements.

On December 9, a Chinese freight train, dubbed Yixin’ou, completed a journey of epic proportions: more than 13,000 kilometers (8,090 miles), snaking across eight countries and lasting a total of 21 days, making it the longest continuous train ride in the world.

The train set off from Yiwu in eastern China on November 18, chugging its way through Kazakhstan, Russia, Belarus, Poland, Germany and France, before ending its journey in Madrid, the capital of Spain .

The train carried 30 containers full of toys, stationery and other items. It’ll bring back Spanish products, including wine, olive oil and cured hams, in an effort the Spanish hope will expand their trade footprint in China.

Related article China sends it first freight train to London

Spanish Minister of Public Works and Transport Ana Pastor called the journey “a major milestone for the rail industry.”

The trip was a test run to gauge the possibility of establishing regular service between China and Spain to boost bilateral trade. Madrid Mayor Ana Botella Serrano dubbed it the “Silk Road of the 21st century.”

Regular train services between China and Germany already exist, connecting Chongqing with Duisburg, and Beijing with Hamburg.

Earlier this year, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced a Silk Road Fund, part of which will be dedicated to developing trade infrastructure across the Asia-Pacific region.

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Longest Train Journeys In The World

The longest train journeys in the world are very long! These journeys can take a number of days and cover thousands of miles.

So, here are the journeys that take the longest in Europe, Asia , Australia, and the US.

• This article was written to educate about Train Travel and was made by Save A Train, The Cheapest Train Tickets Website In The World .

1: Trans-Siberian Express is the longest train journey

Distance: 5,722 miles

Duration: 6 days +

The longest rail journey in the world starts in Moscow and finishes in Vladivostok. First of all, it takes over 6 days to complete. Passengers on this European journey go through multiple time zones. Landscapes on this journey include the Ural Mountains and  Lake Baikal . Trains for this journey depart every 48 hours.

2: Eastern & Oriental Express

Distance: 1,200 miles

Duration: 3+ days

This journey travels through Southeast Asia from Bangkok to Singapore. The train stops at River Kwai and  Kuala Kangsar . The duration of the journey is either 3 or 4 days. Additionally, journeys usually take places on weekends . Furthermore, the accommodation is private and nicely decorated. Because the accommodation is compact it is best suited for solo travelers.

Brussels to Lille Trains

Antwerp to Lille Trains

Paris to Lille Trains

Lyon to Lille Trains

3: The Canadian longest train

Distance: 2,700 miles

Duration: 3 days

First of all, there is no WIFI on this transcontinental journey. So, be prepared to spend time looking at the scenery. Because the mountains , forests , and other Canadian landscape you will see is breathtaking. The journey starts in Vancouver and ends in Toronto. Enjoy the comfortable sleeper cars, whilst you get glimpses of moose, deer, and even bears.

4: California Zephyr longest train

Distance: 2,348 miles

Duration: 51 hours

This journey is most noteworthy as it is the longest in the US. The journey covers the pioneers, the Rockies, and canyons. The key stops on this journey are Denver, Salt Lake City, Reno, and Sacramento.

5: Indian Pacific: Sydney to Perth (Australia)

Distance: 2,704 miles

Duration: 65 hours

This longest train journey features the longest stretch of straight railway track in the world. Firstly, Passengers get to experience the width of Australia . Additionally, the scenery includes waterfalls, forests, and blue mountains. Because of its length, there are many key stops on this route . The stops include  Broken Hill , Adelaide, Barossa Valley, Kalgoorlie, Cook, and Rawlinna. Train Tickets for this journey are expensive with prices starting at over $600.

6. Vivek Express: Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari (India)

Distance: 2,633 miles

Duration: 82 hours

Similarly to the Indian Pacific, this train is the longest train journey in India. Because it travels the entire length of India and has an average speed of 32 KM per hour. In contrast to other long train journeys tickets for this train start at $10.

7:  Paris -Moscow longest train Express

Distance: 1,998 miles

Duration: 48 hours

While this train is the longest trans-European  route it only takes 2 days to complete. The train leaves from the French capital and arrives at the Russian capital. Because this journey travels through Belarus you will need a Belarus visa to travel. Additionally, you need a visa to enter Russia .

Lyon to Marseilles Trains

Paris to Marseilles Trains

Nice to Marseilles Trains

Bordeaux to Marseilles Trains

Book your longest train journey with Save a Train

Booking a long train journey should not take a long time. That is why at Save a Train we have a quick ticket purchasing process .

Login to our website now and take 3 minutes to find the Cheapest Train Ticket for your journey. Tickets can be purchased using credit cards and real-time banking payments and many more options on Save A Train website.

Do you want to embed our blog post onto your site, then click here: https://iframely.com/embed/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.saveatrain.com%2Fblog%2Flongest-train-journeys-world%2F%3Flang%3Den – (Scroll down to see the Embed Code)

• If you want to be kind to your users, you can guide them directly into our search pages. In this link, you will find our most popular train routes – https://www.saveatrain.com/routes_sitemap.xml . Inside you have our links for English landing pages, but we also have https://www.saveatrain.com/ja_routes_sitemap.xml , and you can change the /ja to /ru or /tr and more languages.

Yulia Egudin

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Where can you go by train in 8h?

This map shows you how far you can travel from each station in Europe in less than 8 hours.

Hover your mouse on the map to see the isochrones from that city, search for a station, or click on one of the examples below.

Discover the Best European Train Routes

Traveling by train in Europe offers a blend of speed, convenience, and scenic beauty. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or an extended tour, our interactive map helps you find the best destinations reachable with any time budget around any city in Europe.

Why Choose Train Travel in Europe?

