Traveling by train offers a unique perspective on landscapes and cultures that flying or driving often can’t match. Some routes are iconic for their scenery, history, and the immersive experience they provide—drawing travelers worldwide to board these legendary lines. From breathtaking mountain passes to winding coastal tracks, here’s an in-depth look at the world’s best train journeys and why they’re so remarkable.
The Glacier Express – Switzerland
- Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
- Distance: 291 km (181 miles)
- Duration: Approx. 8 hours
The Glacier Express is often dubbed the “world’s slowest express train,” but its pace is part of its charm. This luxury train winds through the heart of the Swiss Alps, connecting two of Switzerland’s most famous mountain resorts, Zermatt and St. Moritz. Passing through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges, passengers experience mesmerizing views of the Matterhorn, Rhine Gorge (Switzerland’s “Grand Canyon”), and the Oberalp Pass, which climbs to an altitude of over 2,000 meters.
Equipped with panoramic windows, the Glacier Express ensures every seat offers an immersive view. The onboard service is equally luxurious, with freshly prepared Swiss dishes served directly at your seat. While the journey is on the pricier side, the stunning Swiss landscapes and attentive service make it worth every penny.
The Ghan – Australia
- Route: Adelaide to Darwin
- Distance: 2,979 km (1,851 miles)
- Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
Named after the Afghan camel drivers who once helped explore Australia’s Red Center, The Ghan is a historic train journey that offers an unforgettable cross-section of Australia’s vast landscapes. Starting in Adelaide, this route spans the continent’s length, passing through the Flinders Ranges, the vast plains of the outback, and into the tropical top end of Darwin.
Luxury and comfort are at the heart of The Ghan experience, with elegant cabins, fine dining, and off-train excursions that bring passengers closer to iconic Australian sites. From exploring the opal mining town of Coober Pedy to guided tours of Katherine Gorge, The Ghan offers an extraordinary way to discover the Australian outback.
The Rocky Mountaineer – Canada
- Route: Vancouver to Banff or Jasper
- Distance: 800 km (approx. 500 miles)
- Duration: 2 days with an overnight stay in Kamloops
The Rocky Mountaineer is Canada’s premier scenic train, traversing the dramatic landscapes of the Canadian Rockies. Known for its glass-domed coaches, this train journey from Vancouver to Banff or Jasper offers jaw-dropping views of mountain peaks, winding rivers, and dense forests. Signature highlights include Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon, the iconic Spiral Tunnels, and views of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Rockies.
The onboard experience emphasizes luxury, with gourmet meals served in the dining car and informative commentary that helps you fully appreciate the surroundings. Unlike many other trains, the Rocky Mountaineer doesn’t operate overnight, ensuring you don’t miss a single view.
Trans-Siberian Railway – Russia
- Route: Moscow to Vladivostok
- Distance: 9,289 km (5,772 miles)
- Duration: 7 days non-stop (often extended to 2–3 weeks with stops)
As one of the longest and most iconic rail routes in the world, the Trans-Siberian Railway is a bucket-list journey for many travelers. This monumental line crosses eight time zones, stretching across Russia from Moscow to the eastern port city of Vladivostok. Along the way, the route passes through the Ural Mountains, vast Siberian forests, and the beautiful Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest freshwater lake.
Travelers can customize their journey, stopping in cities like Yekaterinburg, Irkutsk, and Ulan Ude to experience Russia’s diverse landscapes and cultures. While many trains run this route, some luxury options offer private cabins, dining cars, and even excursions, making the journey as comfortable as it is legendary.
The Blue Train – South Africa
- Route: Pretoria to Cape Town
- Distance: 1,600 km (994 miles)
- Duration: 31 hours
Known as South Africa’s “Five-Star Hotel on Wheels,” the Blue Train is synonymous with luxury and elegance. Connecting Pretoria and Cape Town, this journey takes passengers through the rich wine lands, arid Karoo desert, and the scenic mountain ranges of the Western Cape. The Blue Train experience includes plush suites, a personal butler, and five-star dining, featuring a mix of traditional South African and international dishes.
