There’s something undeniably magical about watching the world unfold outside a train window. The gentle click-clack of the rails beneath you, the shifting landscapes—each turn brings a new chapter of adventure. From towering mountains to vast deserts, each journey offers a unique blend of beauty and excitement.
As the train rolls through valleys, over bridges, and into remote corners of the world, it’s more than just a trip—it’s an experience that immerses you in nature’s grandeur and the thrill of exploration. Ready for a ride? These 12 train journeys promise to take you on a journey of a lifetime.
1. Glacier Express (Switzerland)
The Glacier Express is undeniably one of the most breathtaking rail journeys you’ll ever experience. Spanning 8 hours and covering 291 kilometers, this scenic ride takes passengers through the Swiss Alps, offering mesmerizing views of rugged mountains, serene valleys, and dense forests. Starting from Zermatt, it travels to St. Moritz, passing through 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, and the famous Oberalp Pass at an elevation of 2,033 meters (6,670 feet). It’s a stunning combination of engineering marvels and the pristine beauty of nature, a truly unforgettable experience.
As the train rolls along, you’ll be treated to panoramic windows that give you the feeling of being immersed in the landscape. From the sharp peaks of the Alps to the lush greenery of the valleys below, every bend and twist in the track opens up a new world of beauty. The Glacier Express is not just about the destinations; it’s about the journey itself. The quiet, rhythmic motion of the train combined with the sweeping views is therapeutic. I can’t forget the moment I first witnessed the Rhine Gorge—often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Switzerland”—it’s almost otherworldly.
The on-board service is also remarkable. Gourmet meals are served as you glide through this stunning landscape, and the attentive staff ensures that every passenger is comfortable. Whether you’re watching the snow-covered peaks in the winter or the vibrant alpine meadows in the summer, there’s a sense of tranquility that envelops you. If you’re a photography enthusiast, this is your paradise—every corner is a perfect shot waiting to be taken.
Other Relevant Information:
- Best months to visit: June to October for the summer greenery or December to March for the snowy wonderland.
- Duration: 8 hours.
- Highlights: Rhine Gorge, Oberalp Pass, panoramic windows.
- Ideal for: Nature lovers, photographers, adventure enthusiasts.
- Tip: Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as it’s a popular ride.
2. Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia)
The Trans-Siberian Railway is often considered the ultimate rail journey. Spanning nearly 9,000 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok, it is the longest train route in the world. As you embark on this journey, you’re not just crossing Russia—you’re traveling through centuries of history, diverse cultures, and vast landscapes that change dramatically from one stop to the next. It’s the kind of journey where you can truly disconnect and find yourself.
The train takes you through the Ural Mountains, across the Siberian taiga, and beside the shimmering shores of Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest freshwater lake. You’ll see an astonishing range of landscapes—from desolate plains and dense forests to the snow-covered beauty of Siberia, where it feels like you’re the only person on Earth. The different cultures you encounter along the way—from the bustling metropolis of Moscow to the remote villages in the East—add layers of richness to the journey.
A personal moment I cherished on this ride was the feeling of awe when crossing Lake Baikal, with its crystal-clear waters and untouched natural beauty. As the train slowed down for a scenic stop, you couldn’t help but think about the people who have crossed these lands for centuries, each leaving their mark on this incredible place.
Other Relevant Information:
- Best months to visit: May to September for milder weather or January to March for a winter wonderland.
- Duration: 7 days to 2 weeks, depending on the route taken.
- Highlights: Ural Mountains, Lake Baikal, Siberian landscapes.
- Ideal for: Adventurers, history buffs, and cultural explorers.
- Tip: Consider taking the Trans-Siberian Express for a more luxurious experience or opt for the Trans-Mongolian Route for an added adventure.
3. The Ghan (Australia)
If you’re looking for an iconic Australian experience, the Ghan should be at the top of your list. This legendary train journey stretches from Adelaide to Darwin, taking you through the vast, empty beauty of the Australian outback. You’ll feel as though you’re journeying through a land that time forgot, with endless red deserts, rugged cliffs, and ancient landscapes stretching out before you.
The Ghan’s name is derived from the Afghan camel drivers who once traversed this route, and it’s easy to understand why the landscape is so captivating. There’s something almost surreal about the wide open spaces and the spectacular sunsets that color the sky with hues of orange and pink. Along the journey, the train makes several stops, including the small town of Alice Springs, where you can explore the rich Aboriginal culture or take a tour into the heart of the desert. The Katherine Gorge is another highlight, where you can hop on a boat and glide through the stunning rock formations.