• Efficiency: High-speed trains connect major cities, reducing travel time significantly compared to other modes of transportation.
• Comfort: Enjoy spacious seating, onboard amenities, and the ability to move freely during your journey.
• Sustainability: Trains are an eco-friendly alternative, helping reduce your carbon footprint.

A: The map is based on estimated travel times from Deutsche Bahn data, but actual times may vary. Always check the latest schedules before traveling.

A: Yes, the map is a great tool for planning extended itineraries, allowing you to explore multiple cities efficiently.

A: Many rail services offer discounts for early bookings, youth travelers, and frequent travelers. Check the respective rail service websites for the latest deals.

This map is based on estimated travel times, using data from the Deutsche Bahn through Direkt Bahn Guru . Actual timetables may vary.

Spain by train: sustainable connections are a treat

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Jul 17, 2024 • 6 min read

The Costa Verde Express winds its way through northern Spain between Ferrol and Viveiro. From low-cost commuters to luxury trips of a lifetime, Spain is a joy to traverse by train. James Jackman for Lonely Planet

With Europe’s longest high-speed rail network, Spain is a joy to traverse by train. Such is the efficiency of its most sustainable mode of public transport that in a single day you can admire Gaudí’s Modernist architecture in Barcelona in the morning, have lunch in Madrid , and then be in Seville in time for dinner and a flamenco performance.

But there’s more to train travel in Spain than speed: slower journeys along Green Spain’s narrow-gauge northern tracks, and scenic meanders into Andalucía ’s mountains are a wonderful way to acquaint yourself with Spain’s diverse scenery. Whether you opt for a wallet-friendly cercanías train ticket or splurge on a multi-day extravaganza aboard the luxurious Transcantábrico train, you’re in for a treat.

Spain’s train services

Most trains are operated by Renfe , Spain’s national railway company. These include high-speed long-distance AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) intercity services that reach up to 193mph; its low-cost competitors are Avlo , Iryo and Ouigo services. High-speed routes include Barcelona – Madrid, Madrid – Seville, Madrid – Valencia , and Córdoba – Málaga . Avant is Renfe’s brand name for high-speed, short-distance hops such as Madrid – Valladolid and Barcelona – Girona ; they tend to be single cars on long-distance AVE services.

Mid-distance ( media distancia ) Alvia and Intercity services reach speeds of up 250km/h (155mph) and cover routes such as Barcelona – Pamplona , Madrid – San Sebastián , and Madrid – Cádiz .

Slower Renfe trains include Cercanías (the equivalent of Catalonia’s Rodalies) commuter services. In addition, some slower scenic routes are run by regional operators such as Euskotren that connects Irun and Hendaye ’ on the French border to Bilbao and San Sebastián via narrow-gauge tracks. Other narrow-gauge services along Spain’s north coast include Bilbao – Santander and Gijon – Ferrol, while Barcelona is connected to the Montserrat monastery via the slow, picturesque FGC route.

Booking tickets

Since dynamic pricing is used by Spain’s rail operators for high-speed and long-distance services, and since seat reservations are mandatory, it pays to book ahead. Iryo and Ouigo release tickets for early purchase months in advance; Renfe’s ticket release varies from 11 months to 15 days, depending on the route. Book your ticket via the Renfe website or Trainline .

Travel on long-distance and mid-distance trains is divided into Standard (2nd class or Estándar) and Comfort (1st class or Confort) classes. Fares are divided into Básico (basic, non-refundable, valid for 2nd class travel); Elige (semi-flexible, valid for 2nd class or 1st class if you pay an Elige Confort fare); and Premium (flexible fare for travel in 1st class on AVE or Euromed services, with an airline-style meal with wine included. Cercanías tickets cannot be purchased in advance; buy them from ticket offices, self-service machines or onboard from the conductor.

For traveling from A to B, an advance-purchase ticket is ideal, but if you’re looking for flexible travel within the space of a month, Renfe offers a Spain Pass to travelers living outside Spain, valid for 4, 6, 8 or 10 individual one-way journeys on all of Renfe’s long-distance and medium-distance trains.

The Costa Verde and Transcantábrico train routes are the jewels of Spain's tracks. James Jackman for Lonely Planet

Special trains

You can experience some of Spain’s most stunning landscapes and characterful cities from the comfort of ‘palaces on rails’ that hark back to luxurious railway journeys of the past. The best-known and oldest of Spain’s luxe train routes is the Transcantábrico , which traverses Green Spain between San Sebastián in the Basque Country and Galicia’s Santiago de Compostela in 8 days, stopping in Bilbao, Santander, Gijón and Oviedo . During the day, you’ll take part in bilingual guided excursions to the cities’ top attractions, then return to their luxurious wood-paneled suites, enjoy panoramic views from the train’s lounges, and dine on the latest in Spanish cuisine while listening to live music.

The Al-Andalus train takes in the architectural and cultural highlights of the likes of Úbeda , Córdoba, Granada , Ronda , Seville and Jerez while traveling between Málaga and Cádiz over the course of a week. You reside in carriages identical to those that once transported the British royal family between the Côte d’Azur and Calais, while sampling the best of Andalucían cuisine, from jamón iberico bellota to aged sherries.

In the north of Spain, the 3-day/2-night La Robla Express makes the journey between Bilbao and León , combining contemporary art and centuries-old architecture with the gastronomy of Green Spain.

Multi-day journeys-of-a-lifetime aside, there are numerous themed day routes that typically run between April and November. These include Catalonia’s Tren dels Llacs , with lovingly restored vintage carriages, that explores the highlights of the Lleida province, from the the Aigüestortes y Estany de Sant Maurici National Park to artisan cheesemakers. Galicia ’s themed trains take in the Rías Baixas Wine Route, the Cheese Route, the Lighthouse Route and the Monasteries Route, among others.

