Journey Through Beauty: The Most Scenic Train Routes in Europe

Quick Answer

For Muslim travelers seeking stunning scenery, cultural immersion, and practical amenities like halal food and prayer facilities, top recommendations include the Bernina Express (Switzerland) for its Alpine views, the Bergen Railway (Norway) for fjord landscapes, and the Belgrade-Bar Railway (Montenegro/Serbia) which traverses Muslim-friendly regions. Each route offers both natural beauty and the chance to connect with local Muslim communities for necessary services.

Quick Overview for Busy Readers

Pressed for time but eager to plan a spiritual and scenic journey? Here’s a snapshot of the most scenic train routes in Europe, curated with Muslim travelers in mind. Each route promises stunning views and a unique travel experience, perfect for adding to your bucket list while ensuring your travel needs are met.

• The Bernina Express (Switzerland): Iconic Alpine vistas, glistening glaciers, and quaint towns. Its panoramic windows allow for contemplation of Allah’s creation. Prayer-friendly spaces at larger stations like Chur enable easy access.
• The Bergen Railway (Norway): Traverse snow-capped mountains and fjords on Europe’s largest plateau. Major cities like Oslo and Bergen provide a variety of halal dining options.
• The Black Forest Railway (Germany): Wind through dense forests and charming villages. Turkish or Middle Eastern restaurants are found in towns along the route.
• The Belgrade-Bar Railway (Montenegro/Serbia): Experience rugged mountains, deep canyons, and over 250 tunnels, connecting regions with rich Muslim heritage and numerous mosques.
• Cinque Terre (Italy): Coastal views of the turquoise Mediterranean and charming seaside villages. Finding halal options requires planning, but vegetarian seafood is often available.
• The West Highland Line (Scotland): Journey through the Scottish Highlands, past lochs, and over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct. Glasgow features a diverse array of halal eateries and mosques.
• The Douro Line (Portugal): Marvel at terraced vineyards and the Douro River, particularly stunning in autumn. Major cities like Porto have Muslim communities and services.
• The Settle-to-Carlisle Line (England): Cross the Yorkshire Dales, enjoy the Ribblehead Viaduct, and admire historic architecture. Cities like Leeds or Carlisle have prayer facilities and halal food.
• The Little Yellow Train (France): Explore the French Pyrenees, reaching France’s highest railway station. Be prepared for self-catering or vegetarian options in smaller towns.
• The Kyle of Lochalsh Line (Scotland): Discover west coast views, the Isle of Skye, and peaceful lochs. This remote area may require packing your own halal snacks.

For more detailed descriptions, including tips on finding halal food and prayer spaces, dive into the full guide!

Most Scenic Train Routes in Europe

Discovering Europe by train offers a unique perspective, allowing for moments of reflection and appreciation of the Creator’s artistry. When exploring Europe’s breathtaking landscapes, train travel provides an unparalleled experience, especially for those observing the world with mindful eyes. Let’s dive into some of the best scenic train routes in Europe that promise not just a journey, but a visual feast of mountains, coastlines, and villages, all while considering the needs of Muslim travelers. These routes span various regions, each offering unique vistas and cultural charm.

The Bernina Express (Switzerland)

The Bernina Express is a highlight for anyone seeking one of Europe’s most enriching train rides, blending natural splendor with the opportunity for tranquil contemplation. This route takes you from Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, crossing the breathtaking Alps. Expect to see glaciers, dramatic mountains, and charming alpine towns. The panoramic windows make you feel part of the landscape, perfect for appreciating Allah’s grandeur.

For Muslim travelers, planning ahead is key. Larger towns like Chur have Islamic centers or mosques for daily prayers. While halal food options are not abundant in smaller alpine villages, they are typically found in larger cities like Chur or Tirano, especially at Turkish or Middle Eastern restaurants. Packing halal snacks for the journey is a practical approach.

