Are you ready to experience the grandeur of Europe by rail? From the gorgeous lagoons along Lake Como in Italy to exploring Gaudi's architecture in Barcelona and sipping wines at vineyards nestled among rolling hillsides - European train tours offer unparalleled experiences that will stay with you forever.
Through high-speed trains, picturesque mountain railroads, and everything in between – a journey around this diverse continent will bring an entirely new appreciation for its beautiful culture.
Whether traveling as a couple or with friends to celebrate an upcoming special event, get inspired by reading about some of our favorite routes.
Overview of Major European Train Tour Companies
Europe is famous for its extensive and scenic train tours. Several companies offer excellent train tours of the continent, each with unique experiences and offerings. From luxury to budget-friendly options, travelers can find something to suit their needs perfectly.
The following are overviews of some of the best European Train Tour companies.
One of the most renowned European train tour companies is the Orient Express. This luxurious and iconic journey offers a world-renowned 3-day journey through England, France, Switzerland, and Italy. The classic tour includes overnight stays in grand hotels, meals made by Michelin-starred chefs, and exclusive tours to explore each destination.
Another fantastic train tour company is Railbookers, which specializing in custom-built train vacations. Passengers can choose from pre-planned itineraries or create their unique journey across Europe. Tours range from one to two weeks and include various activities, like guided tours and sightseeing trips.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, look no further than Interrail. Offering various rail passes with free or discounted travel options; this company is perfect for exploring multiple countries while keeping costs low. Passengers can choose from several flexible packages to suit their needs and preferences.
For an off-the-beaten-track adventure, consider a tour from Belmond. Their journeys take passengers to lesser-known European destinations and provide an intimate look into the culture and history of some of the continent’s most captivating cities. With various packages available for every budget, Belmond is ideal for travelers exploring lesser-known European gems.
Finally, Europe by Rail provides an immersive and unique way to explore the continent. Their tours include various activities, such as culinary experiences, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventures. Tour packages range from 5-day journeys to several weeks, giving travelers plenty of options for their perfect European train tour.
Benefits of Taking a Train Tour
Taking a train tour of Europe is an amazing way to explore this diverse continent while getting an up close and personal look at the culture, architecture, and scenery. Train tours are also often more affordable than air travel and offer the convenience of getting around with minimal hassle. Plus, they’re much less stressful than dealing with airports and dealing with baggage claims.
Train tours also provide a great way to meet new people and make friends. Often, train tours will include stops at stations where passengers can get off the train for meals or sightseeing opportunities, allowing them to chat with locals and other passengers and potentially even make new friends.
Finally, train tours are perfect for those who want to explore European culture but need more time. By taking the train, travelers can get around quickly and efficiently without worrying about multiple flights or long drives between destinations. This makes it easy to see multiple countries in just a few days.
Popular Destinations for European Train Tours
Europe has many incredible destinations, from bustling cities to picturesque countryside. When planning a European train tour, it’s important to pick the best places to visit and ensure you get the most out of your trip.
London, Paris, and Amsterdam are some of Europe's most popular destinations for train tours. These cities are filled with amazing sights, world-class museums, and incredible cuisine. Plus, they’re all connected by train networks, making them easy to visit in a single trip.
The Swiss Alps are another popular destination for European train tours. With its stunning mountain views and breathtaking landscapes, this area is perfect for travelers seeking the full European train experience. You can explore the area by hopping on a scenic route or hiking and viewing from higher ground.
Eastern Europe is home to some of Europe's most beautiful and underrated cities, like Krakow, Prague, and Budapest. These cities are all linked by train networks, making them great destinations for travelers exploring multiple countries on a single trip. Plus, they’re all home to amazing historical sites and cultural attractions.
Finally, the Mediterranean coast is one of the most popular regions for European train tours. While many beautiful cities are along this coastline, some of the most iconic destinations are Rome, Florence, and Barcelona. These cities are all connected by trains making them easy to explore on one trip. They’re all home to amazing architecture, art galleries, and historical sites.
FAQs
What is the most beautiful train route?
The most beautiful route will vary depending on the traveler's preference, but some popular routes include the Bernina Express in Switzerland, the White Pass and Yukon Route in Alaska, and the Trans-Siberian Railway.
What is included in a European train tour?
European train tours usually include transport between cities or destinations, accommodation, meals, and guided sightseeing. Some tours may include excursions or special activities such as wine tastings or cooking classes.
What are the benefits of taking a train tour?
Train tours provide an up close and personal look at Europe’s culture, architecture, and scenery. They’re often less expensive than air travel and offer the convenience of getting around with minimal hassle. They’re much less stressful than dealing with airports and baggage claims. Train tours also provide a great way to meet new people and make friends.
Conclusion
Exploring Europe by rail lets travelers make memories they will never forget. This trip offers a great way to discover the beauty of Italy, Spain, and the entire continent in a unique, enriching way.
