wonderful train journey

Rail travel: 16 of the world’s best train journeys

Get on track and book a great railway adventure

• Newsletter sign up Newsletter

1. Rocky Mountaineer: a train ride through the Wild West

2. orient express: retracing the original route from paris to istanbul, 3. ella odyssey: spectacular journey through sri lanka’s tea country, 4. arctic rail odyssey: ‘epically scenic’, 5. the qinghai-tibet railway: xining to lhasa, 6. laos-china railway: vientiane to boten, 7. rovos rail: african exploration on ‘the world’s most luxurious train’, 8. royal scotsman: a belmond train for ‘lovers of luxury’, 9. seven stars kyushu: a luxury cruise train in japan, 10. the ghan, australia: adelaide to darwin via alice springs, 11. the canadian: toronto to vancouver, 12. the tranzalpine, new zealand: christchurch to greymouth, 13. caledonian sleeper: london to scotland, 14. california zephyr: chicago to san francisco, 15. andean explorer: slow travel through peru, 16. austria: st pölten to mariazell.

There can be few more relaxing ways to see the glorious landscapes of Utah and Colorado than from the Rocky Mountaineer, said Ed Grenby in The Daily Telegraph . After three decades of service in Canada, this “gleaming” royal-blue train recently began its second-ever season in the US, offering two-day, 356-mile journeys between Moab and Denver, with a night at a hotel in Glenwood, a town known for its hot springs and “raffish frontier feel”.

Carriages are largely encased in glass, and seats can be turned to face forwards, making it easy to drink in the “epic” vistas, including “scale-defying” deserts, sunlit prairies and the “towering” canyons of the Colorado River. The pace is often slow, so you can get a good look at passing wildlife, including coyote and bald eagles. The trip costs from £1,270pp, full board.

rockymountaineer.com

Subscribe to The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

Launched in 1883 by a Belgian entrepreneur named George Nagelmackers, the Orient Express service from Paris to Istanbul reached peak popularity in the 1930s, before dying a slow death. Today, Belmond runs an occasional luxury service on the same route, and Accor is due to launch another in 2025. But there are more affordable ways to make this “nostalgia-laden” journey if you’re willing to change trains a few times, says Monisha Rajesh in the FT . Indeed, doing so is arguably an authentic choice – until 1889, the original service involved several changes; and the experience is enriched by stopping in cities along the way.

I opted for Vienna, Bucharest and Sofia, and rounded off my trip with a stay at Nagelmackers’ own Pera Palace Hotel in Istanbul, which counts Greta Garbo and Agatha Christie among its past guests. Still, the greatest delight remains the journey itself. You pass through magnificent landscapes, but equally “romantic” is the experience of gliding through cities at night, “watching curtains being drawn, hair being brushed loose, late dinners being eaten, and holding the gaze of smokers in the dark”.

See seat61.com for useful information

Climbing across the “wet, misty” mountains between Sri Lanka’s coastal capital, Colombo, and the highland city of Badulla, the Main Line is one of the world’s most spectacular railways. Now you can ride it on the Ella Odyssey , says Adrian Bridge in The Daily Telegraph – a new “tourist-friendly” service that offers “an upgraded level of comfort” and longer stops at ten of the best viewpoints along the way. Built in stages under British rule between 1858 and 1924, the line passes through forests and tea plantations, navigating steep ascents and edging around deep gorges where waterfalls plunge over “craggy” cliffs.

It’s a journey “redolent of another age”, owing to the “astonishing beauty” of the landscape, the “wonderful” sounds of the train, the “beautifully maintained” stations, and the “dainty white-bread sandwiches” served with tea in the buffet car. The seats are “smart and upholstered” even in third class, staff are plentiful and “unfailingly friendly”, and there are usually lots of chatty locals among the passengers, making for a wonderful sense of “camaraderie”.

seatreservation.railway.gov.lk

The rail journey from London to the frozen wastes of northern Scandinavia is about the same length as that to Istanbul, and it is charged with a similar spirit of adventure. You can do it both ways in three weeks with Discover the World ’s new Arctic Rail Odyssey, says Emma Thomson in Wanderlust , stopping in cities along the way including Cologne, Copenhagen, Gothenburg and Oslo on the journey out, and in Stockholm and Hamburg on the way back. The scenery is at its most spectacular on the final northwards leg, from the Norwegian port of Trondheim, across the Arctic Circle, to Bodø.

Villages huddle around rocky bays with “frostbitten piers”, pine forests peek through blankets of snow “as smooth as satin”, and sharkstooth mountains savage the sky in the “epically scenic” Lofoten Islands. Next come Kiruna and Boden in Sweden, where the activities on offer include snowmobiling, ice fishing and husky sledding, and you can stay at the “iconic” Icehotel, the Treehotel and the Arctic Bath (all of which are true to their names). Go in early spring or autumn for the northern lights, and in summer for the midnight sun. The trip costs from £4,120pp.

discover-the-world.com

Few train journeys can “literally take your breath away”, but as the Qinghai-Tibet railway peaks at more than 5,000m above sea level, “most passengers will experience some altitude sickness on this extraordinary ride”, said Condé Nast Traveller . The route connects Xining in mainland China to Lhasa in Tibet and features the “highest railway in the world”. It runs through territory “so treacherous” that it was deemed an “engineering impossibility”.

Passing some of the most stunning high mountains, this is definitely the “roof of the world”, said Nellie Huang on Lonely Planet . For centuries, Tibet was “cut off from the outside world by its remote location, extreme climate and geographic environment”. That was until the construction of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway in 2006, which connected Tibet to the rest of China.

chinatibettrain.com

With its unspoilt countryside and glorious old Buddhist temples, Laos has a quiet charm that sets it apart from its busier neighbours, Thailand and Vietnam. And this is a great time to visit, says Mark Stratton in The Times , with the opening of the Laos-China railway. This 262-mile, Chinese-funded route cuts across the country from its capital, Vientiane, to Boten, on the Chinese border.

It promises to be an economic “game-changer” for Laos ; and it makes the overland journey from Vientiane to the “petite” city of Luang Prabang (the country’s “only real tourism hotspot”) far easier. By bus, it took ten hours; now you can get there by train in a little more than two. Tickets are not available online, and are often sold out at the stations, so consider going with a tour operator, like InsideAsia Tours , that guarantees them.

Life onboard the train feels faintly “Orwellian”, with regular announcements instructing you to report “antisocial activities”. But the ride is “captivatingly scenic”, past rice paddies harrowed by buffaloes bearing wooden yokes, and “denticulated” limestone peaks that emerge from misty forests.

insideasiatours.com

Founded in 1989, South Africa-based Rovos Rail offers a range of bespoke luxury train journeys, including a spectacular 14-night “African trilogy”, nine-night golf safari and a 15-night “trail of two oceans” east-west African adventure.

Beautifully rebuilt trains carry a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 appointed suites and are also available for charter. The style is traditional, with teak-panelled suites, Victorian-style dining and a superb wine list highlighting South African wines. In the spirit of a bygone era of travel, there are no radios or TVs, and internet use is confined to travellers’ suites.

Regarded as “the world’s most luxurious train”, it feels like “a hotel on wheels”, said The Luxury Travel Expert , who journeyed on the popular three-day, 1,000-mile trip from Pretoria to Cape Town across the Karoo’s “endless desert landscapes” and the Western Cape’s “verdant valleys”. With “discreet and friendly service”, five-star cuisine and a selection of South Africa’s finest wines, Rovos Rail “harks back to a simpler, more elegant era encompassing the timeless grace and high romance of African exploration”.

Offering a range of journeys, Belmond’s Royal Scotsman train is perfect for travellers who want to enjoy the splendours of Scotland’s scenery. Journeys include the taste of the Highlands (two nights); a Scotch malt whisky tour (four nights); and clans, castles and isles (five nights).

The Royal Scotsman promises world-class dining, together with Scottish specialities, and the decor is traditional and elegant. Why not settle down in the observation car and enjoy the glens and castles as they glide by? This year Belmond announced a partnership with Dior for the Dior Spa Royal Scotsman, a “unique spa on rails”.

Writing on The Luxury Train Club , James MacPherson Ferguson of Yorba Linda Travel said the “life/bucket list” journey on the Royal Scotsman was, without question, “beyond the brochure”. This is an “enriching” experience for “all lovers of luxury travel to partake”.

belmond.com

The Seven Stars luxury sleeper service across the island of Kyushu in Japan is such a favourite with travellers that you must apply to book a journey. The island, on Japan’s southern tip, offers gorgeous scenery and a wealth of hot springs that are nurtured by the area’s volcanoes.

Carriages are beautifully furnished in a fusion of western and Japanese design. Attention to detail in the design and furnishing of each guest room is unsurpassed. There are three routes available: the Kirishima Journey (three nights, four days); the Unzen Journey (three nights, four days); and the Kyushu Tour Journey (one night, two days).

This cruise train is “meant to bring new life to train travel” and to “make the travel itself the integral part of a Kyushu vacation”, said the Japan Rail Pass blog. Plush, classic décor “harkens back to bygone days”, while the technological advancements and large, picturesque viewing windows “push the comfort of travel by train to new heights”.

cruisetrain-sevenstars.jp

The Ghan will take you on a luxurious journey to the heart of the antipodean bush in Australia. It takes 48 hours – and three nights – to travel the nearly 2,000 miles across Australia from Adelaide to Darwin. The train stops at Alice Springs, where you can take a tour by helicopter. Then return to your spacious cabin – a private lounge with deluxe seating, a table and two ottomans.

The all-inclusive fare includes gourmet meals, prepared and served in the traditionally styled Queen Adelaide restaurant car. Chefs work with local suppliers to source the best regional ingredients. Complement your meal with fine Australian wines.

Crossing Australia on The Ghan is a trip “full of laid-back luxury and endless surprises”, said Carolyne Jasinski on Escape.com.au . The itinerary is “full-on”, so “brace yourself for a busy few days”. Guests can enjoy a mix of “sitting and watching the world go by, then getting out to explore it all”.

journeybeyondrail.com.au

Covering almost 2,800 miles over four days and four nights, Via Rail’s cross-country journey is epic in proportion. The Canadian glides through the countryside, taking in stops at Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton and the Rocky Mountain town of Jasper, as well as many smaller communities. The service runs throughout the year, offering the chance to see the deep, snowy winter or the lush greenery of Canada’s summer.

Tickets on The Canadian range from economy and sleeper plus to prestige class. The most comfortable – and expensive – option is the first-class prestige ticket, which gives you a private cabin with a bed for two, private washroom with shower, and an in-cabin flat-screen monitor with video selection.

The Skyline (dome) cars offer panoramic top-floor views with windows extended to the ceiling and on-board activities in peak season include wine tasting.

On New Zealand’s South Island, the 140-mile journey from Christchurch to Greymouth offers some of the country’s most beautiful countryside and takes just under five hours. Facilities include the Scenic Cafe, open-air viewing carriage, and scenic class carriages.

Stops along the way include New Zealand’s highest settlement, the stunning Arthur’s Pass, nestled at 740m above sea level in acres of national parklands. The train meanders through the country’s Alpine region, clinging to rivers, crossing viaducts and passing through lush sub-tropical forests.

The TranzAlpine emerges from its mountainous journey in Greymouth, on New Zealand’s rugged western Tasman Sea coast. Stay an hour and catch the train back to Christchurch, or book overnight in Greymouth and explore the former mining town. One-way fares start from NZ$189 (£95).

greatjourneysnz.com

“Good morning ladies and gentlemen, we will shortly be arriving at Edinburgh Waverley train station.” It’s a bit of a surreal thing to hear in the early AM, especially when you nodded off in England, but that’s exactly what happens when you take the Caledonian Sleeper to Scotland’s capital city, said Mike Starling on TheWeek.co.uk . Departing London Euston at 11.30pm on a Sunday night, eight hours later we’re rolling into Waverley, the station located right in the heart of Edinburgh.

