Why Rail Tours Are the Best Way to See Europe – There’s something truly magical about exploring Europe by train. The rhythmic sound of the wheels, the breathtaking scenery passing by your window, and the ease of hopping from one iconic city to another make rail tours the most relaxing and scenic way to travel. For first-time visitors, Europe’s extensive rail network offers a comfortable, convenient, and eco-friendly way to discover multiple destinations without the hassle of airports or long drives. Whether you’re gliding past the snow-capped peaks of Switzerland, tracing the blue lakes of Austria, or journeying through France’s lavender fields, Top 10 Europe Rail Tour Packages promises an unforgettable blend of comfort and adventure.
At Europe Travel Bureau, we curate the best Europe Train Tours designed especially for first-timers — combining the region’s most stunning routes with carefully planned itineraries, local experiences, and comfortable hotels.
Why Choose a Europe Rail Tour Package?
Europe’s rail system is among the world’s most efficient and scenic. Unlike air travel, which rushes you from point to point, train journeys let you soak in the landscapes, culture, and heritage of each region. Here’s why choosing a Europe Train Tour Package makes perfect sense:
- Scenic routes: Panoramic windows reveal mountains, lakes, castles, and vineyards.
- Comfort and convenience: No luggage limits or long airport lines — just sit back and relax.
- Eco-friendly travel: Rail journeys have a much lower carbon footprint.
- Central city connections: Trains arrive right in the city center, saving time and transfers.
- Cultural immersion: Meet locals, taste regional food, and enjoy the slow travel rhythm.
For first-time travelers, a Europe Rail Tour Package eliminates planning stress while offering incredible value — accommodation, train tickets, and sightseeing all organized by experts.
How We Chose the Top 10 Europe Rail Tours
At Europe Travel Bureau, we evaluated dozens of popular routes based on key criteria:
- Landscape Variety: Routes that offer striking mountain, lake, or coastal scenery.
- Convenience: Easy access from major European hubs such as Zurich, Milan, Paris, or Munich.
- Cultural Experience: Stops that showcase architecture, cuisine, and history.
- Value and Comfort: Great balance between affordability, class, and experience.
- Popularity with First-Timers: Tried-and-tested tours loved by new and repeat travelers alike.
Below are our Top 10 Europe Rail Tour Packages perfect for first-time visitors.
1. The Glacier Express – Switzerland’s Most Scenic Train
Route: Zermatt – St. Moritz
Duration: 8 hours
Highlights: Matterhorn views, the Oberalp Pass, Rhine Gorge
Known as the slowest express train in the world, the Glacier Express is a must-experience journey. Linking two glamorous resorts — Zermatt and St. Moritz — it crosses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels through the Swiss Alps.
For first-time travelers, it’s the perfect way to witness the beauty of Switzerland: alpine meadows, glaciers, and deep valleys. Opt for panoramic carriages, enjoy onboard dining, and watch the Alps unfold before your eyes.
2. The Bernina Express – Switzerland to Italy
Route: Chur – Tirano – Lugano
Duration: 4 hours (plus connection to Lugano)
Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage Albula Line, Brusio Spiral Viaduct
This spectacular route connects northern Switzerland to Italy’s Lombardy region, crossing the Bernina Pass at 2,253 meters. The Bernina Express is famed for its dramatic landscapes — glaciers, viaducts, and Italian villages.
It’s ideal for first-timers who want to experience both Swiss precision and Italian charm in one seamless journey. Combine it with a stay in St. Moritz or Lake Como for a truly memorable Europe Train Tour.
3. The GoldenPass Line – Swiss Lakes and Mountains
Route: Lucerne – Interlaken – Montreux
Duration: 5 hours
Highlights: Lakes Lucerne & Geneva, Château de Chillon, Alpine villages
The GoldenPass Line links central and western Switzerland, connecting lakes, vineyards, and snow-dusted peaks. For first-time visitors, this route offers an extraordinary mix — cosmopolitan Lucerne, the adventure hub of Interlaken, and the Riviera-style charm of Montreux.
Traveling through several language regions, this Swiss Rail Tour Package lets you experience Switzerland’s diversity in just one scenic ride.
4. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – Europe’s Luxury Classic
Route: London – Paris – Venice (or Istanbul on select dates)
Duration: 1 to 2 nights
Highlights: 1920s art-deco carriages, gourmet dining, old-world luxury
Few train journeys evoke as much romance as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Step aboard the vintage blue-and-gold carriages for a timeless experience of luxury Europe train travel.
While it’s one of the pricier packages, it’s perfect for honeymooners or luxury seekers who wish to combine history, fine dining, and cinematic landscapes. It’s a dream addition to any European Train Vacation.
