Top 10 Most Breathtaking Train Journeys in the World
Train travel offers a unique way to experience the beauty of landscapes, from towering mountains and lush forests to vast deserts and coastal cliffs. If you're looking for a scenic and relaxing way to travel, check out these breathtaking train journeys around the world.
1. The Glacier Express, Switzerland
- Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
- Highlights: Swiss Alps, Matterhorn views, Landwasser Viaduct
- Why You Should Go: This 8-hour journey is one of the most scenic train rides in the world, taking you through 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, offering unparalleled views of snow-covered peaks and charming alpine villages.
2. The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
- Route: Moscow to Vladivostok
- Highlights: Lake Baikal, Ural Mountains, endless Siberian landscapes
- Why You Should Go: The longest railway journey in the world, this 9,289-km trip takes about a week to complete and offers an incredible way to explore Russia’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
3. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
- Route: Vancouver to Banff or Jasper
- Highlights: Canadian Rockies, turquoise lakes, lush forests
- Why You Should Go: This luxurious train offers a glass-domed roof for stunning panoramic views of the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife like bears and moose.
4. The Ghan, Australia
- Route: Adelaide to Darwin
- Highlights: Red desert landscapes, MacDonnell Ranges, Katherine Gorge
- Why You Should Go: Covering nearly 3,000 km, this epic journey takes you through the heart of Australia, offering a mix of luxury and adventure in the Outback.
5. The Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy
- Route: Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy
- Highlights: Swiss Alps, glaciers, scenic viaducts
- Why You Should Go: This UNESCO-listed railway takes you from snowy peaks to palm trees in just four hours, offering one of the most diverse scenic train journeys in Europe.
6. The Flam Railway, Norway
- Route: Myrdal to Flam
- Highlights: Fjords, waterfalls, steep mountains
- Why You Should Go: Known as one of the steepest train rides in the world, this journey offers stunning views of Norway’s majestic fjords and picturesque countryside.
7. The Blue Train, South Africa
- Route: Pretoria to Cape Town
- Highlights: Table Mountain, Karoo desert, luxury onboard experience
- Why You Should Go: More than just a train ride, this is a five-star hotel on wheels, complete with gourmet dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking South African landscapes.
8. The West Highland Line, Scotland
- Route: Glasgow to Mallaig
- Highlights: Scottish Highlands, Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter bridge)
- Why You Should Go: This stunning journey takes you past lochs, mountains, and the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, recognizable from the Harry Potter films.
9. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India
- Route: New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling
- Highlights: Himalayan views, tea plantations, spiral loops
- Why You Should Go: Known as the “Toy Train,” this narrow-gauge railway climbs through misty mountains and lush tea plantations, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
10. The Coastal Pacific, New Zealand
- Route: Christchurch to Picton
- Highlights: Kaikoura coastline, Pacific Ocean views, vineyards
- Why You Should Go: This scenic train hugs the rugged coastline of New Zealand’s South Island, providing incredible ocean and mountain views, with opportunities to spot seals and dolphins.
Final Thoughts
Train journeys provide a slow and immersive way to travel, allowing you to take in breathtaking landscapes without the rush of flights or road trips. Whether you dream of crossing the Alps, the Outback, or the Scottish Highlands, these train rides offer an unforgettable experience. 🚂✨
