Absolutely! Taking the train through the Alps is about much more than just getting from A to B. You might already know that the region is home to some of the world’s most scenic train routes, such as the Glacier Express, Bernina Express and Jungfrau Railway.

These world-renowned routes are attractions in their own right. When the view from your seat is of soaring peaks, blue glaciers and chalet-style towns, it’s not hard to see why.

It’s not just the epic landscapes that make experiencing the Alps by train a good idea. Rail travel is also a convenient way to connect must-see cities on a multi-country tour of the Alps.

On just one trip, you could explore Switzerland, Austria, Italy, and the Czech Republic before looping back to Germany. Imagine stopping off at historic European cities like Zurich, Milan, Vienna and Berlin on a hassle-free getaway.

Book a train tour with Nordic Visitor, and an Alps-based travel expert will organise your accommodation, rail tickets and more. They’ll scour train timetables for the most convenient departures and connections so you don’t have to.

These Alps train trips include:

• A dedicated travel consultant who’ll arrange your itinerary
• Pre-booked train tickets for a seamless experience
• Handpicked accommodation for a relaxing stay
• A detailed itinerary and personal recommendations
• A travel guide packed with top attractions and local insights
• 24/7 phone support during your trip for peace of mind
   

Our Alps travel experts have designed these itineraries to showcase the very best of the region. You’ll visit must-see sights and get the chance to explore lesser-known spots recommended in your detailed travel guide.

You can also tailor your tour by adding extra nights or optional excursions like boat trips and funicular rides. If there’s something else you’ve dreamed of doing in the Alps, just ask your travel consultant.

The Alps are criss-crossed with famous railways that wind their way through vineyards, past snow-capped peaks, and alongside turquoise lakes. With stunning Alpine scenery around almost every corner, you can’t go wrong. That said, these 7 routes are among the best rail journeys in the region:

1. 1. Bernina Express (Switzerland to Italy) – St. Moritz to Tirano in 4–4.5 hours
2. 2. Glacier Express (Switzerland) – Zermatt to St. Moritz in 8 hours
3. 3. GoldenPass Express (Switzerland) – Montreux to Interlaken in 3 hours
4. 4. Gotthard Panorama Express (Switzerland) – Lucerne to Lugano in 5 hours
5. 5. Gornergrat Railway (Switzerland) – Zermatt to Gornergrat in 35 minutes
6. 6. Jungfrau Railway (Switzerland) – Grindelwald to Jungfraujoch (the “Top of Europe”) in 45 minutes
7. 7. Westbahn (Austria) – Vienna to Salzburg in 2.5 hours
    

Trains in the Alps run year-round, so the best time to travel depends on the kind of experiences you’re after.

The summer months of June to August bring the warmest temperatures and most daylight for sightseeing. They’re perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and soaking up mountain views. Picture snow-free trails and wildflower meadows in full bloom.

But summer is also the most popular time to travel. So, if you want to visit top attractions with fewer other visitors around, winter or the shoulder season is ideal.

In the Alps, the shoulder season is spring and autumn. Exact timings change, based on the country, but include late April, May, late September, and October. You’ll enjoy milder temperatures but still have plenty of daylight for sightseeing. In spring, you might glimpse late-season snow in the meadows, or come autumn, watch as Alpine forests turn golden.

For an entirely different kind of getaway, ride the rails between December and March. At this time of year, the Swiss Alps are transformed into a winter wonderland.

From your cosy carriage, gaze out at snow-blanketed valleys dotted with chalets that could pass for gingerbread houses. Glide through frosted forests and marvel at icy peaks. And when you arrive, clasp a warming cup of hot chocolate as you wander around festive markets.

If you’re not sure what season’s right for you, ask your travel consultant, or get inspired by these articles:

• Switzerland in summer – What to do and where to go
• Best places in Europe to visit for Christmas
   

What you pack for your Alps trip depends on the time of year you travel and where you go.

With the region covering such a large area, you’ll find the climate varies quite a bit, even within the same country. For instance, Alpine countries like Austria, Italy and Switzerland in summer, and you’ll notice a significant change in temperature between low-lying cities and high-altitude mountain stations.

This means it’s best to be prepared for warm and cool weather, even if you’re travelling between May and September.

Meanwhile, November through March bring snow and crisp conditions to many parts of the Alps. If you’re planning a winter getaway, make sure to pack plenty of cosy layers and shoes with good grip. Check out this packing list and guide to weather in the Alps for more information.

Here’s a round-up of some all-season essentials to get you started:

• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Insulated jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes or boots
• Warm jumper or fleece
• Hat, scarf and gloves
• Sunglasses and sun cream
• Reusable water bottle
• Day bag
• Camera
• Two-pin EU adaptor
• Smart clothes for dining out
   

When you’re deciding what luggage to take, bear in mind that you’ll be hopping on and off trains throughout your trip. We recommend opting for wheeled suitcases or soft-sided bags that are easy to manoeuvre through train stations.

Top tip: Most European trains have overhead racks for smaller bags and large storage areas at the end of carriages for bigger suitcases. Consider packing a day bag for essentials that you’ll want easy access to during the journey.