Caledonian Sleeper review: taking the slow train to Scotland

With air travel more problematic and guilt-inducing than enjoyable these days, the thought of taking the night train to Scotland somewhat intrigued me. As did the idea of waking up north of the border and then strolling into the centre of one of the world’s great cities. Is the Sleeper train the best way to travel between the two capitals? For me, it’s a resounding yes.

The northbound “Lowlander” route from London Euston goes to Glasgow Central as well as Edinburgh Waverley. The northbound “Highlander” route runs from London Euston and splits into three services to Fort William, Inverness and Aberdeen. From London, the Lowlander sets off as one train and stops at Watford Junction and Carlisle. It then splits into two trains at Carstairs before carrying on to Glasgow and Edinburgh.

sleeper.scot

A trip aboard the California Zephyr from Chicago to San Francisco will tell you a lot about American culture, says Anthony Sattin in Condé Nast Traveller . At 2,438 miles, and taking 51 hours, it’s also one of the longest rides in the US. “Plenty long enough for me.” It leaves at 2pm on the dot. “In the evening the Zephyr passes through the Midwest Corn Belt and crosses the Missouri River into Nebraska, and by morning the world has changed again: snow-dusted mountains crowd the horizon.” At Denver, the guard recommends that “folks de-train” to see the station. The most beautiful part of the journey, however, lies between Denver and Salt Lake City.

There, the train climbs into the mountains, “twists along rivers, cuts through sheer canyons and roars through the six-mile Moffat Tunnel”. When the lights of San Francisco, and the Pacific beyond it, finally hove into view, a plane cut across the sky, reminding Sattin that he could have flown the distance in a fraction of the time. The train, though, is better.

amtrakvacations.com

Lake Titicaca in Peru is best reached from the old Inca capital of Cuzco aboard Belmond’s luxury Andean Explorer, says Hugh Thompson in Spear’s . Leaving late in the morning, it climbs to the heights of the La Raya pass. “It harks back to a distant age of luxury train travel, sipping pisco sours in the open observatory car as we travelled through what is still a very rural part of Peru… alpaca were grazing in the fields and the maize stubble was being burnt after the harvest.”

The next day you arrive at Lake Titicaca – “a spectacular sight” at dawn, when the “quality of light over the vast expanse of high altitude water” and the low clouds passing through the stratosphere make for a wonderful sunrise. “Passengers line the quayside to watch, helped by strong cappuccinos, as the long, lean islands on the lake were silhouetted against the rising sun like emerging black submarines.

The journey from St Pölten to Mariazell in Austria is more than 78km long and lasts two and a half hours, says Wanderlust . This narrow-gauge service is officially split into two sections – valleys and mountains – and crosses one of the wildest regions of the Austrian Alps.

The valleys section stretches from St Pölten to Frankenfels, a land of “pretty grazing meadows and gentle pathways (tickets allow you to hop on and off)”, while the mountains section “climbs up through the ruggedly handsome Erlauf gorge and the peaks of Ötscher-Tormäuer Naturpark”.

Grab a first-class panorama carriage for widescreen views along the way from May to October. Heritage rail fans will love the 100-year-old Otscherbår train that runs from June to late September.

mariazellerbahn.at

Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox

A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com

Under The Radar If the process continues to get harder, it could cause problems for people trying to book tickets for popular shows

By Chas Newkey-Burden, The Week UK Published 29 April 24

Cartoons Sunday's cartoons - airline safety, teleprompter gaffs, and more

By The Week US Published 28 April 24

Cartoons Artists take on long-term pessimism, dystopian fears, and more

The Week Recommends Modern vibrancy, design legacy and ancient heritage puts Mexico's jewel alongside other art capitals of the world

By Harriet Marsden, The Week UK Published 26 February 24

The Week recommends Explore the natural beauty, windswept beaches and crystal-clear waters of Eleuthera

By The Week UK Published 28 January 24

The Week Recommends Plan your trip to the Scottish capital

By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published 13 January 24

The Week Recommends This hotel is the perfect spot to while away a weekend in Ireland's capital

By Kaye O'Doherty Published 9 January 24

The Week Recommends There's far more to Rio than just mountains, beaches, music and dance

By Tom Yarwood Published 7 January 24

The Week Recommends Featuring stylish island resorts, historical properties and wilderness retreats

By The Week UK Last updated 16 April 24

The Week Recommends The Urner Haute Route features some of the wildest terrain in the Alps

By The Week UK Last updated 2 January 24

In Depth A look at the travel trends and destinations set to drive the tourism industry

By The Week UK Published 1 January 24

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Advertise With Us

The Week is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.

• The 11 Most Astonishing Train...

These Are the Best Train Journeys in the World

It’s said that it’s all in the journey, not the destination – and while this is hard to apply to flying, it certainly is the case with train travel. Nothing tops the romanticism and window-side sightseeing opportunities of a train ride. Interest piqued? These are the greatest train journeys around the world.

Rocky mountaineer’s first passage to the west, canada.

Covering the spectacular scenery of southern British Columbia between Vancouver and Banff, the Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West is one of the most picturesque train rides in Canada . Leaving the cosmopolitan coastal city of Vancouver behind, passengers are treated to brilliant sights from the comfort of luxurious carriages, including the wild waters of Hell’s Gate in Fraser Canyon and steep tracks running alongside the Thompson River. The journey starts with an overnight stay in the lakeside city of Kamloops, before rising over the Canadian Rockies and arriving at blissful Banff.

Glacier Express, Switzerland

Connecting the two most picturesque mountain resorts in Switzerland – Zermatt and St Moritz – the Glacier Express is the most relaxing way to enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Swiss Alps. Travelling eastwards from Zermatt, the day-long trip covers 91 tunnels and 291 bridges as it rolls past the alpine meadows, pristine mountain lakes and picture-perfect hamlets of southern Switzerland. Highlights of the journey include Oberalp Pass – the highest point on the ride at 244m (6,706ft) – and the Landwasser Viaduct — a magnificent six-arch structure standing at around 61m (200ft) and plunging into a tunnel cut straight into the mountainside.

TranzAlpine, New Zealand

All aboard the TranzAlpine for a stage-side seat to the most dramatic landscape in New Zealand — the Southern Alps. Starting out in Christchurch , the TranzAlpine travels northwest through the fertile fields of the Canterbury Plains alongside the Waimakariri River, before rising up into the mountains, where it crosses the mighty Staircase Viaduct. Passing through the magnificent mountains of Arthur’s Pass National Park, the TranzAlpine chugs onwards through the subtropical rainforests of the West Coast. The journey ends in the historic former gold mining town of Greymouth.

West Highland Line, Glasgow to Mallaig, Scotland

The West Highland Line is an excellent way to experience the wild, western coast of Scotland as it travels through the most diverse scenery in the country. Once the train leaves Glasgow – the most populated city in Scotland– the urban landscape quickly succumbs to verdant glens and tranquil lochs. Heading northwards, the West Highland Line passes through the remote wilderness of Rannoch Moor, before skirting the towering Ben Nevis and touching down in Fort William. Switching direction and moving westwards, the train then traverses the Glenfinnan Viaduct (featured in the Harry Potter film series) prior to arriving at the bustling port of Mallaig.

The Ghan, Australia

The Outback of Australia is home to some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on the planet – and The Ghan offers travellers the opportunity to experience this landscape in pure luxury. Cutting a path directly through the fiery red centre of Australia, The Ghan travels 2,797km (1,846mi) from Darwin in the north to Adelaide. It takes passengers from the lush, tropical coast of the Northern Territory via the red rocks of the MacDonnell Ranges and onto the fertile plains of South Australia. A trip on The Ghan also features off-train excursions, including a leisurely boat tour of Nitmiluk Gorge and a trip to the unique desert town of Alice Springs.

Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

The Trans-Siberian Railway is among the longest rail routes in the world, running for 9,289km (5,772mi). Starting at the westward terminus in Moscow, the Trans-Siberian crosses over the Ural Mountains and through dense Siberian forest. It spans the entire width of Russia and connects the capital with Vladivostok in the east. The seven-day journey takes passengers by landmarks including the magnificent 984m (3,227ft) bridge that crosses the River Ob at Novosibirsk (the third-largest city in Russia) and the incredible blue waters of Lake Baikal, the largest freshwater lake by volume in the world.

The Flåm Railway, Norway

At just an hour long, the Flåm Railway may not be the grandest of journeys, but it’s certainly among the most picturesque. In fact, it’s one of top attractions in Norway and is frequently hailed as one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. The railway rises 863m (2,831ft) from the starting point in the tiny village of Flåm in the Sognefjord (making it one of the steepest rail routes in Europe), and passes by deep ravines, cascading waterfalls and towering peaks to the mountaintop station of Myrdal. The Flåm Railway is most magical in the colder months when a blanket of snow turns the landscape into a winter wonderland.

Rovos Rail’s Namibia Safari, South Africa

Rovos Rail’s Namibia Safari, a luxury train trek spanning some 3,219km (2,000mi), passes some of the most spectacular scenery the Southern African region has to offer. The train departs from Pretoria and takes passengers into Kimberley – a former diamond-rush town that’s home to Big Hole, one of the largest hand-dug mines in the world. It then traverses the Northern Cape and Fish River Canyon. As it moves onwards into the Kalahari Desert, the train visits Windhoek – the lively capital of Namibia – before crossing the Namib Desert and finishing at Swakopmund. This last stop is a perfectly preserved German Hansa town on the Namibian coast.

Belmond Hiram Bingham, Peru

See the Unesco-protected Machu Picchu a different way from the Belmond Hiram Bingham. This train ride travels through the most romantic scenery in Peru , and ends at the ancient Inca ruins, high in the Andes Mountains. It starts from the ancient city of Cusco, before traversing the Sacred Valley of the Incas (a stunning vale formed by the winding Urubamba River), and passing through the tiny village of Ollantaytambo.

Golden Eagle Danube Express, Istanbul to Budapest

Traverse from Istanbul to Budapest on this epic route through four countries. You’ll start in Turkey with a chance to see the Blue Mosque, before wending through Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary over seven days. The highlight for some, particularly literary fans, will be the views of 14th-century Bran Castle – also known as Dracula’s Castle – in Brasov, Romania.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado, USA

The coal-fired Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is the one for history buffs. It was originally constructed as a means of hauling silver and gold from the San Juan Mountains in Colorado, and has been in continuous operation since it was completed in 1882. Now, the railroad allows passengers to enjoy the same incredible journey taken by Old West miners and settlers more than a century ago. The 72km (45mi) route moves alongside the Animas River, winding through the remote wilderness and fabulous canyons of San Juan National Forest.

Bangkok to Nam Tok, Thailand

It may be nicknamed The Death Railway, due to its dark World War II roots, but don’t be fooled by the misleading moniker of this section of the Thailand-Burma railway. Over 402km (250mi) of Thai railroad track will tempt travellers with a fantastic journey from Bangkok to Nam Tok. Trudging deep into the jungle, the train rattles along wooden trestles, waving to vibrant stations and batting away low-hanging branches. Though this route is a sombre one, travellers can learn more about the tragic history of the railway in Kanchanaburi, just west of Bangkok.

