Autumn Colours in the Alps: Scenic Train Trips for Leaf Peepers
Imagine sipping hot apple cider as your train carves through valleys ablaze with gold, crimson, and amber.
No traffic, no crowds—just you, your camera, and the Alps showing off their autumn wardrobe. Ready to chase fall foliage like a pro?
Let’s explore four train routes where the scenery steals the show and the only filter you’ll need is your own awe.
1. Domodossola to Brig – A Journey Through the Simplon Pass
The Route
Hop on the Centovalli Railway in Domodossola, Italy, and let this narrow-gauge marvel whisk you through 52 km of autumn magic.
The 2-hour ride crosses 83 bridges and ducks into tunnels as it snakes toward Brig, Switzerland. The star? The Simplon Pass, where larch trees glow gold against snow-dusted peaks.
Why Autumn?
Mid-October paints the valleys in fiery hues. Sit on the right side for jaw-dropping views of the Isorno River gorge.
Don’t Miss
- A stop in Santa Maria Maggiore for chestnut festivals (weekends in October).
- The Simplon Tunnel, a 20km engineering wonder that once connected Napoleon’s empire.
Book Tickets: SBB
2. Bolzano to Merano – The Dolomites in Autumn Splendour
The Route
South Tyrol’s RB train glides from Bolzano to Merano in 40 minutes, tracing the Adige River.
The Dolomites rise like sentinels, their jagged peaks framing vineyards that blush red in October.
Why Autumn?
The Tappeiner Trail in Merano offers a 12km hike through chestnut groves and past medieval castles—all drenched in fall colors.
Pro Tip
Pack a picnic of speck (smoked ham) and Schüttelbrot (crispy rye bread) from Bolzano’s Piazza delle Erbe market.
Stay Here
Hotel Castel Fragsburg near Merano has terraces overlooking a kaleidoscope of maple trees.
Book Tickets: Trenitalia
3. Innsbruck to Jenbach – Tyrolean Trails and Autumn Vistas
The Route
Austria’s Zillertalbahn departs Innsbruck for Jenbach (30 mins), but extend your ride to Mayrhofen (1h total).
The train hugs the Ziller River, passing villages where wooden chalets wear crowns of yellow larch.
Why Autumn?
The Zillertal Valley hosts Almabtrieb, a September festival where cows parade in flower crowns. Yes, it’s as Instagrammable as it sounds.
Don’t Miss
- A detour to Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens—its garden sculptures sparkle under autumn sun.
- Achensee Lake, where you can kayak surrounded by mirrored mountains.
Book Tickets: ÖBB
4. Luzern to Engelberg – A Swiss Alpine Escape
The Route
The Zentralbahn train climbs from Luzern to Engelberg in 45 minutes, passing glassy lakes and cliffs that look like they’ve been dipped in pumpkin spice.
The finale? Mount Titlis, where early snow contrasts with valleys still clinging to fall.
Why Autumn?
Engelberg’s Brunni Bahn cable car (€30 round-trip) lifts you to trails lined with golden Swiss stone pine.
Pro Tip
Warm up with fondue at Hotel Terrace—their mix of Gruyère and local herbs is legendary.
Stay Here
Bergheimat Engelberg offers cozy rooms with balconies facing the Engelberg Abbey.
Book Tickets: Zentralbahn
Pro Tips for Alpine Leaf Peeping
1. Time It Right
Late September to mid-October is prime time. Higher elevations (like Simplon Pass) peak earlier.
2. Layer Up
Alpine weather flips from sunny to snowy faster than a shutter click. Pack a waterproof jacket and gloves.
3. Go Off-Peak
Weekday trains are quieter. Sunrise rides offer misty valleys and soft light for photos.
4. Eat Seasonal
- Törggelen: South Tyrolean feasts with new wine and roasted chestnuts (book a farm stay!).
- Zuger Kirschtorte: A cherry-laced cake from Luzern’s Heini Bakery.
FAQs: Your Alpine Autumn Queries, Answered
Q: Are these routes wheelchair-friendly?
Most trains have accessible cars, but older stations (like Jenbach) may lack elevators. Check with operators beforehand.
Q: Can I bring my dog?
Yes! Swiss and Austrian trains allow pets (€5–10 fee). Italy’s RB trains require a muzzle.
Q: What camera gear should I pack?
A polarizing filter enhances fall colors. A lightweight tripod helps with motion shots from the train.
Why Trains Beat Hiking Boots for Fall Foliage
Let’s be real: Hiking uphill for hours just to snap a photo? Pass.
From your window seat, you’ll glide past panoramas most hikers never see—all while sipping glühwein and debating whether this valley is the most beautiful. Spoiler: They all are.
So, grab your lens, book that ticket, and let the Alps’ autumn show begin.
