Train travel offers a unique and leisurely way to explore the world, offering panoramic views, a relaxed atmosphere, and the opportunity to connect with the landscapes you pass through. From towering mountains to serene coastlines, some train journeys are so stunning that they become destinations in themselves. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a novice, here’s a list of the most scenic train routes that every travel enthusiast should experience.
1. The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
The Glacier Express is one of the most famous scenic train routes in the world. Spanning 8 hours, this breathtaking journey takes you through the Swiss Alps, connecting Zermatt and St. Moritz. The train travels over 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels, and crosses the Oberalp Pass, one of the highest points in the Swiss Alps.
Why it’s special: The train’s panoramic windows allow you to witness the stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and sparkling lakes, offering some of the best views in Europe.
Best for: Those who want to experience Switzerland’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace.
2. The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
The Rocky Mountaineer offers a luxurious train ride through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Western Canada, connecting Vancouver to Jasper, Banff, and Calgary. This multi-day journey takes you through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, past glaciers, emerald lakes, and rugged mountains.
Why it’s special: The train features glass-domed coaches, providing unobstructed views of the rugged terrain. Expect to see wildlife such as bears, eagles, and bighorn sheep, as well as historic towns like Kamloops and Banff.
Best for: Nature lovers and anyone looking for a high-end rail travel experience.
3. The Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia)
A true icon of train travel, the Trans-Siberian Railway stretches across Russia, from Moscow to Vladivostok on the Pacific Ocean. The full journey takes about 6 days and covers over 9,000 kilometers, passing through a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to the vast Siberian tundra.
Why it’s special: The sheer scale of this route is unparalleled, offering travelers an opportunity to cross the entire Eurasian continent and experience remote areas of Russia that few people get to see.
Best for: Adventurers and long-haul travelers who want to immerse themselves in the culture and history of Russia.
4. The Maharajas’ Express (India)
For those seeking a blend of luxury and cultural exploration, the Maharajas’ Express is one of India’s premier train experiences. This luxury train takes passengers on themed journeys, exploring iconic Indian landmarks like the Taj Mahal and Jaipur. The route covers several historical and cultural highlights across the country, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh.
Why it’s special: Known for its opulence, the Maharajas’ Express offers an unforgettable way to experience India’s rich history while enjoying world-class dining, elegant suites, and personalized service.
Best for: Those who want to combine luxury with cultural discovery in India.
5. The Blue Train (South Africa)
The Blue Train is a five-star luxury train that travels between Pretoria and Cape Town, offering some of the most stunning views of South Africa’s diverse landscapes. Along the journey, passengers can enjoy expansive vistas of the Karoo Desert, vineyards, and the Drakensberg Mountains.
Why it’s special: The Blue Train is not just about beautiful views—it’s about the experience itself. Lavish interiors, gourmet dining, and impeccable service make it one of the most luxurious ways to travel in Africa.
Best for: Luxury travelers seeking a high-end way to explore South Africa’s diverse landscapes.
6. The Ghan (Australia)
The Ghan takes travelers on an epic journey across the heart of Australia, traveling from Adelaide to Darwin. This legendary train route crosses the Outback, revealing vast desert landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and the iconic Flinders Ranges.
Why it’s special: This route showcases the wild beauty of Australia’s interior, with long stretches of red desert, rocky outcrops, and unique wildlife like kangaroos and camels.
Best for: Travelers who want to experience the raw beauty and remoteness of Australia’s Outback.
7. The Bernina Express (Switzerland and Italy)
The Bernina Express connects Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, crossing the Alps and winding its way through glaciers, forests, and alpine villages. This train route is shorter than others but offers stunning views of both Swiss and Italian landscapes.
Why it’s special: The Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its historical significance and breathtaking route, passing through St. Moritz and Lake Poschiavo.
Best for: Those seeking a shorter but incredibly scenic experience across two countries.
8. The Flåm Railway (Norway)
The Flåm Railway is one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world, running from Flåm at the head of the Aurlandsfjord to Myrdal in the Norwegian mountains. This short yet thrilling journey offers views of dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and idyllic villages.
Why it’s special: This 20-kilometer train ride is a true Norwegian treasure, passing through some of the country’s most picturesque landscapes and fjords, with views that feel like they’re straight out of a fairy tale.
Best for: Travelers looking for a shorter but jaw-dropping scenic route in the heart of Norway.
9. The West Highland Line (Scotland)
The West Highland Line is an iconic Scottish rail route that runs from Glasgow to Mallaig, passing through dramatic mountains, serene lochs, and sweeping moorlands. This route is especially famous for the views of Loch Lomond and the Highlands, and the journey includes a passage over the famous Harry Potter viaduct, the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
Why it’s special: This is one of the most scenic routes in the UK, offering travelers the chance to immerse themselves in Scotland’s rugged, untamed landscapes. It’s also known as the route featured in the Harry Potter films.
Best for: Film fans and nature enthusiasts alike who want to experience the magic of Scotland’s Highlands.
10. The Coast Starlight (USA)
For a scenic coastal journey in the United States, the Coast Starlight route, operated by Amtrak, runs from Seattle to Los Angeles, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the Cascade Mountains, and the lush landscapes of California, Oregon, and Washington.
Why it’s special: This 35-hour train ride provides incredible views of Pacific coastlines, forests, and national parks, with large windows and onboard amenities that make the journey comfortable and unforgettable.
Best for: Anyone looking to experience the Pacific coastline in a relaxed and scenic way.
Conclusion
The world’s most scenic train routes offer travelers an unmatched way to experience the beauty of nature, rich cultures, and historical landmarks while enjoying the comfort of a train ride. From the Swiss Alps to the Australian Outback, each journey on this list promises breathtaking views, unforgettable memories, and a new perspective on the places you visit. Whether you’re in search of luxury, adventure, or simply stunning landscapes, these scenic train routes should be at the top of your travel bucket list.