Cannes, France, to Ventimiglia, Italy

Train travel often caters to slow travel, but for those who are short on time, the Riviera Railway is ideal. Travellers are transported from Cannes, France to Ventimiglia, Italy, in under two hours with spectacular views of the Mediterranean. Shutterbugs will love snapping shots of the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, while country-counters can conveniently check Monaco off their list. When the train rolls to a stop in Ventimiglia, ancient Roman sites and sun-soaked beaches await.

Hanoi to Da Nang, Vietnam

The capital city of Vietnam is rich with culture, but visitors would be remiss if they didn’t take advantage of the diverse scenery offered via the Reunification Express. Though one could ride the rails all the way to Ho Chi Minh City, the stretch leading to Da Nang is a wondrous journey in itself. Miles under the jungle canopy are juxtaposed with intimate views of villages and jaw-dropping cliffside glimpses of the South China Sea. Da Nang awaits with French colonial architecture and century-old pagodas.

Xining to Lhasa, China

Mountain climbers and locomotive lovers should set their sights on the Qinghai-Tibet railway. Scaling up the mountainside to around 5,000m (16,404ft) above sea level, this route is home to the highest section of railway in the world. Passengers shouldn’t be surprised if they are left breathless by the temples, wildlife and snow-capped mountain tops – thankfully, purified oxygen is pumped into each train compartment to help with any altitude sickness.

Mumbai to Madgaon, India

There are few better ways to spend the day along the Konkan Coast of India than on the Mandovi Express. This half-day train ride from Mumbai to Madgaon may consume other breakfast, lunch and dinner plans, but it’s well worth the trip for those with an appetite for indulging in one of the finest routes offered by Indian Railways. The Mandovi Express has a reputation for serving great regional cuisine (at an extra cost) throughout the 12-hour journey. Between quaint countryside views and flavourful meals, travellers will disembark with a full stomach and a full camera roll. Nick Dauk contributed additional reporting.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Guides & Tips

Five places that look even more beautiful covered in snow.

The Best Trips for Sampling Amazing Mediterranean Food

The Best Places to Travel in May 2024

The Best Private Trips to Book in Europe

The Best European Trips for Foodies

The Best Rail Trips to Take in Europe

The Best Places in Europe to Visit in 2024

The Best Private Trips to Book With Your Support Group

Places to Stay

The best private trips to book for your classical studies class.

The Best Private Trips to Book for Your Religious Studies Class

The Best Places to Travel in August 2024

The Best Private Trips to Book in Southern Europe

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 408850
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Bus and Train Travel

13 Most Scenic Train Rides in the World

Take a journey through some of the world's most beautiful landscapes with these scenic train rides, from the Rocky Mountains to the Swiss Alps.

There's never been a better time to explore the world by rail. Some of the world's most scenic train rides were created mainly to take passengers through beautiful, perhaps inaccessible locales, while others connect cities and towns, replacing air travel for shorter trips with convenient downtown stations and frequent schedules. On some trains, the beauty of the interior décor rivals that of the passing scenery, and many train stations are destinations in themselves, with art, vintage architecture, gourmet dining, and classic cocktail venues. Here are 13 of the most scenic train journeys around the world, from Japan to the United Kingdom.

Pacific Surfliner, United States

This Amtrak route hugs the Pacific Coast starting from San Luis Obispo, where you can explore the lively college town or venture out to nearby wineries or a historic mission. From there, ride in comfort for 350 miles of ocean views with beaches, rocky coastline, quaint towns, and little between you and the blue Pacific. In San Diego, visit Balboa Park museums or dine in Little Italy or the Gaslamp Quarter. If time allows, take advantage of train stations along the way that are within walking distance of local attractions. In Santa Barbara, head to the nearby beach or Funk Zone , an artsy collection of boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, or sample California wines as you stroll and sip through the Urban Wine Trail. Union Station in Los Angeles is a destination in itself with historic art and décor, or venture out to Downtown L.A. or the Mexican markets on Olvera Street . Dine or enjoy a cocktail at Traxx while you wait to board for your next adventure.

The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland

Starting in the Scottish Highlands town of Fort William near Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, this 84-mile round-trip train journey winds through green hills, crystal blue lochs, deep valleys, and quaint villages. A highlight of the trip is the crossing of the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct with its graceful curves and towering columns, overlooking Loch Shiel and the Jacobite monument. Harry Potter fans will recognize this view as well as the steam engine and carriages which became the Hogwarts Express, courtesy of West Coast Railways which operates the Jacobite. The train stops briefly at Glenfinnan Station and then passes the lovely towns of Lochailort, Arisaig, and Morar. At the last stop in Mallaig on Scotland’s west coast, passengers have about an hour and a half to explore before the return trip to Fort William. The Jacobite Steam Train runs from April to October, and purchasing tickets in advance is recommended.

Napa Valley Wine Train, United States

Riding through rows of grapevines, across farmland, and past picturesque wineries with a backdrop of green hills is one of the pleasures of the 36-mile round-trip journey from downtown Napa to St. Helena. Board in an industrial section of Napa and enjoy views of the town’s outdoor contemporary art with murals, sculpture, landscaping, and parks promoted by Rail Arts District Napa . Continue through the towns of Yountville, Rutherford, and Oakville with gourmet meals and wines to enhance the journey. It’s a convenient and safe way to explore and taste wines, with a variety of stops and winery tours available. The train cars themselves are part of the fun, adding to the vintage feel of train travel. Mahogany paneling, polished brass, opulent fabrics, and etched glass partitions were just a few additions in the extensive renovation of the historic cars.

Grand Canyon Railway, United States

This 130-mile round-trip journey begins about 30 miles west of Flagstaff in Williams, Arizona and heads north to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park . On the way, passengers are encouraged to get into the Old West spirit with musical entertainment, cowboy characters, and other surprises while the terrain changes from the Ponderosa pine forest of Williams to open prairie and back to Pinion pines near the Grand Canyon. In addition to the spectacular landscape, guests might spot wildlife that includes elk, mountain lions, deer, bald eagles, owls, and California condors. The daily departure time is 9:30 a.m., and the trip takes two hours and 15 minutes. Visitors have about three hours to explore the South Rim, starting with the historic Grand Canyon Depot dating back to 1910. Guests can enjoy ranger programs, a scenic walk along Hermit Road or the Rim Trail, the El Tovar Hotel, and magnificent views in every direction.

The Chepe Express, Mexico

This journey crosses some of Mexico’s most spectacular terrain, much of it inaccessible by other means. Said to be four times the size of the Grand Canyon, Copper Canyon in the northwest state of Chihuahua is actually several canyons, the deepest at 6,167 feet. The length of the ride depends on where you board, but the trip on the Chepe Express from Los Mochis near the west coast to inland Creel will be about nine hours. Opened in 1961 after several decades of construction, the train crosses 37 bridges and passes through 86 tunnels. The landscape includes rugged terrain, mountains, gorges, deep ravines, and even agricultural areas. A few tips: Book your trip in advance or use a tour company to arrange your visit. When heading eastward, sit on the right side of the train for the best views.

Metro-North Railroad Hudson Line, United States

This commuter train originates in New York City’s Grand Central Terminal and travels along the eastern shore of the Hudson River to Poughkeepsie. The trip takes about two hours and passes through historic towns with views of the river, forests, and stately mansions. While daily commuters might take the scenery for granted, sightseers can enjoy the beautiful round-trip journey for less than $50. Heading north out of Manhattan’s Grand Central Terminal — a must-see destination in itself — the train passes Yankee Stadium in the borough of the Bronx and continues along the river through towns well worth the time to stop and visit. Beacon is a walkable artist community offering galleries, boutiques, and the Dia Beacon contemporary art museum. The river and its lush surroundings attracted wealthy individuals to build fabulous mansions, many of which are open for tours. These include Boscobel in Garrison, Kykuit in Sleepy Hollow , Springwood in Tarrytown, the Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park, and Locust Grove in Poughkeepsie. Check tour hours before stopping, and for the best views, sit on the train’s left heading north.

Kuranda Scenic Railway, Australia

This journey takes guests through one of the world’s oldest rainforests in Queensland, Australia. The two-hour trip begins in Cairns and passes scenery that includes trees, waterfalls, mountains, and ravines. Barron Gorge, one of Queensland’s most popular national parks, can be viewed from the train or by driving a short distance from Kuranda at the end of the train line. In Kuranda, guests can shop for locally made art and handicrafts or stop at a café. A bird aviary, butterfly sanctuary, and reptile park are other attractions. Historic Kuranda Station, over 100 years old, is part of the experience, too. Some visitors choose to take the railway in one direction and the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway in the other to fully experience the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

Glacier Express, Switzerland

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

This train travels between Zermatt and St. Moritz , Switzerland, through the Swiss Alps with breathtaking views of mountains, streams, and quaint towns. Starting in the mountain village of Zermatt near the Matterhorn, the journey continues past rocky peaks, crossing the Rhone into the Upper Rhone Valley. The Oberalp Pass, near the source of the Rhine River, is the highest point of the trip at nearly 7,000 feet. From there, the train descends along the Rhine Valley with one of the most dramatic views of the trip, the Rhine Gorge, sometimes called the “Grand Canyon of Switzerland.” Continuing south through a narrow valley and through the Albula tunnel, the eight-hour journey ends in St. Moritz, Switzerland’s elegant vacation resort city. The train’s panoramic windows make viewing easy, and headphones are provided for narration. Several classes of service are available, and there’s a snack trolley, full meals, and an onboard bar. With an Excellence Class ticket, exclusive amenities include a premium multi-course meal with local wines and a special seating area.

TranzAlpine Train, New Zeland

The four-and-a-half-hour journey between Christchurch and Greymouth on New Zealand’s South Island is run once daily by KiwiRail as one of their Great Journeys of New Zealand. Departing Christchurch at 8:15 a.m., the train passes through farmland, past sheep and cattle, and then on towards the Southern Alps. After about an hour, the climb into the mountains begins, across steel bridges over deep gorges and through short tunnels. There’s a short stop at Arthur's Pass station and then a trip through one of New Zealand’s longest tunnels, over a deep valley, and across another river with views of waterfalls. After a one-hour stop in the small town of Greymouth, the train returns to Christchurch, making the coast-to-coast round trip about an 11-hour journey. Reclining seats, panoramic windows, and skylights make the ride comfortable and rewarding. The café offers food, snacks, beer, wine, and spirits. Heading to Greymouth, the best views are on the right side of the train.

Kandy to Ella, Sri Lanka

This seven-hour trip takes passengers through remote villages, past waterfalls and lush green hills, and through the tea plantations for which the country is known. Originally built by the British in the late 1800s, Sri Lanka’s rail system was originally used to transport tea and coffee for export. Now, the train is a favorite way to explore the country, view the varied scenery, and observe villages and local people along the way. Ella is a hill country village, worth exploring before you board or when you arrive. Kandy, located in central Sri Lanka, is larger with sacred Buddhist shrines and scenic Kandy Lake. Most of the trains offer first-class observation cars with air conditioning, and some provide sleeping berths and reserved seats. From Kandy, the better views are on the right side. Tickets are available at train stations throughout the country, and the schedule can be checked online .

Rocky Mountaineer Rockies to the Red Rocks, United States

Courtesy of Rocky Mountaineer

Rocky Mountaineer offers four scenic train routes through some of North America’s most stunning landscapes, complete with luxurious cars outfitted with glass dome windows. The Rockies to the Red Rocks route travels between Moab, Utah and Denver, Colorado, with a stop in Glenwood Springs, where you’ll spend the night to break up the trip. Throughout the two-day journey, you can enjoy incredible views while traveling along canyons, mountains, and rivers and enjoying the food and beverage service on board.

Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan

Hirokazu Fukushima/Courtesy of Kyushu Railway Company

Travel around the lush Japanese island of Kyushu in comfort on the Seven Stars in Kyushu train from Kyushu Railway Company. The “ Seven Stars ” name isn’t just a sign of high-quality service; according to the website, it represents the seven-car train, the seven prefectures of Kyushu, and the seven major attractions of the island "nature; food; onsen (hot springs); history and culture; 'power spots' to refresh the mind, body, and soul; humanity; and trains." Pick from four-day, three-night or two-day, one-night journeys that begin and end in Hakata.

Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train, United States

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Take in views of the icy Alaska wilderness aboard Alaska Railroad’s Aurora Winter Train . As you might have guessed from the name, this route gives passengers the exciting opportunity to look for the northern lights once they arrive in Fairbanks, the train’s final destination. The 12-hour journey from Anchorage is long, but large picture windows and comfortable seats make for a cozy spot to sit and watch the frozen scenery pass by.

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

10 of the best train journeys in Europe, chosen by Lonely Planet

A new book on rail travel across the continent showcases gorgeous scenery, historic routes and adventures at a slower pace

R ailways in Europe are many things. With their grand stations, history and evocative destinations, they evoke a timelessness that is absent from the uniform experience of flying. In recent decades, high-speed services have complemented classic routes, while the demand for more climate-friendly travel has grown and new options have sprung up, including a recent wave of night trains.

Lonely Planet, which for nearly 50 years has championed a down-to-earth, connected style of travel, has produced a new Guide to Train Travel in Europe aimed at unlocking adventures by rail from any starting point on the continent. Here the authors pick fantastic journeys from the book.

Paris to Berlin – fast or slow

A well-established network of high-speed trains and a huge choice of slower options connects two of Europe’s great cities. A glorious three-country tour would allow you to head from Paris to Brussels, travelling on to Cologne via the space-age architecture of Liège-Guillemins station. Cologne’s cathedral is so close to the station you can hardly miss popping in before boarding an onward ICE German fast service to the capital, which takes less than five hours. To see more than the immediate surroundings of the station buildings in each city, book separate tickets for each leg at trainline.com , or add in a stop of a few hours or an overnight booking via Deutsche Bahn ( bahn.de ). A high-speed connection from Paris via Frankfurt is also possible.

Amsterdam to Vienna on the Nightjet

One of several recent additions to Europe’s sleeper train scene, the Nightjet service operated by Austrian Railways ( oebb.at ) departs every evening at 7pm or 7.30pm from Amsterdam. As you doze off, the train will trundle alongside the Rhine, passing Cologne and Koblenz, then continuing south-east through Germany and entering Austria at Passau. A 9.19am arrival in Vienna ensures time for a lie-in and breakfast. This train can easily be combined with the Eurostar service from London or a ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam , or from Harwich to Hoek van Holland .

Loop the loop in North Wales

Some of the world’s most beautiful narrow-gauge railways can be found in Wales and two of the best can be combined in a loop that takes in the mountains and coastal scenery of Snowdonia. Catch a service from Llandudno Junction – which has main line connections – down the Conwy valley to Blaenau Ffestiniog . Change for the celebrated Ffestiniog Railway , a distinctive steam-hauled service that winds 13 miles down to the coast at Porthmadog. Return via the sublime steam service of the Welsh Highland Railway under the summit of Snowdon to Caernarfon, where you can catch a bus to Bangor and main line services.

From Bastia to Ajaccio through the Corsican interior

The Chemins de Fer de la Corse ( Corsican Railways ) is a narrow-gauge railway centred on Ponte Leccia – from where three main lines head to Ajaccio, Bastia and Calvi, all providing incredible views of beautiful and rugged terrain. The route linking Ajaccio and Bastia is the longest and most celebrated, taking three and a half hours, so is best done with an overnight stop, rather than attempted as a day trip. Corsica is well served by ferries from mainland France such as Toulon, Marseille and Nice, opening up a tempting train-and-ferry route from the UK.

Dublin to Madrid by train and ferry

It is possible to head from Dublin direct to mainland Europe. A largely single-track line skirts the Irish Sea heading south as far as Wicklow before veering inland and stopping in the appealing county town of Wexford, set on the estuary of the River Slaney. It’s a short hop along the tracks from there to the port of Rosslare for the twice-weekly ferries to Bilbao , which take about 30 hours. Then it’s a five-hour rail journey on to Madrid. Recommended stops take in Burgos’s treasured cathedral, the former Spanish capital of Valladolid and Segovia’s Roman aqueduct and Alcázar fortress.

Venice to Palermo – across the water in Italy

Heading from top to toe in Italy, this dramatic journey’s potential stopping points need no introduction. Fast Frecciarossa trains connect Venice to the gastronomic centre of Bologna in 90 minutes, with Florence 40 minutes down the line. An hour and a half further on you’re in Rome. From here the south of Italy opens up. For one of Europe’s most unusual rail experiences take a train service all the way to Sicily. At Villa San Giovanni in Calabria, you and your carriage board a dedicated ferry to Messina, in Sicily, from where the hectic fun of Palermo is a slow-rolling four and a half hours’ ride away along the coast. There are several daily intercity and night services that run from the mainland, via the ferry, through to the Sicilian capital including sleepers direct from Milan, Genoa and Pisa.

From coast to coast, via a mountain high – Oslo to Bergen

A contender for Europe’s best train trip, the Bergen Line ( Bergensbanen ) thunders past southern Norway’s mountains and lakes between Oslo and Bergen, reaching 1,222m at Finse station, where a snowball fight is generally on offer. The trip takes nearly seven hours, which passes quickly in a blur of incredible scenery on a comfortable intercity service. There’s scope to do a longer version of this route taking the Norway in a Nutshell tour, which includes the Flåm Railway – possibly the world’s most scenic branch line – and a boat journey through Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord.

Paris to Barcelona on the slow train

These cities are linked by a fast train , but there’s a leisurely route south through France to the Pyrenees via Limoges, Toulouse and through magnificent rural and mountain scenery to Latour-de-Carol. While it’s possible to reach Latour-de-Carol by direct night train from Paris, you would miss the slowly unfolding views you can enjoy when doing this journey in daylight. From Latour-de-Carol a commuter line runs all the way to Barcelona and takes just over three hours. Possible stops along the way include fortified Ribes de Freser and Ripoll, home to an ancient monastery and a good starting point for hiking trails.

Budapest to Split on a sleeper

During the summer there’s a tempting night service between Hungary’s capital and the Adriatic. In recent years the train has left Budapest at midnight, getting into Split after lunch. En route it passes the Hungarian holiday playground of Lake Balaton and Zagreb, Croatia’s capital. Once on the Adriatic coast, buses head south to Dubrovnik, while ferries and catamarans radiate out to nearby islands.

Locarno to Domodossola through the Swiss Alps

Pretty much any journey in Switzerland promises jaw-dropping scenery, and on several routes trains run slowly specifically to show off the mountains, rivers and lakes that can be seen from the window. Travelling between Locarno in Switzerland to Domodossola in the Piedmont region of Italy, the Centovalli (Hundred Valleys) Railway is a short but scenic service past 52km of waterfalls, chestnut groves, church-topped villages, deep ravines and vineyards. Highlights include the Isorno Bridge near the village of Intragna and Intragna’s gorge.

These routes, plus tips on rail travel, are featured in Lonely Planet’s Guide to Train Travel in Europe by Tom Hall, Imogen Hall and Oliver Smith (£19.99), available at shop.lonelyplanet.com

• Europe holidays
• Rail travel

Most viewed

Kelly Prince Writes

Travel | April 19th, 2024

Most magical train journeys around the world

Have you ever dreamed of travelling the world by train? Or how about discovering the most magical train journeys around the world?

I remember watching White Christmas as a kid and seeing them travel by train all the way up to the fictional town of Pine Tree, Vermont. It had me hooked on the concept or train travel! Growing up in the states, this is simply not the way any of us would ever travel.

Now as a full time travelling adult, I am grateful to fulfil the dreams of younger me by getting to travel on some of the absolutely amazing, most magical train journeys around the world. I have so many wonderful train journeys on my list and I cannot wait to explore and adventure to as many as I can.

The criteria for a magical train journey includes: incredible scenery, destinations and a once in a lifetime onboard experience. As I make my way around the world finding the best and most magical train journeys, I’ll continue to add to this list, but for now, read on for some of my favourites.

The Glacier Express train journey through the snowy Swiss mountains

St. moritz to zermatt, switzerland.

The Glacier Express in Switzerland is a serious bucket list travel moment… and so was buying the most  expensive  train journey tickets of my life.

As a massive fan of winter and all things that remind me of real life Narnia or Hogwarts, it should come as no surprise that booking what is easily described as a magical wonderland journey through the Swiss mountains. Well, seats in the Excellence Class on the Glacier Express is right up there in my top “must-do” things in my lifetime.

Excellence Class seats on the train guarantee a window seat and stunning panoramic views. You will be travelling over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels between St. Moritz and Zermatt and having a window seat to witness it all is imperative. Of course, a seven course meal including wine with each course doesn’t hurt either.

So our grand total for two tickets from Chur to Brig in Excellence Class was CHF 884.00 or £720. I won’t pretend this isn’t an expensive experience. But that’s why they call it bucket list travel, after all? It’s an entire experience and it’s a treat. Something you wouldn’t do every time you go somewhere, but something very special that I will always remember.

And don’t forget, Excellence Class is not the only option. There are several difference carriages along the Glacier Express, so you can still journey along for slightly cheaper ticket prices. It is still an expensive journey either way, so we decided to splurge with our tickets on this occasion.

You can learn all about how to book The Glacier Express train in my detailed blog post here.

The famous Hogwarts Express train journey

The jacobite steam train, scottish highlands , scotland.

Did you know that you can actually buy tickets and ride on the Hogwarts Express in real life? So it’s not exactly called The Hogwarts Express in the real world. Located in the Scottish Highlands, in Fort William, there is a train line called West Coast Railways who run an old school train service featuring “The Jacobite” steam train.

In fact, the Harry Potter movies filmed using The Jacobite steam train as the Hogwarts Express! And along the journey, you will even pass other famous Harry Potter film locations, like  the famous “bridge” the Glenfinnan Viaduct  as well as Loch Eilt which is the final resting place for Albus Dumbledore.

I would recommend buying the  Standard  seats.  Standard seats on The Jacobite cost roughly £50  per ticket (this is what we had for our journey. They also offer First Class Tickets (£72 per ticket) and even those with a private table which are £180 (total for two tickets). Lastly, you can book out the Compartments which are very Harry Potter-esque train compartments that you can book out entirely. Think what you see in the first few films when they board the train, those private sliding door style compartments.

But truthfully, all of the carriages feel just like you’re stepping straight onto The Hogwarts Express! So I think it’s best to go for the cheaper option. It’s not like Harry, Ron and Hermione were travelling to Hogwarts in First Class after all.

You can learn all about how to book The Jacobite Steam Train in my detailed blog post here.

An overnight sleeper train on the Caledonian Sleeper

London euston to scotland.

My very first experience on an overnight train ! The novelty of doing this is so beyond incredible. I cannot recommend this experience enough for those after unique travel journeys.

From London Euston to Fort William, the Caledonian Sleeper is an overnight train that takes you on an adventure up through the United Kingdom. I had the pleasure of working with the Caledonian Sleeper on a journey from London to the Scottish Highlands.

We boarded the Caledonian Sleeper and found our Club Twin room. The rooms are cosy! The beds are also ridiculously comfortable which is worth nothing for your comfort.

