The majestic mountains of the Alpine region have long captivated travelers with their snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and winding tracks that carve through some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery. Embarking on a train adventure here is more than just a means of transport—it’s a journey into the heart of nature, an immersive experience where every window frames a new picture. From lofty viaducts and dramatic tunnels to quaint mountain villages, these routes showcase the very best of scenic Europe.

Classic Panorama Routes

These iconic lines have earned global praise for their uninterrupted views and smooth rides. Renowned operators prioritize comfort, ensuring that every passenger can fully appreciate the Alpine grandeur.

• Glacier Express (Switzerland): Often dubbed “the slowest express train in the world,” this legendary service links Zermatt and St. Moritz over 7.5 hours. Crossing 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, it travels through the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 meters. Panoramic windows and an optional gourmet meal transform the ride into a breathtaking spectacle.
• Bernina Express (Switzerland & Italy): Connecting Chur with Tirano, the Bernina Express triumphs over the Bernina Pass at 2,253 meters. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the route includes the famed Landwasser Viaduct and the Brusio Spiral Viaduct, offering views of glaciers, alpine lakes, and subtropical palm trees as the train descends toward Italy.
• GoldenPass Line (Switzerland): Linking Montreux on Lake Geneva with Lucerne, this route passes through Gstaad, the scenic Saanenland, and the Brunig Pass. Elegant Belle Époque carriages and modern panoramic coaches ensure travelers enjoy Swiss chalets, emerald meadows, and the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz.

Engineering Marvels

Beyond natural beauty, many Alpine lines stand as testaments to human ingenuity. Rugged terrain demanded inventive solutions: spiral tunnels, cogwheel systems, and gravity-fed refrigeration for snow removal.

• Jungfrau Railway (Switzerland): The highest rack-railway in Europe, this line climbs from Kleine Scheidegg (2,061 m) to Jungfraujoch (3,454 m). Inside the Eiger and Mönch mountains, excavated tunnels lead to an observation deck known as the “Top of Europe,” granting access to glacial vistas.
• Gornergrat Railway (Switzerland): Departing Zermatt, it ascends to 3,089 meters beside the mighty Matterhorn. Sixteen open-air observation coaches offer 360° panoramas of twelve 4,000-meter peaks and the sprawling Gorner Glacier.
• Schynige Platte Railway (Switzerland): A century-old cogwheel line climbs from Wilderswil to Schynige Platte at 1,967 meters. Steam engines still operate in summer, and once atop, hikers explore alpine gardens and trails overlooking the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau trio.
• Rhaetian Railway Albula/Bernina (Switzerland & Italy): Often combined, these two UNESCO World Heritage lines connect Thusis with Tirano via Chur. Renowned for their spiral tunnels, grand stone viaducts, and glacier-backdrops, they epitomize Alpine engineering mastery.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Off the beaten path, lesser-known lines offer a quieter, more authentic adventure. These routes allow travelers to mingle with locals, sample regional dishes, and witness everyday life against a majestic backdrop.

• Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway (Switzerland & Italy): Known as the “Red Train,” it snakes from Locarno to Domodossola through the Centovalli gorge. Terraced vineyards, chestnut forests, and sudden river canyons create ever-changing scenery.
• Mont Blanc Express (France & Switzerland): Linking Martigny with Chamonix and Saint-Gervais, this narrow-gauge route winds through valleys dominated by Mont Blanc. Flamboyant wildflowers and towering cliffs make for an unforgettably panoramic ride.
• Lötschberg Base Tunnel (Switzerland): Though primarily a high-speed connection between Bern and Valais, travelers can choose the historic summit line over the base tunnel. The old route offers rustic stations and postcard-perfect vistas of alpine passes and quaint hamlets.
• Salzkammergut Railway (Austria): Winding from Salzburg to Bad Ischl, this line skirts crystal lakes and Wolfgangsee’s emerald shallows. Baroque towns and imperial villas punctuate the journey, evoking Habsburg-era elegance.
• Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn (Switzerland): Combining scenic segments of the Glacier Express route, this line serves local communities from Chur to Zermatt. Regional trains stop at remote hamlets, offering intimate glimpses of mountain life.

Tips for an Unforgettable Ride

To make the most of these remarkable journeys, consider the following recommendations:

• Book in advance: Popular trains fill up quickly, especially panoramic coaches.
• Travel off-peak: Early spring or late autumn yield vibrant colors and quieter carriages.
• Pack layers: Alpine weather changes rapidly; a warm jacket ensures comfort.
• Choose daytime schedules: Maximum daylight guarantees the best views.
• Respect local customs: A polite greeting in French, German, or Italian opens doors to hidden treasures.
• Support sustainable tourism: Trains emit far less CO₂ than cars, making rail travel an eco-friendly way to explore the landscapes.