Train travel to the Alps: An adventure from the UK

As a family based in the UK, we’ve discovered that train travel to the Alps is not only a realistic option but also a rewarding one. With the Eurostar connecting London to mainland Europe in just a couple of hours, it’s easy to reach France, Belgium, the Netherlands and beyond without setting foot on a plane. From there, Europe’s extensive rail network can whisk you straight into the heart of the Alps – whether you’re heading to Innsbruck or Interlaken.

A view from the upper level of a grand train station with travelers and trains below. The large arched windows and glass-paneled roof let in natural light as two children with backpacks look over the railing.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Should you click on a link to purchase, it is at no extra cost to you, but I receive a small commission.

How do I get to the Alps by train from the UK?

Getting to the Alps by train from the UK is a straightforward, scenic, and eco-friendly adventure. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your journey:

Step 1: Start with the Eurostar

  • Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras International to either Paris Gare du Nord or Brussels Midi/Zuid.
  • The journey takes about 2 hours 15 minutes to Paris and just under 2 hours to Brussels.

Step 2: Connect to Alpine Destinations

You have a few different options depending on which part of the Alps you’re heading to. See below for my favourite train routes.

Step 3: Plan Your Connections

  • Tickets: Use train booking platforms like Rail Europe to plan and book your tickets in advance.
  • Timing: Allow at least 90 minutes for transfers between stations, especially in Paris (where you may need to travel between Gare du Nord and Gare de Lyon or Gare d’Austerlitz).
A father and son, both carrying large backpacks, walk through a Paris street near the Gare du Nord train station. The building behind them features ornate balconies and a golden sign for "Terminus Nord" restaurant.
Arriving at Paris Gare du Nord from London

The magic of overnight trains to the Alps

We absolutely love taking a Eurostar to Paris or Amsterdam and connecting with an overnight train to the Alps. There’s something magical about boarding in the evening, settling into a cosy sleeper compartment, and waking up to views of granite peaks and alpine architecture. It’s a relaxing and exciting way to travel, letting the whole family rest while the train glides southward. Plus, it’s incredibly practical – we don’t have to wake up horribly early, as the night trains depart in the evening, we skip a hotel night and arrive ready to start our adventure straight away!

Two children smile down from the upper bunks of a sleeper train compartment. The room has blue bedding, a metal ladder in the center, and a window showing railway tracks and graffiti outside.

Combining flights and trains for an easy journey to the Alps

For those travelling from further afield, a combination of flying and train travel in Europe is a fantastic way to explore. Major international hubs like Paris, Amsterdam, and Zurich offer excellent rail connections to alpine regions, making it simple to transition from your flight to a relaxing train journey. Once you’re on board, you can sit back and enjoy the ride, watching as cityscapes give way to mountain views. It’s a great way to be introduced to the country you’ve just arrived in, without worrying about driving in a new country with jetlag or tired children!

Why is train travel the perfect choice for alpine adventures?

In this guide, I’ll show you why train travel is the perfect choice for families (and everyone, in fact!) heading to the Alps – from its eco-friendly benefits to how it enhances the adventure for kids. Whether you’re heading to the Dolomites for a hut to hut hike or gearing up for a cycling journey through Austria’s stunning alpine valleys, travelling by train sets the tone for a slow, meaningful, and stress-free holiday.

So, let’s move on to the reasons you should choose train travel!

A child with glasses and a navy t-shirt playfully hangs upside down from the top bunk of a sleeper train. The small train cabin has neatly arranged beds, a window showing railway tracks, and a travel bag on the floor.

Why should you choose train travel to get to the Alps?

1. Comfort and freedom to move

Train travel to the Alps offers the perfect balance of comfort and flexibility. Train seats are generally wider and have more legroom than plane seats, and there’s no need to squeeze into tightly packed rows. Many trains also have table seats, perfect for family games, snacks, or planning your adventure.