The train journey up to Fort William takes 13 hours. However, there are also many stops along the way or routes that are available to take. You could get the train from London to Edinburgh, Inverness, Fort William, Glasgow, or Aberdeen.

Throughout the journey depending on you room, you will also have access to the club car. This is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal and watch the world go by. Pro tip? Book your travel for the summertime! Because it’s light so late out during peak summer months, you can see so much more of the scenery. 

The Scottish Highlands are absolutely breathtaking. My advice would be to wake up early and take the sight in with coffee and breakfast in the club car. We booked our breakfast very early so we could soak it all in.

Happy train travels everyone!

Until next time, with another train journey adventure to be had and another destination to explore…

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

World Travel

25 of The World’s Most Amazing Train Journeys

Last Updated: April 14, 2023

great train journeys around the world

1. venice simplon-orient express, europe.

This express has been immortalized in cinema and by royal patronage. It was built in the early 20th-century and is an ode to the elegance of the times. It still offers impeccable service on its rather scenic journey via Venice, Paris, Vienna and Budapest, Copenhagen and Stockholm.

2. The Trans-Siberian Train, Russia

The Trans-Siberian is a 10,555 km long ride from Moscow to the Pacific port of Vladivostok across tundra and forest. $1 billion was spent to upgrade this route. The train offers both pricey private compartments and cheap 40-bed carriages, along with endless refreshments for all.

3. The Canadian

This cross-continent, 4466-kilometer, 4-day rail journey between Toronto and Vancouver is a real joy. You’ll enjoy fabulous views of green forests surrounding blue lakes and distant cloud-topped prairies. The glaciers of the Rocky Mountains are a compelling sight, as are the waterfalls at Jasper. As for wildlife, the occasional bear, elk, and deer are definite.

4.The Amtrak Surfliner, Carpinteria, Southern California

This train takes you from San Luis Obispo to San Diego, hugging the blissful Pacific Coast Highway. It stops at the architecturally magnificent Union Station and then through Los Angeles’s urban sprawl before hitting the coast. As it goes, you get stunning views of the ocean. Before reaching San Diego, the train passes the coastal beauties of Oceanside, Solana Beach, and Del Mar.

5. Hiram Bingham Express, Peru

The lovely blue and gold train looks travel between Poroy, near Cuzco, and Machu Picchu in Peru, passing the most enchanting scenery. Enjoy the amazing panoramic views of the Urumbamba River and the Andes ranges. Wild llama herds cross the train route as you pass quaint old villages. Get ready for classy gourmet meals including champagne for breakfast, as you journey towards the famous Incan ruins.

6.Glacier Express, Switzerland

Even though this train moves slowly, the mountain scenery makes up for it. The seven-hour journey from St. Moritz and Zermatt alpine resorts goes through 291 bridges and 90 tunnels. Deep gorges, high peaks, plunging valleys, and endless flower-filled meadows are on the way. During winter, the views offer a winter-white wonderland of delights. While the train journey is impressive, the best places to visit in Switzerland are even more beautiful when explored on the spot!

7. Nice-Cuneo Line, France

The Cuneo-Ventimiglia-Nice line connects the Italian Riviera and Piedmont with the magnificent South of France. The 3.5-hour journey is a treat for the eyes. From the tall and majestic Alps you will journey down to sea level, and cross tunnels, viaducts, and gorges along the Côte d’Azur. Watch enchanting Alpine villages and medieval Italian towns pass by, as you take in the beautiful Provencal landscape.

8.Palace On Wheels, India

The Palace on Wheels used to be royal transport. Today, the train serves sumptuous food, served by servants attired as royal staff. The train journeys from Delhi and passes through glorious Jaipur, Jodhpur, Agra, and other cities before returning to Delhi. The train stops for several hours at each sightseeing spot, such as the Ranthambore National Park, the Taj Mahal and the palaces of Rajasthan. Just like this splendid train journey, your journey to India will be unforgettable. Avail yourself of the  India tourist visa  and get lost in the land of culture and diversity.

9. The Ghan, Australia

This train journeys from Adelaide to Darwin, stopping at Alice Springs and Katherine. The great outback of Australia lies in between. The train also takes you to Coober Pedy, where you can watch opals being mined. If you are a platinum traveler, you can enjoy the journey in a Platinum Club luxury lounge and a dining carriage. As you travel along the most epic scenery, an entire exploration of the country offers more than just what you see, and with its easy access to an  Australia visa , you are good to make some memories for a lifetime.

10. Rovos Rail, Africa

This delightful luxury train journeys through Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania, taking the Garden Route. The train carries no more than 72 passengers at a time. The service is top-notch, including Victorian-style bathrooms and lounges with wood-paneling. It follows several routes, both short and long journeys. There’s a 14-day route from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam, passing some exclusive scenery and wildlife on the way.

11.Flamsbana, Norway

This is one of the most picturesque journeys you could take. The train was built to provide better rail access to Oslo and Bergen in the 1920s. The spectacular views of the tall Norwegian mountains and the delightful fjords are fabulous. The train winds its way through hush tunnels behind roaring waterfalls and curves around the hairpin bend as it navigates the steep descent to Norway.

12. The Eastern Express, Turkey

The Eastern (Doğu) Express journeys from Ankara to Kars, passing the stunning Euphrates River along the way. The train goes through vibrantly green valleys and long tunnels, coming out suddenly to face another beautiful valley. The entire journey is a treat for the eyes and a rest for the soul. Turkey is a splendid place to visit, and with its  Turkey visit visa , you get access to experience and enjoy this wonderful land while learning about the local lifestyle of the country.

13. Tokyo To Sapporo, Japan

From busy Tokyo, one bullet train rushes you into the winter wonderland of Honshu Island. Then the next bullet zips you to Hokkaido, whipping through the world’s longest underwater tunnel, the Seikan tunnel. The final leg of the journey is on another bullet, which zips past a mountain still growing and pristine blue lakes to arrive at the city of Sapporo.

14. Silk Road Train, Western China

Incredible old-world scenery of old mountains on one side and the desert on the other – that’s what awaits you on this journey from Turpan to Kashgar. It’s literally a journey from China’s lowest point to the border of Kazakhstan, all 1,000 kilometers of it on the old Silk Road. The yellows and browns of the passing scenes slowly give way to red, blue, purple and finally black as the night falls.

15. The Death Valley Railway, Thailand

The Death Railway embraces a long-said history of its establishment, which led to its name, with a fascinating story (creepy too). It is a beautiful yet sombre journey that you can still experience along a remnant segment from Bangkok Thonburi station to Nam Tok station in Kanchanaburi. The train runs through the jungle twice daily, brushing up against rainy branches and scattering twigs and aisles. Passing through the infamous bridge on the River Kwai, the train hoots its arrival at its destined location.

16. The Sunset Limited, USA

The Sunset Limited is the oldest named train in America and takes just under two days to journey through the Deep South from New Orleans to Los Angeles. Try to reserve your seat in the scenic viewing car and enjoy the various pieces of American society, from musicians, teachers, Amish carpenters, and retirees to farmers, railroaders, and runaways. You’ll have plenty of time to take in every moment and every slice of life that passes you by until you arrive at your destination.

17. The Mandovi Express, India

The Mandovi Express travels from Mumbai to Madgaon, which covers India’s wonderful Konkan region. With its doors wide open and the warm sea breeze wafting up the aisles, the train embarks on a 12-hour journey to wind its way down the Arabian Sea, shimmering on one side while the spectacular Sahyadri Hills roll on the other. The train blasts through the city’s interiors and out to the countryside while clattering across over 2,000 bridges to the lines flanked by coconut groves and palm trees in Goa.

18. The Reunification Express, Vietnam

The Reunification Express routes the length of the country, starting in Hanoi and going down to Ho Chi Minh City, a city in the south. However, the finest segment lies in the first half of the path to Da Nang. The train was severely battered and bruised by American attacks throughout the Vietnam War but rebuilt itself and resumed its journey after the country’s reunification in 1976. Tracking in the depths of the city, the journey offers splendid vistas, climbing for miles through the steeps and lows of jungles, falling into the shimmering stars of the night, and emerging into glorious sunshine the following morning.

19. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway, China

While few train journeys offer experiences worth rejoicing in, the Qinghai-Tibet railway peaks at more than 5,000 metres above sea level! Most passengers cannot handle the extraordinary heights of this ride. Starting from Xining in mainland China and ending in Lhasa in Tibet, this highest railway in the world paves its way through a precarious land once reckoned as an engineering impossibility.

20. Tranzalpine Rail

Embarking from the garden-loving city of Christchurch, New Zealand, to the ultimate destination of Greymouth, the Tranzalpine Rail crosses the south island of New Zealand in around four and a half hours. The route offers stunning views of the Canterbury plain, lovely farmland, and the Waimakiriri River. Your journey will be followed by dramatic alpine viaducts leading to Arthur’s Pass.

21. The Hershey Electric Railway, Southern America

Found in Havana, this remarkable railway journey runs over 57 miles, linking Havana’s Casablanca Station (which can be reached via ferry with a ride across the harbour from Habana Vieja) and passing through the farming villages and small towns all the way to Manataz, granting incredible vistas of Cuba. This line allows one to travel with and meet local Cubans and experience their rural way of life.

22. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India

You would never want to miss this voyage if you are in India. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is one of the best train journeys in the world, with breathtaking scenery and Victorian-era locomotives. The train climbs around 6500 feet from the sweltering plains of India near Kolkata, entering the fresh breeze of the Raj Hill plateau at Darjeeling. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway isn’t just for tourism; it also operates as a vital mode of transport for local villages home and away on its 50-mile journey.

23. California Zephyr

The California Zephyr is an epic railway journey from the American Midwest to the West Coast. Much of your trip on this train runs along the seemingly endless cornfields (not precisely, but it is truly refreshing to gaze at this wonderful sight for a few hours). Once you hit Denver, your journey will run alongside the Colorado River, crossing the Rocky Mountains and the Ruby Canyon as you head towards San Francisco.

24. The Train to the Arctic Circle, Europe

Okay, wrap every cozy thing you have since we are setting off to the Arctic Circle. Europe’s most northerly journey takes you from Stockholm to the port of Narvik in northern Norway, which is near the Lofoten Islands. Experience a chilly yet warming journey by mingling with locals and tourists while feasting your stomach on reindeer stew and mashed potatoes. You will really appreciate this hot meal in this chilly weather.

25. Fort William to Mallaig, UK

The train is extremely fortunate, having been saved from closure in the 1960s and going on to become one of Britain’s most popular scenic railways. This 42-mile journey to the aisles takes you through the mountain and glen scenery ranging from Britain’s highest mountain to Europe’s deepest seawater loch. While most passengers come to witness the pioneering Glenfinnan Viaduct, which shot to fame as the location for the Harry Potter films, the lush landscape is worth a journey.

Train journeys are romantic; they are a wonderful way to learn more about our world and to meet people. Many relationships blossomed on trains, leading to lifelong partnerships. A train journey is a cultural as well as a spiritual experience, no matter where you travel.

Fun Train facts

• Early train systems once relied on gravity and rope for motion.
• The actual train trip around the world was made popular by Abraham Lincoln’s assassination.
• Trains played a crucial role in the victory of the Americans during the Civil War.
• The first-ever American locomotive lost to a horse
• The fastest Maglev train in China can travel up to a maximum speed of 288 mph.
• You can ride and experience the Hogwarts Express in real life.
• Trains in Moscow have dog passengers
• Australia has the world’s straightest railway track.
• Train fans literally have a global community.

Train journeys are romantic; they are a wonderful way to learn more about our world and to meet people. Many relationships have been founded on trains and partnerships confirmed. A train journey is a cultural as well as a spiritual experience, no matter where you travel.

How to Find The Best Destination Management Company in Dubai?

Egypt to Offer 5-Year Multiple-Entry Visa; Visa-On-Arrival to India and China

Chetan Jadhav

Foodie Traveler..

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Follow Us on :

Join The Newsletter

To Receive our best monthly deals

Get call back from us

• Ras Al Khaimah
• Kuala Lumpur
• Singapore Visa from Dubai
• Malaysia Visa from Dubai
• Thailand Visa from Dubai
• US Visa from Dubai
• Schengen Visa from Dubai
• China Visa in Dubai
• Canada Visa from Dubai
• Turkey Visa from Dubai
• Hong Kong Visa from Dubai
• Poland Visa from Dubai
• South Africa Visa from Dubai
• Web Stories
• Festivals and Events
• Romantic Destinations
• Travel Ideas
• Travel Tips

8 great rail journeys to take across the USA

Jan 29, 2024 • 7 min read

Considerably more relaxing than driving or flying, the best train rides in the US offer a leisurely sightseeing experience.© Alex Potemkin/Getty Images

There’s no getting around the sheer size and scale of the USA – it’s an absolute, supersized whopper – and the best way to see it all is via train.

The US has close to 3.8 million sq miles (10 million sq km) of sublime mountain ranges, parched desert, entire states engulfed in deep snow, you-gotta-go-see-it-to-believe-it cities, endless prairie land, six whole time zones and lakes so large you could lose whole countries down there. So while traveling around by plane might make sense from a convenience point of view – it’s not quite six hours to dart directly from New York to LA – there really is no better way to experience the sheer grandeur of the country than by taking one of these train vacations.

Considerably more relaxing than driving or flying, the best train rides in the US offer a leisurely, nostalgic sightseeing experience, often passing through pristine landscapes inaccessible by other means. The US is rich with amazing train journeys, but the routes listed below are the cream of the crop. From California to New England ,  here are eight epic US train trips our editors have selected, taken from Lonely Planet's  Amazing Train Journeys .

1. The Sunset Limited

Route: New Orleans – San Antonio – Tucson – Phoenix – Los Angeles Distance and duration: 1995 miles (3211 km); 2 days

Amtrak's Sunset Limited is the ultimate American railroad ride and one of its most famous train journeys: east to west, coast to coast, clean through from the bars of New Orleans to the breakers of the Pacific Ocean. If you’ve always dreamed of taking a journey across the USA, but don’t much relish the prospect of two weeks spent cooped up in an automobile, then a ride on the Sunset Limited is the answer.

Sit back and let America’s landscapes buzz by: from Louisiana ’s bayous, past the high-rises of Houston , across the deserts of Texas and Arizona , over the Californian hills all the way to LA’s golden beaches. Saddle up, pardner: it’s gonna be quite a ride.

2. The Coast Starlight

Route: Seattle – Portland – Sacramento – Los Angeles Distance and duration: 1377 miles (2216 km); 35 hours

Trace America’s “left coast” in all its varied splendor. The 35-hour (OK, it’s Amtrak, so maybe more) trip between Seattle and Los Angeles curves alongside crashing Pacific waves, cuts through America’s lushest agricultural land and passes below snowcapped mountains and towering redwoods. Of all the Amtrak routes, the Coast Starlight offers the most scenic variety in the fewest hours.

It’s also the only Amtrak service with a dedicated parlor car, open only to passengers who book sleepers. The parlor conjures old-time rail romance, with wood paneling and soft lighting, plus a special menu and wine-and-cheese tastings. Highlights of this train ride include dramatic sunrise perspectives on 14,179ft (4322m)  Mt Shasta , and a gorgeous midday traverse of Oregon's Cascade Range.

3. Metro-North Hudson Line

Route: New York City – Poughkeepsie Distance and duration: 69 miles (111 km); 1½ hours

Depart from New York City ’s iconic beaux arts Grand Central Terminal , stopping to admire the ornate astronomical ceiling painting in the vaulted main concourse and to slurp up oysters and a martini at the famous Oyster Bar.

Then roll through Manhattan and the Bronx and into the glorious green Hudson River Valley. Hugging the eastern banks of the river, New York’s Metro-North's Hudson line travels deep into American history. The names of the stops along the way speak to the area’s origins: Native American (Ossining, Poughkeepsie); Dutch (Spuyten Duyvil, Yonkers, Cortlandt, Peekskill); English (Hastings-on-Hudson, Scarborough). It’s a land so famously beautiful an entire art movement – the Hudson River School – was once dedicated to capturing its glory. For the cost of a burger and a beer, this view can be yours for almost two hours.

4. The California Zephyr

Route: Chicago – Omaha – Denver – Salt Lake City – San Francisco Distance and duration: 2438 miles (3924km), 51 hours 20 minutes

For soaking up the scenic grandeur of the North American continent, nothing compares with Amtrak’s California Zephyr train. This classic three-day journey travels nearly 2500 miles (4000km) across prairies, deserts, the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada on its way from Chicago to San Francisco. The scenery is magnificent throughout – especially when seen through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the lounge car – but if you can only do one section, opt for the riveting 185-mile (298km) stretch between Denver and Glenwood Springs, where the train travels through an often roadless wilderness of deep, narrow gorges near the Colorado River’s headwaters.

Near sunset, the train emerges into the majestic red rock desert of eastern Utah , then crosses overnight into the forbidding vastness of Nevada's sagebrush country, with salt flats and stark, arid mountains as far as the eye can see. Sunrise on day three reveals an entirely different desert: the blinding-white alkali flats and ghostly grey mountains near Winnemucca, Nevada. Just beyond the gambling-happy little city of Reno, the Zephyr climbs into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, then enters California’s imposing granite high country beyond the photogenic frontier town of Truckee.

5. Amtrak Downeaster

Route: Boston – Portland – Brunswick Distance and duration: 145 miles (233 km); 3 hours 25 minutes

As car-free city breaks go, this train escape is hard to beat, chugging from the downtown main streets of urban Boston to Maine ’s rural greens in under four hours. That’s from the seventh most densely populated city in the US to the state with the highest percentage of forest coverage, all in less time than it takes to cook an old-style Yankee plum pudding.

Even better, every stop on the Amtrak Downeaster features historic New England cities and towns, parks and seascapes, cottage arts and crafts, world-class shopping and stellar foods fashioned from farm-and-sea-fresh ingredients.

6. The New Mexico Rail Runner

Route: Albuquerque – Santa Fe Distance and duration: 97 miles (156 km); 90 minutes

One of America’s great unsung commuter railways, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express is a regional train that runs down the Rio Grande Valley , connecting the state’s largest city, Albuquerque, with its cultural and political capital, Santa Fe.

On the way it crosses the wide, high desert, giving views of arid mountains in all directions, and even passes through several of the state’s Native American tribal lands. A no-nonsense, clean and quick journey, its highlights are the sweeping views from the upper seats of the double-decker carriages. Taken as a day trip or a scenic but practical form of intra-state transport, the Rail Runner is a wonderful introduction to New Mexico ’s epic landscapes.

7. The Empire Builder

Route: Chicago – St Paul or Minneapolis – Spokane – Portland or Seattle Distance and duration: 2764 miles (4448 km); 46 hours

The Amtrak Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle glides through Wisconsin 's woodlands, Minnesota's lake country and the North Dakota prairies en route to a western horizon swarming with snow-capped Rocky Mountain peaks.

From Browning , Montana, an unforgettable 60-mile run along the southern edge of Glacier National Park leads to the park entrance at West Glacier, where nature lovers will want to break their journey before continuing to Seattle.

8. The Vermonter

Route: Washington, DC – New York City– Springfield – Essex Junction ( Burlington ) – St Albans Distance and duration: 611 miles (983 km); 13 hours 45 minutes

The Amtrak Vermonter runs once daily from Washington, DC to St Albans, VT. This is the most scenic route east of the Mississippi, especially in its northern reaches, where it snakes for four hours through the bucolic green hills and photogenic villages of rural Vermont.

Starting from the nation's capital, Washington, DC, the train runs north through one of the USA's greatest metropolises, New York City, before bowling out through Connecticut , Massachusetts and New Hampshire en route to the bucolic Vermont countryside and St Albans.

This article was first published December 2020 and updated January 2024

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Apr 17, 2024 • 5 min read

Whether you're embarking on the road trip of a lifetime or navigating the glorious Pacific Northwest without a car, getting around Washington is a breeze.

Apr 17, 2024 • 4 min read

Apr 13, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 7, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 3, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 27, 2024 • 5 min read

Feb 15, 2024 • 9 min read

Jan 11, 2024 • 5 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

Dec 8, 2023 • 6 min read

• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Wonderful Train Journey - White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

• United States    
• Alaska (AK)    
• Skagway    
• Skagway - Things to Do    
• White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

We took the last train of the season in October 2023. To say it was amazing is an understatement... read more

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway dates back to 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, when... read more

Wonderful Train Journey

Spectacular views, really enjoyed this trip, the Tour also included a cycle run back down the Mountain, whihc was amazing fun, would highly recommend this tour.

There was a group of 11 of us 8 adults & 3 kids who cruised here late September. Agings from 4-60. Booking through the ship was very expensive. So before we left we did some research and found out we were going to be the only ship in port that day. Which was perfect. On the day of arrival we got off the boat first thing and got our tickets for the afternoon train ride. It was a very short walk to the office but saved us about $200CAD for all 11 of us compared to the ship prices. We lucked out the weather was perfect for late September. There are 2 people to a bench. The train ended up being very full so you could end up sitting with a stranger. The train ride was so much fun for all. You will ride in a vintage passenger coach on the original route to the White Pass Summit, passing Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point and Dead Horse Gulch. Amazing views of the mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, tunnels, trestles and historic sites. You can get some amazing pictures if you step outside on to the back or front of your car or you can sit back and relax inside by the wood stove.

This was what I was looking forward to on my cruise through Alaska! I was not disappointed in this trip. Just loved the whole journey and the scenery. The history was fascinating too! Unfortunately a few people spoilt it by hogging the back section of the train. We managed to get a few photographs. This is a must do excursion.

Fantastic views, if you can see them. In our case, the money-shot views were mostly on the other side of the train. Apparently, this isn't a problem if you take the train form the round-trip ride. We got off in Fraser for a bus tour. And, while passengers were encouraged to ride outside on the platform for a few minutes (and admonished to be considerate to others), our train had a couple inconsiderate [offensive terms omitted] completely oblivious to everyone else.

GEt seated and be sure you have a battery pack to run your phone camera for video and pictures. The train cars are historic and rock along the narrow gauge railroad through the most beautiful landscape you could hope to see on a single trip. Tormented Valley into the Tongass National Forest -- The mountain passes - trestles and so much more. Pay close attention looking out the windows. Don't get distracted by condersation - don't waste this time. Set your eyes on the wondrous sights to be seen! Take all the pictures you take. Upon editing and looking back you will not regret that you did! Bling Blinky of TEXAS Shout Out: Wish I could ride the White Pass and Yukon Route once again. Such a long way from Dallas!

Do this if you want to see the mountain scenery! The tour is about 3 hours total. You ride the train up the mountain and back. During the ride, you can step outside onto the platforms between the train cars and experience the ride from there. Nobody in our car seemed too interested in being outside, so we had the place to ourselves for most of the ride. We were there in the fall, so you saw the mountains, fall colours and beautiful blue sky. During the ride, there is a guide that narrates and points out some of the points of interest along the way. It was really well done. We learned quite a bit about the events of the gold rush. Would recommend if you want to see the mountain scenery and learn about the history.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• North America
• South America
• South Pacific
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 14 most scenic train journeys in Europe

Pack a book, hop on board and enjoy the most scenic train journeys in Europe, from west to east and north to south

From glaciers and fjords to deserts and plains,   Europe ’s home to some of the world’s most mind-blowing natural landscapes. And so, logically, it makes a heck of a lot of sense that the finest scenic rail journeys in Europe – train routes which are specifically designed to show off those spectacular landscapes – are amongst   the best in the entire world .

The European continent’s finest scenic rail journeys also double up as pilgrimages to sites of incredible feats of engineering. These trains scale dramatic mountains, plunge through ginormous tunnels and span vast distances. You won’t just be gob-smacked by the view: you’ll wonder how on earth you’re able to experience it from the comfort of a locomotive.

And, before you say anything, no, scenic rail routes certainly aren’t just for rail geeks. Oh no. They’re also amongst the most comfortable and supremely romantic ways of getting around. As well as being much better for the planet than cars and planes, train travel is a destination in itself – and that’s even more the case with scenic routes. So, without further ado, here are our top 14 scenic railways in Europe right now.

RECOMMENDED: 🚂  The best train journeys in the world 🚅  The best train journeys in Asia 🚉  The world’s most spectacular train stations

An email you’ll actually love

Best train journeys in Europe

1.  Oslo to Bergen, Norway

Connecting Oslo and Bergen is the fairytale Bergen Line. Take it in spring or autumn, and the voyage plays out like a living painting of all four seasons, as blustery flower meadows and lush valleys fade into icy forests of pine and glittering lakes. It’s a journey that’s quite possibly up there with the best in the world. It makes little difference which way you travel – views are equally OTT in both directions, on both sides of the tracks – but start in the morning to ensure you get a full day of views on the seven-hour trip. Ticket prices are generally quite affordable, but onboard food will set you back, so pack snacks.

2.  Belgrade to Bar, Serbia and Montenegro

Often referred to as ‘the Balkan Express’, the 11-hour (on a good day) jaunt from Belgrade to Bar celebrates civil engineering and natural majesty. A whopping 435 bridges are traversed as the train trundles from the Serbian capital to Montenegro’s largest port, working as a time machine through the twentieth century in these parts. That means socialist architecture in Užice, modern ski resorts in Kolašin and the rapidly developing tourism of Montenegro’s southern coast. The last stretch is particularly stunning.

3.  Palma to Sóller, Majorca

The electric train line that links Majorca’s capital, Palma, with the northern town of Sóller was originally built to ship oranges across the island. Its vintage wooden carriages rattle out of central Palma, through the city’s hinterlands and across the great dry plains of southern Majorca. After a stop in Bunyola, it’s a steady climb into the foothills – followed by the sudden pitch black of the Sóller tunnel. And then comes the best bit: a winding route through the lush peaks of the Serra de Tramuntana, with incredible views over Sóller’s distant church, before the final descent. The whole trip only takes an hour, leaving plenty of time to catch the heritage tram down to Port de Sóller and cool off in the sea before the return leg.

4.  Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog, Wales

The small mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog has fallen on tough times with the demise of the slate mining industry, but the little steam railway that connects it with Porthmadog harbour is a gorgeous route showing Wales at its most magnificent. Most of the journey snakes through Snowdonia National Park, with plenty of stop-off options for travellers with time on their hands. The Ffestiniog Railway Company is also the oldest independent railway company on the planet, another layer of awesome to this gorgeous experience. 

5.  Zermatt to St. Moritz, Switzerland

If you’ve high expectations of an experience named ‘The Glacier Express’, get ready for them to be exceeded and then some. This mountain marvel connects the resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz, and the panoramic views make this one of the best ways to embrace all this dramatic landscape offers. The seven-and-a-half-hour journey traverses 291 bridges, 91 tunnels and a whole lot of beauty. 

6.  The Brocken, Germany

Another gorgeous journey from base to summit, The Brocken Railway picks wide-eyed passengers up from the settlement on the edge of Harz National Park called Drei Annen-Hohne. When the ride is over, those passengers find themselves on top of the world, or at least on top of the Brocken, the highest peak in Northern Germany. The journey is all tight turns, dramatic valleys, snowy vistas and lose-yourself imagery at a maximum speed of 40km/h. 

7.  Barcelona to Montserrat, Spain

There are plenty of ways to travel from Barcelona to the base of Montserrat mountain, but we’re putting our eggs firmly in the basket marked ‘train’. Actually, that would be ‘tren’ in Catalan, but you get the idea. There is a wide range of tickets available for the journey, though we recommend getting one that covers not just your train from Barcelona and then either the cable car or rack railway up the mountain itself, but also entry into the Montserrat Museum.

8.  Fort William to Mallaig, Scotland

A constant on lists of the world’s most beautiful train journeys, Scotland’s Jacobite Steam Train is an 84-mile stunner traversing the magic of Scotland from Fort William to Mallaig. Booking ahead is an absolute must but totally worth it, as the journey transports visitors across a landscape that takes the term ‘rugged’ and redefines it in that inimitable Scottish way. Some call it the Hogwarts Express after its turn in the Harry Potter films, and you can insert your own magical comment here.

9.  Myrdal to Flåm, Norway

Another frequent face on lists of the world’s best train journeys, the line between Myrdal and Flåm in Norway bridges the divide between impossibly cute and absolutely monolithic. That’s Norway in a nutshell, right? The small things are all quaint and idyllic, while the big ones bluster through stunning cliffs, jagged mountains and awe-inspiring scenery. The Flåm Railway climbs a whopping 867 metres into the sky and back, with a short shop at the Kjosfossen waterfall as the cherry on top. 

10.  Chur to Poschiavo, Switzerland

Switzerland is every bit as spectacular as its reputation suggests it might be. Actually, this place is woefully undersold and the rail route between Chur and Poschiavo is further proof, a jaw-dropping run that takes lucky passengers through the heart of the Swiss Alps. The famous mountains unravel on either side of the train, scenery that tends to see passengers put their cameras down and stare at the wonders at hand. The Bernina Express continues toward Tirano in Italy for those who need even more scenery. 

11.  La Rhune, France

What an absolute stunner of a ride. From the foot of the Pyrenees to the top via an early 1900s cog railway, the quaintest of quaint trains scaling a mighty height. It can be a little jarring, but the cobwebs are soon blown away by the stunning vistas and the majesty that awaits at the summit. The train only runs from April to September, round-trip tickets cost €20 (an absolute bargain), and it begins its journey in the town of Sare, some 10km or so from Saint-Jean-de-Luz.

12.  Prague to Bratislava, Czech Republic and Slovakia

Okay, the scenery outside the window between Prague and Bratislava is nothing to write home about. Is it pretty? Sure, we’d expect nothing less from this part of the world, but the real fun of this route is found inside. A train journey spent in a Central European restaurant car is one of those most eccentric travel experiences, so make an immediate beeline for that part of the train when boarding. Line up some excellent Czech  pivo  and enjoy the conveyor belt of characters who will invariably make their way through the car. 

13.  Málaga to El Chorro, Spain

While you can’t get a train across the thrilling and terrifying Caminito del Rey walkway, you can still experience a great journey on the way. The train from Malaga to El Chorro is a stunner, a fast route that takes less than 45 minutes and will set you back less than a tenner. That gives you just under 45 minutes to enjoy the stunning scenery and dredge up the courage to traverse the famous walkway. 

14.  Mostar to Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina doesn’t have many trains, but it remains an absolute must for lovers of rail travel. Why? Well, the stretch of track between Mostar and Jablanica quickly answers that question. It offers a jaw-dropping array of twists and turns that hug the cerulean blue of the ice-cold Neretva river, as jagged cliffs hem everything in from all sides. Sure, you need to get up early to catch the train, but it is worth that sunrise alarm. The route continues to Sarajevo, passing through charming Konjic and several satellite towns along the way.

[image] [title]

More on train travel

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

This series follows some of the world's most extraordinary railway journeys from above and on the ground, taking the audience on an adventure of a lifetime

This episode looks at the Glacier Express which connects Swiss towns St Moritz and Zermatt

Canada's Winnipeg to Churchill train cuts through the barren lands below the Arctic Circle

This episode follows El Chepe, a wonder of Mexican engineering that took 100 years to make

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a steep line connecting eastern India to the Himalayas

The Ghan, Australia's most luxurious train which crosses from Adelaide to Darwin

Norway's Bergen line which runs from Bergen to Oslo through the fjords of Western Norway

Advertisement

People also watched

All aboard for luxury train rides across britain - with beautiful views, friendly company, fine dining and staff who take care of a passenger's every possible need britain's most luxurious train journeys, bargain-blagger joe wilkinson and luxury-lover katherine ryan show us how to live the champagne lifestyle on a lemonade budget with some fantastically affordable getaways joe & katherine's bargain holidays, beneath soaring mountains and along shimmering shorelines, we take in the breathtaking landscape on some of britain's most scenic railway journeys britain's scenic railways, three scenic rail journeys cross new zealand, through some of the world's most spectacular landscapes new zealand by train, julie walters meets a mariner in north berwick, rides the famous jacobite steam train, gets a lesson in herring gutting in mallaig, and visits remote duirinish in the western highlands scotland's coastal railway with julie walters, joe lycett shows us how to get the most out of some of the world's most popular mini-breaks travel man: 48 hours in..., comedian bill bailey explores the vast, epic, extraordinarily beautiful state of western australia on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure down under bill bailey's australian adventure, in this unique travelogue, professor alice roberts explores one of the world's oldest and greatest civilisations. and she's doing it by train. ancient egypt by train with alice roberts.

5 US Sleeper Train Routes for the Ultimate Slow Travel Journey

By Marianna Cerini

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Sleeper trains are having a moment. And why wouldn’t they? More eco-friendly than flying —with none of the hassle that comes from even just stepping into an airport these days—and a lot more pleasant than driving, overnight rail routes make for increasingly smarter alternatives to cars and planes, turning the journey to your destination into an experience in itself.

While Europe is leading the pack when it comes to taking you from A to B as you rest peacefully in your sleeper car, the US isn’t lagging that far behind. Several lines have in fact stepped up their game in recent years in terms of comfort and on-board services, offering travelers anything from plush beds to dedicated attendants and roomy sleeping quarters.

Here are five sleeper trains that are worth skipping highway tolls and airport lines for.

Coast Starlight

Linking Los Angeles to Seattle in around 34 hours, the Coast Starlight is one of Amtrak’s most scenic rail lines. The route delivers sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the lush Oregonian forest , with mountains, lakes, and thick woodlands as the main backdrop for most of the trip. You can gawk at them all from the gorgeous observation cars, which feature floor-to-ceiling windows and snug seats to while away the hours and snap plenty of pictures.

Come nighttime, the Coast Starlight’s sleeper cars ensure all the zzzs you need with roomettes, bedrooms, and one family bedroom to choose from (if you book the sleeper car, you also have access to the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge before departure, which is a nice plus). While the smaller roomettes have outside toilets and showers, the bigger accommodations feature an ensuite bathroom for extra comfort, and more space to stretch your legs. Regardless of size, all of them grant access to the restaurant-style dining car for dinner, breakfast, and lunch—all included in your ticket—as well as complimentary coffee to keep you energized throughout the journey.

Top tip: Travel in the summer to get the most daylight, and make sure to take advantage of the early morning fresh-air stops in Oregon after your night onboard. You’ll feel restored in no time.