5. The Rhine Valley Line – Germany’s Fairytale Route
Route: Mainz – Koblenz – Cologne
Duration: 2 hours
Highlights: Loreley Rock, Rhine Castles, Vineyard Villages
Running parallel to the majestic Rhine River, this route is part of the UNESCO Upper Middle Rhine Valley. As the train winds past castles perched on cliffs and medieval towns like Bacharach, you’ll understand why this is Germany’s most scenic railway.
It’s an excellent short yet memorable trip for first-timers exploring Western Europe. Combine it with a river cruise or a wine-tasting stop.
6. The West Highland Line – Scotland’s Highland Adventure
Route: Glasgow – Fort William – Mallaig
Duration: 5.5 hours
Highlights: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Lomond, Scottish Highlands
Often voted one of the world’s most beautiful train rides, the West Highland Line takes you deep into the wild heart of Scotland. You’ll pass shimmering lochs, rolling hills, and the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct — made famous by the Harry Potter films.
For first-timers, this route offers a taste of rugged nature and Scottish heritage, perfect for combining with a few days in Edinburgh or the Isle of Skye.
7. The Cinque Terre Train – Italy’s Coastal Gem
Route: La Spezia – Riomaggiore – Monterosso
Duration: 30 minutes (one way, multiple stops)
Highlights: Cliffside villages, Ligurian Sea, colorful architecture
This short but stunning railway hugs Italy’s Ligurian Coast, linking the five picturesque fishing villages of Cinque Terre. Perfect for beginners, the train allows flexible hop-on, hop-off access — making it easy to explore each village’s beaches, vineyards, and trattorias.
It’s part of many Italy Rail Tour Packages and a favorite for travelers wanting both scenic views and authentic culture.
8. The Rhine-Alps Scenic Train – Switzerland to Austria
Route: Zurich – Innsbruck – Salzburg
Duration: 5 hours
Highlights: Lake Zurich, Arlberg Pass, Tyrolean Mountains
Linking Switzerland and Austria, this route showcases the very best of the Alpine region. The train climbs through tunnels and valleys dotted with traditional chalets before reaching Austria’s musical capital, Salzburg.
It’s a great addition to a Europe Rail Tour Package combining Switzerland, Austria, and Germany — ideal for first-timers wanting to sample multiple countries effortlessly.
9. The Flåm Railway – Norway’s Majestic Fjord Journey
Route: Myrdal – Flåm
Duration: 1 hour
Highlights: Waterfalls, Fjords, Steep Mountain Scenery
Scandinavia’s most famous train line descends from the mountain station of Myrdal down to the fjord village of Flåm, one of the steepest standard-gauge lines in the world.
Every curve reveals another postcard view — cascading waterfalls, wooden houses, and emerald fjords. Combine this with the Bergen Railway for a longer Northern Europe Rail Tour Package.
10. Glacier & Bernina Express Combo Tour – The Ultimate Swiss Experience
Route: Zermatt – St. Moritz – Tirano – Lugano
Duration: 2 days (overnight in St. Moritz)
Highlights: Glacier Express + Bernina Express, Swiss Alps UNESCO sites
For travelers who want to experience the best of Switzerland’s world-famous trains in one itinerary, the Glacier & Bernina Express Combo Tour is unbeatable. You’ll cross bridges, glaciers, and lakes across two iconic routes — all within two days.
This Switzerland Rail Tour Package offers panoramic views, cozy mountain stays, and effortless travel — a perfect introduction to European train vacations.
Tips for First-Time Europe Rail Travellers
1. When to Travel
The best months for scenic train travel are April to October. Spring brings wildflowers and snow-capped peaks; summer offers long days; autumn adds colorful foliage. Avoid major holidays when trains are busy and fares higher.
2. What to Pack
Pack light — trains have limited luggage space. Essentials include:
- Layered clothing for varying climates
- A travel adaptor and power bank
- Lightweight snacks and refillable water bottle
- Small daypack for excursions
- Rail passes or e-tickets in both digital and printed form
3. Choosing the Right Rail Pass
For flexibility across multiple countries, consider a Eurail Global Pass. For one-country travel (like Switzerland or Italy), get a local pass such as the Swiss Travel Pass — it covers trains, boats, and mountain lifts.
4. Seat Reservations
Some scenic trains (e.g., Glacier Express, Bernina Express, TGV France) require advance seat reservations. Booking through a tour operator like Europe Travel Bureau ensures your seat and timings are confirmed.
5. Enjoy the Journey
Europe’s rail travel isn’t just transportation — it’s an experience. Sit on the side with the best views, enjoy regional food onboard, and don’t rush. Every mile tells a story.
Why Book with Europe Travel Bureau
At Europe Travel Bureau, we specialize in Europe Rail Tour Packages curated for comfort, scenic beauty, and seamless experiences. Our travel experts design flexible itineraries combining rail travel with 4 Star or 5 Star accommodations, sightseeing, and guided tours.
We manage the details — tickets, transfers, hotels, and guides — so you can relax and enjoy the ride. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, our Europe Train Tour Packages offer safety, convenience, and authentic local experiences.
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