In Madrid, you may board the Cervantes Train to Alcalá de Henares, the birthplace of Spain’s iconic author, alongside actors in 17th-century costume, hop aboard the Medieval Train to Sigüenza, accompanied by minstrels, knights and princesses; or visit the Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial aboard the Philip II Train . Finally, the restored early-20th-century carriages of Andalucía’s Tren Turístico de Riotinto pass through a Martian landscape, where minerals have been mined since Roman times, following the course of the crimson river.

Particularly scenic routes

Some highly affordable regular train routes showcase Spain’s natural beauty. The three-hour journey from Granada to Andalucía’s coastal city of Almería (€17) gives you tremendous vistas of the snowcapped Sierra Nevada peaks while crossing its foothills, before you duck into cork-oak groves and get your first glimpse of the Mediterranean.

For under €10, step into 19th century Andalucía by riding the rails from the industrial port of Algeciras into the mountains to the spectacular pueblo blanco of Ronda. An impressive feat of engineering involving 16 tunnels and 20 bridges, the line was built by the British and opened in 1892. During the two-hour journey, the train passes through orange and olive groves, cork-oak and eucalyptus forest and meanders among russet-colored mountains and rugged cliffs, stopping at tiny stations with antique clocks and fringed wooden canopies. A similarly scenic journey can be made between Ronda and Málaga, at nearly double the price.

If the Transcantábrico is beyond your reach, you can still enjoy many of the same panoramic views of the Cantabrian mountains and the Bay of Biscay during the 5½- 7 hour ride from Santander, Cantabria to Oviedo, Asturias on a cercanías train (from €16). Since seat reservations are not possible, that works in your favor as you switch sides to take in views on either side of the train.

Fisterra’s lighthouse in A Coruña

One of Spain’s longest rail routes (from Barcelona to A Coruña ) traverses fertile farmland and arid plains studded with rock formations, before passing the verdant Galician Massif and reaching the Atlantic. Your best bets are either the 9.05 Alvia departure (14 hours, €66), or the swifter but pricier 10am Avlo departure (8 hours and 15 minutes, €82); reserve a seat on the right-hand side.

Stellar mountain panoramas are your reward for taking one of the twice-daily trains from Zaragoza to Canfranc (2½ hours, €13.50) that makes its ponderous way up into the Aragonese Pyrenees, and finally arrives at the 1920s concrete-and-glass station, transformed into a luxury hotel.

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This is The Longest Train Route in the World as of 2024

When it comes to international travel, airplanes typically come to mind as it makes for a quicker and cheaper journey.

You may even prefer traveling via car as it offers more privacy. However, if you have time, money, and a sense of adventure into the unknown, then doing the longest train route in the world might be on your bucket list.

Traveling by train imparts something romantic and poetic, reminiscent of days long gone before planes even existed.

Why not enjoy the fantastic scenery of over a dozen countries on this epic 21-day, 18,755-kilometer train journey across Europe, Siberia, and Asia?

The hypothetical (but totally possible) route is the brainchild of train lovers on the subreddit and with help from the train expert Mark Smith’s website seat61.com, a popular place for guides and tips on long train journeys around the world.

This longer route has only recently become possible with the opening of the new Chinese-built $6 billion Boten–Vientiane railway in Laos that connects China to Southeast Asia.

The longest train route in the world starts in southern Portugal in Lagos, making its way through Spain on towards Paris.

The Lisbon-Hendaye route is currently suspended due to Covid-19 and doesn’t seem to be coming back anytime soon. There are alternate routes to get to Paris. e

After Paris, you’ll head through the rest of Western Europe until the journey reaches Eastern Europe and Russia with the famous “Trans-Siberian” railway line taking around 6 days from Moscow to Beijing and covering Mongolia on the way.

Next, you’ll go from Boten to Vientiane, Laos after a long journey through China. The new railroad just opened on Dec 3, 2021.

Before this, you would have had to take a train to Saigon, but no railroad connects Vietnam and Thailand. The old way to make this journey is from a bus through Cambodia and on to Thailand.

Now with the new railroad, the longest train route in the world is now possible. From Vientiane, you’ll reach Bangkok, and from there it’s the last leg of the journey into spectacular Malaysia, finally ending in Singapore.

21 estimated days and 18,755km later you’ll finally make the longest train route in the world.

The cost of this epic journey is an estimated €1,200 which is not much more than a plane ticket from Western Europe to Singapore, and you’ll get to see 13 countries on the way, we think the amazing journey is definitely worth it.

Here is a high res version of the map of the journey if you’re interested.

**Please note that this post may contain affiliate links. When booking through one of our links, we earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running.

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All Aboard the Most Beautiful Rail Routes in Europe

Posted: November 21, 2023 | Last updated: November 22, 2023

Terrific trains

With so many countries to explore – each offering vastly different landscapes and scenery – Europe almost seems custom-built for train travel. So it’s little wonder that the continent is covered in a huge network of brilliant railways, most of which are affordable and easy to navigate. From routes along the alpine slopes of Switzerland to Italian coastal villages and dramatic Nordic fjords, here are our favorites. (Ticket prices are correct at the time of writing, but do check individual operators for the most up-to-date information.)

Trenino Verde, Sardinia, Italy

Translating to 'little green train', the Trenino Verde is a sublime – and surprisingly little-known – way to see the Sardinian countryside. This 130-year-old vintage railway has five different routes across the country, totaling 272 miles (438km) of track, which pass through a treasure trove of landscapes, including olive groves, quaint villages, glittering seas, craggy coastlines and steep peaks. 

