Travelling by train is one of the most luxurious and relaxing ways to enjoy the beautiful European landscape. But with more than 138,000 miles of track across the continent, it’s hard to choose which journey to embark on.

If you’re planning a train tour for your next holiday, you’re spoilt for choice! 

But whether you’re interested in snowy mountains, brilliant rivers or sunny beaches, here are five of the best railway breaks and scenic journeys in Europe.

1. Diakopto to Kalavrita (Greece)

For those looking for a short ride, the hour-long trip on the Ondontotos Rack Railway is perfect. The heritage railway was built in 1895 and is one of southern Greece’s final remaining narrow-gauge lines.

The excursion will carry you from the cheerful seaside up to the beautiful mountains, weaving through hand-carved tunnels and lush forests. It also crosses 49 bridges and offers incredible views of the Vouraikos River.

Diakopto is a popular tourist destination thanks to its proximity to both the mountains and the beach. Stay in the Alkistis Hotel, which is only a short walk from the train station, and you’ll also be provided with balcony views of the beach.

2. Dublin to Tralee (Ireland) 

The four-hour ride from Dublin Heuston to Tralee passes the extraordinary Galtee Mountains, journeys through the Golden Vale’s expanse of fields, and follows the Blackwater Valley west. As the Irish Rail line approaches Killarney, you also get to see the incredible Mangerton mountain and MacGillycuddy’s Reeks.

In Dublin, you can spend the night at the Hendrick Smithfield hotel. The building’s sleek and modern design is influenced by its position at the centre of Dublin’s creative hub. 

It is also situated a short walk away from Smithfield Square, which hosts a variety of events all year round, including farmer’s markets and festivals.

3. Cologne to Basel (Germany and Switzerland)

If you’re looking to visit the Alps, the mid-morning EC9 train from Cologne to Basel is one of the most scenic routes. The five-hour journey boasts views of the Black Forest, but for the best sight of the Rhine, remember to sit on the right side of the train when you’re boarding at Cologne.

The train runs several times a day, so you don’t have to worry if you miss one. However, the EC9 train is the only one to have a Swiss panorama carriage, which costs extra but is well worth the money to properly enjoy the surroundings.

If you wish to stay overnight in Cologne, you can sleep in an 1890s former monastery only a few minutes away from the train station. The Classic Hotel Harmonie has a 24-hour roof-terrace cocktail bar with a view of the cathedral, and you can enjoy your breakfast in the gorgeous gardens.

4. Zermatt to St. Moritz (Switzerland)

The Glacier Express connects two of Switzerland’s best-known ski resorts, Zermatt and St. Moritz. Take in the sights of enchanting valleys and snow-capped peaks, and cross 291 bridges during your journey.

The Ambassador is a four-star hotel only 100m away from the train station. You can relax in the hotel’s luxurious spa – featuring an indoor heated pool, whirlpool and sauna – before your journey and enjoy views of the Matterhorn from your balcony.

Zermatt itself is home to the “Matterhorn glacier paradise”, which is Europe’s largest and highest summer skiing region, where numerous professional ski teams go to train. If you aren’t interested in winter sports, there are also plenty of hiking trails to choose from, as well as quality restaurants and shopping opportunities.

If you’re lucky, your children might even get to meet Wolli, the region’s fluffy lamb mascot!

5. Zurich to Graz (Switzerland and Austria) 

At 10 hours long, the Transaplin train from Zurich to Graz is the longest journey on this list. There are both Swiss and Austrian carriages, with restaurants serving delicious food, and panoramic views of the snowy landscape.

The CitizenM hotel in Zurich is perfect for a lavish but modern stop before you catch your train. It’s only a 10-minute walk from Zurich’s main train station and provides a buffet breakfast as well as a living room where you can find books and iMacs to entertain yourself or catch up on some work.

Home to the Dada art movement, Zurich is filled with entertainment, fantastic cultural locations, and a selection of restaurants. If you’re looking for something to do before your train arrives, you can visit the Kunsthaus, one of Europe’s best modern art museums.