There’s something magical about train travel—the rhythmic clatter of wheels on the tracks, the ever-changing scenery, and the sense of adventure as you glide through breathtaking landscapes. From snow-capped mountains to lush valleys and coastal wonders, some train routes offer an experience as unforgettable as the destination itself. Here are some of the most beautiful train journeys in the world that every travel enthusiast should experience.
The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Duration: 8 hours
Nicknamed the Slowest Express Train in the World, the Glacier Express takes passengers on a mesmerizing journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps. With panoramic windows offering uninterrupted views of snow-covered peaks, deep gorges, and charming villages, this ride is a visual masterpiece. Highlights include crossing the Landwasser Viaduct and passing through the stunning Rhine Gorge, often called the Grand Canyon of Switzerland.
The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
Route: Vancouver to Banff/Jasper
Duration: 2 days (with an overnight stop)
Traveling through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the Rocky Mountaineer offers a front-row seat to some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes. Passengers witness towering mountain ranges, turquoise lakes, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls. The train’s glass-domed coaches provide a 360-degree view, making it a dream journey for nature lovers and photographers.
The Blue Train (South Africa)
Route: Pretoria to Cape Town
Duration: 31 hours
Luxury meets scenery on The Blue Train, South Africa’s most famous rail journey. This five-star hotel on wheels takes passengers through breathtaking landscapes, from the grasslands of the Highveld to the dramatic mountain ranges and vineyards of the Western Cape. The elegant interiors, gourmet dining, and world-class service make this an unforgettable way to experience South Africa’s beauty.
The Ghan (Australia)
Route: Adelaide to Darwin
Duration: 3-4 days
Crossing the heart of the Australian Outback, The Ghan takes travelers on an epic journey through vast deserts, rugged mountains, and ancient Aboriginal lands. The trip showcases the changing landscapes of Australia, from the red sands of the Northern Territory to the lush greenery of the tropical Top End. The luxury train offers fine dining, comfortable cabins, and off-train excursions for an immersive experience.
The Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia)
Route: Moscow to Vladivostok
Duration: 7+ days
The Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest train journey in the world, spanning over 9,200 kilometers (5,700 miles) and crossing eight time zones. Passengers witness vast Siberian forests, the Ural Mountains, and the stunning Lake Baikal. For those seeking the ultimate rail adventure, this journey is unparalleled.
The Coastal Pacific (New Zealand)
Route: Christchurch to Picton
Duration: 5 hours
New Zealand’s Coastal Pacific train hugs the eastern coastline of the South Island, offering spectacular ocean views on one side and rolling vineyards and mountain ranges on the other. The journey includes dramatic cliffside tracks, river crossings, and a chance to spot seals and dolphins along the coastline.
The Reunification Express (Vietnam)
Route: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
Duration: 30+ hours
Travelers looking for an adventure through Vietnam should hop aboard the Reunification Express. This historic railway line stretches from north to south, offering stunning views of rice paddies, misty mountains, and the famous Hai Van Pass, where the train hugs the coastline between Da Nang and Hue. It’s a perfect way to experience Vietnam’s beauty at a leisurely pace.
[Contributed By Anushka Gaikwad]