The church of Santa Maddalena in the Val di Funes, in the Italian Dolomites
IMAGE: GETTY
How easy is it to get around by public transport?
Exploring the Alps by rail makes perfect sense: trains are frequent, punctual and efficient, relatively inexpensive, and eco-friendly. There are generally some non-reserved seats, but it’s advisable to buy tickets in advance in peak periods. Deeper in the Alps, mountain transport takes the form of funicular and cog railways, lifts and cable cars.