The Bergen Railway (Norway)

The Bergen Railway, stretching from Oslo to Bergen, offers a stunning journey through Norway’s dramatic landscapes, known for their pristine beauty. This train route crosses the Hardangervidda plateau, Europe’s largest mountain plateau. The ever-changing scenery, from snow-capped mountains to lush forests, feels like a living nature documentary, inspiring reflection.

Oslo and Bergen are diverse cities with significant Muslim populations, meaning halal food is readily available. Mosques and prayer rooms can be found in both cities, making it convenient to observe daily prayers. It’s always good practice to carry a travel prayer mat and a compass, especially on the train, where finding a quiet corner for Salat might be necessary.

The Black Forest Railway (Germany)

Germany’s Black Forest Railway offers a mystical journey through dense woodlands and historic towns. It runs from Offenburg to Konstanz, winding through enchanting forests and over impressive viaducts. This route’s combination of quaint German villages and the alluring atmosphere of the Black Forest makes it a true spectacle.

Towns like Offenburg and Konstanz have Turkish and Middle Eastern communities, providing access to halal butchers and restaurants. Most halal eateries are found near the central district or in areas with high immigrant populations. Prayer facilities are often available in larger mosques in these cities, easily accessible by public transport from the train station.

The Belgrade-Bar Railway (Montenegro/Serbia)

For a journey that’s both scenic and rich in cultural and historical context for Muslim travelers, the Belgrade-Bar Railway is exceptional. This route takes you from Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, to the Adriatic coast in Montenegro. The landscapes transition from fertile plains to rugged mountains, offering views of deep canyons and pristine rivers. Notably, it features 254 tunnels and 435 bridges.

This route is particularly significant for Muslim travelers as it passes through regions with a strong Islamic heritage, especially in Montenegro and parts of Serbia. In cities like Belgrade, Podgorica, and Bar, mosques are numerous and welcoming. Halal food is widespread, particularly Bosnian and Albanian cuisine, which is often inherently halal. This provides an excellent opportunity to experience local Muslim culture and hospitality.

Cinque Terre (Italy)

The train journey through Italy’s Cinque Terre offers a coastal adventure, connecting five villages along the Italian Riviera. With its cliff-hugging tracks and views of the turquoise Mediterranean, this is among the most spectacular scenic train routes in Europe. The train allows you to hop off and explore each village, each with its unique charm and scenic views.

While dedicated halal restaurants are less common in these smaller Italian villages, vegetarian and seafood options are usually plentiful. Always inquire about ingredients to ensure non-halal items are not included. Larger cities like Genoa or Florence, often starting points for a Cinque Terre trip, offer diverse halal dining and mosque options. Modest dress is advisable when visiting churches or closely interacting with locals, reflecting respect for their culture.

The West Highland Line (Scotland)

Scotland’s West Highland Line, from Glasgow to Mallaig, is celebrated as one of the best scenic train routes in Europe. This route traverses the majestic Scottish Highlands, featuring misty lochs and rugged mountains. The highlight is crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, delivering awe-inspiring views of dramatic landscapes.

Glasgow is a multicultural city with a substantial Muslim community, offering numerous mosques and a wide array of halal food options, from South Asian to Middle Eastern. In the more remote parts of the journey, packing your halal snacks or meals is wise. While prayer facilities might be challenging to locate in very small towns, using a quiet area on the train or planning stops at larger towns is recommended.

The Douro Line (Portugal)

The Douro Line in Portugal offers a scenic journey along the Douro River, famous for its terraced landscapes and quaint riverside towns. This route, from Porto to Pocinho, is especially stunning in autumn as the foliage changes color. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty and historical agricultural practices of the region.

Porto, as a major city and starting point, has a small but active Muslim community, with a central mosque and a few halal food establishments. Vegetarian options are widely available in Portugal, and fish is a staple, providing good choices for Muslim travelers. Smaller towns along the Douro River may have limited options, so planning ahead for meals is prudent.

