The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) has highlighted seven picturesque rail routes for experiencing leisurely travel in Germany, underscoring the many benefits of train travel. Taking a train journey offers several perks, including a high level of entertainment.
One major advantage of holidaying by train is the ability to travel in an eco-friendly and comfortable manner while enjoying stunning landscapes with zero stress. On a train, you can relax in a compartment with family or friends, chat, play games, enjoy a meal, and take in the scenic views as they roll by. Train travel is also a highly environmentally friendly way to explore a country. Here are some of the beautifully scenic rail routes in Germany:
Briedel Route:
Expect breathtaking views as the train travels through the picturesque Moselle Valley, offering magnificent panoramas and dramatic mountain slopes. The route includes the historic Kaiser Wilhelm Tunnel and the impressive double-decker bridge near Bullay, providing a spectacular sightseeing experience along the Moselle Loop.
Sankt Goarshausen Route:
On the journey from Bingen to Koblenz, you’ll traverse the enchanting Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 70-kilometer route passes steep vineyards, majestic rock formations, charming old towns, and numerous castles. The iconic Lorelei rock is visible from the train, and the trip is dotted with opportunities to explore towns along the way.
Morsum Route:
In less than two hours, you can travel from the bustling city of Hamburg to the coastal town of Husum and then on to Sylt. The journey features quintessential North German marshlands and the impressive 42-meter-high Hochdonn High Bridge. Crossing the eleven-kilometer Hindenburg Dam to reach Sylt, the train route traverses the Wadden Sea National Park, offering stunning natural vistas.
Triberg Route:
This route from Offenburg in Baden to Lake Constance winds through the dense pine forests and dramatic valleys of the Black Forest. The train crosses the Hornberg Viaduct and navigates double loops near Triberg, gaining altitude quickly. Noteworthy attractions include Triberg’s towering waterfalls and the source of the Danube in Donaueschingen.
Lindau Route:
Traveling 74 kilometers from Radolfzell to Lindau along Lake Constance’s northern shore offers views of vineyards, flower-filled meadows, and historic landmarks like the baroque Birnau pilgrimage church. On clear days, the snow-covered peaks of the Alps provide a stunning backdrop, complemented by the sight of white sailboats and Zeppelins.
Hinterzarten Route:
The Höllentalbahn, Germany’s steepest railway, runs between Freiburg and Donaueschingen. This spectacular 76-kilometer route climbs 400 meters from Himmelreich to Hinterzarten and crosses the stunning Ravenna Viaduct. Offering views of the Black Forest, expansive valleys, and Lake Titisee, this journey is especially beautiful in winter when snow blankets the landscape.
Saxon Switzerland Route:
Starting in Bad Schandau, this journey through the Eastern Ore Mountains provides excellent views of unique rock formations, lush forests, and dramatic valleys. The National Park Railway U28 connects Saxony with Bohemian Switzerland in the Czech Republic, climbing 200 meters over 15.5 kilometers. The railway runs frequently, with many stops for hiking.
Sassnitz Route:
Traveling to Germany’s largest island, Rügen, by train starts in Stralsund and crosses the scenic Rügen Causeway. The journey offers views of ships and the Jasmund National Park’s famous chalk cliffs. On Rügen, the “Rasender Roland” narrow-gauge railway takes visitors on a nostalgic ride through hilly landscapes to popular seaside resorts.
Harz Route:
Ideal in winter, the Brocken Railway takes you to the highest peak in Harz National Park. Ascending 1,125 meters without gears, this route offers panoramic views and crisp mountain air. Starting from Drei Annen Hohne, the 50-minute journey to the Brocken summit is a memorable winter experience.
These scenic rail routes in Germany offer a mix of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and leisurely travel, making them an excellent choice for those looking to explore the country by train.