Riding the Ghan is a chance to embrace the spirit of adventure in Australia’s interior. With exceptional service, gourmet meals, and unique off-train experiences, it’s not just about the journey but the overall immersion into Australian life and culture.
Other Relevant Information:
- Best months to visit: April to October for the best weather (it’s too hot to visit in the summer months).
- Duration: 3 to 4 days.
- Highlights: Red Desert, Alice Springs, Katherine Gorge.
- Ideal for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those wanting a true Aussie outback experience.
- Tip: Don’t miss the chance to visit the Outback’s wildlife during stops—it’s a unique experience!
4. Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
If you ever dream of riding through the majestic Canadian Rockies, the Rocky Mountaineer is the train journey that will make those dreams come true. Starting from Vancouver, the train travels through the heart of the Rockies, passing through dramatic mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and towering waterfalls. This ride is all about luxury, comfort, and unparalleled views, with large windows ensuring you get the best possible view of the stunning landscapes outside.
The most iconic routes, such as The First Passage to the West and Journey Through the Clouds, offer some of the most spectacular vistas you’ll ever see. I’ll never forget the time I crossed The Spiral Tunnels in Yoho National Park, where the train seems to disappear into the mountains—only to reappear moments later on a completely different level. The smoothness of the ride, combined with the grandeur of nature,e creates a peaceful and awe-inspiring experience.
Onboard, you’ll enjoy fine dining and excellent service as you traverse one of the world’s most scenic train routes. Whether it’s in the GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf service, the Rocky Mountaineer’s service is second to none. This is one journey where you can truly sit back, relax, and let nature’s beauty unfold before your eyes.
Other Relevant Information:
- Best months to visit: May to October, when the weather is warmer and the Rockies are most accessible.
- Duration: 2 to 3 days.
- Highlights: Spiral Tunnels, Yoho National Park, towering waterfalls.
- Ideal for: Luxury travelers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.
- Tip: The GoldLeaf Service offers the best experience with panoramic windows and a dining experience like no other.
5. Andean Explorer (Peru)
For an unforgettable journey through the Peruvian Andes, the Andean Explorer is the way to go. This luxurious train takes you from Cusco to Lake Titicaca, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and comfort. The route, which winds through towering mountain peaks, remote villages, and vibrant cultural landscapes, offers breathtaking views at every turn.
The train is designed with luxury in mind, boasting plush interiors that mirror the opulence of a bygone era. The Andean Explorer offers not only panoramic windows for unrivaled views but also an elegant dining experience, complete with gourmet meals showcasing local Peruvian ingredients. The highlight of this trip is undoubtedly the stunning vistas of the Sacred Valley, with its terraced hillsides and traditional farming communities dotting the landscape. Riding through these ancient lands feels like a step back in time.
What makes this journey truly special is the ability to explore the stunning Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. Its deep blue waters and the indigenous cultures that inhabit its shores create a magical atmosphere. For anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the culture and history of Peru while enjoying modern luxuries, this journey is the perfect combination.
Other Relevant Information:
- Best months to visit: May to October for clear skies and perfect temperatures.
- Duration: 1 to 2 days.
- Highlights: Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca, Andean mountain views.
- Ideal for: Luxury travelers, culture seekers, and history buffs.
- Tip: Plan a visit to the floating islands of Uros for a truly unique cultural experience.
6. Bernina Express (Switzerland)
The Bernina Express offers one of the most spectacular Alpine journeys in the world. This 4-hour train ride takes you from Chur to Tirano in Italy, passing through the stunning Swiss Alps, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and glaciers. What makes this journey so exceptional is the contrast of dramatic, snow-capped peaks against lush valleys and alpine meadows. The route crosses the famous Bernina Range, with views that seem to stretch forever.
The panoramic windows of the Bernina Express let you enjoy sweeping views of glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine villages in an almost surreal way. As you pass over the Landwasser Viaduct, one of the most iconic structures of the journey, you’ll feel the excitement of crossing an architectural wonder while soaking in the natural beauty surrounding you. The train also passes through the Oberalp Pass, one of Switzerland’s highest rail crossings at 2,033 meters (6,670 feet), offering a sense of achievement and awe.
This is a journey that combines comfort and adventure, where you can relax and enjoy gourmet meals while the incredible scenery unfolds outside. The Bernina Express offers a chance to experience the Swiss Alps in all their glory, whether covered in snow or blanketed in green.
Other Relevant Information:
- Best months to visit: June to September for vibrant summer views or December to February for a winter wonderland.
