Embark on a journey like no other with some of the most breathtaking train rides around the world. From the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps to the lush greenery of the Canadian Rockies, these scenic routes offer more than just a mode of transport—they provide an unforgettable experience. Discover the beauty and wonder of these remarkable destinations as you sit back, relax, and enjoy the view. Join us as we explore the top scenic train rides that promise to captivate and inspire.
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express, often called the slowest express train in the world, offers an eight-hour journey through the stunning Swiss Alps. Traversing 291 bridges and passing through 91 tunnels, this ride connects the famous mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz. Passengers are treated to panoramic views of majestic peaks, deep gorges, and charming alpine villages, all while enjoying a comfortable and luxurious ride with gourmet dining options.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer provides an unforgettable experience through the breathtaking landscapes of Western Canada. With routes like “First Passage to the West” and “Journey through the Clouds,” travelers can witness the dramatic scenery of the Canadian Rockies, including pristine lakes, dense forests, and towering mountains. The train’s glass-domed coaches ensure an unobstructed view, while onboard hosts offer engaging commentary and world-class service.
The Blue Train, South Africa
The Blue Train is synonymous with luxury and elegance, offering a 31-hour journey between Pretoria and Cape Town. This iconic train ride passes through diverse landscapes, from the arid Karoo desert to the lush vineyards of the Cape Winelands. Onboard, passengers enjoy lavish suites, gourmet cuisine, and personalized service, making it a truly royal experience.
The Ghan, Australia
The Ghan takes passengers on a remarkable transcontinental journey through the heart of Australia, covering 2,979 kilometers between Darwin and Adelaide. This three-day trip offers a unique perspective of Australia’s vast and diverse landscapes, including the Red Centre’s deserts and the tropical Top End. The train features luxurious cabins, fine dining, and off-train excursions that allow passengers to explore remote outback towns and natural wonders.
The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
Spanning over 9,289 kilometers, the Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest railway line in the world, connecting Moscow with Vladivostok. This epic journey takes about seven days and traverses multiple time zones and diverse landscapes, from the Ural Mountains to the Siberian taiga. Passengers can experience Russia’s vast wilderness, charming villages, and historic cities, making it a truly immersive travel adventure.
The Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy
The Bernina Express offers a spectacular ride from Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, crossing the Swiss Engadin Alps. Known for its stunning scenery, this four-hour journey includes the iconic Landwasser Viaduct and the Brusio Spiral Viaduct. Passengers are treated to breathtaking views of glaciers, mountain lakes, and picturesque villages, all from the comfort of panoramic coaches.
The Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
The Eastern & Oriental Express offers a luxurious journey through the heart of Southeast Asia, traveling between Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. This opulent train features elegant cabins, gourmet dining, and exquisite service. The journey passes through lush rainforests, rural landscapes, and bustling cities, providing a unique glimpse into the region’s diverse cultures and natural beauty.
The Royal Scotsman, Scotland
The Royal Scotsman is a luxurious train that offers a variety of journeys through the scenic Scottish Highlands. With its lavish interiors, fine dining, and personalized service, the train provides an intimate and exclusive experience. Passengers can enjoy the rugged beauty of Scotland, including majestic mountains, tranquil lochs, and historic castles, all while traveling in style.
The Flam Railway, Norway
The Flam Railway is one of the most picturesque train journeys in the world, covering a 20-kilometer route between Myrdal and Flam in Norway. This one-hour ride descends nearly 900 meters, passing through steep mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush valleys. The train offers large windows for panoramic views, making it a must-do for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
The Maharajas’ Express, India
The Maharajas’ Express is India’s most luxurious train, offering a regal journey through the country’s diverse landscapes and historic sites. With various itineraries, including the “Heritage of India” and “Treasures of India,” passengers can explore iconic destinations like Jaipur, Udaipur, and the Taj Mahal. The train features opulent cabins, gourmet dining, and impeccable service, providing an unforgettable experience.
The Belmond Hiram Bingham, Peru
The Belmond Hiram Bingham offers a luxurious journey to the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. Departing from Cusco, this train passes through the Sacred Valley, offering stunning views of the Andes Mountains and the Urubamba River. The journey includes gourmet dining, live music, and guided tours of Machu Picchu, making it a perfect blend of luxury and adventure.
The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
The TranzAlpine traverses the Southern Alps of New Zealand, offering a breathtaking journey from Christchurch to Greymouth. This five-hour ride passes through diverse landscapes, including lush farmlands, dense forests, and the dramatic Waimakariri River gorge. The train features panoramic windows and outdoor viewing platforms, ensuring passengers don’t miss any of the spectacular scenery.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a legendary train that offers a luxurious journey through Europe, connecting cities like London, Paris, Venice, and Istanbul. Known for its vintage carriages and elegant interiors, the train provides an unparalleled travel experience. Passengers can enjoy gourmet cuisine, exquisite service, and the romance of rail travel while traversing some of Europe’s most iconic landscapes.
The Reunification Express, Vietnam
The Reunification Express, also known as the North-South Railway, offers a scenic journey between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. This 1,726-kilometer route takes about 36 hours and passes through Vietnam’s diverse landscapes, including lush rice paddies, coastal cliffs, and bustling cities. The train offers various classes of service, providing a comfortable and affordable way to experience the country’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.
The Rovos Rail, Southern Africa
Rovos Rail offers luxurious train journeys through Southern Africa, with routes connecting South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Tanzania. Known for its opulent carriages, fine dining, and personalized service, Rovos Rail provides an unforgettable travel experience. Passengers can enjoy the stunning landscapes of Southern Africa, including deserts, savannas, and wildlife reserves, all from the comfort of a five-star train.
The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland
The Jacobite Steam Train offers a nostalgic journey through the Scottish Highlands, running between Fort William and Mallaig. This scenic route includes the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films. The train passes through rugged mountains, tranquil lochs, and picturesque villages, providing a unique and enchanting travel experience.
The West Highland Line, Scotland
The West Highland Line is considered one of the most scenic railway lines in the world, connecting Glasgow to Mallaig and Oban. This journey takes passengers through the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, including rugged coastlines, remote glens, and serene lochs. The train offers large windows for panoramic views, making it a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts.
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, USA
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a historic and scenic journey through the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. This 45-mile route follows the Animas River, passing through steep canyons, dense forests, and rugged peaks. The train features vintage steam locomotives and historic carriages, providing a nostalgic and immersive travel experience.
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad, USA
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad offers a scenic journey through the breathtaking Royal Gorge in Colorado. This two-hour ride follows the Arkansas River, passing through dramatic cliffs and the famous Hanging Bridge. The train features open-air cars and glass-domed coaches, ensuring passengers have unobstructed views of the stunning scenery. Onboard dining options add to the experience, making it a perfect blend of adventure and comfort.
The Copper Canyon Railway, Mexico
The Copper Canyon Railway, also known as El Chepe, offers a spectacular journey through Mexico’s Copper Canyon, a series of six interconnected canyons larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon. This 650-kilometer route connects Chihuahua with Los Mochis, passing through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, rugged mountains, and indigenous villages. The train offers comfortable seating, large windows, and dining options, providing a unique and memorable travel experience.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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