Best European train routes to try in 2023

[FfFfFfFF 58,081]

The magic date on the European train calendar was December 11, when winter timetables kicked in. While not quite matching the bounty of peak summer services, the update udhered in new and reinstated routes, extended services and new adventures radiating across Europe in all directions.

Here are some of the most enticing European train journeys to take in the first half of 2023.

1. Take a sleeper train from Vienna to La Spezia, Italy

The Vienna–Milan route is extending, not just to Genoa, but to the Ligurian port city of La Spezia down the coast. Not only is this underrated spot mere minutes on an onward train from the spectacular hiking trails and colorful villages of the Cinque Terre, it’s also a much more affordable and less popular base than Monterosso, Vernazza and their fratelli.

2. Travel from Prague to Zurich via Basel, Leipzig and Dresden

Zurich, Switzerland is fast becoming a night train hub to match Vienna. Back following a five-year absence, the Czech Railways (České dráhy, or ČD)–operated Canopus train once again connects the Swiss city with stately Prague via Dresden and Leipzig. 

3. Move between Holyhead and London more frequently 

The North Wales line is not new, in any sense. In fact, this scenic route along the north coast is one of the world’s oldest rail routes, having been built between 1844 and 1850 to connect ferry services from Dublin with Irish Mail trains bound for London. 

4. Take a night train from Hamburg to Stockholm 

Hamburg can feel a little out on a limb if you’re sticking to the core continental network. With this cozy and efficient night connection, Germany’s second city offer a gateway to Sweden’s elegant capital –  and the spectacular train routes of Scandinavia beyond.

5. Take new high-speed trains around Spain 

 Iryo offers arguably the most comfortable high-speed services in Europe, complete with tempting dining options, as the beauty of Spain’s countryside zips past. Thanks to airline-style pricing, early bookers can enjoy these trains on a shoestring.

6. Travel into Istanbul’s long-dormant Sirkeci station

Only a hard-hearted traveler would not thrill to see the terminus of the Orient Express enjoy some kind of new life. This may just happen some time soon. 

7. Travel from Montreux to Interlaken in Switzerland without changing trains

Switzerland’s scenic trains, designed to offer panoramic views of some of the world’s finest mountain views, are an essential part of any visit. This technological wonder extends one of the best of these routes, linking the adventure capital of Interlaken with an easy connection to Geneva.

8. Finally, follow the journey of trains from Chişinău, Moldova to Kyiv, Ukraine 

The continued operation – not merely running, but running more or less on schedule – of Ukraine’s railways has been a symbol of resilience throughout the brutal Russian invasion. And while it will be some time before travelers from outside Ukraine can once again take the train to its defiant capital, the resumption of this service in November after 24 years is to be welcomed. Now dubbed the Victory Train, the route includes a stop at Ungheny station in the west of Moldova, from where a connection can be made to Iaşi, Romania, whose airport has been a key departure point for displaced Ukrainians.

"I'm glad to see that @lonelyplanet has added the Chisinau-Kyiv route to the top 8 European train trips to try in 2023. Tours for foreigners are something we will develop this year," writes the head of Ukrainian Railways Oleksandr Kamishin.

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-new-european-train-routes,https://www.mediafax.ro/social/drumul-feroviar-chisinau-kiev-intre-cele-mai-tari-8-rute-din-europa-in-2023-romania-mentionata-in-treacat-21469853 

[Economy 52,842]

Ah the European transportation system that I miss seeing. North America will never know

[bpmMonkey 7,716]

4 minutes ago, Economy said:

Ah the European transportation system that I miss seeing. North America will never know

It’s not like any of them arrive on time, at least in Germany 😅

[Head Empty 26,964]

I had the privilege to visit La Spezia / Cinque Terre this past summer. Possibly the most beautiful place I've ever seen

Highly recommend it to anyone who has the chance to do so, but make sure to go in low season to avoid crowds. Bring hiking boots

[Economy 52,842]

3 minutes ago, gypsy Hero said:

It’s not like any of them arrive on time, at least in Germany 😅

Well, when it comes to scheduling I have to say from experience at least the city buses and subways here in my part of Canada are pretty punctual 

 

But I have not used trains or longer distance busses that go between cities enough to really say if that part of transportation is punctual as well

 

But in terms of connections available and ability to rely on transport to easily get around, most Canadian cities suck pretty bad

 

There are some projects going on in the Greater Toronto area ATM for increased connectivity but still, public transport is not as abundant as it should be

 

I worked 8 years in a low paying job in part because of transportation problems. Car insurance is expensive AF for young people where I live but transportation is also a hassle cuz it's not super efficient. It made looking out for better opportunities difficult

 

Now that I've had my own car for a few years tho, being more selective in work options is finally possible

 

[Better Day 5,766]

Where is Glasgow to Oban? 
It is better than all of those journeys 

[devilrhino 394]

I took a day trip via train alone from Budapest to Vienna back in May it was amazing

[FfFfFfFF 58,081]

On 1/5/2023 at 2:10 PM, Economy said:

Ah the European transportation system that I miss seeing. North America will never know

I travelled with one of the trains listed and I had to wait 1 hour at the border (if not more). A border which should be meaningless to begin with.

[FfFfFfFF 58,081]

20 hours ago, devilrhino said:

I took a day trip via train alone from Budapest to Vienna back in May it was amazing

Budapest to Vienna and Vienna to Budapest all in a single day, meaning you got to sleep in your bed the night before and after the trip?  Thinking.. If I wouldn't have to deal with hotels and stuff I myself would travel more with the train, as it'ss already the way of transportation I use most often.

[River 127,344]

On 1/5/2023 at 11:54 AM, FfFfFfFF said:

Cinque Terre

Beautiful place to visit And you ca take a train or a car to Pisa to see the tower, it’s pretty close

[HermioneT 1,998]

I tried to do Stuttgart -Budapest in 2020, but it got covid-cancelled and I only rode part of it, to Salzburg. Maybe this year! I did Freiburg -Milan once, can recommend and maybe I do it again and add the ride to La Spezia.

Very interested in the Holyhead -London line! Did South-England by train back in September and will definitely return to the UK for some train based travels.

Thanks for posting!