Sometimes the Journey Is Better Than the Destination
Spain is famous for its historic cities, Mediterranean beaches and spectacular mountain landscapes.
But one of the country’s greatest travel experiences is often overlooked.
Its rail journeys.
Some trains cross dramatic mountain ranges.
Others follow rugged coastlines where the Atlantic Ocean stretches to the horizon.
Several pass medieval villages, vineyards and national parks that are difficult to appreciate from a motorway.
For children, train travel is often part of the adventure rather than simply transportation.
There is room to move around, large windows for sightseeing and far less stress than driving long distances.
Parents can relax while everyone enjoys the changing scenery together.
This guide compares 15 of Spain’s most scenic train journeys, from luxury tourist trains to affordable regional routes and famous high-speed services.
Why Spain Is One of Europe’s Best Countries for Scenic Train Travel
Spain has one of Europe’s largest rail networks.
The country combines:
- High-speed AVE trains
- Historic narrow-gauge railways
- Luxury tourist trains
- Mountain railways
- Coastal regional routes
- Vintage heritage railways
This variety allows families to experience completely different landscapes without renting a car.
How We Ranked These Train Journeys
Rather than comparing trains only by speed, we focused on the overall family travel experience.
Travel With Kids Train Rating
- Scenic Beauty
- Family Friendliness
- Comfort
- Photography
- Value for Money
- Accessibility
- Uniqueness
- Overall Experience
Spain’s Best Scenic Train Journeys at a Glance
| Train | Region | Best Known For | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Transcantábrico | Northern Spain | Luxury coastal journey | Multi-day |
| Al Ándalus | Andalusia | Luxury heritage train | Multi-day |
| Sóller Railway | Mallorca | Historic wooden train | 1 hour |
| Tren dels Llacs | Catalonia | Lakes & mountains | Half day |
| Euskotren Coast | Basque Country | Atlantic coastline | Flexible |
One thing becomes clear after comparing Spain’s rail journeys.
The fastest train is rarely the most memorable.
The most unforgettable journeys are usually the slowest ones.
Editor’s Choice Awards
🏆 Best Overall Train Journey
El Transcantábrico
🏆 Best Family Experience
Sóller Railway
🏆 Best Luxury Train
Al Ándalus
🏆 Best Coastal Route
Euskotren Coast
🏆 Best Mountain Journey
Tren dels Llacs
🏆 Best Value
AVE Scenic Routes
Quick Comparison
| Train | Young Kids | Teenagers | Scenery | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| El Transcantábrico | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Sóller Railway | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Euskotren Coast | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Tren dels Llacs | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| AVE Scenic Routes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
★★★★★ 1. El Transcantábrico
Region: Northern Spain
Often described as Spain’s most luxurious train journey, El Transcantábrico travels through the country’s spectacular Green Spain.
Families see dramatic cliffs, fishing villages, forests and mountain landscapes while enjoying one of Europe’s finest luxury rail experiences.
Main Highlights
- Atlantic coastline
- Historic towns
- Luxury cabins
- Fine dining
- Guided excursions
- UNESCO sites
Best For
Families with older children or teenagers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Travel With Kids Rating
Scenery ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Comfort ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photography ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
★★★★★ 2. Sóller Railway
Region: Mallorca
This charming wooden train has connected Palma and Sóller since 1912.
Passing orange groves, mountain tunnels and beautiful valleys, it remains one of Spain’s most family-friendly railway experiences.
Main Highlights
- Historic wooden carriages
- Tram connection to Port de Sóller
- Serra de Tramuntana scenery
- Short family-friendly ride
Best For
Families with younger children.
Travel With Kids Rating
Family Friendly ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photography ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
★★★★★ 3. Al Ándalus
Region: Andalusia
Inspired by the elegance of the Belle Époque, Al Ándalus combines luxury accommodation with visits to Seville, Córdoba, Granada and other iconic destinations.
It is one of Europe’s finest luxury trains.
