Traveling by train offers a unique and scenic way to explore new destinations. From winding through picturesque landscapes to passing by historical landmarks, train journeys can be both relaxing and awe-inspiring. Here are the most scenic train journeys around the world that you should experience at least once.
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. This iconic train journey takes you through snow-capped mountains, deep gorges, and charming alpine villages.
Highlights:
- Spectacular Alpine scenery
- Panoramic windows for unobstructed views
- Luxurious onboard experience
- Stops at renowned Swiss resorts
Starting from Zermatt, home to the famous Matterhorn, the Glacier Express travels to St. Moritz, another world-renowned resort town. The journey takes approximately eight hours, covering 291 kilometers and crossing 291 bridges and 91 tunnels. The panoramic windows ensure that passengers do not miss any of the stunning views, whether it’s the Oberalp Pass or the Rhine Gorge, also known as the “Swiss Grand Canyon.”
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer offers one of the most stunning train journeys in North America. Traveling through the Canadian Rockies, passengers are treated to dramatic landscapes, including towering mountains, lush forests, and sparkling rivers.
Highlights:
- Majestic Rocky Mountain views
- Gourmet meals served onboard
- Glass-domed coaches for optimal viewing
- Wildlife spotting opportunities
This journey covers several routes, with the most popular being from Vancouver to Banff or Jasper. The train travels only during the day, allowing passengers to fully appreciate the scenery. Highlights include Hell’s Gate in Fraser Canyon, the Spiral Tunnels, and the wildlife-rich Jasper National Park. The onboard service is exceptional, with gourmet meals, free-flowing drinks, and knowledgeable hosts.
The Ghan, Australia
The Ghan provides an epic journey through the heart of Australia, from Darwin to Adelaide. This transcontinental route offers a diverse range of landscapes, from the tropical north to the arid outback.
Highlights:
- Diverse Australian landscapes
- All-inclusive service with gourmet dining
- Off-train excursions to explore remote areas
- Historical and cultural insights
Spanning 2,979 kilometers, The Ghan takes passengers on a three-day, two-night journey through some of Australia’s most remote and fascinating regions. The train stops in Katherine, Alice Springs, and Coober Pedy, offering unique off-train excursions such as river cruises, camel rides, and mine tours. The journey offers a deep dive into Australia’s indigenous culture and natural history.
The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the longest and most famous train journeys in the world. Spanning across Russia from Moscow to Vladivostok, this journey covers vast distances and showcases a variety of terrains.
Highlights:
- Extensive cross-continental route
- Historic Russian cities
- Varied landscapes from forests to steppes
- Cultural immersion
Covering over 9,000 kilometers and taking about a week to complete, the Trans-Siberian Railway is a bucket-list journey for many. The route passes through major cities like Yekaterinburg and Irkutsk, and natural wonders such as Lake Baikal. Passengers can choose to extend their journey with stops in Mongolia or China. The train offers a range of accommodations, from basic to luxurious, catering to all types of travelers.
The Blue Train, South Africa
The Blue Train offers a luxurious travel experience through South Africa, from Pretoria to Cape Town. Passengers enjoy elegant accommodations and stunning views of the South African countryside.
Highlights:
- Luxury and comfort onboard
- Scenic South African landscapes
- Fine dining and personalized service
- Stops at notable attractions
This 1,600-kilometer journey takes approximately 31 hours, with the train traveling through the diverse landscapes of South Africa, including vineyards, mountains, and deserts. The Blue Train is renowned for its opulent suites, gourmet cuisine, and attentive service. A stop in Kimberley allows passengers to visit the Big Hole and the Diamond Mine Museum, adding a historical dimension to the journey.
The West Highland Line, Scotland
The West Highland Line is celebrated for its dramatic Highland scenery. This journey takes you from Glasgow to Mallaig, passing through rugged mountains, serene lochs, and remote villages.
Highlights:
- Stunning Highland views
- Famous Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Quaint Scottish villages
- Wildlife and nature opportunities
The 164-kilometer journey starts in Glasgow and passes through some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes, including the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Rannoch Moor, and Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak. The highlight of the trip is crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films. The journey ends in the fishing port of Mallaig, where passengers can explore the Isle of Skye.
The Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy
The Bernina Express offers a scenic route from Switzerland to Italy, traversing the Alps and descending into the picturesque Italian countryside. This UNESCO World Heritage route is known for its breathtaking beauty.
Highlights:
- Alpine and Mediterranean landscapes
- Engineering marvels like the Landwasser Viaduct
- Year-round operation for different seasonal views
- Cultural mix of Swiss and Italian regions
Starting in Chur, Switzerland, the Bernina Express travels to Tirano, Italy, covering 122 kilometers in about four hours. The train crosses the Alps, passing through the stunning Albula and Bernina ranges, and offers views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and vineyards. The journey includes the famous Landwasser Viaduct and the Brusio Spiral Viaduct, both engineering marvels.
The Indian Pacific, Australia
The Indian Pacific is another iconic Australian train journey, stretching from Sydney to Perth. This route offers a diverse range of landscapes, from the Blue Mountains to the vast Nullarbor Plain.
Highlights:
- Cross-continental Australian journey
- Luxurious onboard amenities
- Off-train excursions in key locations
- Stunning and varied scenery
The Indian Pacific covers 4,352 kilometers over four days and three nights. Highlights include crossing the Blue Mountains, the barren Nullarbor Plain, and stopping at the gold-mining town of Kalgoorlie. The train offers various classes of service, all providing excellent meals and comfortable accommodations. Off-train excursions include guided tours of Adelaide, Broken Hill, and Perth.
The Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
The Eastern & Oriental Express travels through some of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful landscapes, from Singapore to Bangkok. This luxurious train offers a blend of colonial charm and modern comfort.
Highlights:
- Southeast Asian landscapes and cultures
- Elegant and nostalgic train design
- Fine dining and luxurious service
- Excursions to key cultural sites
This 2,030-kilometer journey takes three days and two nights, passing through the lush countryside of Malaysia and Thailand. The train’s interiors are reminiscent of a bygone era, with teakwood panels and plush furnishings. Highlights include stops at the River Kwai, guided tours of Penang, and exploring the vibrant city of Bangkok.
The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland
The Jacobite Steam Train, often called the “Harry Potter Train,” offers a magical journey through the Scottish Highlands. This historic steam train travels from Fort William to Mallaig, offering spectacular views.
Highlights:
- Iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Scenic Highland landscapes
- Historic steam train experience
- Connection to Harry Potter lore
The 135-kilometer round trip takes about six hours, with the train passing through some of Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes. The journey includes the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Shiel, and Ben Nevis. The Jacobite Steam Train operates from April to October, allowing passengers to experience the changing seasons in the Highlands.
These scenic train journeys offer an incredible way to experience the beauty of different regions around the world. Whether you prefer the snowy peaks of the Alps or the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, there’s a train journey to suit every traveler’s taste.
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