The Settle-to-Carlisle Line (England)

The Settle-to-Carlisle Line in England is known for its engineering feats and stunning scenery, crossing the Ribblehead Viaduct. This route offers views of the Yorkshire Dales and the Eden Valley, providing a journey through England’s beautiful countryside, perfect for quiet reflection.

Cities like Leeds (easily accessible from Settle) and Carlisle have Muslim communities, offering access to mosques and halal options. Many traditional pubs in smaller towns may offer vegetarian meals suitable for Muslim travelers. This area tends to get busy around lunch, so consider packing a picnic if you wish to avoid crowds or have specific dietary needs.

What Most Guides Miss

Many guides focus solely on scenery, overlooking practical Muslim-specific travel needs that can greatly enhance a journey. They often miss the proximity and quality of specific facilities. For instance, when traveling through the Balkans on the Belgrade-Bar Railway, travelers will find many local cafes and bakeries run by Bosniak or Albanian communities often offer inherently halal or vegetarian-friendly options without needing explicit labels. In practice, finding a quiet corner for prayer at a smaller train station like Mojkovac (Montenegro) is often easier and more private than at a bustling European hub. This detailed knowledge allows for spontaneous and authentic experiences rather than relying solely on pre-planned options in major cities. Carrying a small prayer mat and compass can help since dedicated prayer rooms are rare at less frequented stations.

Most Beautiful Train Stations in Europe

Europe’s train stations are often architectural marvels, blending history with functionality. For Muslim travelers, these grand hubs also provide important amenities.

Antwerpen Centraal (Antwerp, Belgium): Often called the “Railway Cathedral,” its ornate architecture is impressive. This station has spacious waiting areas that can offer a quiet spot for prayer, and Antwerp itself has a significant Muslim population with many halal food options nearby.

St Pancras International (London, UK): A stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture, St Pancras is more than just a transport hub. Its sheer size and various retail outlets make it manageable to find a discreet corner for prayer. London boasts abundant halal eateries and mosques easily accessible.

Milano Centrale (Milan, Italy): This monumental station features impressive facades and grand halls. While bustling, its size can provide pockets of relative quiet. Milan has a large Muslim community, making halal food and mosques accessible within the city.

The Most Beautiful Train Ride Through the Alps

The Bernina Express stands out as the quintessential Alpine train journey, celebrated for its dramatic ascents and descents across the UNESCO World Heritage Rhaetian Railway. For Muslim families seeking a profound connection with nature, this route unveils unrivaled vistas of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and serene valleys, inspiring awe and contemplation.

Starting from Chur, Switzerland, and culminating in Tirano, Italy, the train traverses engineering marvels like the Brusio Circular Viaduct, showcasing human ingenuity alongside natural grandeur. This journey offers a chance to witness how changing seasons transform the landscape from lush summer greens to pristine winter whites. While direct prayer facilities on the train are not standard, the journey’s steady pace and panoramic views encourage quiet reflection and dhikr, with larger stations at either end providing better options for Salat.

Planning Your European Train Adventure

Planning a European train adventure as a Muslim traveler requires extra consideration, but with foresight, it can be incredibly rewarding.

• Research Halal Food: Before your journey, research halal food availability at your destinations and along your route. Use apps or websites that list halal restaurants. In practice, vegetarian and fish options are often safe choices in areas with limited halal meat.
• Prayer Times and Facilities: Download a reliable prayer time app. Identify mosques or multi-faith prayer rooms at major train stations or nearby cities. Pack a portable prayer mat and a compass. Many newer European train stations now feature unlabelled multi-faith rooms that can serve as prayer spaces if you ask staff.
• Accommodation: Consider hotels that are Muslim-friendly, offering amenities like qibla direction in rooms or halal breakfast options. Airbnb rentals with kitchen facilities can be great for preparing your own meals.
• Ramadan Considerations: If traveling during Ramadan, plan your schedule around fasting. Consider routes with longer stops in cities where Iftar and Suhoor provisions are easier to find. Carry dates and water for breaking your fast on the train.
• Modest Dress: While Europe is generally liberal, it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or in more conservative rural areas.
• Currency and Connectivity: Ensure you have local currency for smaller purchases and a reliable European SIM card for navigation and communication.