On a train, you’re not confined to your seat for the entire journey. Adults and kids can stretch their legs, walk up and down the aisle, or visit the dining car without any restrictions.

Trains also allow you to keep your bags within reach, so you can access your stuff as and when you need it without hassle.

2. A scenic adventure: Showing kids the world through the window

Train travel transforms the journey into an adventure of its own, especially for children. Instead of the monotony of airport queues or crowded flights, kids can sit by the window and watch the world unfold before their eyes – from rolling green valleys and picturesque farmland to dramatic alpine peaks and sparkling lakes. It means the adventure begins as soon as they step on board the train, rather than enduring all the hassle of an airport first.

Listening to music or an audiobook while gazing at the ever-changing scenery creates a memorable start to the holiday. This connection to the journey helps children develop a deeper appreciation for the diversity of the world – from the buzz of lively cities to quiet mountain villages, sparking their curiosity about the cultures and places they’re passing through.

A scenic view from a train window of a lake with a deep blue surface, surrounded by green hills and mountains. Sailboats are scattered across the water, and a road with a few cars runs along the foreground. The sky is bright blue with fluffy white clouds.
View from the train near Villach

3. Easy access to trails, cycling routes, and alpine towns

Trains make it easy to reach the heart of the Alps without the hassle of driving winding roads. Many stations connect directly to trailheads, cycling paths, or cable cars that lead to mountain huts. Bikes are welcome on many alpine trains, making them an ideal option for multi-day cycling adventures.

For example:

4. Slow travel: Making the journey part of the adventure

In today’s fast-paced world, train travel offers families a rare opportunity to slow down and truly enjoy the experience of getting there. Time spent on the train becomes a moment to decompress – whether it’s playing games, watching some downloaded Netflix, sharing a picnic at your seat, or simply chatting about the adventures ahead.

Sleeper trains add a sense of wonder to the journey, experiencing the thrill of going to bed in one city and waking up in the mountains. It’s a unique and exciting experience that transforms travel into a memory you’ll all want to repeat!

5. Practical and stress-free for parents

Travelling with kids can often feel like a logistical challenge, but train travel removes much of the stress. There’s no need to arrive hours early, no security queues, and no strict baggage restrictions. You can bring your own snacks, bike helmets and gear without any extra hassle.

Train stations are often located in the centre of towns, meaning you can step off the train and walk to your accommodation without long transfers or tricky navigation.

A group of travelers, including children and adults, board a red train at a modern glass-roofed station. They carry backpacks and rolling luggage, walking toward the open train doors.

6. Affordable family ticket options

Train travel can be far more budget-friendly than you might expect, especially when booked well in advance. Many rail operators provide generous family discounts, free travel for young children, or group passes that help keep costs manageable. For example, with the Eurail or Interrail Family Pass, kids under 12 travel free, apart from seat or couchette reservations – many of which are mandatory – although this still allows families to explore multiple countries without breaking the bank. These options make train travel not only practical but also accessible, whether you’re planning a single alpine adventure or a multi-country holiday.

7. A lesson in independence and problem-solving

Travelling by train is a great way to introduce kids to the concept of public transport and help them build confidence in navigating it. Involve them in the planning process:

  • Let them look at the map to figure out the route.
  • Teach them how to read timetables.
  • Give them small tasks, like finding the right platform or checking ticket details.

These little lessons can help develop problem-solving skills, independence, and a sense of responsibility – all while exploring exciting new destinations.

A family waits at a European train station under a covered platform, looking at a departure board showing a train to Rimini. The father holds a bright yellow bike helmet while the child in a blue jacket looks toward the board.

8. Eco-friendly, sustainable travel

Choosing trains over flights or cars is one of the easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Train travel not only supports sustainable tourism but also provides an opportunity to teach children about the importance of protecting the environment.

You can use the journey as a moment to discuss how small choices – like taking the train or cycling instead of driving – can contribute to preserving the Alps’ fragile ecosystems for future generations.