- Duration: 4 hours.
- Highlights: Landwasser Viaduct, Bernina Range, and alpine landscapes.
- Ideal for: Nature lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and photographers.
- Tip: The winter months offer an especially magical atmosphere, with snow-dusted landscapes adding to the charm.
7. Blue Train (South Africa)
The Blue Train is South Africa’s most luxurious train experience, offering an elegant journey from Pretoria to Cape Town. Known for its world-class service, lavish interiors, and scenic views, the Blue Train offers a rare blend of comfort and adventure. You’ll pass through the heart of South Africa’s breathtaking landscapes, including the famous Karoo Desert and the Winelands, all while experiencing the unparalleled service that the Blue Train is known for.
The journey is as much about the destination as it is about the experience itself. As you glide through the landscapes, you’ll enjoy world-class cuisine paired with the finest South African wines. The rich history of the country is woven into every part of the train, from the luxurious cabins to the historical insights shared by the staff. Whether it’s the Cape Winelands or the vast Karoo, the changing scenery provides an unforgettable backdrop to this elegant journey.
For those who enjoy a touch of sophistication, the Blue Train offers an unforgettable escape. The combination of luxurious interiors, gourmet dining, and incredible views makes it a must-do for anyone traveling through South Africa. I can still remember the feeling of luxury as I enjoyed a glass of wine while watching the sun set over the vast Karoo—a true experience of indulgence.
Other Relevant Information:
- Best months to visit: Year-round, though the months from October to April offer the best weather.
- Duration: 27 hours.
- Highlights: Karoo Desert, Cape Winelands, luxurious interiors.
- Ideal for: Luxury travelers, wine enthusiasts, and history buffs.
- Tip: The Blue Train offers several special packages, including a prestigious five-star experience with all-inclusive meals.
8. Maharajas’ Express (India)
The Maharajas’ Express is one of India’s most opulent train journeys, providing a royal experience as you travel through some of India’s most culturally rich destinations. Offering routes from Delhi to Rajasthan, you’ll explore vibrant cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur, with their majestic forts, palaces, and temples. The interiors of the train are a perfect reflection of India’s royal past, with ornate decorations, rich fabrics, and elegant dining areas that evoke the grandeur of Indian royalty.
The journey on the Maharajas’ Express is nothing short of a five-star experience, with gourmet meals, luxury cabins, and top-tier service. You’ll not only be traveling through some of India’s most historical locations but also enjoying immersive experiences like visiting the Taj Mahal, exploring the Jaipur Fort, or taking part in traditional Rajasthani cultural activities. The train’s opulence ensures that you feel like a Maharaja (king) yourself as you journey through India’s fascinating past.
For anyone who has ever dreamed of experiencing the grandeur of India, this train offers a combination of culture, history, and luxury that’s hard to match. I still remember the sense of awe as we visited the Taj Mahal, all the while knowing I was traveling in the lap of luxury.
Other Relevant Information:
- Best months to visit: October to March, when the weather is more comfortable.
- Duration: 3 to 7 days, depending on the itinerary.
- Highlights: Taj Mahal, Rajasthan palaces, royal dining.
- Ideal for: Luxury travelers, history and culture enthusiasts, royal fans.
- Tip: Book in advance as this is a highly sought-after experience, especially during peak tourist seasons.
9. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (India)
Also known as the Toy Train, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway offers a nostalgic and charming journey through the hills of West Bengal in India. Running from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling, this narrow-gauge train is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic trains in India. The route takes you through tea plantations, misty mountains, and scenic villages, offering views of the Kangchenjunga (the third-highest mountain in the world).
What makes this journey so special is the slow-paced, almost whimsical journey through the hills, where the train winds its way through breathtaking landscapes, crossing over bridges, tunnels, and loops. The train’s chugging sound and the smell of fresh tea leaves in the air take you back in time, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Personally, the experience of seeing Darjeeling’s Toy Train arriving in the mountain town, surrounded by clouds, was a picture-perfect moment.
For anyone seeking a blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway offers a one-of-a-kind journey. This is the perfect ride for those who enjoy a leisurely pace while soaking in the charm of colonial-era India.
Other Relevant Information:
- The best months to visit: March to May and October to December for the best weather.
- Duration: 7 hours.
- Highlights: Tea plantations, Kangchenjunga views, mountain villages.
- Ideal for: History buffs, culture lovers, and nature enthusiasts.
- Tip: Don’t miss visiting the town of Darjeeling after the ride—its colonial charm is just as captivating as the train journey itself.