Tips for an Unforgettable Train Journey

To ensure your journey on the best scenic train routes in Europe is enriching and comfortable, consider these tips:

• Book in Advance: Particularly for popular routes like the Bernina Express, make reservations well in advance for your tickets and seat assignments.
• Pack Smart: Bring layers for varying temperatures. A reusable water bottle is essential along with a power bank for devices. Don’t forget your prayer essentials.
• Stay Hydrated and Bring Snacks: While some trains have dining cars, their options may be limited. Always carry your own water and halal-certified snacks, fruits, and sandwiches.
• Embrace the Views: Avoid spending your entire journey on your phone. Look up, admire the changing scenery, and capture moments of natural beauty.
• Engage with Locals (Respectfully): Train travel enables encounters with diverse people. A polite ‘Assalamu Alaikum’ can open doors, enriching your cultural experience.
• Flexibility is Key: Planning is important, but sometimes delays or changes happen. Approach your journey with an open mind and flexibility, trusting in Allah’s plan.
• Utilize Travel Apps: Apps for prayer times, currency conversion, and offline maps can greatly assist with a seamless journey.

Conclusion: Embark on Your Scenic European Train Adventure

Europe’s scenic train routes offer a unique blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and spiritual contemplation, making them perfect for Muslim travelers. From the majestic Swiss Alps to the rugged Scottish Highlands and the culturally rich Balkans, these journeys provide an unparalleled opportunity to witness the beauty of Allah’s creation. By planning ahead for halal food, prayer facilities, and cultural nuances, your train adventure across the best scenic train routes in Europe can be both breathtaking and deeply fulfilling. So, pack your bags, prepare your heart for wonder, and embark on a memorable journey that connects you with both the world and your faith.

FAQ: Most Scenic Train Routes in Europe

Q: Is it easy to find halal food on European train routes?

A: In larger cities and towns, especially those with significant Muslim populations (e.g., London, Paris, Berlin, Oslo, cities in the Balkans), halal food is generally accessible. In smaller, more rural areas, options may be limited, so packing your own halal snacks or opting for vegetarian or fish dishes is advisable.

Q: Can I pray on the train?

A: Yes, you can pray on the train. Most European trains do not feature dedicated prayer rooms, but you can usually find a quiet corner or a less crowded vestibule for your Salat. A travel prayer mat and a compass app on your phone will be very helpful.

Q: What about Ramadan if I travel during that time?

A: Traveling during Ramadan requires extra planning. Check iftar and suhoor times, pack dates and water, and research if any cities along your route offer special Ramadan provisions. Some restaurants may have altered hours.

Q: Are there specific dress code considerations for Muslim travelers on these routes?

A: While Europe is generally open, dressing modestly is always respectful, especially when visiting religious sites. Loose-fitting clothing is practical for long train journeys.

Q: Which route is most recommended for families with children?

A: Routes like the Bernina Express or the West Highland Line offer spectacular views that can captivate children. When traveling with family, opt for routes with manageable journey durations and consider reserving seats with tables for more space.

Q: How do I find mosques or prayer facilities near train stations?

A: Many major European train stations now feature multi-faith prayer rooms, sometimes unlabelled. It’s best to ask station staff upon arrival. Additionally, you can use apps like “Muslim Pro” or search online for “mosque near [city/station name]” to locate nearby facilities.

Written by Hasan — Muslim traveller and founder of MoonlitVisit.

Last updated: 2023. Sources used: Travel guidebooks, Halal restaurant directories, Local Muslim community resources.