Slow Travel by Train
Discover the joy of relaxed rail travel. The most beautiful scenic train routes in Europe, perfect package deals, and everything you need for a memorable journey at a gentle pace.
The Art of Slow Travel
In our rushed world of cheap flights and quick connections, something precious has been lost: the joy of the journey itself. Slow travel by train reclaims that joy. Instead of arriving stressed from airport queues and cramped seats, you arrive refreshed, having watched mountains, villages, and rivers glide past your window.
For seniors especially, train travel offers a gentler, more dignified way to explore. No weight restrictions on luggage, no removing shoes at security, no three-hour pre-departure arrivals. Just settle into your comfortable seat, order a coffee from the dining car, and let the world come to you.
This guide explores Europe's most beautiful scenic train routes and the providers who can help you plan the perfect rail journey, whether that is a day trip along the Rhine or a week-long Swiss Alps adventure.
Why Choose Train Travel?
Stress-Free
No airport security, baggage limits, or cramped seats. Arrive relaxed, not exhausted.
Scenic Views
Watch the landscape unfold from panoramic windows. Photography opportunities galore.
City Center to City Center
Trains arrive in city centers, avoiding long airport transfers and taxi costs.
Freedom to Move
Walk to the restaurant car, stretch your legs, visit the observation deck.
Environmentally Friendly
Rail travel produces far less CO2 than flying. Travel with a clear conscience.
Social Atmosphere
Share compartments, meet fellow travelers, enjoy conversations over lunch.
Most Beautiful Scenic Train Routes
Glacier Express
Switzerland - Zermatt to St. Moritz
Highlights
- 291 bridges
- 91 tunnels
- Oberalp Pass
- Landwasser Viaduct
Year-round
Excellent - panoramic windows, restaurant car
150-400 CHF
Bernina Express
Switzerland - Chur to Tirano (Italy)
Highlights
- UNESCO World Heritage
- Bernina Pass
- Circular viaduct
- Glacier views
May-October
Excellent - panoramic cars, accessible
50-150 CHF
Bergen Railway
Norway - Oslo to Bergen
Highlights
- Hardangervidda plateau
- Finse station
- Fjord views
- Mountain scenery
Year-round (winter magical)
Good - modern trains, restaurant
50-150 EUR
Cinque Terre Express
Italy - La Spezia to Levanto
Highlights
- 5 villages
- Mediterranean coast
- Tunnel views
- Easy village access
April-October
Excellent - short hops, easy platforms
10-20 EUR day pass
Rhine Valley Line
Germany - Mainz to Koblenz
Highlights
- Lorelei rock
- 40+ castles
- UNESCO World Heritage
- Wine villages
May-October
Excellent - frequent trains, easy access
20-40 EUR
West Highland Line
Scotland - Glasgow to Mallaig
Highlights
- Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter)
- Loch views
- Wild Highlands
May-September
Good - scenic, some stations unmanned
30-60 GBP
Rail Travel Providers
Ameropa
4.3/5Deutsche Bahn travel packages
Senior offers: BahnCard discounts, accessible rooms
Best for: Easy booking of German rail holidays
Lernidee
4.6/5Luxury train journeys
Senior offers: All-inclusive, no heavy luggage
Best for: Once-in-a-lifetime luxury train experiences
Railtour Suisse
4.5/5Swiss rail holidays
Senior offers: Swiss Travel Pass Senior discounts
Best for: Swiss Alps train adventures
Great Rail Journeys
4.4/5Worldwide rail tours
Senior offers: Single supplements often reduced
Best for: Fully escorted international rail tours
Frequently Asked Questions
What is slow travel?
Is train travel more expensive than flying?
Are European trains accessible for seniors?
What is a rail pass and is it worth it for seniors?
Can I bring luggage on trains?
How do I book scenic train routes?
Find Travel Packages
Compare vacation packages including scenic destinations
Advertisement - CHECK24 Partner