9. Seamless travel from Northern Europe to the Alps

One of the greatest advantages of train travel is how easily it connects Northern Europe to the heart of the Alps. With direct routes and efficient transfers, you can board a train in London, Paris, or Amsterdam and be in the mountains that evening or the next morning – without the need for a car.

10. Wake up in the Alps with sleeper trains

Overnight sleeper trains, such as the Nightjet from Paris to Salzburg or Amsterdam to Innsbruck, are a practical and exciting option for families. Travelling overnight means you skip a hotel stay, and kids will love the novelty of falling asleep in one city and waking up to breath taking alpine views as the train pulls into a mountain town.

Two children wearing backpacks and matching yellow shirts stand in front of a dark blue night train labeled “Schlafwagen.” They smile at the camera under artificial station lights.
Boarding the Nightjet sleeper train
A young child with curly blonde hair is lying in a sleeper train bed, smiling while holding a plush toy. White sheets are wrapped around them, and a small train compartment is visible in the background.
Bedtime on the Nightjet sleeper train

Sleeper trains are also enjoying a surge in popularity, with more companies investing in this sustainable and family-friendly travel option. New routes are being introduced, and existing ones are being expanded, offering even more opportunities for train travel to the Alps. With the growing focus on eco-conscious travel, sleeper trains are set to become an even bigger part of European rail networks in the coming years, making it easier than ever to enjoy this magical way to travel.

Essential Tips and FAQs for Train Travel to the Alps

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Should you click on a link to purchase, it is at no extra cost to you, but I receive a small commission.

Travelling by train in Europe is one of the most enjoyable and stress-free ways to explore the continent, but a little preparation can make all the difference. Whether you’re heading to the Alps or venturing across multiple countries, here are some key tips to help you plan a seamless journey.

How do I book train tickets to the Alps?

Booking your train tickets online is quick, convenient, and often the best way to secure great prices – especially for high-speed or sleeper trains. I recommend using Rail Europe for booking your tickets, as it’s a user-friendly platform that allows you to search for and book trains across multiple European countries in one place.

With Rail Europe, you can easily compare routes, find the best fares, and reserve seats in advance. This is particularly helpful for popular routes to the Alps, which can book up quickly during peak seasons. Using my affiliate link supports this blog, so thank you for considering it!

Rail Europe is one of the best places to buy European train tickets for multiple operators around much of western Europe, in plain English, with overseas credit cards accepted, in £, € or $, in multiple languages. It connects to multiple train operator ticketing systems including the British, French, German, Spanish, Italian & Austrian Railways.

You can book direct with the relevant train operator without a booking fee, but that means struggling with multiple transactions on multiple websites, sometimes with poor or confusing English translations, and some train operator sites struggle with overseas credit cards. You can use Rail Europe wherever you live – Europe, America, Asia, Africa.

The Man in Seat 61

Booking your tickets through Rail Europe ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience while giving you access to Europe’s extensive rail network. Whether you’re planning an alpine adventure or exploring the continent, train travel is a stress-free and enjoyable way to get around – and your journey starts the moment you board the train!

When to book for the best deals?

To get the best fares, plan to book your train tickets as early as possible. Tickets for high-speed and sleeper trains are typically released 3–6 months before departure, and prices increase closer to the travel date.

For regional trains, booking in advance isn’t always necessary, as prices are usually fixed, but securing your tickets early for long-distance journeys ensures both savings and peace of mind. Check Rail Europe regularly to snag those early-bird fares!

Using rail passes: Eurail and Interrail explained

If you’re planning multiple train journeys across Europe, a rail pass may be the most cost-effective option. Both Eurail (for non-European residents) and Interrail (for European residents) offer flexible passes that allow unlimited travel across one or more countries. With the Eurail or Interrail Family Pass, kids under 12 travel free (apart from seat or couchette reservations – many of which are mandatory – it still offers a good saving though!).

