21 Breathtaking Train Journeys Across the Globe That Should Be on Your Bucket List
There’s something inherently magical about train journeys—the rhythmic clatter of wheels on tracks, the ever-changing landscapes, and the romance of old-world travel.
Unlike flying, where the world below becomes a blur, trains allow you to savor each passing vista, from snow-capped mountains to lush valleys and endless deserts.
Across the globe, there are train routes that provide unforgettable experiences and stunning scenery that you simply can’t see any other way.
Here are 21 breathtaking train journeys around the world that you need to experience at least once in your lifetime.
1. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer offers one of the most spectacular train journeys in North America, taking passengers through the breathtaking landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.
The journey from Vancouver to Banff or Jasper provides stunning views of snow-capped peaks, deep canyons, and pristine lakes. With glass-domed coaches, gourmet meals, and impeccable service, this train ride is the epitome of luxury rail travel.
2. The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Dubbed the “Slowest Express Train in the World,” the Glacier Express takes you on an unforgettable ride across the Swiss Alps.
Traveling from Zermatt to St. Moritz, the train passes over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, offering spectacular views of mountain peaks, alpine meadows, and charming villages.
It’s a leisurely eight-hour journey that feels like a trip through a winter wonderland.
3. The Ghan, Australia
The Ghan is one of the world’s greatest rail journeys, stretching across the heart of Australia from Darwin in the north to Adelaide in the south.
This three-day, two-night journey covers over 2,979 kilometers and traverses diverse landscapes, from tropical rainforests to the red outback and remote desert towns, providing a true outback adventure.
4. Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
The Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest train journey in the world, spanning over 9,289 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok.
The trip takes around seven days and offers a unique glimpse into the vastness of Russia, from its cities to the remote Siberian wilderness.
This epic adventure is a must for those looking to experience the ultimate in long-distance train travel.
5. The Blue Train, South Africa
Known as a “five-star hotel on wheels,” The Blue Train offers a luxurious journey between Pretoria and Cape Town in South Africa.
The 31-hour trip covers 1,600 kilometers and takes passengers through the stunning South African countryside, passing by vineyards, deserts, and mountain ranges while providing unparalleled comfort and service.
6. The Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy
The Bernina Express is a spectacular train journey that crosses from Switzerland into Italy, traveling from Chur to Tirano.
The route takes you through the iconic Landwasser Viaduct, the spiral Brusio Viaduct, and across the Bernina Pass, offering magnificent alpine views, glaciers, and picturesque towns along the way.
7. Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru
The Belmond Andean Explorer is South America’s first luxury sleeper train, taking passengers on a journey through the Peruvian Andes from Cusco to Arequipa via Lake Titicaca.
This two-night journey offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and remote villages, all while providing a luxurious onboard experience.
8. The Maharajas’ Express, India
The Maharajas’ Express is a luxurious train journey that travels through some of India’s most iconic destinations, including Jaipur, Agra, and Varanasi.
The train is known for its opulent interiors, fine dining, and personalized service, offering a royal experience as you traverse the diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks of India.
9. The Royal Scotsman, Scotland
The Royal Scotsman offers an elegant and scenic journey through the Scottish Highlands.
With its classic Edwardian-style cabins, fine dining, and exclusive excursions, this luxury train ride provides breathtaking views of rolling hills, lochs, and ancient castles, capturing the romance of Scotland’s rugged landscape.
10. The California Zephyr, USA
The California Zephyr travels from Chicago to San Francisco, offering one of the most scenic train journeys in the United States.
Over the course of 51 hours, the train passes through the Rockies, the Sierra Nevada, and along the Colorado River, providing stunning views of diverse American landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to expansive deserts.
11. The Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
The Eastern & Oriental Express offers a luxurious journey from Singapore to Bangkok, traveling through the lush jungles, rural villages, and scenic landscapes of Malaysia and Thailand.
With its vintage charm, elegant cabins, and gourmet cuisine, this train journey captures the essence of old-world travel in Southeast Asia.
12. The West Highland Line, Scotland
The West Highland Line is often considered one of the most scenic train routes in the world, traveling from Glasgow to Mallaig through the Scottish Highlands.
Passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of lochs, mountains, and glens, with highlights including the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famously featured in the Harry Potter films.
13. The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
The TranzAlpine is one of the most scenic train journeys in the Southern Hemisphere, running from Christchurch to Greymouth in New Zealand.
The train crosses the Canterbury Plains, climbs the Southern Alps, and passes through lush rainforests, offering spectacular views of the South Island’s diverse landscapes.
14. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is synonymous with luxury train travel, offering journeys from London to Venice and other European cities.
With its restored 1920s carriages, sumptuous cabins, and exceptional dining, this iconic train journey combines historic charm with modern-day luxury.
15. The Hiram Bingham, Peru
The Hiram Bingham is a luxury train that takes passengers from Cusco to Machu Picchu, offering a unique way to visit one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites.
The journey offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley and the Andes, with gourmet meals and live music enhancing the experience.
16. The Reunification Express, Vietnam
The Reunification Express runs along the coast of Vietnam, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.
This long-distance train journey offers breathtaking views of the Vietnamese countryside, including lush rice paddies, coastal cliffs, and bustling cities, providing a unique perspective on the country’s culture and landscape.
17. The Rovos Rail, South Africa
Rovos Rail, also known as “The Pride of Africa,” offers various journeys throughout South Africa and beyond.
Its route from Pretoria to Victoria Falls is particularly popular, offering luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and stunning views of the African savannah, wildlife, and waterfalls.
18. The Flam Railway, Norway
The Flam Railway is one of the steepest standard gauge railways in the world, traveling from Flam to Myrdal in Norway. The journey offers incredible views of fjords, waterfalls, and mountain peaks, making it one of the most scenic train rides in Europe.
19. The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, India
The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels takes you on a regal journey through the royal state of Rajasthan, India. With its luxurious amenities, historic stops, and cultural experiences, this train offers a glimpse into India’s rich heritage while traveling in style.
20. The Train to the Clouds, Argentina
The Train to the Clouds, or Tren a las Nubes, is one of the highest railways in the world, climbing up to 4,220 meters above sea level in Argentina’s Andes. The journey takes passengers through dramatic landscapes, including deserts, valleys, and viaducts, offering breathtaking views.
21. The Bergen Line, Norway
The Bergen Line, or Bergensbanen, offers a scenic journey across Norway from Oslo to Bergen. This seven-hour trip passes through dramatic mountain landscapes, fjords, and picturesque villages, providing a stunning introduction to Norway’s natural beauty.
