Best scenic train rides in Europe for an upcoming summer trip?

Hey everyone, my partner and I are planning a three-week European vacation this summer and we want to incorporate some truly breathtaking rail journeys. We are already looking at the Glacier Express in Switzerland, but we'd love to hear about other hidden gems or absolute must-do routes across the continent. Ideally, we are looking for a mix of dramatic mountain passes and stunning coastal views without having to spend a fortune on luxury sleeper trains. What are your absolute favorite scenic train rides in Europe and any tips for booking tickets in advance?

The Bernina Express in Switzerland is an absolute must-do if you are already looking at the Glacier Express. The crossing of the Landwasser Viaduct is breathtaking, and it climbs all the way up to glaciers without costing a luxury fortune if you book regional trains on the same tracks.

You should definitely check out the Flåm Railway in Norway. It takes you from the mountaintops down to the fjords, passing roaring waterfalls and steep cliffs. It can get busy in the summer, so booking at least two months in advance is essential.

For stunning coastal views, the Cinque Terre express line in Italy hugs the Mediterranean cliffs and lets you hop between gorgeous colorful villages. If you are trying to budget for a longer trip, you might find some useful insights on affordable destinations in Europe to balance out your rail expenses.

The West Highland Line in Scotland, specifically the section from Fort William to Mallaig, crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous by Harry Potter. It offers incredible moody landscapes and lochs.

Don't overlook the Centovalli Railway connecting Switzerland and Italy. It winds through a hundred valleys filled with vineyards, stone bridges, and deep gorges, and it's much less crowded than the major Swiss panoramic trains.

If you want dramatic mountain passes paired with rich history, the Semmering Railway in Austria is a UNESCO heritage route that offers stunning alpine viaducts and pine forests.

When planning a massive multi-week trip like yours, organization is key. You might want to read up on tips via this guide on planning a European holiday without stress to keep your itinerary on track.

The Centinela or the coastal line from Nice to Ventimiglia offers gorgeous views of the French and Italian Rivieras right outside your window for the price of a standard regional ticket.

Make sure to use official national rail websites rather than third-party resellers to book your tickets early, as summer books out fast and avoids hefty markup fees!