West Highland Line, Scotland, UK

It’s little wonder that ScotRail's  West Highland Line is often dubbed Britain's most scenic train route, with rugged Highland landscapes, rolling hills and windswept moorlands galore. But the most picture-perfect (and famous) section of the rail line, which runs between the cities of Glasgow and Mallaig, is the part where the train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Recognize it? That’s because it’s the same bridge the Hogwarts Express crosses in the Harry Potter films.

For an even more authentic Harry Potter experience, you can travel across the famous viaduct on the Jacobite steam train , which is used in the films. The seasonal service typically runs between early April and late October each year, covering the 84-mile (135km) round trip between Fort William and Mallaig in leisurely style. It’s a little more expensive than the ScotRail line, with an adult return costing $61. The ScotRail service line starts at around $19 for an off-peak day return.

Belgrade, Serbia to Bar, Montenegro

There aren’t a whole lot of options for exploring the famously bus-heavy Balkans by rail, but this legendary 10-hour journey takes in some of the best scenery Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro have to offer. That includes this eye-wateringly high bridge, which teeters 656 feet (200m) above the Mala Rijeka viaduct (until 2001 it was the highest railway bridge in the world). But it’s one of just 435 bridges along the route – necessary to cross all the mountains and gorges. 

Beginning at the Serbian capital, the train rattles past wide, flat fields and distant mountains, before stopping at Užice in the country’s southwest. Next, it hurtles towards Podgorica in Montenegro, skimming along the shores of Lake Skadar before finishing up at the coastal town of Bar. There's a daytime departure and a night train too, and tickets are reported to cost just $21, although you can’t book online. 

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The Glacier Express, Switzerland

Connecting the mountain resorts of Zermatt and St Moritz, the Glacier Express is a brilliant way of seeing some of the most beautiful views in the Swiss Alps. The scenic route takes in sights including the Oberalp Pass, the highest point of the journey, and the Landwasser Viaduct (pictured) – a six-arch bridge which stands at 213 feet (65m) and plunges straight into a tunnel that leads through the mountain. 

The day-long trip covers 91 tunnels and 291 bridges, and offers the chance to take in alpine meadows, mountain lakes and chalets. You might expect such a stunning train ride to cost huge sums of money, but the journey will only set you back around $156 for a one-way, second-class ticket. Now the only decision is whether to travel in summer, when you’ll get to see the region covered in vibrant green trees and colorful wildflowers, or winter, when the alpine landscapes are blanketed in frost and snow. 

Barcelona to Montserrat, Spain

The storied mountaintop monastery of Montserrat is one of the most gorgeous parts of Catalonia – but did you know you can reach it by train? The ToT Montserrat is an ultra-scenic route which runs between Barcelona and the foothills of the peak, at which point you can choose between taking the cable car (Aeri) or the rack railway (Cremallera) up to the Montserrat Monastery. Whichever option you go for, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas across the rugged valley.

A round-trip ticket, which includes either the Aeri or Cremallera option, costs $65 and takes around an hour and a half in total. If you want to go even higher, hitch a ride on the Saint Joan funicular (pictured) which is included in the price of your ticket and takes you from the monastery right up to the top of the mountain.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, UK to Italy

For a no-expense-spared, once-in-a-lifetime trip, look no further than this route between London and Verona. With an aim to evoke the romance and grandeur of old-school railway journeys, the stunning Art Deco  Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a chance to see rolling Italian countryside and iconic European cities in style. The new European ‘Grand Tour’ routes also include stops in Rome and Florence, and stretches to Switzerland, Belgium and the Netherlands too, with options to add hotel stays.

There are six Grand Suites on the train and each one is uniquely decorated to reflect a different city (Vienna, Prague, Paris, Istanbul, Venice and Budapest). Expect plenty of period features, delicate light fixtures, polished cherrywood marquetry and marble en suite bathrooms. Michelin-starred food (including Brittany lobsters and salt marsh lamb from Mont St Michel) is served from three dining cars. As if all that wasn’t decadent enough, there’s also a 24-hour butler onboard.

Discover more of the world's most luxurious train journeys

Flåm Railway, Norway

Traveling between Myrdal and Flåm in western Norway, the Flåm Railway is among the most historic and beautiful journeys in Europe. The route was built between 1923 and 1940 to serve villages along the Sognefjord. In fact, it’s one of the steepest rail journeys on the planet, dropping 2,844 feet (867m) during its 12-mile (20km) route, with 20 tunnels traveling through the steep mountains. Along the way, you’ll get to see everything from waterfalls to mighty lakes and mountains.

Mariazell Railway, Austria

Captured here in the golden-tinged glory of early fall, Austria’s Mariazell Railway is a fine way to see the picturesque Pielach Valley. The journey begins at St Pölten, the capital of the Lower Austria region, snaking its way southwards through 21 tunnels and across 19 viaducts before arriving at Mariazell. The so-called ‘Stairway to Heaven’ is Austria’s longest narrow-gauge railway, covering a distance of around 56 miles (91km) in just over two hours.

There are three options for those wishing to experience the storied route. Either take the modern Himelstreppe (pictured), which departs daily and starts from just $19. Or book a ticket on the first-class panorama carriage, which runs April to October and over Christmas, boasting 360-degree views and a first-class catering service. Alternatively, for a historic experience check out the historic Ötscherbär adventure train, powered by a century-old electric locomotive, with themed journeys for families.