Main Highlights
- Luxury suites
- Andalusian cities
- Gourmet dining
- Guided tours
Travel With Kids Rating
Comfort ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Luxury ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
★★★★☆ 4. Tren dels Llacs
Region: Catalonia
Known as the “Train of the Lakes,” this route winds through mountains, lakes and dramatic valleys in western Catalonia.
It is especially beautiful during spring and autumn.
Main Highlights
- Lakes
- Mountains
- Viaducts
- Historic stations
Travel With Kids Rating
Scenery ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photography ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
★★★★☆ 5. Euskotren Coast
Region: Basque Country
This underrated railway hugs parts of Spain’s northern coastline and connects charming towns such as Bilbao, Bermeo, Lekeitio (via connections) and San Sebastián.
For families exploring the Basque Country—including places like Elantxobe by road after arriving nearby—it provides one of the most relaxed ways to experience the region.
Main Highlights
- Atlantic coastline
- Fishing villages
- Green landscapes
- Affordable fares
- Easy day trips
Travel With Kids Rating
Family Friendly ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Scenery ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
★★★★☆ 6. AVE Scenic Routes
Region: Nationwide
Spain’s AVE network is famous for speed, but several routes are also surprisingly scenic.
The journey between Madrid and Barcelona crosses wide plains, vineyards and mountain landscapes, while the Madrid–Málaga and Madrid–Granada services provide excellent views of southern Spain.
Main Highlights
- High-speed comfort
- Mountain scenery
- Modern trains
- Family-friendly seating
- Large luggage space
Best For
Families travelling between Spain’s major cities.
Travel With Kids Rating
Comfort ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Value ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Scenery ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
★★★★☆ 7. La Robla Railway
Region: Northern Spain
La Robla follows part of northern Spain’s spectacular mountain scenery through León and the Cantabrian region.
It combines heritage railway charm with beautiful natural landscapes.
Main Highlights
- Mountain scenery
- Historic railway
- Rural villages
- Northern Spain
Travel With Kids Rating
Scenery ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photography ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
★★★★☆ 8. Ferrocarril de la Fresa
Region: Madrid
Also known as the Strawberry Train, this historic railway connects Madrid with Aranjuez using restored vintage carriages.
Staff often dress in period costume, making the journey especially enjoyable for children.
Main Highlights
- Historic train
- Vintage carriages
- Family entertainment
- Aranjuez day trip
Travel With Kids Rating
Family Friendly ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Historic Experience ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
★★★★☆ 9. Cremallera de Núria
Region: Catalonia
This mountain rack railway is the only practical way to reach the spectacular Vall de Núria without hiking.
The ride itself becomes part of the adventure.
Main Highlights
- Mountain railway
- Waterfalls
- Alpine scenery
- Family hiking
- Lakes
Travel With Kids Rating
Scenery ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Adventure ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
★★★★☆ 10. Cercedilla Mountain Railway
Region: Madrid
A wonderful short railway through the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains.
Families visiting Madrid often overlook this beautiful excursion.
Main Highlights
- Forests
- Mountains
- Hiking access
- Family day trip
Travel With Kids Rating
Family Friendly ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Nature ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
★★★★☆ 11. Bilbao–San Sebastián Railway
Region: Basque Country
This regional railway provides one of the easiest ways to experience Spain’s lush northern coastline.
Although slower than the fastest rail options, the changing scenery makes the journey worthwhile.
Main Highlights
- Green landscapes
- Basque towns
- Coastal scenery
- Relaxed travel
Travel With Kids Rating
Scenery ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Photography ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
★★★★☆ 12. Madrid–Segovia AVE
Region: Central Spain
One of Spain’s shortest high-speed journeys also offers one of its best day trips.
Within minutes, families travel from modern Madrid to the fairy-tale city of Segovia.
Main Highlights
- Fast journey
- Aqueduct
- Alcázar
- Easy family day trip
Travel With Kids Rating
Convenience ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Value ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
★★★★☆ 13. Zaragoza–Canfranc Railway
Region: Aragón
This railway climbs gradually toward the Pyrenees before reaching the historic Canfranc International Station.
The dramatic mountain scenery is unforgettable.