One of the highlights is the off-train excursion at Kimberley, a town known for its diamond mines and historic attractions. Ideal for those seeking a luxurious way to experience South Africa, the Blue Train showcases the country’s varied landscapes while offering a taste of its famous hospitality.
Belmond Hiram Bingham – Peru
- Route: Cusco to Machu Picchu
- Distance: 97 km (60 miles)
- Duration: Approx. 3.5 hours each way
The Belmond Hiram Bingham is not just a train ride but a journey back in time. Named after the explorer who brought Machu Picchu to the world’s attention, this luxurious train offers an unforgettable experience through the Sacred Valley of Peru. Lavishly decorated in 1920s Pullman-style, the train provides an atmosphere of old-world charm, complete with gourmet Peruvian cuisine, live music, and breathtaking views.
The journey ends at the base of Machu Picchu, where travelers can continue their exploration on a guided tour of the ancient Incan citadel. For travelers seeking a luxurious yet authentic Peruvian experience, the Hiram Bingham is unbeatable.
Shinkansen (Bullet Train) – Japan
- Route: Tokyo to Kyoto
- Distance: 514 km (320 miles)
- Duration: Approx. 2 hours and 15 minutes
Japan’s Shinkansen, or bullet trains, are world-famous for their speed, efficiency, and punctuality. The Tokyo-Kyoto route, in particular, is popular with tourists for the way it seamlessly connects Japan’s modern and traditional cultures. As the train races along at speeds of up to 320 km/h (200 mph), passengers get fleeting glimpses of Mount Fuji, rural towns, and urban landscapes.
With comfortable seating, quiet cars, and a no-nonsense approach to timeliness, the Shinkansen exemplifies Japan’s advanced technology and commitment to quality service. This train is the ultimate choice for anyone wanting a quick, reliable, and scenic way to explore Japan’s most iconic cities.
The Royal Scotsman – Scotland
- Route: Edinburgh to the Highlands and back
- Distance: Variable, depends on the selected itinerary
- Duration: 2 to 7 days
The Royal Scotsman is a true taste of Scotland’s rich history and natural beauty. This luxury train offers several itineraries that explore the Scottish Highlands, featuring stops at historic castles, whisky distilleries, and lochs. Passengers can enjoy gourmet Scottish meals, luxurious cabins, and a top-notch observation car with open-air seating for unparalleled views of the Scottish landscapes.
From Glenfinnan Viaduct to Loch Lomond, each journey showcases Scotland’s rugged terrain and cultural heritage. For a unique addition, the train features an onboard spa, making the Royal Scotsman one of the most luxurious ways to experience Scotland.
Eastern & Oriental Express – Southeast Asia
- Route: Bangkok to Singapore
- Distance: 1,900 km (1,180 miles)
- Duration: 3 to 4 days
The Eastern & Oriental Express is Southeast Asia’s most famous luxury train journey, connecting the bustling metropolis of Bangkok with the sophisticated cityscape of Singapore. Passengers are treated to opulent cabins, sumptuous dining, and excursions to notable sites like the River Kwai. The train’s observation car, complete with an outdoor viewing area, provides stunning views of rural Thailand, Malaysian villages, and lush forests.
This journey offers a unique blend of luxury and cultural immersion, allowing travelers to see Southeast Asia’s landscapes and landmarks in style. The Eastern & Oriental Express captures the romance of train travel while highlighting the region’s diversity.
From luxurious coaches to high-speed marvels, these train rides provide more than transportation—they offer travelers a window into some of the world’s most breathtaking views and fascinating cultures. Whether it’s crossing deserts, climbing mountains, or winding through verdant landscapes, each journey holds a story and a set of experiences that only trains can provide.