You can book rail passes directly through Rail Europe, which also provides information on whether seat reservations are needed for specific trains. Passes are a fantastic option for families who want the freedom to hop on and off trains while exploring different regions.

Packing tips: What to bring for comfort on long journeys?

To ensure a smooth and comfortable journey, pack these essentials:

  • Entertainment: Books, headphones, games and screens to keep everyone entertained.
  • Snacks and drinks: While many trains have dining options, bringing your own snacks is a great way to save money and cater to your family’s preferences.
  • Chargers and power banks: Keep devices charged for the journey. Many modern trains have power outlets.
  • Layered clothing: Trains can vary in temperature, so it’s best to dress in layers to stay comfortable.
A family relaxes in a train compartment with blue cushioned benches. A father smiles at the camera while two children sit on opposite benches, one with headphones and the other using a tablet. Backpacks and bottled water are on the small table by the window.
Couchette compartment on the Nightjet (day time configuration)

Navigating train stations: What to expect and how to prepare

European train stations can be busy, but they’re generally well-organised. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to give yourself enough time to find your platform and board comfortably.

  • Departure boards: Look for your train number and destination to find your platform. Real-time updates are displayed to guide you.
  • Ticket validation: In some countries, like Italy and France, paper tickets must be validated at machines on the platform before boarding.
  • Essentials handy: Keep your tickets (or e-tickets from Rail Europe), rail passes, and passports easily accessible for inspections.
A woman and two children with backpacks stand in a large train station near a staircase. They wear travel gear, including jackets and hiking shoes, and the woman carries a bicycle helmet.
Innsbruck train station

Dining on Trains: What Are Your Options?

Dining options vary depending on the type of train:

  • Dining Cars: Many long-distance and high-speed trains feature dining cars or cafes offering hot meals and snacks.
  • Snack Trolleys: These are common on regional trains and offer light refreshments.
  • Pack Your Own: Bringing your own food is always a good idea. You can save money and cater to picky eaters by preparing a picnic for the journey.
  • On overnight trains, you’re usually offered a small breakfast of a roll, jam and butter and a coffee.
A breakfast tray on a passenger’s lap in a train, holding a disposable coffee cup with a compostable lid, a round bread roll, a plastic knife, butter, and jam. Crumbs and packaging are scattered around.
Breakfast on the Nightjet

My favourite routes – and how they connect to our adventures

Europe’s extensive rail network makes it easy to connect to incredible destinations, and some train routes have become personal favourites for the adventures they lead to. Each of these journeys is not just a means of transportation but also a memorable experience in its own right. Here are some of my favourites, all accessible from the Eurostar from London:

Paris to Salzburg

This route, on the Nightjet sleeper train from Paris to Salzburg, is the perfect gateway to Austria’s stunning alpine scenery. From Salzburg, you can easily access hut to hut hikes like the 2 night hut to hut hike in Austria: Around the Bischofsmütze or tackle sections of the Tauern cycle path, which follows the Salzach River through the breath taking Hohe Tauern National Park.

Amsterdam to Innsbruck

Taking the Nightjet sleeper train from Amsterdam to Innsbruck is our family’s favourite. It’s a relaxing way to travel overnight, waking up refreshed and surrounded by the towering peaks of Tyrol. From Innsbruck, you have easy access to incredible hut to hut hiking in Austria’s alpine regions or even northern Italy, with connections to the Dolomites. Innsbruck’s charming old town is also worth exploring before heading off into the mountains.

Take a local train from Innsbruck to Toblach to reach the start of these adventures:

Take a local train and bus from Innsbruck to Reschen am See to reach the start of this adventure:

Take a train from Innsbruck to Bolzano to reach the start of this adventure.