Main Highlights
- Pyrenees
- Historic station
- Rivers
- Forests
- Mountain valleys
Travel With Kids Rating
Mountain Scenery ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photography ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
★★★☆☆ 14. León Mountain Route
Region: Castilla y León
One of Spain’s lesser-known scenic rail journeys.
Families can enjoy peaceful countryside and mountain landscapes far from the country’s busiest tourist areas.
Main Highlights
- Valleys
- Mountains
- Quiet villages
- Photography
Travel With Kids Rating
Nature ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
★★★☆☆ 15. Galicia Scenic Railway
Region: Galicia
Rolling green hills, rivers and traditional villages make Galicia’s railway one of Spain’s most relaxing train experiences.
Main Highlights
- Green countryside
- Rivers
- Historic villages
- Coastal scenery
Travel With Kids Rating
Relaxation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Scenery ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Best Train Journeys by Age
👶 Best for Toddlers
- Sóller Railway
- Madrid–Segovia AVE
- Ferrocarril de la Fresa
- Euskotren Coast
- Cercedilla Railway
These journeys are shorter, easier and less tiring for young children.
👧 Best for Elementary School Children
- Sóller Railway
- Tren dels Llacs
- Ferrocarril de la Fresa
- Cremallera de Núria
- El Transcantábrico
Children in this age group usually enjoy historic trains, tunnels, mountains and lakes.
🧑 Best for Teenagers
- El Transcantábrico
- Al Ándalus
- AVE Scenic Routes
- Zaragoza–Canfranc
- La Robla
Older children often appreciate longer journeys, dramatic scenery and luxury experiences.
Best Coastal Rail Journeys
🥇 El Transcantábrico
🥈 Euskotren Coast
🥉 Galicia Scenic Railway
- Sóller Railway
- Barcelona Coastal Routes
Best Mountain Rail Journeys
🥇 Cremallera de Núria
🥈 Tren dels Llacs
🥉 Zaragoza–Canfranc
- La Robla
- Cercedilla
Best Day Trips by Train
- Madrid → Segovia
- Palma → Sóller
- Madrid → Aranjuez
- Barcelona → Lakes
- Bilbao → Basque Coast
Best Photography
- El Transcantábrico
- Sóller Railway
- Zaragoza–Canfranc
- Tren dels Llacs
- Euskotren Coast
Budget vs Luxury
| Best Budget | Best Luxury |
|---|---|
| Euskotren Coast | El Transcantábrico |
| AVE Scenic Routes | Al Ándalus |
| Madrid–Segovia | Luxury Tourist Trains |
| Cercedilla | Premium Suites |
| Ferrocarril de la Fresa | Fine Dining Experience |
Families can choose between affordable regional railways and once-in-a-lifetime luxury journeys depending on their budget.
My Personal Thoughts
One thing became very clear while comparing Spain’s rail journeys.
Children rarely remember how fast the train travelled.
They remember looking through huge windows as mountains appeared, crossing spectacular bridges, entering long tunnels and watching completely different landscapes unfold every hour.
That is why scenic rail travel works so well for families.
The journey itself becomes part of the holiday rather than simply a way of reaching the next destination.
Final Thoughts
Spain offers one of Europe’s most varied railway experiences.
Families can enjoy luxury trains, vintage railways, mountain rack railways, coastal routes and high-speed services without needing to rent a car.
If I could recommend only one overall experience, El Transcantábrico remains the most unforgettable railway journey in Spain.
For families with younger children, however, Sóller Railway delivers the perfect combination of history, scenery and fun in just a short ride.
Whichever route you choose, travelling by train allows you to see a side of Spain that many visitors completely miss.
Editor’s Final Awards
🏆 Best Overall Journey
El Transcantábrico
🏆 Best Luxury Train
Al Ándalus
🏆 Best Family Train
Sóller Railway
🏆 Best Mountain Railway
Cremallera de Núria
🏆 Best Coastal Route
Euskotren Coast
🏆 Best Value
Madrid–Segovia AVE
🏆 Best Photography
Zaragoza–Canfranc
🏆 Editor’s Favorite
Sóller Railway