Rauma Line, Norway

Few places on Earth have as much dramatic scenery as Norway and the Rauma Line is a great way to experience it. The one hour and 40-minute journey begins in the village of  Dombås, taking in the historic towns and mountain farms of the Gudbrandsdalen valley before entering the steep and rugged Romsdalen valley. It then passes over the famous Kylling Bridge and cruises past Trollveggen mountain before arriving at its final destination, Åndalsnes.

If you’re ending your journey in Åndalsnes, there’s no shortage of things to do in the fjord town. Hop on the Romsdalen Gondola for more epic views across the valley, enjoy a bite to eat at the panoramic Eggen Restaurant or lace up your hiking boots and explore one of the region’s many walking trails. Tickets can be purchased from SJ NORD and start from around $20 each way.

Mountain Spirit, Wales, UK

 Dating back more than 150 years, North Wales’  Mountain Spirit  service was rejuvenated in 1982, following a three decade-long restoration. The nostalgic steam train journey begins in the charming village of Blaenau Ffestiniog, crossing over the Cob embankment and climbing up the valley past woodlands and fields, before stopping at pretty Tan-y-Bwlch. The scenic 13.5-mile (21.7km)  journey ends in Porthmadog, a port town and narrow-gauge railway hub.

Those who board the historic train will be rewarded with its gorgeous vintage interiors, complete with comfortable seats and huge windows for admiring the scenery. Tickets start at $93 for a return ticket for two adults, with a there-and-back journey taking around three hours. 

Marvel at incredible images that capture the history of train travel

La Rhune, France

You’d be hard-pressed to find a much more adorable train journey than this. Located in France’s captivating Basque Country, the Rhune Railway (or Le Petit Train de la Rhune) is a fabulous cog railway which takes passengers on a 35-minute ascent up to the 2,969-foot (905m) summit of its namesake mountain. The picture-perfect chestnut-wood carriages have been navigating this steep section of track since 1924.

Odontotos Rack Railway, Greece

Operating on the world’s narrowest gauge track – just a hair-raising two-and-a-half feet (0.75m) wide – southern Greece’s Odontotos Rack Railway is a stunning and historic way to experience the Peloponnese Gorge. Starting in the coastal town of Diakopto, it runs alongside the Vouraikos River, through rock-hewn tunnels and next to adrenalin-pumping sheer drops before arriving at the mountain town of Kalavrita. 

The leisurely one-hour journey covers a total distance of 14 miles (22.5km) but there are an impressive 49 bridges in total, plus six tunnels which have been carved directly into the rock. As well as being jaw-droppingly scenic and historic (the train has been in operation for over 120 years), Odontos Rack Railway is also a total bargain, costing just over $9.50 for a single or $19 for a return trip. 

Here are more stunning train journeys that don't cost a fortune

Inlandsbanan, Sweden

Slicing through Sweden from top to bottom, the Inlandsbanan should be top of all rail buffs’ wish lists. This epic 807-mile (1,200km) track stretches between Kristinehamn in the south and Gällivare in the north, passing from relatively flat green fields through alpine forests and the perennially snowy mountains of Lapland. Naturally, such a monumental journey takes a while to complete, with the typical itinerary taking nine days to cover the full route.

North York Moors Railway, England, UK

Whisking you back to the golden era of train travel, the 24-mile (39km), 1h 45min journey between Whitby and Pickering in the north of England promises to be a trip to remember. This steam-powered railway has been around since the 1830s and received a new lease of life in 1967, when a group of local volunteers took on the task of restoring it. 

For the ultimate luxury experience, hop aboard the Pullman dining carriage, where you can enjoy either a four-course dinner service or three-course lunch as the train ambles through the countryside. Unmissable attractions along the way include the 1930s-era Pickering station, Goathland, which served as Hogsmeade Station in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone , as well as the historic port of Whitby where the journey ends. The train runs from April to October every year and tickets on the dining car start at $84. 

The Brocken, Germany

Named after the 3,747-foot (1,142m) mountain which it traverses, central Germany’s Brocken Railway is all sweeping panoramas and serpentine bends. This 11-mile (19km) branch of track, connecting the mountain to the Harz railway, is still operated by historic steam locomotives, since this part of Germany was behind the Iron Curtain for decades and its trains were never modernized. But that’s good news for rail buffs, who come here to experience the decades-old carriages in all their glory.

The 50-minute ascent packs in plenty of mesmerizing views, across towering forests, vibrant green meadows and distant peaks, traveling at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour (40km/h). Inside, carriages have back-to-back seats with large windows for gazing out of – or you can head to one of the open-air viewing platforms for optimum vistas. The journey between Drei Annen Hohne and Brocken starts at $50 for an adult return. 

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The best holiday destinations in Europe you can reach by train from London

You don’t need to fly for a european break – here’s how to avoid the plane and take a train this summer, article bookmarked.

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It’s 2024, so the idea of sustainable travel is hardly a new concept. There’s a certain attraction to ditching long plane journeys and airport hassle but still getting to your holiday destination. If there are other ways to travel, why fly? In most cases, train stations are located in the heart of the city so you’ll arrive closer to where you want to be, rather than have to spend money on taxis or other forms of transport.

While rail travel in the UK remains as expensive and controversial as ever , train companies across Europe have been refining and expanding their services to make travelling across the continent more convenient.

From Eurostar’s cross-channel journeys to overnight sleeper trains that take you through several countries while you snooze, train travel across the region has never been as accessible. With the summer fast approaching, take advantage of the rails to reach some of Europe’s best destinations.

Here’s our guide to some of the finest spots in Europe that you can get to within 24 hours by train from London .

