An unforgettable train ride through deep gorges, canyons and mountain peaks': readers' favourite European rail journeys

The Bergensbanen runs between Oslo and Bergen, crossing the Hardangervidda plateau with lakes, forests, and snowcovered peaks before descending toward western Norway’s fjords. At Myrdal, the steep Flamsbana branch line drops dramatically to Flam on the Aurlandsfjord, with waterfalls and sheer-sided valleys throughout the journey. Travel from Vienna to Zagreb shifts from mountainous central Europe into Balkan charm, passing through Graz and reaching the Slovene border. A stop at Zidani Most allows an hour changeover with views over lush countryside. The route continues into Croatia, moving from lake scenery to farmland and golden evening light before reaching Zagreb. Additional rail experiences include Treno Natura in Tuscany, using vintage steam engines with classic coaches, local passengers, onboard entertainment, and optional vineyard walks.

"The Bergensbanen crosses the high mountain plateau of Hardangervidda, passing lakes, forests and snowcovered peaks before descending toward the fjords of western Norway. At Myrdal, I transferred on to the steep Flamsbana, which drops dramatically to Flam on the Aurlandsfjord, with waterfalls and sheer-sided valleys at every turn."

"The journey from Vienna to Zagreb saw mountainous central Europe relax into Balkan charm. Stunning Alpine scenery melted into forest, settling down into rolling hills as we passed through Graz and reached the Slovene border, stopping for an hour's changeover at the tiny Zidani Most station, where we enjoyed afternoon beers gazing over lush Slovenian countryside."

"The connection to Zagreb boasted dramatic lake scenery that gave way to farm land, golden in evening light, as we passed into Croatia, soon rattling into its underrated capital. We booked this through Omio, which came in relatively cheaply at 41."

"We took the Treno Natura from Siena last May for a whole day out in the beautiful Tuscan countryside. It's a real steam engine with classic coaches. Most passengers were friendly locals: we only encountered two other foreign tourists, a Swiss couple. A band came aboard to entertain us, and an optional walk through vineyards was also available. Fabulous value at only 42 each."

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