Europe UK Train Trip 2024 - 2 Eurail Passes, 4 Months, 9 Countries and a 9,000+km Train Ride...
With two Eurail Passes in hand, we embarked on an unforgettable four-month journey through Europe and the UK, covering over 9,000 kilometers by train. Our adventure took us through nine diverse countries, each offering its own unique blend of culture, history, and landscapes. The flexibility of the Eurail Passes allowed us to explore at our own pace, hopping from bustling cities to serene countryside, and from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Whether gliding through the Swiss Alps, crossing the scenic French countryside, or navigating the rich historical tapestry of the UK, train travel provided not just a mode of transport but a seamless and scenic way to immerse ourselves in the continent’s beauty and diversity.
Geneva to Zermatt Switzerland via Tasch...
After an exciting start traveling from London to Paris via the Eurostar, we continued our European adventure by heading to Geneva. However, with the weather taking a turn, we decided to adjust our plans and postpone our exploration of Geneva. Instead, we took advantage of our 1st class Eurail Pass and boarded a train to Täsch, a charming village nestled in the Swiss Alps.
We spent three nights there, using it as our base for day trips to the picturesque town of Zermatt. Zermatt, home to the iconic Matterhorn, offered breathtaking views and alpine experiences, making our spontaneous change of plans a memorable highlight of the journey.
We spent three nights there, using it as our base for day trips to the picturesque town of Zermatt. Zermatt, home to the iconic Matterhorn, offered breathtaking views and alpine experiences, making our spontaneous change of plans a memorable highlight of the journey.
Matterhorn Zermatt Switzerland...
We spent 2 days exploring the breathtaking Matterhorn. Starting from Täsch, we took the scenic train ride to Zermatt, where the iconic mountain towers over the town. We wandered through the charming streets of Zermatt and took in the stunning views from Gornergrat, getting up close to one of the most famous peaks in the Alps.
The days were filled with natural beauty and serene landscapes while experiencing the magic of the Matterhorn.
The days were filled with natural beauty and serene landscapes while experiencing the magic of the Matterhorn.
Glacier Express Switzerland...
From Zermatt we rode one of the most scenic train journeys in the world! It is a breathtaking ride through the heart of the Swiss Alps, traveling from Zermatt to St. Moritz, that winds through deep valleys, across dramatic bridges, and passes by pristine mountain lakes, all while enjoying the comfort of the panoramic train.
We had unparalleled views of Switzerland’s stunning landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to lush green meadows, and discovered why it’s called the “slowest express train in the world.
We had unparalleled views of Switzerland’s stunning landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to lush green meadows, and discovered why it’s called the “slowest express train in the world.
Barina Express to Poschiavo Switzerland...
From St Moritz we rode the Barina Express, one of the most scenic train routes in the world, taking us through the heart of the Swiss Alps. As we wound our way along the UNESCO World Heritage route, we saw everything from towering peaks and glaciers to charming villages and pristine alpine lakes.
The journey took us over the iconic Landwasser Viaduct, through the dramatic Bernina Pass, and down into the picturesque town of Poschiavo, even if the last part was via replacement bus through the Alps.
The journey took us over the iconic Landwasser Viaduct, through the dramatic Bernina Pass, and down into the picturesque town of Poschiavo, even if the last part was via replacement bus through the Alps.
Barina Express Poschiavo to Laguano Switzerland...
From Poschiavo we rode the Barina Express, a continuation of one of the most scenic train routes in the world, taking us through the heart of the Swiss Alps. As we wound our way along the UNESCO World Heritage route, we saw everything from towering peaks and glaciers to charming villages and pristine alpine lakes.
The journey took us over the iconic Landwasser Viaduct, through the dramatic Bernina Pass, and down into the picturesque town of Tarino, where we caught the Barania Express Bus to Laguano.
The journey took us over the iconic Landwasser Viaduct, through the dramatic Bernina Pass, and down into the picturesque town of Tarino, where we caught the Barania Express Bus to Laguano.
Lugano Switzerland...
After our adventure on the Barina Express we spent a couple of nights in Lugano which is located in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland. It is a vibrant city that blends Swiss precision with Mediterranean flair. Nestled on the shores of the crystal-clear Lake Lugano and surrounded by the lush mountains of the Ticino region, the city boasts a stunning natural setting.
Lugano’s charming old town is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, elegant piazzas, and beautiful churches, like the Renaissance-style Cathedral of San Lorenzo. The city’s lakeside promenades, such as Parco Ciani, offer serene views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for our leisurely strolls.
After our adventure on the Barina Express we spent a couple of nights in Lugano which is located in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland. It is a vibrant city that blends Swiss precision with Mediterranean flair. Nestled on the shores of the crystal-clear Lake Lugano and surrounded by the lush mountains of the Ticino region, the city boasts a stunning natural setting.
