The list includes several rather unexpected places.
For many tourists, a train trip is not only a way to get from point A to point B, but also an opportunity to admire the incredible landscapes from the window.
The travel portal Euronews Travel, based on an analysis by the Japanese railway operator JR Pass, has selected several of the most picturesque autumn train routes in Europe and beyond. The list includes several rather unexpected places.
At the same time, most of these routes are designed in such a way that tourists can get off at different stations, stay there for a day or two, and then continue their journey, effectively forming a full‑fledged tour.
GoldenPass line, Switzerland
There’s nothing surprising about this, as Switzerland is world‑famous for its incredible Alpine landscapes. The famous GoldenPass Line runs along historic railways that were built back in the 1890s.
This 191‑kilometre route, starting in Montreux and ending in Interlaken, offers a chance to admire iconic Alpine landscapes: from Lake Geneva to panoramic views of Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn and the Eiger.
Among the main attractions are the historic Chillon Castle (a medieval fortress on the shores of Lake Geneva) and the Zancleon Glacier, located at an altitude of about 3,000 meters above sea level.
“Since more than half of the autumn season (52.55%) is clear on the route, and it rains on about one in four days, the climate conditions are favorable for autumn travel and sightseeing,” JR Pass representatives told Euronews Travel.
A ticket for second class without seat reservation can be purchased for approximately 60 euros.
Tren de Sóller, Mallorca
However, the Spanish island of Mallorca, which has long had a reputation as a “perpetual summer” destination, seems like a less obvious candidate for this ranking.
The Tren de Soller, an electric railway built in 1912 (it still uses original wooden carriages), connects Soller and Palma, winding its way through mountain ranges and citrus groves that are often overlooked by tourists.
This route is ideal for art lovers, as the Soller railway station hosts two permanent exhibitions featuring original works by Miró and Picasso.
Among other attractions are the Santa María Cathedral, the Serra de Trasmuntana mountain range (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and endless picturesque views.
The round‑trip ticket costs 40 euros.
The Rodopi narrow‑gauge railway, Bulgaria
The Bulgarian narrow‑gauge railway is a wonderful way to explore one of the most untouched corners of nature in Europe. The 125‑km route connects the Upper Thracian Plain with the Rhodope and Pirin mountains and is considered one of the country’s outstanding engineering achievements.
“This line is undoubtedly a national treasure, valued for its rich history, unique technical characteristics, and breathtaking landscapes,” the railway’s official website states.
At every station and stop, tourists have access to a wide range of hiking routes and picturesque views of mountain ranges, golden beech forests, and cozy villages that seem frozen in time.
Since there are only five rainy days on average in autumn here, passengers can expect fresh and clear weather.
The cost of a one‑day tour starts at 79 euros, but the price may be lower depending on the travel date.
Semmering Railway, Austria
The Semmering Railway, known as the world’s first standard‑gauge line built across a high‑mountain pass, remains one of the greatest engineering structures still in operation today.
Traveling along the route from Gloggnitz to Mürzuschlag, passengers can admire stone viaducts, tunnels carved into the rocks, and magnificent mountain landscapes.
JR Pass notes that the route allows you to see the “vibrant palette of colors” of Austria. This, combined with the clear weather that lasts for almost half of autumn, makes it ideal for a trip during the cooler season.
The cost of standard‑class tickets for this 36‑minute trip starts at approximately 10 euros.
Schneeberg Railway, Austria
This mountain line is one of the last surviving rack railways in Europe, transporting passengers to the Hochschnereberg station, located at an altitude of 1,800 meters.
“Baumgarten Station is an excellent place to stop along the way,” notes the official website of the Schneeberg Railway.
Here you can try the famous “Schneeberg buchteln” – sweet buns with jam, while enjoying the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain peaks.
The cost of a ticket for adults during the low season starts at 33.50 euros (one way).
Sagano Romantic Train, Japan
The “Sagano Romantic Train” route passes by the Arashiyama bamboo grove in Kyoto. This 25‑minute trip along the Hozu River between the Saga‑Arashiyama and Kameoka stations allows tourists to see some of Asia’s most impressive landscapes, which are conveniently enjoyed from the open train car.
The route looks especially breathtaking in autumn, when the maples turn fiery red and golden.
Konstantin is an acclaimed travel writer, celebrated for transforming ordinary journeys into extraordinary narratives. With years of experience exploring diverse destinations across the globe, his work blends vivid storytelling, cultural insights, and practical advice to inspire wanderlust and guide readers toward unforgettable adventures.
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