Europe Itinerary 4 weeks by Train 

Europe Itinerary 4 weeks by train 

Train journeys don’t just give us an opportunity to experience amazing scenery of the country-side dotted with stunning landscapes, are also a convenient and quick mode of transport. To some extent saving our planet from excessive pollution compared to automobiles or air travel. 

Some countries have better coverage by train than any other mode of travel. This is true for Europe as in most of Europe trains are the primary mode of public transportation. Even cities all over the continent are well connected by a network of railways, making it so convenient to navigate. Besides, these super-fast, luxurious trains are a pleasure to travel on.  

In this blog `Europe Itinerary 4 weeks by train’ the top-most experience is definitely on board the Swiss railways. 

Undoubtedly, some of my best train journeys have been traversing the Alpine mountains in Switzerland. The country has the most efficient system of railways, which is it’s lifeline. It’s not only used for tourism and as  a means of transport, also for businesses, like, taking milk from the pastures. One more advantage need mention is ample flexibility, due to their frequency of operation.  

The most famous is the Glacier express journey between St. Mortiz and Zermatt. And as the name suggests, the train crosses that part of the western Alps that’s covered with glaciers. Though an 8 hour journey, there is barely a dull moment – beautiful landscape from the glass windows, comfortable seats and delicious food served in between what else could anyone ask for.  

Why Eurail is the best ?

Unmatched hospitality, great food and wine, comfortable, upholstered seats, and panoramic views is what makes journeys on European railways so wholesome. The arrangement of four plush seats facing each other so that you are sitting face-to-face with your family members,  complete with a table in the center gives the feeling of being in your own drawing room. It’s good for interactions, playing cards or games . Time passes off quickly, making the journey more enjoyable . Above all they are super clean and well maintained. 

If you are a traveler from outside Europe, the best Europe train itinerary is the one that begins from Paris. Spend 4 to 5 days in Paris before proceeding for your ongoing journey to the most popular destination –  Switzerland. Travel by the super fast express to mesmerizing Interlaken, the first stop. Direct trains between Paris and Interlaken may not be there, so change at Basel. There is lots to see in and around Interlaken, stay here up to 6 days preferably. From here you can take the century old mountain express to the highest snow capped peak Jungfrau. This is a to and fro day trip and the most adventurous to the `top of Europe’. Tourists wonder in amazement as to how the extensive tracks were laid out at such a height, on steep mountain slopes and  snowy terrain. 

Moving Through Switss Alps 

The next destination on this 4 week by train Europe itinerary is Lucerne. In between Interlaken and Lucerne the narrow gauge passes the shores of the idyllic lake Brienz, reverses to begin the climb up and over Brunig pass at an altitude of 1008 m . For us wide-eyed passengers this steep uphill jaunt seems so precarious, though it later descends at a safe speed downwards. Altogether a fabulous experience on the high speed train.  Stay for 3-4 days in Lucerne – go for a boat ride on the scenic lake, or even opt for a dinner cruise. Visit the second highest peak – Mount Titlis which has train accessibility from Lucerne. To reach Mt. Titlis, take the train till Engelberg, from where cable cars are available . Another popular peak  from Lucerne is Mt. Pilatus, that can be rounded off in half a day. 

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Continue your journey by rail to Zurich, where you can stop for sight-seeing for 2 to 3 days. A day trip from Zurich to Rhine can be included . It’s the most impressive journey along the river Rhine that culminates at the spectacular Rhine falls.  

Ongoing Itinerary

To proceed further on your train tour of Europe, you’re in proximity now to the Italian border. Board the train From Zurich to Chur (one and a half hours) and onto the Bernina express from Chur to Tirano, entering in to Italy.  Bernina Express –  passes through the Bernina glacier on its way to Chur and St. Mortiz into Davos, Italy. This railway line is a remarkable engineering feat of being the highest in the Alps, climbing a gradient of 7% . 

Begin your onward trip to Italy, by reaching Rome from Tirano in approximately 7 hours. The train line changes to` Italia’ . Five or six days are sufficient to cover the capital of Italy. A short sojourn from Rome can be to Naples, lying on the Mediterranean coastline. Thanks to this wonderful rail network, this is possible in a day. 

 Further from Rome head to historic Florence, spend 4 to 5 days here. Just an hours journey from here is the world-renowned Pisa, so plan the time accordingly. The final leg of your four weeks by train Europe itinerary ought to be scheduled from Florence to Venice. Venice is an unmissable place in Italy. After roaming here for 3 to 4 you can exit  to your home or next destination from the Marco Polo airport. Being on the shores of the Adriatic sea the railway network ends here ! 

Additional Information & Useful Tips 

European trains offer first- and second class seats. First class is spacious with wider aisle, though I could hardly find any difference between the two. First class can be compared to airlines, serving excellent food and beverages.  

As these high speed trains halt for short time, carry minimum luggage with you, if travelling inter-city.  Inside the coach too the space is limited, so keep that in mind. 

It is best to book tickets online in advance. These need to be validated on the plat-form before boarding at the machines provided. Or you can buy tickets at the station itself. Prices vary and are not very cheap. 

The best part of traveling by these luxurious trains, is that they are very efficient. There’s less wait time as compared to air travel and you don’t have to go through the hassle of security checks and long queues. 

Other important trains in Europe 

The Golden Pass line which is one of the 5 biggest scenic train rides in Switzerland, whizzes through the charming lake district Bernese Oberland. Beginning from Interlaken, to Montreux, past Lake Thun to Spiez and finally Zweisimmen. 

Eurostar – connects Paris to London through the under the sea tunnel. Boasts of a speed of 335 kms per hour, that’s completed in 2 hours 16 minutes. The tickets are priced at 100 euros for first class and 85 euros for second class. 

The number of days planned for each of the places mentioned in this article `Europe Itinerary 4 weeks by train’ can be modified as per your requirement. 

For more information on Switzerland check my other blog :

https://travelsimplygo.com/unique-places-to-visit-in-switzerland/

RATNA SINGH

Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss