While planes may get you there faster, train travel offers something air travel never can: the luxury of watching the world unfold before your eyes. Scenic train rides are a unique way to explore vast landscapes, mountain ranges, coastlines, and historic routes—all from the comfort of a cozy cabin or panoramic window. Whether you’re after rugged alpine beauty or tropical jungles, these are the best scenic train rides around the world that promise unforgettable journeys as remarkable as the destinations themselves.
1. The Glacier Express – Switzerland
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Duration: ~8 hours
Why it’s special:
Nicknamed the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express winds through the Swiss Alps, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, stone bridges, and quaint alpine villages. Passengers enjoy glass-domed cars, onboard meals, and commentary about the route’s stunning landmarks.
Highlights:
- Oberalp Pass at 6,706 ft
- Landwasser Viaduct
- Rhone and Rhine valleys
2. The Rocky Mountaineer – Canada
Route: Vancouver to Banff, Lake Louise, or Jasper
Duration: 2–3 days (daylight only, with overnight hotel stays)
Why it’s special:
The Rocky Mountaineer offers luxurious train travel through Western Canada’s most dramatic landscapes. You’ll pass glaciers, emerald lakes, and endless pine forests—all while sipping wine and dining on locally sourced cuisine.
Highlights:
- Fraser Canyon
- Spiral Tunnels
- Canadian Rockies and wildlife sightings
3. The TranzAlpine – New Zealand
Route: Christchurch to Greymouth
Duration: ~5 hours
Why it’s special:
Crossing New Zealand’s South Island, the TranzAlpine offers a spectacular cross-section of scenery—from the Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps and the lush rainforests of the West Coast.
Highlights:
- Arthur’s Pass National Park
- Waimakariri River gorges
- Southern Alps vistas
4. The Bernina Express – Switzerland & Italy
Route: Chur (Switzerland) to Tirano (Italy)
Duration: ~4 hours
Why it’s special:
Another alpine masterpiece, the Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage journey that crosses 196 bridges and 55 tunnels. It’s one of the highest railways in Europe, reaching elevations over 7,000 ft without the need for a cogwheel system.
Highlights:
- Bernina Pass and Morteratsch Glacier
- The circular Brusio viaduct
- Alpine meadows and turquoise lakes
5. The West Highland Line – Scotland
Route: Glasgow to Mallaig
Duration: ~5.5 hours
Why it’s special:
Often considered the most beautiful train ride in the UK, this route traverses rugged Scottish landscapes, from lochs and glens to the open moorland of Rannoch Moor. It’s also home to the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, made even more iconic by its appearance in the Harry Potter films.
Highlights:
- Ben Nevis (Britain’s highest mountain)
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Loch Shiel and Loch Morar
6. The Blue Train – South Africa
Route: Pretoria to Cape Town
Duration: 31 hours
Why it’s special:
The Blue Train is as much about luxury as it is about scenery. Think five-star service, butlers, gourmet meals, and a moving window into South Africa’s diverse countryside—from rolling vineyards to desert plains.
Highlights:
- The Karoo semi-desert
- The Cape Winelands
- Optional excursion in Kimberley
7. The Andean Explorer – Peru
Route: Cusco to Arequipa via Puno and Lake Titicaca
Duration: 2–3 days
Why it’s special:
Operated by Belmond, this is South America’s first luxury sleeper train. It winds through the high-altitude Andes, offering dramatic views of mountain ranges, ancient ruins, and Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake.
Highlights:
- Altiplano plains
- La Raya Pass (14,150 ft)
- Visit to Lake Titicaca and Uros Islands
8. The Ghan – Australia
Route: Adelaide to Darwin
Duration: 3–4 days
Why it’s special:
The Ghan slices through the heart of Australia, covering nearly 3,000 kilometers through the Outback. This epic transcontinental journey offers luxury cabins, off-train excursions, and a rare glimpse into Australia’s vast interior.
Highlights:
- MacDonnell Ranges
- Alice Springs and Katherine Gorge stopovers
- Shifting desert landscapes
9. The Belmond Royal Scotsman – Scotland
Route: Various luxury tours through the Scottish Highlands
Duration: 2–7 nights
Why it’s special:
This isn’t just a train ride—it’s a rolling luxury hotel. The Belmond Royal Scotsman includes fine dining, plush accommodations, and even a spa car, all while winding through castles, lochs, and misty Highland terrain.
Highlights:
- Private estate visits and whisky tastings
- Intimate onboard atmosphere (only 40 passengers)
- Spa with large observation windows
10. The Flåm Railway – Norway
Route: Myrdal to Flåm
Duration: ~1 hour
Why it’s special:
Though short, the Flåm Railway is one of the steepest standard-gauge railway lines in the world and showcases the best of Norway’s fjord landscapes.
Highlights:
- Kjosfossen waterfall
- Aurlandsfjord views
- Sheer cliffs and deep valleys
Tips for Enjoying Scenic Train Travel
- Book early: Scenic and luxury trains often sell out months in advance.
- Choose the right seat: Go for window seats on the correct side of the train (some routes are more scenic on one side).
- Pack light but smart: Bring snacks, a camera, and a travel pillow—especially on longer rides.
- Consider multi-day journeys: These often include meals, excursions, and luxurious sleeping accommodations.
Scenic train rides are more than just transportation—they’re immersive experiences that let you slow down and truly appreciate the journey. Whether you’re crossing continents or exploring a single scenic valley, these iconic routes offer breathtaking beauty, cultural insight, and old-fashioned romance. From the high peaks of the Alps to the wide deserts of Australia, there’s a train ride out there that’s ready to steal your breath—and your heart.
