Europe is experiencing a rail revival, and I’m all for it. Traveling by train is convenient, eco-friendly, and, dare I say, romantic. Rail ticket sales in Europe are increasing year-on-year, with travelers embracing the slow travel experience that trains offer. According to Eurail data shared by Travelpulse, here are the top five European countries to explore by train this summer, based on 2024 ticket sales.
**Switzerland**
Switzerland is a fantastic place to travel by train, offering both convenience and stunning beauty. Many rail routes provide iconic views of famous Swiss landscapes that you’ll remember forever. Swiss trains are known for their punctuality and the system is easy to navigate with a wide range of itineraries. For a comprehensive tour, the 800-mile-long Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is ideal, covering 11 lakes, five UNESCO World Heritage sites, and four unique regions. If you’re short on time, the Glacier Express is a great option, taking you past the magnificent Matterhorn and ending in St. Moritz in just one day.
**Germany**
Germany’s high-speed rail system makes it easy to travel quickly, but slow travel here is equally rewarding. The Moselle route from Koblenz to Trier offers epic views of rivers and steep mountain slopes, including a journey through the 4,250-meter-long Kaiser Wilhelm Tunnel. The most iconic route, however, is from Bingen to Koblenz through the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Upper Middle Rhine Valley,” featuring breathtaking fairytale-style castles and villages.
**Italy**
Exploring Italy’s beautiful cities by train is a must, especially since driving can be quite challenging. Italy’s high-speed rail network allows you to travel from Rome to Florence in just 1 hour and 32 minutes at speeds up to 300 km/h (186 mph). For a more leisurely and scenic journey, the Bernina Express connects Tirano in Italy to St. Moritz in the Swiss Alps, offering stunning views of the Italian Alps. The Alps are particularly beautiful in the summer, covered in lush greenery and wildflowers.
**The Netherlands**
The Netherlands is small enough to explore almost entirely by train, making it a very convenient option. The flat landscape allows for expansive views as you travel. For lush greenery, follow the River IJssel downstream from Zutphen to Zwolle, or take the train to Hanzelijn to enjoy abundant wildlife and nature from your carriage.
**Austria**
Like Switzerland, Austria offers incredible train journeys with epic mountain views, making it a relaxing and affordable way to explore the country. The route from Vienna to Graz is particularly scenic, and traveling between Vienna and Salzburg is also highly recommended. Austria’s picturesque landscapes, charming villages, historic cities, and numerous mountains make train travel here truly unforgettable.