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Planning a rail trip across Europe: Any recommendations?

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Kalin_Bud
Joined:
29.01.2024
Posts: 765
Topic Starter
22.01.2025 10:51
I have been looking at lists of the most scenic train rides in Europe and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the options. I have about two weeks to travel next summer and I really want to prioritize routes that offer the best views, like the Glacier Express or the West Highland Line. Has anyone here actually done these trips and can tell me if they are worth the hype or if they get too crowded? I would love to hear some tips on booking tickets in advance or if it's better to just get a Eurail pass. Any advice on which specific legs of the journey are the absolute must-sees would be greatly appreciated.
20 replies in this topic
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Brayan_Z
Joined:
28.06.2020
Posts: 464
20.02.2025 20:49
The Glacier Express is stunning, but honestly, it’s a full-day commitment. Make sure you book a seat reservation early, otherwise, you might end up standing in the aisle for hours.
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redoven
Joined:
04.07.2024
Posts: 1827
01.03.2025 04:45
In reply to a previous post
I second the Glacier Express, but have you considered the Bernina Express? The loop viaducts are incredible and the scenery feels a bit more dramatic than the Glacier route.
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vulk_samotnik
Joined:
02.04.2024
Posts: 1112
06.04.2025 13:58
In reply to a previous post
For the West Highland Line, definitely try to get a seat on the right side if you're heading north from Glasgow to Mallaig. The views of the lochs are unbeatable.
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Yana_P
Joined:
04.09.2024
Posts: 624
17.05.2025 11:31
Honestly, skip the tourist-heavy trains and look into the regional lines in Slovenia or the Austrian Alps. Way cheaper and just as beautiful.
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NqkoiNesh
Joined:
08.01.2025
Posts: 1053
25.05.2025 17:31
Does the Eurail pass still make sense? I did the math last year and booking individual tickets in advance was significantly cheaper if you know your dates.
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ChernaKotka
Joined:
05.03.2021
Posts: 2208
28.07.2025 19:00
In reply to a previous post
In response to the Eurail question, it depends on how much flexibility you want. If you want to jump on a train on a whim, get the pass. If you're a planner, book early.
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nabludatel_x
Joined:
28.06.2023
Posts: 1954
03.08.2025 06:34
In reply to a previous post
The West Highland Line is 100% worth the hype, especially if you get lucky with the weather. Just be prepared for the midges if you go in the summer!
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Hubo_K
Joined:
24.12.2024
Posts: 2136
05.08.2025 10:32
Don't forget the Rauma Line in Norway. It’s easily one of the most underrated rail journeys in Europe.
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nov_tuk
Joined:
16.05.2020
Posts: 2224
02.10.2025 19:19
In reply to a previous post
I tried the Glacier Express in July once and it was packed. It felt more like a tour bus on tracks. Go during the shoulder season if you can.
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Poli_H
Joined:
14.12.2021
Posts: 1402
08.11.2025 17:28
In reply to a previous post
Is two weeks enough for both Switzerland and Scotland? That sounds like a lot of travel time between the two countries.
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Denis_P
Joined:
29.02.2024
Posts: 838
16.11.2025 22:37
Check out the 'Seat61' website. It is basically the bible for European rail travel. Everything you need to know is there.
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Selekcioner
Joined:
08.12.2021
Posts: 1319
18.11.2025 22:42
In reply to a previous post
I agree with the Seat61 recommendation. Saved me so much stress when I was planning my trip through the Balkans.
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Niko_N
Joined:
20.10.2020
Posts: 1773
16.12.2025 07:05
In reply to a previous post
If you're going to Switzerland, the Swiss Travel Pass is usually a better deal than the Eurail pass because it covers local buses and boats too.
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robert_d
Joined:
03.09.2020
Posts: 268
18.12.2025 14:56
In reply to a previous post
I’ve done the West Highland Line twice and I’d do it a third time. Just make sure you book the Jacobite steam train early if you want that specific experience.
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ekspert_forum
Joined:
20.02.2024
Posts: 240
19.12.2025 14:22
Does anyone have recommendations for routes in Italy? I’m looking for something less crowded than the main lines.
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Poli_H
Joined:
26.10.2024
Posts: 957
10.01.2026 20:20
In reply to a previous post
Take the train from Florence to Naples. The coastline views near the end are pretty spectacular.
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jacek_bg
Joined:
18.10.2022
Posts: 1296
12.01.2026 05:26
In reply to a previous post
Two weeks is a short time. Don't try to cram too much in, or you'll spend your whole holiday on a train rather than seeing the cities.
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misho_777
Joined:
09.07.2025
Posts: 2379
15.03.2026 23:50
Has anyone had issues with the Eurail app? I heard it can be a bit glitchy when logging trips.
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Nadiya_D
Joined:
11.02.2022
Posts: 1704
30.03.2026 11:36
In reply to a previous post
The app is fine, just always keep a paper backup of your tickets just in case your phone dies or the Wi-Fi acts up.
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Oliviya_T
Joined:
12.11.2022
Posts: 1113
05.04.2026 22:25
Enjoy your trip! Rail travel is the only way to see Europe properly.

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