Take the Slow Route this Fall Season on a Train

In the fall, traveling by train is my go-to. I can relax and soak in the season’s beauty from the enormous windows, free from the stress of airports and highway traffic. And across Europe, that means passing by golden vineyards ready for harvest, forests aflame with gold and crimson, and mist rising over serene lakes.

From alpine valleys to towering castles, each ride is as much about the journey as the destination. Here are seven idyllic train trips to take in Europe this fall.

Rhine Valley Line, Germany

Fairytale lovers, this route is for you. Following the Rhine River, this scenic ride passes the beautifully preserved Marksburg Castle and the ruins of the Rheinfels Castle. You’ll spot other medieval castles, terraced vineyards, and valleys dotted with romantic towns that look straight from a German storybook. Autumn is harvest season, so the hillsides are alive with grape picking and festivals (hello Oktoberfest!).

Three things not to miss

• Before you board, take time to explore the 1,000-year-old Romanesque Mainz Cathedral in the old town. Bonus: There are usually seasonal festivals in the surrounding market square.
• Just before you go through Sankt Goar, look for a dramatic cliff rising above the river bend. The siren Lorelei was said to sing from the rock, luring sailors into the dangerous currents below. You’ll pass a statue dedicated to her.
• In Koblenz, walk to the Deutsche Eck monument where the Moselle and Rhine rivers meet. In autumn, the riverside trees blaze with color, making for a dramatic finale.

Prague–Český Krumlov Line, Czech Republic

This eastern European journey rolls through the hills and forests of South Bohemia, connecting the vibrant Czech capital with an enchanting medieval town. You’ll pass rivers and farmland before climbing into wooded countryside, where autumn brings fiery golds and deep reds. Most trips require a transfer, which is easiest at České Budějovice station, where the wait is usually short and the onward train winds through especially scenic countryside.

Three things not to miss

• Before departure, wander the Prague Castle. Its Gothic spires rise above the city, and in autumn, the castle gardens’ leaves turn spectacular colors.
• Since you have to stop here to transfer, make an afternoon visit out of a pause in České Budějovice. The South Bohemian city is home to vast medieval squares and the original Budweiser brewery.
• Once you arrive in Český Krumlov, stroll the terraced gardens of the town’s Renaissance-era castle. In fall, the trees lining the pathways shine with colorful fall foliage, making the setting even more magical.

Tip: Onboard, all of the seats are spacious—but you’ll want to spring for the first class seats within the bistro car, where you’ll get tableside service.

Luzern–Interlaken Express, Switzerland

On a recent trip, my husband and I got the Swiss Travel Pass, which allows for unlimited travel throughout the country by train, bus, and boat. We opted to use it on the panoramic train journey from the two resort towns of Interlaken to Lucerne, passing the clearest lakes I’ve ever seen, countryside’s filled with happy cows and sheep, and the Alps surrounding the Brünig Pass.

Three things not to miss

• In Lucerne, the powerful Lion of Lucerne monument is worth the 10-minute walk from downtown. The sculpted lion carved into a cliff honors the fallen Swiss Guards who were killed in the 1792 French Revolution.
• Have your phone at the ready as the train hugs Lake Brienz’s shoreline. The charming cottages you’ll pass are particularly photogenic.
• In Interlaken, take the Harder Kulm funicular for a sweeping view of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, and make sure to stick around for the daily alphorn performances near the Panorama Restaurant.

Tip: Sit on the right-hand side leaving Lucerne for the best lake views, especially in the morning when the water practically glows.

Take in the fall glow nonchalantly meandering the European mountain sides, taking in the views from a comfy seat!

LivingBetter50 is a magazine for women over 50, offering an over 50 magazine free download for women of spirit!