The Most Scenic Railway Routes in the Balkans

What’s better than a tour of the Balkans? A tour of the Balkans by private train! The Balkans are home to some of Europe’s most scenic landscapes and witnessing the beauty of the Balkans from the window of a private train is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Imagine being treated to spectacular views from the comfort of your seat—no crowded buses or winding mountain roads, just pure, relaxed exploration.

In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the most stunning railway routes that showcase the magic of the Balkans, including an exclusive, premium adventure with us. If you’re ready for an unforgettable experience, let’s get started!

Why train travel in the Balkans deserves to be on your bucket list

The Balkans is an area in Southeastern Europe that is named after the ‘Balkan Mountains’ that stretch through Bulgaria and many other neighbouring countries. Geographically, the Balkans is bordered by the Adriatic Sea to the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, the Black Sea to the east, and the Danube River to the north. Which is why it’s the perfect mix of land-meets-sea.

Hot tip: While there are plenty of sleeper trains you can take to travel across the Balkans, remember that you will miss out on half the scenic sights when it’s dark outside. Which is why, at Railway Adventures, we incorporate day train journeys on our Balkans By Private Train tour. This means you can soak in the stunning scenery during the day and then stay in beautiful hotels – like the Esplanade in Zagreb – at night.

The top Balkan railway routes

The Belgrade to Bar railway (Serbia and Montenegro) 

Considered one of Europe’s most breathtaking railway routes, the Belgrade to Bar railway offers a memorable journey of lush forests, towering mountains and vast lakes. This iconic journey passes through 254 tunnels and crosses 435 bridges including  Mala Rijeka viaduct—the highest railway bridge in Europe.

It’s a thrilling ride that gives you a bird’s-eye view of some of the region’s most spectacular landscapes.

Highlights: Gliding across the Mala Rijeka viaduct, with its breathtaking drop, and soaking in the rugged beauty of Montenegro as the train hugs the Adriatic coastline.

Sarajevo to Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina) 

Winding its way through the Dinaric Alps, the Sarajevo to Mostar route is spectacular. This journey takes you deep into Bosnia and Herzegovina offering sweeping views of valleys, rivers, and the iconic Stari Most bridge in Mostar. Taking you through tunnels carved through mountain it’s the perfect combination of natural beauty and history.

Highlights: The famous “Horseshoe Railway” with its panoramic views of the Neretva River, and crossing the stunning Stari Most bridge in Mostar, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Šargan Eight Railway (Serbia) 

Step back in time aboard the Šargan Eight, a heritage railway that twists and turns through Serbian mountains. This narrow-gauge line, known for its unique figure-eight loop, offers a slower pace and nostalgic feel. You’ll see quaint stations featuring traditional Serbian architecture, set against a backdrop of dense forests and rolling hills.

Highlights: The figure-eight loop, a feat of railway engineering, and photo opportunities of beautifully preserved stations.

Experience the ultimate scenic Balkan journey with Railway Adventures


For those seeking a truly immersive and luxurious way to explore the Balkans, we present to you the
The Balkans by Private Train tour on the Continental Classic Express. This exclusive 15-day journey combines the best of first-class train travel with a carefully curated exploration of Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia, Montenegro, and Croatia. 

Travelling aboard a meticulously restored private train – coupled with luxuries like champagne brought to your seats – this tour is designed for those who appreciate comfort, culture, and stunning landscapes.

The Balkans by Private Train route highlights

  • Budapest to Belgrade: Start your adventure in the beautiful city of Budapest, Hungary’s vibrant capital. From here, the journey continues through Hungary into Serbia.
  • Šargan Eight Railway: Hop aboard a private steam charter to experience one of Europe’s most famous heritage railways. The Šargan Eight offers a memorable ride through rural Serbia,where you can experience breathtaking scenery, numerous tunnels, and dramatic mountain views.
  • Mostar to Sarajevo: Ride one of Bosnia’s most scenic lines, winding through valleys and alongside rivers. As you approach Sarajevo, you’ll pass historical landmarks like the iconic Stari Most bridge, all framed by the stunning natural beauty of the Dinaric Alps.
  • Podgorica to Bar: This leg of the journey crosses one of the world’s highest railway bridges, offering unparalleled views of Montenegro’s majestic mountains and sparkling lakes. Enjoy gourmet dining aboard the Continental Classic Express as you take in the panoramic vistas from your first-class seat.
  • Unique features: This premium journey offers more than just scenic routes. With small group sizes capped at 25 passengers, you’re guaranteed an intimate and relaxed experience. Enjoy gourmet meals prepared by an onboard chef, private steam charters on iconic railways, and immersive cultural experiences at each destination. From historical walking tours to scenic boat trips, this tour is a perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and learning.

Make the most of your scenic railway journey

A little preparation goes a long way. Here are a few tips straight from our experienced tour guides to help you get started:

Best time to travel the Balkans

Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are ideal seasons for a Balkan railway journey. During these months, the weather is pleasantly mild, and the landscapes are bursting with vibrant colours. This season allows you to avoid the crowds of peak summer.

What to pack

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the historic towns and natural landscapes at each stop. A good camera is essential for capturing the breathtaking views from your train seat and during excursions. Pack layers to adjust to varying temperatures, especially in the cooler mountain areas.

Why choose a fully escorted tour of the Balkans

Opting for a fully escorted tour, like the one offered by Railway Adventures, means you can relax while all the logistics are taken care of. With an experienced guide and local experts by your side, you get deeper insights into the history and culture of the region. Read more about how we take care of you every step of the way.

If you’re curious to explore the Balkans in comfort and style, Railway Adventures’ tour, the Balkans by Private Train, is scheduled to depart in May 2025. 

Book your spot today and embark on the ultimate scenic Balkan railway adventure!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recent Posts

Archives
Categories
Scroll to Top