Paris, France

The French capital has been a brilliant city to visit by train since the launch of Eurostar in 1994. Nowadays, trains from St Pancras International will get you there in around two hours and 16 minutes, making it a potential day-trip destination as well as a great place for a weekend break. As a transport hub, it also serves as the changing destination for many of the other cities on this list, with easy travel to the rest of France, Belgium and Spain, among others.

Read more on Europe travel :

• I want wine and carbs on an Italy holiday – here’s how to do it with wellness in mind
• The best vegan places to eat in Paris, from restaurants to patisseries
• Incredible lesser-known European beach destinations for sun without the crowds

From the Louvre to the Eiffel Tower, explore the city’s various ‘arrondissements’ (districts) for a chance to take in world-famous landmarks, galleries and museums while wandering through the city’s streets. The 19th-century Hausmannian architecture adds to the city’s unique style and romance, while a world-famous gastronomic scene offers everything from fine dining to casual patisseries.

How to get to Paris by train

Eurostar runs up to 17 services per day from St Pancras to Gare du Nord. Tickets from £78 return, and they also offer packages that include hotels and train travel. eurostar.com

Where to stay

Set in the centre of the city, Chouchou is a sophisticated Parisian hotel, from the facade to the elegant interiors. It is also well within walking distance for several of the city’s main landmarks, including the Champs-Elysees, Notre Dame and the Louvre.

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Hotel Amenities

Health & wellbeing, bruges, belgium.

Bruges is another destination that benefits from Eurostar’s routes into France and Belgium. Trains from London change at Brussels-Midi/Zuid, with a further 70 minutes before reaching the northern city. It’s also a great spot for further travel around the country, with trains to Ghent and Antwerp taking just 30 and 90 minutes, respectively.

Once in Bruges, enjoy the picturesque canals and dramatic architecture as you wander its winding streets. Winter visits are great for the famous Christmas Market , although the city comes alive in summer, with the colourful buildings and canals resplendent in the sunshine. The historic core is a Unesco Heritage Site, with several interesting landmarks, including the City Hall, the Groeninge Museum and the Belfry.

How to get to Bruges by train

The total journey time from London is around three hours and 25 minutes, with a change in Brussels after roughly one hour and 50 minutes. Return tickets from London to any Belgian station start at £102. eurostar.com

Despite being housed in a 14th-century building, Hotel Monsieur Ernest has slick, modern interiors that are at odds with the Gothic and Middle Aged architecture in areas such as the nearby Market Square. Combined with the preserved period features, it makes for an interesting mix.

Venice, Italy

If you don’t mind making a day of it, you can catch a post-breakfast train in Paris and arrive in Venice in the evening. Glide beneath bridges on a gondola, taking in the stunning Renaissance architecture. Explore St. Mark’s Square, a vibrant hub with cafes and the iconic basilica. Get lost in the maze of alleyways, stumbling upon hidden squares and artisan workshops. For a unique experience, visit Murano, famous for its centuries-old glassblowing tradition, or Burano, a colorful island known for its lace.

There’s plenty for food lovers, too. Make sure to try chichetti, which are small Venetian tapas, perfect for a casual lunch or aperitivo. They come in a variety of flavours, from seafood options like salt cod crostini to meatballs and vegetables.

How to get to Venice by train

The TGV-Lyria from Paris to Zurich is an impressive 320km/h (199mph) double-deck high-speed train. Change trains in Zurich for the prettiest part of the route where a EuroCity train passes Lake Como and heads through the Alps over the Gotthard route, past pretty Lake Lugano. Finally, from Milan you’ll take a high speed Frecciarossa operated by Italian Rail to Venice.

Philippe Starck designed the interiors of the 16th-century Palazzina Grassi. It’s 26 rooms are full of signature Starck touches: mirrored walls, ceilings and chairs, carnival masks and stools that look like silver-coated tree-stumps. There’s no check-in desk here – it’s way too cool for that – but there is a Krug Lounge (the second in the world) and a beautiful main room – low-lit and framed by Corinthian columns – which serves as a restaurant, bar and lobby area.

Berlin, Germany

With new overnight routes launched by Dutch-Belgian rail company European Sleeper in May 2023, Berlin has suddenly become much more accessible by train. The German capital is another trendy European destination, whether you’re a hardcore partygoer or a history buff. Of course, many visitors choose to sample both on their visit, so time can be spent trying to gain entry to the city’s notoriously strict nightclubs or wandering around the remaining sections of the Berlin Wall.

While other sites such as Checkpoint Charlie or the Brandenburg Gate attract thousands of tourists, it’s a good idea to simply wander some of the city’s varied districts. Mitte is the heart of the city, though Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg are other great options for an afternoon wander.

How to get to Berlin by train

The overnight sleeper train runs from Brussels, with services departing at 7.22pm local time on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and arriving at 6.48am the next morning. The company have aligned its schedules with Eurostar’s arrivals, meaning the changeover should be easy enough. europeansleeper.eu

The MotelOne chain are known for good accommodation options at tempting prices, and the Hackescher Market location is no different. As always, interiors are pared-back and contemporary, but the real selling point here is the location – you’ll be near Alexanderplatz, the TV Tower and Brandenburg Gate.

Prague, Czech Republic

The European Sleeper route added two stops in 2024: Dresden and Prague . This makes travelling from the UK (and indeed Brussels) far easier. If you’re travelling from London, you can jump on an afternoon Eurostar to Brussels and then book a cosy couchette to get a good night’s rest while the sleeper travels next to the river Elbe overnight.

Prague’s focal point is its remarkable Old Town, replete with winding cobbled streets and dozens of choices for drinking and dining. Old Town Square is the heart of the city, while Wenceslas Square is just five minutes away. Across the river, on a hill overlooking the city, stands Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world.

