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Read MoreRecommended train routes in Europe: The best rail itineraries for your trip
Travelling through Europe by train is one of the most efficient and scenic ways to explore multiple countries in a single trip. Thanks to Europe’s extensive railway network, you can connect major capitals, historic cities, and breathtaking landscapes without relying on flights.
In this guide to recommended train routes in Europe, you’ll discover the best itineraries by region, trip duration, and travel style.
Best train routes in western Europe
Western Europe is ideal for first-time train travel in Europe. Distances are short, and connections are frequent.
Paris – Brussels – Amsterdam
- Fast high-speed connections
- Direct city-centre to city-centre travel
- Ideal for a 5–7 day itinerary
This route combines culture, architecture, and vibrant urban life in a seamless rail journey.
If you’re still planning your itinerary, start with our complete guide to planning train routes in Europe.
Madrid – Barcelona – Marsella
- High-speed rail within Spain
- Easy international connection to southern France
- Great balance between urban culture and the Mediterranean coast
Perfect for travellers who want to combine major cities with coastal experiences.
Must-Do train routes in Italy
Italy is one of the easiest countries to explore by rail, thanks to its modern high-speed network.
Milán – Venecia – Florencia – Roma
- Travel times between 1h30 and 2h
- Central train stations
- Ideal for 7–10 days
This is one of the most efficient train itineraries in Italy for first-time visitors.
For a detailed breakdown, explore our guide to train routes in Italy step by step.
Rome – Naples – Amalfi Coast
- Rome to Naples in just over 1 hour
- Easy onward connections to coastal destinations
- Ideal for combining culture and landscape
Central Europe train routes: History and scenic views
Central Europe offers excellent cross-border connections.
Vienna – Prague – Budapest
- Direct connections
- Travel times between 2h30 and 4h
- Perfect for a 6–8 day multi-country trip
This is one of the most balanced multi-country train routes in Europe.
Múnich – Salzburgo – Innsbruck
- Scenic Alpine landscapes.
- Short and comfortable journeys.
- Ideal for nature-focused trips.
Scenic train routes in Europe
If the journey itself is part of the experience, consider scenic train routes in Europe, including:
- Alpine routes in Switzerland
- Coastal rail journeys in southern France
- Cross-border mountain routes between Austria and Germany
These itineraries are perfect for slow travel enthusiasts.
How to choose the best train route in Europe
Before finalising your itinerary, consider:
- Number of travel days
- Season of travel
- Ideal maximum travel time per segment (recommended: under 5 hours)
- Whether you prefer direct trains or don’t mind transfers
You should also review when to buy train tickets in Europe for the best prices, especially during peak season.
Frequently asked questions about train routes in Europe
How many cities should I visit on a European train trip?
For a 7-day trip, 3 cities are ideal.
For 10–14 days, 4 to 6 cities, depending on travel distances.
Can I combine multiple countries in one train itinerary?
Yes. Europe’s rail network allows seamless cross-border travel, particularly in Western and Central Europe.
What is the easiest train route in Europe for first-time travellers?
Paris – Brussels – Amsterdam or Milan – Florence – Rome are among the simplest and most efficient itineraries.
Plan Your European Train Route
Once you’ve chosen your itinerary, the next step is to:
- Check schedules
- Compare travel times
- Review seat availability
- Book in advance
You can do this directly through our European train route search platform, where you can centralise domestic and international routes in one place.
Final Thoughts
The best train routes in Europe depend on your travel style, time available, and preferred destinations. Planning by region, avoiding unnecessary long journeys, and booking early will help you create a smoother experience.
Travelling across Europe by train is not just transportation — it’s part of the journey itself.
Anna Novak
Head of Rail Intelligence & AI Strategy at RailClick
Anna Novak is Head of Rail Intelligence & AI Strategy at RailClick, where she focuses on the future of rail distribution and digital mobility across Europe. With extensive experience in travel technology and rail ecosystems, she works on simplifying how rail content is discovered, integrated, and booked by travel agencies and partners worldwide. Her work explores the intersection of AI-driven discovery, multi-operator rail networks, and modern distribution infrastructure, helping the industry move toward more connected and accessible rail systems. Through her writing, Anna analyzes trends shaping the rail sector — from interoperability and ticketing technology to the role of artificial intelligence in transforming how rail journeys are searched and sold. At RailClick, she contributes to building the next generation of simplified, scalable rail booking solutions for the global travel industry.