10. The Royal Scotsman (Scotland)
If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the rolling hills, majestic castles, and rugged landscapes of Scotland in style, the Royal Scotsman is the perfect journey. This luxurious train takes you through the heart of Scotland, from Edinburgh to the highlands, offering breathtaking views of Scotland’s rugged landscapes, lochs, and castles. The interior of the train is designed to reflect Scotland’s rich history, with plush furnishings and elegant cabins that feel like a stately home on wheels.
The Royal Scotsman offers several different itineraries, allowing passengers to experience the best of Scottish culture, history, and nature. You can explore Loch Ness, visit Edinburgh Castle, or wander through charming villages like Pitlochry and Aviemore. The landscapes vary from wild, windswept highlands to serene lochs, with mist hanging in the air and the occasional castle emerging through the fog. It’s the perfect blend of luxury and Scottish adventure.
Riding the Royal Scotsman feels like stepping into a storybook, where every twist and turn reveals more of Scotland’s magnificent beauty. I found the contrast between the luxurious interiors and the rugged exterior landscapes incredibly enchanting—there’s something magical about Scotland’s charm.
Other Relevant Information:
- Best months to visit: May to September for the best weather.
- Duration: 3 to 7 days, depending on the itinerary.
- Highlights: Loch Ness, Scottish castles, highland views.
- Ideal for: Luxury travelers, history and culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.
- Tip: The Whisky Trail is a must for whisky lovers, offering tastings and distillery tours along the way.
11. The Tren Crucero (Ecuador)
The Tren Crucero offers a unique way to experience Ecuador’s diverse landscapes, from the lush Amazon rainforest to the towering Andes Mountains. This luxurious yet adventurous journey takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in South America. The route stretches from Quito to Guayaquil, and every inch of the ride offers something different, from steep mountain slopes to vibrant, remote villages.
One of the standout moments of the Tren Crucero is crossing the Devil’s Nose, a dramatic section of track that zigzags down the mountainside, offering jaw-dropping views. Imagine the train snaking its way around sharp cliffs and steep drop-offs—it’s as thrilling as it is scenic. On top of the natural beauty, the cultural experiences are unforgettable. Stops at small towns and villages allow passengers to explore Ecuadorian traditions, local markets, and colonial-era towns like Riobamba. It’s not just a ride; it’s an immersion into the heart and soul of Ecuadorian culture.
What makes this journey truly special is the way the train blends adventure with comfort. The plush cabins and dining areas, combined with the warm service and spectacular views, create an experience unlike any other. And for anyone looking to add a touch of exclusivity, the Tren Crucero offers a luxury experience, complete with top-notch meals, spa services, and even an on-board photographer to capture the stunning views.
Other Relevant Information:
- Best months to visit: June to September for optimal weather conditions.
- Duration: 4 days.
- Highlights: Devil’s Nose, Andes Mountains, Amazon rainforest.
- Ideal for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, cultural explorers.
- Tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Cotopaxi National Park during the ride—it’s home to one of the world’s highest active volcanoes.
12. The Tren de la Costa (Argentina)
For those who want to experience a scenic journey with a unique twist, the Tren de la Costa offers a delightful ride along the coast of Argentina just outside Buenos Aires. This picturesque route travels through the Argentinean countryside, offering mesmerizing views of the Paraná River and the surrounding lush forests. It’s an ideal journey for anyone who loves the idea of a leisurely ride through nature while still being close to the vibrant life of Buenos Aires.
Unlike other trains on this list, the Tren de la Costa feels more like a local exploration rather than a grand adventure. The train makes several stops at charming towns and villages, where you can hop off, explore, and get a taste of Argentine life. As you glide along the river, the landscape changes—from dense green forests to wide, open expanses that seem to stretch forever. It’s a peaceful and intimate experience, perfect for those who want to disconnect and enjoy the beauty of Argentina’s coast.
What truly sets this train apart is the sense of tranquility it provides. The slow pace allows you to truly take in the surroundings, and it’s easy to forget the hustle and bustle of the city as you watch the riverbanks glide by. If you’re looking for a quieter, more reflective journey, the Tren de la Costa offers the perfect escape.
Other Relevant Information:
- Best months to visit: October to April for pleasant weather.
- Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes (round trip).
- Highlights: Paraná River, lush forests, charming riverside towns.
- Ideal for: Relaxation seekers, nature lovers, and those exploring the Buenos Aires region.
- Tip: Make sure to explore the town of Tigre, located along the route, for a glimpse of Argentine river life and vibrant markets.