How to get to Prague by train

Your best bet is to travel by Eurostar to Brussels (from £78 return), changing there and going onwards to Prague. total journey time between 14 and 20 hours on average (depending on what time you leave London). Tickets for the final leg start at £45 for a single. europeansleeper.eu

Art and decoration are the focus at NYX Hotel Prague, with an eccentric mix of decorations – including arcade machines in the lobby and a motorbike in the restaurant. It’s less than a mile from Wenceslas Square and Charles Bridge, making it a great option for those who want to explore the city extensively.

Barcelona, Spain

With trains operating every day from Paris, Barcelona is a surprisingly easy city to reach from the UK. TGV operate fast trains that take just over six hours, meaning that you can easily have breakfast in London and end the day sipping cocktails opposite the Sagrada Familia. Spain’s rebellious second city is the cosmopolitan cousin of Madrid, where European and Spanish influences mix to create a unique, eclectic destination.

Its location is perfect for holidays, as the sprawling metropolis leads you right to the coast, where long stretches of golden sand and warm sea meet bustling beach bars and nightclubs. There are more tourist sites than you could possibly cover in a single weekend break – from the Gaudi buildings to the Olympic Park at Montjuic – but what sets the city apart from other European destinations is the quality and range of things to do. Whether watching football matches at Camp Nou or spending an afternoon strolling through the Picasso Museum, many of its sites and activities are among the “best in class” across the whole of Europe.

How to get to Barcelona by train

One of the easier journey’s on the list, and it can be done in a day if you leave early – the average journey time is roughy 12 hours, including waiting and changing times. After leaving the Eurostar at Paris Gare du Nord, cross the city to Gare du Lyon, where six-hour trains to Barcelona depart three times a day. Prices for the second leg start at £44. sncf-connect.com

Located on the famous Rambla (at the start, near Placa Catalunya), Hotel 1898 has a perfect location for exploring the whole city (but especially the Gothic Quarter, Poblenou and the Old Town). Its rooftop terrace and pool also offer sweeping views all the way out to sea.

Vienna, Austria

Though the journey to Vienna can be done in a single day from London, Austria’s own OBB train service offers comfortable overnight trains from Brussels that reach the capital pleasantly early in the morning. Arriving just after 9am, you’ll be able to make the most of your first day in this grand old city.

It is perhaps no surprise that the city of Freud, Mozart and Beethoven has a sophisticated vibe. This feeling is increased to by the vibrant culture and arts scene found today, while its well-preserved architecture reflects a rich and complicated history that stretches back to Roman times. Here, Gothic cathedrals meet Baroque palaces and the world-famous Renaissance Revival-style Opera House – all buildings which help to preserve a sense of elegance and grandeur.

How to get to Vienna by train

The most time-effective option is to make use of Austria’s OBB Nightjet service. Take the Eurostar to Brussels and change for a direct overnight train to Vienna. The Nightjet leaves at 7.32pm local time, arriving in Vienna at 9.05am. Single tickets for this leg start at just under £80. nightjet.com

The Guesthouse sits right in the heart of Vienna’s Old Town, with many rooms overlooking the Staatsoper and the Albertina museum.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

While the train to Amsterdam takes a much longer than flying, take this opportunity to see great countryside views in northern France and Belgium. You’ll arrive at Amsterdam Centraal, where you can step out of the station and right into the centre of the city.

The Dutch capital’s scenic network of canals – backed by seemingly endless rows of 17th-century houses – steal the show in this exceptionally walkable (and cyclable) city, while its parks, such as Vondelpark and Oosterpark, provide numerous pleasant green areas. The Red Light District attracts hundreds of visitors every day, while historical sites and museums including the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum are among the other worthwhile attractions.

How to get to Amsterdam by train

Amsterdam can be reached in just under four hours on Eurostar. Like all of the other direct Eurostar services, return tickets in standard class start at £78. eurostar.com

The Craftsmen is a classic example of a quirky, characterful Dutch hotel. Sitting along the Singel canal near the city centre, its cosy interiors and eccentric decoration make it a hotel fitting of such a fantastic European city.

Milan, Italy

The journey to Milan offers scenic views as it passes through sections of the French and Italian Alps. Italy’s second city is known worldwide for the finer things in life – whether that be cuisine, high-end fashion or expensive aperitifs – and you can find them all in abundance when you arrive.

The Duomo cathedral (and its piazza) are at the heart of the city; from here, you can easily reach sites such as the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele, the Santa Maria basilica and the Sforzesco Castle. If you want to wander further afield, head to the lively canal district of Navigli, or NoLo, one of the city’s social hubs.

How to get to Milan by train

From Paris Gare du Nord, make your way to Gare du Lyon, where you’ll find that a direct TGV (or Frecciarossa, Italy’s competition to TGV) will take you straight to Milan in anywhere between 10 and 22 hours. Prices start at £58 for a single ticket. sncf-connect.com

Hotel Manzioni is located in Milan’s so-called “Golden Rectangle” of high-end fashion (between the streets of Via Sant’Andrea and Monte Napoleone). It is a suitably opulent hotel for the fashion capital – think refined, traditional interiors – that is also within a mile of several of the city’s important landmarks.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Europe’s £8,100,000,000 high-speed train that puts the UK to shame

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A luxury high-speed train between two major European cities has put the UK ’s creaking rail network to shame.

The £8.1billion line linking Barcelona and Madrid allows passengers to whizz the 385-mile distance in just two and a half hours.

The new leg, connecting the Catalonian capital with Madrid, launched in February 2008 after five years of construction on existing tracks, which are compatible with those in neighbouring France .