Lugano’s charming old town is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, elegant piazzas, and beautiful churches, like the Renaissance-style Cathedral of San Lorenzo. The city’s lakeside promenades, such as Parco Ciani, offer serene views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for our leisurely strolls.
Lugano’s charming old town is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, elegant piazzas, and beautiful churches, like the Renaissance-style Cathedral of San Lorenzo. The city’s lakeside promenades, such as Parco Ciani, offer serene views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for our leisurely strolls.
After our adventure on the Barina Express we spent a couple of nights in Lugano which is located in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland. It is a vibrant city that blends Swiss precision with Mediterranean flair. Nestled on the shores of the crystal-clear Lake Lugano and surrounded by the lush mountains of the Ticino region, the city boasts a stunning natural setting.
Lugano’s charming old town is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, elegant piazzas, and beautiful churches, like the Renaissance-style Cathedral of San Lorenzo. The city’s lakeside promenades, such as Parco Ciani, offer serene views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for our leisurely strolls.
Lugano to Interlaken Return Switzerland...
After our few days in Lugano we headed for Locarno, for our stay in Interlarken, via Zurich on the Treno Gottardo train. This is a scenic train service that runs through the heart of Switzerland, offering a unique journey along the historic Gotthard route.
This route connects the cities of Zurich and Locarno, passing through the stunning landscapes of the Swiss Alps and the picturesque regions of central Switzerland. As the train winds its way through the mountains, we were treated to spectacular views of deep valleys, rugged peaks, and charming alpine villages.
The Treno Gottardo also traverses engineering marvels like the spiral tunnels and the iconic Gotthard Pass, making it not only a journey through beautiful scenery but also through Swiss history.
This route connects the cities of Zurich and Locarno, passing through the stunning landscapes of the Swiss Alps and the picturesque regions of central Switzerland. As the train winds its way through the mountains, we were treated to spectacular views of deep valleys, rugged peaks, and charming alpine villages.
The Treno Gottardo also traverses engineering marvels like the spiral tunnels and the iconic Gotthard Pass, making it not only a journey through beautiful scenery but also through Swiss history.
Interlaken to Grindelwald Lauterbrunnen Switzerland...
The train trips from Interlaken to Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen are two of the most scenic and picturesque journeys we have taken in the Swiss Alps, offering us stunning views and easy access to some of Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes.
The journey to Grindelwald begins as the train departs from Interlaken and heads eastward, climbing gently through lush meadows and dense forests. As you approach Grindelwald, the imposing peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau come into view, creating a breathtaking backdrop. The charming village of Grindelwald is nestled in a valley surrounded by these towering mountains, offering a gateway to various alpine activities, including hiking, skiing, and exploring the Grindelwald Glacier. On the other hand, the trip to Lauterbrunnen takes you along a different, yet equally beautiful route.
Departing Interlaken in the opposite direction, the train winds through a deep valley, with steep cliffs rising on either side. The journey is marked by cascading waterfalls, with the Staubbach Falls being the most famous, plunging nearly 300 meters from a cliff above Lauterbrunnen. The village itself is set in one of the most picturesque valleys in Switzerland, known as the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls,” and is a popular starting point for excursions to the Jungfraujoch and the Schilthorn.
The journey to Grindelwald begins as the train departs from Interlaken and heads eastward, climbing gently through lush meadows and dense forests. As you approach Grindelwald, the imposing peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau come into view, creating a breathtaking backdrop. The charming village of Grindelwald is nestled in a valley surrounded by these towering mountains, offering a gateway to various alpine activities, including hiking, skiing, and exploring the Grindelwald Glacier. On the other hand, the trip to Lauterbrunnen takes you along a different, yet equally beautiful route.
Departing Interlaken in the opposite direction, the train winds through a deep valley, with steep cliffs rising on either side. The journey is marked by cascading waterfalls, with the Staubbach Falls being the most famous, plunging nearly 300 meters from a cliff above Lauterbrunnen. The village itself is set in one of the most picturesque valleys in Switzerland, known as the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls,” and is a popular starting point for excursions to the Jungfraujoch and the Schilthorn.
Interlaken to Trummelbach Waterfall Switzerland...
Trümmelbach Falls, nestled in the heart of the Lauterbrunnen Valley in Switzerland, is a remarkable series of waterfalls hidden within the mountain. These falls are unique as they are the largest subterranean waterfalls in Europe, and they channel the meltwater from the mighty Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Every second, up to 20,000 liters of water thunder through these falls, carving their way through the limestone rock over millennia.
The Trümmelbach Falls consist of ten cascades, which can be explored via a network of tunnels, paths, and viewing platforms carved into the mountain. The falls are both powerful and mesmerizing, with the roaring water echoing through the caverns, creating a dramatic and almost otherworldly atmosphere. The force of the water has shaped the rock into smooth, swirling forms, creating a natural wonder that is both beautiful and awe-inspiring.
