Europe’s Most Spectacular Rail Routes Are Here With The Bernina Express, Flåm Railway And Cinque Terre Local Line Delivering Stunning Views And Incredible Adventure

Published on December 25, 2025

Europe’s most iconic rail journeys, the Bernina Express, Flåm Railway, and Cinque Terre Local Line, offer travelers the ultimate combination of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. These routes stand out not only for their breathtaking views but also for the seamless blend of nature and heritage they provide. From the snow-capped Alps to the sun-kissed Italian coast, these scenic trains allow you to explore Europe at a leisurely pace, making them a must-do for any traveler seeking adventure, beauty, and relaxation.

For UK travelers eager to explore Europe in a unique way, the continent’s railways offer some of the most scenic and enriching journeys. With excellent connections to incredible destinations and stunning views that unfold at a relaxing pace, the following three rail routes stand out as must-do trips for any rail enthusiast.

1. Bernina Express: Switzerland to Italy

One of Europe’s most breathtaking train journeys, the Bernina Express offers an unforgettable experience, with panoramic views that showcase the best of both Switzerland and Italy. The route travels from Chur or St. Moritz in Switzerland down to Tirano in northern Italy, climbing to over 2,250 meters before descending through picturesque landscapes.

The journey is an impressive mix of glaciers, towering viaducts, and pristine alpine scenery. Passengers will pass through the UNESCO-listed Landwasser and Brusio viaducts, iconic engineering feats that enhance the route’s beauty. As the train passes through the snow-covered Alps, travelers are treated to sweeping vistas of frozen lakes and vast glaciers, offering a true feast for the eyes.

Then, as the train winds its way down into Italy, the scenery changes dramatically, introducing the warm, sun-kissed landscape of Lombardy, complete with palm trees and the Mediterranean atmosphere. The Bernina Express offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal addition to any Swiss city break or Italian lakeside getaway.

2. Flåm Railway: Norway

For a more adventurous option, consider the Flåm Railway in Norway. Often described as one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world, this short yet dramatic route offers an exhilarating ride through Norway’s rugged and untouched landscape. The train travels from Aurlandsfjord to the mountain station of Myrdal, offering a close-up view of roaring waterfalls, deep ravines, and towering mountains.

The journey is a marvel of engineering, cutting through tunnels and over sheer rock faces. The views are equally awe-inspiring, with the towering mountains creating a feeling of traveling through a prehistoric world. For travelers seeking to combine this route with other experiences, it’s easy to pair with a Norwegian fjords cruise or fly-and-rail itineraries departing from Oslo or Bergen. It’s a relatively short route but leaves a lasting impression on all who take it.

3. Cinque Terre Local Line: Italy

Italy’s Cinque Terre is known for its colorful villages perched on cliffs above the sparkling Ligurian Sea, and the best way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site is by rail. Instead of opting for the tourist-heavy trains, the Cinque Terre Local Line offers a more authentic experience, taking passengers through all five villages with a slower, more intimate pace.

Running between La Spezia and Levanto, the train connects the five famous villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—in quick succession, allowing passengers to hop off at any village and take in the beauty of the coastal cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The local train features older carriages with windows that can be rolled down, allowing travelers to soak in the sea breeze and the sounds of Italian life as they travel between stations.

This route offers a slower, more relaxed way to experience the area, perfect for travelers who want to escape the usual rush of tourist destinations. Along the way, you can stop for seafood lunches, enjoy a swim, or take a leisurely stroll at sunset. The Cinque Terre Local Line is slow travel at its finest, offering a genuine taste of Italy away from the crowds.

Why These Routes Should Be on Your Bucket List

Each of these three rail journeys offers something unique, from the alpine wonderland of the Bernina Express to the dramatic fjords of Norway’s Flåm Railway, and the idyllic coastal beauty of Cinque Terre. These routes allow travelers to see Europe in a way that’s both leisurely and rewarding, offering not only stunning vistas but also the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and landscape of some of Europe’s most beautiful regions. Whether you’re looking for natural beauty, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful ride through some of the most picturesque places in the world, these routes are sure to provide an unforgettable journey.