The Best Summer Train Trips in Europe for Golden-Era Glamour and Epic Views

Europe is home to some of the most glamorous train rides in the world, and there’s no better time to experience them than over the summer. The best train rides in Europe connect both cosmopolitan capitals and peaceful small villages, but even though the destinations are certainly exciting, it’s the journey itself that’s the main attraction. Each of these graceful trains cater to passengers’ every comfort, with cozy dining cars and plush cabins, no matter if the journey is for a few hours or several days. But the real draw unfurls outside the cabin, with impeccable scenery flashing past the windows. Whether gliding through an impossibly verdant Alpine valley, navigating the heather-laden hills of the Scottish highlands, or rolling along Italy’s southern coastline, summer European train rides immerse travelers in the continent’s most magnificent landscapes. Here’s a look at six of the best. The Glacier Express glides through dramatic valleys and green Alpine meadows. This eight-hour ride through the Swiss Alps from Zermatt to St. Moritz passes through two UNESCO World Heritage areas and over nearly 300 bridges. When the snow melts in the summer, the scenery becomes even

May 12, 2026 → May 12, 2026