Accessible by a short bus ride from Lauterbrunnen, Trümmelbach Falls offers a unique and thrilling experience, allowing visitors to get up close to the raw power of nature. The falls are a testament to the incredible forces that have shaped the Swiss Alps and are a must-visit for anyone exploring the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
The Trümmelbach Falls consist of ten cascades, which can be explored via a network of tunnels, paths, and viewing platforms carved into the mountain. The falls are both powerful and mesmerizing, with the roaring water echoing through the caverns, creating a dramatic and almost otherworldly atmosphere. The force of the water has shaped the rock into smooth, swirling forms, creating a natural wonder that is both beautiful and awe-inspiring.
Accessible by a short bus ride from Lauterbrunnen, Trümmelbach Falls offers a unique and thrilling experience, allowing visitors to get up close to the raw power of nature. The falls are a testament to the incredible forces that have shaped the Swiss Alps and are a must-visit for anyone exploring the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Interlaken High Tea Switzerland...
Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in the heart of the Swiss Alps, is a picturesque town that serves as the gateway to some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking landscapes and the home of the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel and High Tea which we spent an afternoon enjoying.
All the while being surrounded by towering mountains, including the famous peaks of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.
All the while being surrounded by towering mountains, including the famous peaks of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.
Lugano San Salvatore Switzerland...
Lugano San Salvatore - Switzerland’s Hidden Gem… with Stunning Views. The majestic Monte San Salvatore, one of Lugano’s most iconic peaks which offers incredible panoramic views of Lake Lugano, the Swiss Alps, and the charming Ticino region.
We rode the cable car, walked the serene trails and enjoyed the natural beauty of Switzerland from the top of this stunning mountain, with breathtaking 360° views, picturesque landscapes, and unforgettable moments.
We rode the cable car, walked the serene trails and enjoyed the natural beauty of Switzerland from the top of this stunning mountain, with breathtaking 360° views, picturesque landscapes, and unforgettable moments.
Lugano Sentiero Dell'olivo Switzerland...
Exploring Lugano’s Sentiero dell’Olivo: A Scenic Olive Path in Switzerland 🌿🇨🇭 We took a breathtaking journey along the Sentiero dell’Olivo (Olive Path), one of Lugano’s most beautiful hiking trails!
Nestled between the charming town of Gandria and Castagnola, this picturesque path hugs the shores of Lake Lugano, offering stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and lush olive groves. 🌊🌳
We explored the fascinating history of olive cultivation in the region, enjoyed the panoramic views of the Swiss-Italian landscape, and discovered hidden gems along the way.
Nestled between the charming town of Gandria and Castagnola, this picturesque path hugs the shores of Lake Lugano, offering stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and lush olive groves. 🌊🌳
We explored the fascinating history of olive cultivation in the region, enjoyed the panoramic views of the Swiss-Italian landscape, and discovered hidden gems along the way.
Lugano Lake Como Switzerland...
We explored the enchanting landscapes of Lake Como, Italy! 🌊✨
Known for its crystal-clear waters, luxurious villas, and charming towns nestled between mountains, Lake Como was a perfect blend of natural beauty and timeless elegance. It was a short trip but very pretty.
Known for its crystal-clear waters, luxurious villas, and charming towns nestled between mountains, Lake Como was a perfect blend of natural beauty and timeless elegance. It was a short trip but very pretty.
Lugano to Zurich Switzerland...
We traveled from the charming lakeside city of Lugano to the bustling metropolis of Zurich! 🚄🇨🇭
The weather had turned and we experienced the incredible contrast between the serene southern landscapes of Ticino with sun and palm trees to the vibrant cold urban life of Switzerland’s largest city.
Along the way, we’ll enjoy breathtaking views of alpine valleys, quaint Swiss villages, shimmering lakes and snow.
The weather had turned and we experienced the incredible contrast between the serene southern landscapes of Ticino with sun and palm trees to the vibrant cold urban life of Switzerland’s largest city.
Along the way, we’ll enjoy breathtaking views of alpine valleys, quaint Swiss villages, shimmering lakes and snow.
Zurich Shopping & A Sweet Trip to Lindt Chocolate Factory...
From our accomodation we walked 5kms into Zurich then dived into a window shopping spree at some of the city’s best spots! From high-end boutiques to charming local stores, Zurich offers something for everyone. 🛍️
But the highlight of our day? A visit to the Lindt Home of Chocolate 🍫— where dreams come true! We toured the interactive exhibits, marveled at the world’s largest chocolate fountain, and, of course, indulge in some irresistible Swiss chocolate.
