Beautiful Small Countries You Can Cross by Train in a Morning

Imagine sipping your morning coffee as picturesque landscapes glide by your window, transitioning from urban sprawls to serene countryside in just a few hours. This isn’t a daydream but a reality in some of the world’s quaintest, most charming small countries. These destinations offer the unique opportunity to traverse entire nations by train in less time than it takes to binge-watch your favorite series. Let’s embark on a scenic journey through these compact yet captivating countries.

1. Luxembourg (A fairy tale book in the real world)

With its lush green valleys and medieval castles, Luxembourg feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The country’s efficient rail network makes it possible to travel from the northernmost town of Clervaux to the southern city of Esch-sur-Alzette in under two hours. Along the way, passengers are treated to views of rolling hills, charming villages, and the occasional vineyard. What makes this journey even more enchanting is Luxembourg’s commitment to sustainability, offering free public transport to reduce carbon emissions. It’s a picturesque, eco-friendly adventure that starts and ends before lunchtime.

2. Malta (The island where history meets the tracks)

Although Malta doesn’t currently have a working railway system, plans are underway to reintroduce trains to this historic island, offering a unique blend of ancient and modern. The proposed line aims to connect Valletta to Mdina, two of the island’s most iconic cities, in just over an hour. This journey promises views of Malta’s rugged coastline, baroque architecture, and azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. While the project is still in the pipeline, the prospect of crossing this sun-drenched island by train is a thrilling one. It’s an opportunity to witness Malta’s rich history and vibrant culture from a whole new perspective.

3. Liechtenstein (Crossing an entire country before breakfast is over)

Liechtenstein might be one of the world’s smallest countries, but it’s packed with majestic mountains and charming towns. Currently, there’s a railway that cuts through the country, allowing you to travel from Schaan, near the Swiss border, to Feldkirch in Austria in under an hour. Even though the train technically crosses borders, it offers a unique chance to say you’ve traversed an entire nation by rail. The ride provides stunning views of the Alps and access to Liechtenstein’s outdoor adventures. It’s a quick, picturesque journey that leaves plenty of time for exploring.

4. Monaco (Luxury on the tracks)

Monaco, the playground of the rich and famous, might be surprise inclusion on this list. The principality’s size means you can travel from one end to the other in well under an hour, even allowing for a leisurely pace. The train journey through Monaco offers glimpses of its luxury yachts, glamorous casinos, and the famous Monte Carlo circuit. While the train ride itself might be short, it’s undeniably steeped in the allure and opulence that Monaco is renowned for. It’s a swift glimpse into a world of luxury, all before your morning espresso settles.

5. San Marino (A glimpse into the past on modern tracks)

San Marino, one of the world’s oldest republics, offers a journey that feels like traveling back in time. Although it currently lacks a national railway, plans to connect it with the Italian rail system would make it possible to traverse this mountainous microstate in under an hour. The proposed route would wind through ancient landscapes, offering views of medieval fortresses and breathtaking cliffs. This journey promises a blend of scenic beauty and historical intrigue. It’s an opportunity to immerse in the past, comfortably seated in a modern train carriage.

6. Andorra (Between snow-capped peaks)

Andorra, nestled between France and Spain in the Pyrenees mountains, doesn’t yet have a train service, but the idea of crossing this picturesque principality by rail is a dream for many. The hypothetical journey from one border to the other would offer panoramic views of untouched mountain landscapes and ancient stone villages. While currently a fantasy, such a train ride would encapsulate the essence of Andorra – serene, majestic, and beautifully isolated. It would be a breathtaking morning trip, perfect for those who love the mountains. Imagine gliding through snow-capped peaks, all in the comfort of your seat.

7. Bahrain (An island nation on the move)

Bahrain, an archipelago of islands in the Persian Gulf, is on the verge of revolutionizing its transportation with the introduction of a railway system. This development will make it possible to cross the main island from north to south in under an hour. The journey promises views of the modern skyline of Manama, traditional Bahraini villages, and the turquoise waters of the Gulf. As the train moves across the island, passengers will witness the blend of Bahrain’s rich heritage and its modern aspirations. It’s a quick, comfortable way to explore this vibrant island nation.

8. Djibouti (A desert adventure on rails)

Djibouti might not be the first country that comes to mind for a train journey, but it offers one of the most unique rail experiences. The railway from Djibouti City to the border of Ethiopia can be completed in just a few hours, traversing landscapes that range from volcanic formations to salt lakes. This route, rich in both natural beauty and cultural heritage, showcases the stark, otherworldly beauty of the African desert. It’s a journey that combines adventure with convenience, allowing travelers to experience the vastness of the desert by morning and return by night. Djibouti’s train journey is an unforgettable experience, blending stark landscapes with the thrill of exploration.

9. Brunei (A rainforest journey like no other)

Brunei, a small nation on the island of Borneo, is surrounded by lush rainforests and rich biodiversity. While it currently lacks a comprehensive national railway, the potential for such a service to cross the country would offer an unparalleled view of Southeast Asia’s natural beauty. Traveling from the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, across the country would immerse passengers in a tapestry of dense rainforests, mangroves, and perhaps even glimpses of rare wildlife. This hypothetical journey is a dream for nature lovers, offering a serene and intimate look at one of the planet’s most diverse ecosystems. It’s a peaceful morning ride that would leave passengers in awe of the natural world.

10. Singapore (A city-state in a blink)

Singapore’s efficient and extensive MRT system means you can literally cross this bustling city-state while your breakfast is still warm. From the woodland reserves in the north to the bustling downtown core, the journey is a showcase of Singapore’s modernity, green spaces, and cultural diversity. The ride offers a glimpse into the daily life of Singaporeans, moving from residential areas to business districts and tourist hotspots. It’s a compact yet comprehensive introduction to what Singapore has to offer. This ride is perfect for those who want to experience the essence of a modern city-state in just one morning.

This article was written by Hunter and edited with AI Assistance