And it’s proven popular ever since, carrying 4.4million passengers in 2019 alone.

Locals and tourists alike can enjoy the views on board the train as it zooms at 174mph (280km/h) from Barcelona-Sants, then stops in Zaragoza before finishing at Madrid-Puerta de Atocha.

Travelling by car, the same distance across Spain would take close to seven hours.

And don’t get us started on the cost – or time – of a similar journey across the UK…

UK trains compared

Spain boasts one of the longest high-speed networks in Europe and the second longest in the world, after China.

It spans 2,464 miles compared to the UK’s 67 miles of purpose-built tracks, with only a handful of these built for faster trains.

Trains on the East Coast Main Line, Great Western Main Line, Midland Main Line and parts of Cross Country Route and West Coast Main Line can reach maximum speeds of 125mph on the upgraded tracks.

This means the 400-mile train journey from London to Edinburgh takes around four and a half hours.

Standard tickets on LNER from King’s Cross to Edinburgh Waverley start from £49 without a Railcard.

The purpose-built 67-mile HS1 connecting London with the Channel Tunnel allows trains to travel at up to 186mph (300km/h).

What passengers in Britain are eagerly awaiting is the highly controversial HS2 , a high-speed rail network due to be completed in 2033.

But the project been marred by delays and spiraling costs. And now, an entire leg to North West has been cancelled.

Former prime minister Rishi Sunak announced late last year that the high-speed train will run only from London to the West Midlands after the Manchester leg was shelved.

Even previous PMs David Cameron and Boris Johnson criticised the move, saying it signaled that the UK could not make long-term decisions.

The cancelled section of the HS2 from Birmingham to Manchester could be replaced by alternative connections, but it will be up to local leaders like the metro mayors.

@joeleggett Do trains actually exist in the UK??? #fyp #foryou #viral #uk #trains #comedy #abcxyz ♬ original sound – Joe Leggett

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham has been one of the scheme’s harshest critics. He claimed the government was treating people in the region as ‘second class citizens’ by axing the Manchester leg, according to the BBC .

Meanwhile, the cost of the remaining London to Birmingham stretch has ballooned to around £66billion, which is up to £10billion more than the 2019 estimate.

In recent years, UK train travel has been hit by industrial action and chronic delays, leading critics of the rail system to push for reform.

Unions including the RMT have accused the government and rail companies of hampering jobs, pay and conditions.

Deputy prime minister Angela Rayner declared the UK’s railway system to be ‘crumbling’ in an interview with the BBC in 2022, while she was still deputy Labour leader.

Rail travel campaigners from the Campaign for Better Transport have called for an overhaul of the fares system, saying there are ‘absurd inconsistencies’ between tickets, the Evening Standard reports.

Now Labour has been voted into government, it has promised to overhaul the country’s trains by bringing the network under public ownership run by one operator called Great British Railways.

Spain: A perfect picture?

The situation is different in Spain, although it is far from perfect.

Critics there have cited the high costs of sprawling Alta Velocidad Espanola (AVE) high-speed network and its reported underuse, according to the industry outlet Railway Technology .

Spain has spent more than €40billion on its high-speed service, a Spanish think thank FEDEA estimates.

To get to the capital Madrid from Barcelona, passengers can take their pick between national rail operator Renfe and private companies Ouigo Espana and Iryo, which all operate services on the line.

But what about tickets?

@person.international Train from Barcelona to Madrid with IRYO (Infinita Class) trainspain, spainscenery, spanishtrains, spainrail, spaintour, spaintrip, spaintrainride, spanishrailways, spainsights, #spainrailway #iryo ♬ Ice Blue Cube – Faze H1ghSky1 & Slip.stream

The good news is that rail travel in Spain is cheap, at least compared to rocketing costs in the UK that have left many disillusioned.

Tickets on the Barcelona-Madrid high-speed train start from around €30 (£25), though prices vary depending on the operator and optional perks.

You can splash out on a first-class ticket with a bistro meal and an extra-large seat with Iryo from around €51.

This article was first published on June 12, 2024

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

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Train travel is making a comeback

Travelling by train in Europe is becoming more convenient and sustainable thanks to recent EU initiatives. New regulations for the trans-European transport network  (TEN-T) to improve rail connectivity and make travel greener have recently entered into force. This means better and more efficient rail services across Europe .

The EU's Action Plan to boost long-distance and cross-border passenger rail services is a key part of these efforts. It aims to double high-speed rail traffic by 2030 and triple it by 2050 . Launched in 2021, this plan focuses on removing obstacles, improving interoperability, modernising passenger rail infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of services across EU countries.

To further support cross-border travel, the European Commission has announced its support for 10 pilot projects to boost cross-border rail services . This will improve cross-border rail connections across the EU and make travel faster, easier and more affordable.

Young travellers can particularly benefit from the DiscoverEU  programme, which regularly offers free travel passes to 18-year-olds to explore Europe by train . This programme encourages cultural exchange and highlights the environmental advantages of rail travel. The next call for applications should be published in autumn 2024.

Passenger rights are also a significant focus of the EU’s transport policy. Travellers in Europe are well-protected in case something goes wrong during their trip. EU passenger rights  cover delays, cancellations, and accessibility issues.

The EU is committed to making train travel a top choice by improving regulations, creating ambitious plans, and supporting special programmes. These efforts aim to make rail travel more sustainable, efficient, and well-connected across Europe.

For more information

An Action Plan to boost long-distance and cross-border passenger rail services

Connecting Europe by train: 10 EU pilot services to boost cross-border rail

Mobility strategy

Know your EU passenger rights before you travel

Rail passenger rights

Travelling in Europe 2024

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