7 breathtaking train journeys in Europe you shouldn't miss this fall

There are countless ways to experience Europe, from stunning hikes to picturesque drives. Yet, one of the most underrated ways to savor the continent in autumn is by train.

As autumn paints the landscape with shades of russet, mustard, sepia, and more, a rail journey offers an ideal opportunity for some delightful leaf peeping along various scenic routes.

Here are some fascinating train journeys perfect for enjoying fall foliage and exploring charming autumn getaways across Europe.

The Foliage Train: Journey from Domodossola, Italy, to Locarno, Switzerland

Nothing captures the spirit of autumn travel quite like a train known as the Foliage Train. Operated by the Italian-Swiss Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway, this scenic route spans 52 kilometers (32 miles) between Italy and Switzerland.

The journey meanders through lush, mountainous landscapes just north of the Monte Mottac State Reserve, showcasing hilltop villages and fertile valleys while crossing over 83 bridges during the two-hour ride. It begins in the medieval town of Domodossola and concludes in Locarno, a charming Swiss town by Lake Maggiore.

One-way tickets for adults start at 33 euros (approximately $32) and allow for optional stops at delightful villages along the route (including Malesco, Druogno, and more). The train operates exclusively during the autumn season.

Travel from Munich to Fussen, Germany, via Deutsche Bahn

Your train journey begins in Munich, where you can enjoy a refreshing stein of beer or some cozy mulled wine before boarding the two-hour ride to Fussen.

The initial leg of the trip is quite typical, but after passing Buchloe, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of deep valleys at the base of the Bavarian Alps. Upon arrival, you can take a bus, grab a taxi, or stroll along a wooded path for about an hour to reach the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, all while taking in the vibrant autumn foliage.

Trains depart every hour, with one-way adult tickets priced at approximately 23 euros (about $22) for second class and 38 euros (around $37) for first class.

Journey from Fort William to Mallaig, Scotland, aboard the West Highland Line

Renowned as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, Scotland's West Highland Line stretches from Glasgow to Mallaig. This five-hour adventure showcases breathtaking landscapes, including Loch Awe, Loch Long, and Loch Etive.

A key highlight of the journey is the scenic 1.5-hour segment between Fort William and Mallaig, renowned for the stunning Glenfinnan Viaduct. Fans of the "Harry Potter" films might recognize it as the Hogwarts Express's crossing point.

One-way tickets begin at 29 British pounds ($32) for the complete route from Glasgow to Mallaig, or just 7.80 pounds (approximately $9) for the portion between Fort William and Mallaig.

Traveling from Madrid to Aranjuez, Spain, aboard the Strawberry Train.

This charming vintage train ride connects Madrid to the suburb of Aranjuez, known for its grand palace and mouthwatering strawberries.

The Tren de la Fresa operates on a vintage train from the 1960s, departing from the Ferrocarril Museum in Madrid. The journey lasts about an hour, taking you through the picturesque Manzanares Valley and its lovely strawberry fields. While the area isn't densely forested, the landscape reminiscent of Don Quixote is captivating as it shifts from summer to autumn.

This train service runs once a day on weekends at 10 a.m. to Aranjuez, returning to Madrid at 6:30 p.m. during September, October, and select days in November, as well as in the spring months.

Round-trip tickets for adults are priced at 25 euros (around $24) and include strawberries for your journey back. There are also packages available that cover entrance fees and tours of the Royal Palace and its gardens.

Travel from Dombas to Andalsnes, Norway, via the scenic Rauma Line.

This stunning train ride lasts one hour and forty minutes, showcasing some of Norway's most breathtaking scenery. It winds through rugged mountains and charming villages such as Lesja and Bjorli, culminating in the picturesque fjord of Andalsnes.

For fans of the "Harry Potter" films, this railway features one of the few scenes shot outside the UK. Key highlights include crossing the tree-lined Kylling Bridge over the Rauma River, where you can catch a glimpse of the Vermafossen waterfall. Upon reaching Andalsnes, disembark and make your way to the Romsdalen Gondola station to ascend over 5,000 feet above the fjord.

One-way tickets on the Rauma Line start at approximately 16 pounds (around $18) per journey.

Travel from Villefranche-Vernet les Bains to Latour de Carol-Enveitg, France, aboard the Yellow Train.

This vibrant yellow SNCF train journeys through the French Pyrenees, showcasing a landscape filled with stunning views, from lush pastures to quaint French villages, leading to the Tet Valley.

As the train travels, it passes over several viaducts, bridges, tunnels, and even a railway suspension bridge before reaching Latour de Carol, a town on the border with northern Spain. Once you disembark, you can easily walk across the border into Spain or catch another train to Barcelona.

The entire route takes under three hours, with pricing details available on the SNCF website. Keep in mind that due to track maintenance, train availability may be limited this season.

Journey from St. Moritz to Zermatt, Switzerland, aboard the Glacier Express.

While the name Glacier Express might evoke images of winter, experiencing this Swiss journey in autumn allows you to admire the vibrant hues of the tree-covered hills of Switzerland.

The journey lasts about eight hours, but you can also opt for a shorter ride—some of the most stunning views are found between Andermatt and Disentis. Once you arrive in Zermatt, don't miss the chance to see the iconic Matterhorn, one of the Swiss Alps' most renowned peaks.

This train operates through October, taking a pause in November before resuming its winter schedule. One-way ticket prices are approximately 180 pounds (nearly $200) in second class and 200 pounds ($220) in first class, which provides a more spacious seating arrangement and enhanced service.

Experience train travel this autumn.

European trains offer a fun and convenient way to appreciate the autumn foliage and are perfect for reaching seasonal festivals and enjoying local cuisine during this transitional season.

Traveling in the fall can often be more budget-friendly compared to the summer months, allowing you to save money while encountering fewer crowds. Trains cater to all kinds of travelers—families, couples, and solo adventurers—so why not embrace sweater weather with a picturesque railway journey?