Vienna to Split

This overnight route is a game-changer for reaching the turquoise shores of the Croatian Adriatic after hiking in Austria or cycling the Drau Cycle Path. Take a short train to Bruck an der Mur and board the train there. The EuroNight train takes you directly from Vienna (via a stop at Bruck an der Mur) to Split, offering stunning views of the Croatian coast as you wake up in the morning. It’s the perfect way to transition from alpine adventures to seaside ones, with Split serving as a fantastic base for exploring Croatia’s islands.

I have a whole blog post on this journey here.

A zoomed-in view of a small village with terracotta rooftops near the sea. The water glistens under the sunlight, and a faint haze softens the distant horizon.
Arriving into Split

Venice to Vienna

After riding the Adige Cycle Path and a hut to hut hike in the Dolomites and then exploring the charm of Venice, boarding a Nightjet train from Venice to Vienna (or Stuttgart in Germany) is a practical and relaxing way to head north from your Italian journey. While the views outside the window will be cloaked in darkness, the comfort of the sleeper train allows you to rest and recharge for the next leg of your adventure. Arriving in Vienna, with its rich culture and stunning architecture, feels like stepping into a new chapter of your journey – an ideal final destination or a springboard for more adventures.

Two children in matching yellow shirts sit on the floor of a train station, playing a card game. They look focused, holding playing cards as a digital advertisement screen glows in the background.
Playing cards in Venice Santa Lucia

Paris to Modane

The direct TGV route from Paris to Modane takes you into the heart of the French Alps, making it an excellent option for exploring the Vanoise National Park. Modane is a gateway to charming alpine villages and hut hiking trails, such as the challenging GR5 section from Modane to Briançon, that lead to some of the most spectacular vistas in the region. The journey itself is fast and scenic, with plenty of mountain views as you approach the Alps.

Paris to Briançon

For those seeking quieter, less-travelled alpine adventures, the overnight Intercités de Nuit train from Paris to Briançon is a hidden gem. Nestled in the Southern French Alps, Briançon offers access to the Écrins National Park, where hut-to-hut hiking and cycling through rugged alpine terrain provide a more remote and authentic experience. I took this train in reverse, from Briançon to Paris, at the end of my 3 day hut hike on the GR5 from Modane to Briançon.

Two hikers stand in front of Briançon train station, smiling after completing their scenic hiking itinerary in the French Alps.
At Briançon station after hiking the GR5

Paris to Bourg-Saint-Maurice

This TGV route is a must for those heading to the Tarentaise Valley, home to world-class ski resorts and summer hiking destinations. From Bourg-Saint-Maurice, you can easily access trails that lead into the stunning Vanoise National Park. The train’s journey into the Alps is breath taking, with panoramic views of the valleys and peaks as you near your destination.

In the winter, there’s also a ski train which runs from London St Pancras to Bourg-Saint-Maurice via an easy change in Lille Europe. You can read about this train journey here.

Each of these routes is not just practical but also adds an extra layer of adventure to the journey, setting the tone for the adventures that await. Let me know if you’d like more details on any of these trips!

Conclusion: A Fun and Sustainable Start to Your Alpine Adventure

Travelling to the Alps by train is far more eco-friendly than flying, producing just a fraction of the carbon emissions. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning scenery as you glide through Europe’s picturesque countryside. It’s also a relaxing and hassle-free experience, with no long security queues or baggage restrictions. With a bit of preparation, getting to the Alps by train from the UK is not only easy but also a truly enjoyable and sustainable start to your alpine adventure.

If you have any questions or need help planning your journey, feel free to email me – I’d be happy to help!

Bea Searle is the creator of Wild Bee Outdoors. Having lived in Austria as a kid, she fell in love with the mountains early on. Passionate about sustainable train travel and outdoor adventures with her family, Bea shares local insights, detailed routes, and plenty of tips for hut to hut hiking and multi-day cycling trips in the European Alps and beyond; along with ideas for worthwhile detours to make every journey unforgettable. Her goal? To inspire you to embrace the mountains, dodge the tourist traps, and explore with confidence.

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