But the highlight of our day? A visit to the Lindt Home of Chocolate 🍫— where dreams come true! We toured the interactive exhibits, marveled at the world’s largest chocolate fountain, and, of course, indulge in some irresistible Swiss chocolate.
Train Journey from Zurich to Innsbruck Our Swiss-Austrian Adventure...
We hopped aboard and took a breathtaking train journey from Zurich, Switzerland to Innsbruck, Austria! 🚆🌄
This route offered us some of the most stunning views in Europe — form snow-capped mountains, serene alpine lakes, and charming villages that look straight out of a fairytales.
We soaked in the beauty of the Swiss and Austrian landscapes, while enjoying the view from our panoramic train carriage.
This route offered us some of the most stunning views in Europe — form snow-capped mountains, serene alpine lakes, and charming villages that look straight out of a fairytales.
We soaked in the beauty of the Swiss and Austrian landscapes, while enjoying the view from our panoramic train carriage.
We Discovered Innsbruck – The Heart of the Austrian Alps! 🏔️✨
Innsbruck is one of our Top 5 places we visited this trip. It is nestled between towering alpine peaks, and is a breathtaking blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern charm.
It is known as the “Capital of the Alps,” and we feel in love with this enchanting city. We wandered through the Historic Old Town full of colorful medieval streets, marveled at the iconic Golden Roof, and soaked up the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Additionally we took the cable car up the Alps and enjoyed panoramic views of the city, snow and surrounding areas.
It is known as the “Capital of the Alps,” and we feel in love with this enchanting city. We wandered through the Historic Old Town full of colorful medieval streets, marveled at the iconic Golden Roof, and soaked up the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Additionally we took the cable car up the Alps and enjoyed panoramic views of the city, snow and surrounding areas.
Swarovski Crystal Worlds, near Innsbruck, Austria...
We discovered the magic of Swarovski Crystal Worlds, a one-of-a-kind attraction nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, just outside Innsbruck. This dazzling destination blends art, innovation, and crystal craftsmanship into a mesmerizing experience.
We were welcomed by the iconic “Giant,” a grass-covered sculpture with sparkling crystal eyes, which leads to a labyrinth of 18 awe-inspiring Chambers of Wonder. Each room features breathtaking installations by world-renowned artists, designers, and visionaries, all showcasing the beauty and versatility of Swarovski crystals.
We also explored the Swarovski Store, offering exclusive crystal designs which were a sight to see.
We were welcomed by the iconic “Giant,” a grass-covered sculpture with sparkling crystal eyes, which leads to a labyrinth of 18 awe-inspiring Chambers of Wonder. Each room features breathtaking installations by world-renowned artists, designers, and visionaries, all showcasing the beauty and versatility of Swarovski crystals.
We also explored the Swarovski Store, offering exclusive crystal designs which were a sight to see.
Kufstein Austria – A Hidden Gem in the Alps! 🏔️✨
We spent a few days exploring the charming town of Kufstein, nestled in the heart of Tyrol, Austria.
From the historic Kufstein Fortress with its panoramic views and the world’s largest open-air organ to the picturesque Old Town with its cobblestone streets and colorful architecture, for us Kufstein is a perfect blend of history and beauty.
From the historic Kufstein Fortress with its panoramic views and the world’s largest open-air organ to the picturesque Old Town with its cobblestone streets and colorful architecture, for us Kufstein is a perfect blend of history and beauty.
Discover Salzburg, Austria P1 - A Magical Journey Through History and Beauty...
We explored the charming city of Salzburg P1, Austria, the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress perched high above the city to the picturesque Mirabell Gardens and the historic streets of the Old Town (Altstadt), every corner of Salzburg is filled with beauty, history, and culture.
From the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress perched high above the city to the picturesque Mirabell Gardens and the historic streets of the Old Town (Altstadt), every corner of Salzburg is filled with beauty, history, and culture.
Discover Salzburg, Austria P2 - A Magical Journey Through History and Beauty...
We explored the charming city of Salzburg P2, Austria, the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress perched high above the city to the picturesque Mirabell Gardens and the historic streets of the Old Town (Altstadt), every corner of Salzburg is filled with beauty, history, and culture.
From the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress perched high above the city to the picturesque Mirabell Gardens and the historic streets of the Old Town (Altstadt), every corner of Salzburg is filled with beauty, history, and culture.
We explored the Enchanting Beauty of Hallstatt, Austria! 🇦🇹
Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, we found Hallstatt to be a picture-perfect lakeside village that looks like it was pulled straight out of a fairy tale. 🌄✨
From its crystal-clear Hallstätter See to its charming pastel-colored houses and historic salt mines, its no wonder its a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a magical experience.
From its crystal-clear Hallstätter See to its charming pastel-colored houses and historic salt mines, its no wonder its a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a magical experience.
When time permits we will add some more of our European adventures, there have been a few ...