California Zephyr

At 2,438 miles and almost 52 hours of overall travel time (that’s three days and two nights), the California Zephyr is Amtrak’s second longest route, and the very definition of a long-distance rail journey. Riding from Chicago to Emeryville/San Francisco, you’ll roll through Illinois, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah , Nevada, and California—passing by verdant plains and the Rocky Mountain range, across arid countryside and the snow-capped Sierra Nevada. The whole trip is basically a deep dive into the natural beauty of the United States, and one of those experiences every train aficionado should try at least once in their lifetime.

There are plenty of places to stop and visit on the way—you can get off in Denver and explore the Rocky Mountain National Park or spend a few days in Salt Lake City—but should you choose to stay onboard for the whole ride, you’ll be in for a treat.

With roomettes, bedrooms, bedroom suites, family bedrooms, and one accessible bedroom spread across two levels of its sleeper cars, the California Zephyr has a wealth of sleeping options to cater all needs. All of them come with complimentary meals, dedicated cabin attendants, lounge access in Chicago, and priority boarding, while restrooms and showers are either within the car or ensuite, depending on the room category. The upper-level quarters offer better views and sell out fast, though if you suffer from motion sickness, the lower accommodations might be a better fit.

Besides the sleeping arrangements, however, it’s waking up to the Great Plains and winding through the Rockies and then the Sierra Nevada that’s truly special. Just make sure to always have your camera ready.

Texas Eagle

Another cool way to travel from Chicago to California— Los Angeles , to be exact—by train rather than plane? The Texas Eagle. Amtrak’s longest route (and the longest in America), this three-night, 65-hour journey follows a path first established by the Pacific Railway in 1948, passing some pretty amazing sights: from the Ozarks to Little Rock along the Mississippi River, then into the vast expanse of the Texan countryside.

There are stops in Dallas and Austin along the route, though really, it’s the sheer grandness of the Lone State’s topography—a never-ending mix of remote small towns and rural settlements, wide-open fields and swamps—that’s the trip’s biggest draw.

That, and the fact you can watch it all from compact-to-spacious sleeping quarters, which range from roomettes to suites and feature perks like turndown service, full meals in the dining car for the entire duration of the ride, and coffee, juice, and daily newspaper delivered every morning to your door.

In-room amenities include outlets to keep your electronics charged, lighting and climate controls, and a closet for your clothes (there are also soap and towels if you’re in the higher room categories), as well as an attendant call button should you have any extra needs. If you want to stretch your legs, the Sightseer lounge, with swivel seat, wraparound windows, and a beverage and snack service, is the place to go—and the best spot to meet like-minded travelers to share the journey with.

Rocky Mountaineer

Ok, so the Rocky Mountaineer doesn’t technically have a sleeper car. The private company that runs it is also not American, but Canadian—though one of its trips, the “Rockies to the Red Rocks,” takes place in the States and connects Moab, Utah to Denver, Colorado.

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Still, the fact that this luxury rail journey includes overnight stopovers at stylish hotels qualifies it as an excellent alternative to any flight, in our opinion. All the more so when Moab and Denver are actually quite close: Much better to opt for the slow way rather than create unnecessary CO2 emissions , right?

The US-based route takes travelers on a four-day/three-night adventure across the two mountain states—you’ll spend two full days onboard—snaking through rugged canyons and natural archways, awe-inspiring deserts and the majestic Colorado Rockies.

Accommodations include the four-star Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton in Utah and the hip Rally Hotel or Crawford Hotel in Denver —depending on which direction you’re going—with a less splurgy but equally comfortable option in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

If you want to extend the fun, the Rocky Mountaineer also offers a selection of curated packages to start or end your trip in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City.

New York and Chicago are close enough to consider forever ditching flights and choosing a scenic train ride to travel between them instead—at least when you’re in no rush to reach either city.

The best rail journey for the task is the Cardinal, which connects the two in 26 hours and 30 minutes and runs three times a week.

The line offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the eastern US, rolling past the Blue Ridge Mountains, Allegheny range, and the Shenandoah Valley. You’ll wind through the New River Gorge and West Virginia’s wild white-water rivers before reaching the banks of the grand Ohio River, rolling by the quaint towns of Ashland and Maysville all the way to Cincinnati and Indianapolis—this is the only Amtrak route that stops in both metropolises—and, at last, Chicago.

Private roomettes and bedrooms—which include a flexible dining service in their rate—promise comfort and a blissful night’s sleep before you reach your final destination, while a café open to all passengers keeps everyone fueled up for the entire trip.

Unsurprisingly, the Cardinal is pretty popular in the summer and fall, meaning early bookings are highly recommended. Our advice: Treat yourself to a bedroom or suite. Both have an in-room sink, restroom, and shower, and larger abodes to hunker down in than the smaller roomettes. Got a bike or a pet with you? This train allows both—just check the guidelines beforehand.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Explore China's 7 Most Scenic Train Journeys

• China Train
• Int’l Train from China

The 7 most scenic train journeys provide not only beautiful sceneries at terminus cities, but also charming views outside the trains' windows on the way. Instead of seeing the same sea of clouds on an airplane, your trip is enhanced by seeing different landscapes through a train's windows.

Read on to see which train route you want to start your journey with.  

1. Chengdu to Kunming — "Geological Museum" Route  

• Length: 1,096 km (681 mi)
• Duration: high-speed train: 6 hours approx; normal-speed train: 19 hours approx.
• Price: 487.5 yuan (72 USD) for a second class; 372.5 yuan (60 USD) for a soft sleeper
• Train schedule: 3 high-speed trains and 4 normal-speed trains per day (departure from 08:51 to 16:06)
• Scenery: mountains and cliffs, deep canyons, great rivers in southwest China, long bridges

This railway line has been in service since July 1970. It was praised by the United Nations as one of the three wonders of humanity's conquest of nature in the 20th century, along with the former Soviet Union's Sputnik 1 in 1957, and the Moon rocks brought back by the United States' Apollo.

It runs through southwest China, which has 56 complex geographical regions of mountains and rivers . From Chengdu's plains area, with an altitude of about 400 meters, the train goes up to altitudes of about 2,000 meters , traveling through tunnels and across mountains. The complex geography along the railway line gives this route the name of "geological museum".

Recommended Bullet Train's Timetable and Price

• Departure station: Chengdu East Railway Station
• Terminal station: Kunming South Railway Station

Please note: the prices for the first and second class train tickets saw a 6% increase in 2023, but the price for business decreased by around 55%. It is now much more cost-effective to take a business class seat.

• Chengdu's must-sees: Giant Panda s, Jinli Old Street , Magical Face Changing   
• Kunming's must-sees: the Stone Forest , Western Hills Park
• Recommended tour: 6-Day Yunnan Ethnic Minorities Tour

2. Beijing to Shanghai — High-Speed Train in Prosperous Cities

• Length: 1,318 km (819 mi)
• Duration: 5 hours approx.
• Price: 553 yuan (89 USD) for a second class seat
• Train schedule:  45 high-speed trains (depart from 06:20 to 21:21)
• Scenery: endless wheat fields, the Yellow River, countryside scenery with colorful roofs, the Yangtze River

Beijing and Shanghai are two of the most popular cities for first-time travelers to China . This high-speed train route is very popular and definitely worth a ride during your China trip. It is a trip that combines some of China's main urban landscapes with cultivated countryside scenery and mountains in between. The new and modern facilities on the train ensure you have a comfortable journey.

The scenery is not as spectacular as the Chengdu–Kunming route, but the thing to admire is China's infrastructure and expansive urban areas. The route gives a ground level view of the core of China along with some beautiful scenery including the agricultural areas.

Recommended Direct Trains' Timetable and Prices

For this route, we suggest that you leave Beijing before noon for the best scenery . Before noon, there are 15 G class trains that depart from Beijing from 06:43 to 12:00.

The fastest G1, G3, G7, G11 and G21 trains departing from Beijing (or G2, G4, G8, G10 and G22) departing from Shanghai) takes 4 hours and 28 minutes with one stop in Nanjing South. G1/G2 leaves at the ideal time of 09:00, so if you want a fast trip with the best scenery, they are the best two to take.  

"Fuxinghao" High-Speed Trains Between Beijing and Shanghai

"Fuxinghao" is the newest type of high-speed trains, with the top speed of 350 km/h. The trains are equipped with WIFI abd each seat has a power socket. Currently, 35 out of 45 Beijing-Shnghai high-speed trains are Fuxinghao, and 32 out of 42 Shanghai-Beijing trains are Fuxinghao.

• Beijing must-sees: the Forbidden City , the Great Wall , Temple of Heaven
• Shanghai must-sees: the Bund , Yu Garden , the Jinmao Tower
• Recommended tour: 3-Day Essence of Shanghai and Watertown Tour
• See Beijing–Shanghai High-Speed Train for the timetable, price, and transportation guide.

3. Xi'an to Urumqi — Silk Road Journey in a Vast Desert Landscape

• Length: 2,526 km (1,570 mi)
• Duration: 30 hours approx. (1 night and 1 day or 2 nights and 1 day on the train)
• Price: 734.5 yuan (106 USD) for soft sleeper
• Train schedule: 10 normal-speed trains (depart from 03:46 to 13:03)
• Scenery: the Yellow River, Jiayuguan Fortress, the Gobi Desert 

Xi'an has a long history, being the first of China's four Great Ancient Capitals. There are many historical buildings and heritages . Urumqi is the largest city in Western China, with colorful Uyghur ethnic group culture and the Silk Road culture.

This is a Silk Road journey, as well as an adventure journey. It is full of Western China's scenery and delicious food on the way. You will be in the wilderness of the Gobi Desert.

Recommended Direct Train's Timetable and Price

• Departure station: Xi'an Railway Station
• Terminal station: Urumqi Railway Station
• Xi'an's must-sees: the Terracotta Army , Ancient City Wall , Muslim Food Street
• Urumqi's must-sees: Urumqi Grand Bazaar , Heavenly Lake , Red Hill
• Recommended tour : 2-Day Essence of Xi'an Tour

4. Dali to Lijiang — Most Relaxing Route  

• Length: 159 km (99 mi)
• Duration: 2 hours approx.
• Price:  80 yuan (12 USD) for a soft seat
• Train schedule:  1 normal-speed trains and 2 high-speed trains (depart from 12:19 to 18:15)
• Scenery: snow-capped mountains, Erhai Lake, blue sky without air pollution

You can see snow-capped mountains from the train, and appreciate Erhai Lake's beautiful scenery. The blue sky, green mountains, and clear water form a great watercolor painting of nature . You can put on your earphones to listen to quiet music. This is a relaxing way to enjoy your vacation.

• Departure station: Dali Railway Station
• Terminal station: Lijiang Railway Station
• Dali must-sees: Three Pagodas, Erhai Lake , Dali Ancient City
• Lijiang must-sees: Lijiang Ancient Town , Jade Dragon Snow Mountain , Tiger Leaping Gorge
• Recommended tour: 3-Day Essence of Ancient Lijiang Tour

5. Hefei to Fuzhou — Most Beautiful China Countryside Scenery

• Length: 808 km (502 mi)
• Duration: 4½ hours approx.
• Price: 357 yuan (57 USD) for a second class seat
• Train schedule:  22 high-speed trains (depart from 08:26 to 17:43)
• Scenery: the Yangtze River, historical memorial archways, wetland views

This train route passes through many scenic sites in southeast China, mostly natural scenery and countryside scenery . It also passes through cities with three World Heritage sites — the Yellow Mountains (Huangshan City), Mount Wuyi (Wuyishan City), and Mount Sanqingshan (Shangrao City). Thus, it's regarded as "the most beautiful rail line" in China. The comfortable environment on the high-speed train makes this tour a more impressive one.

• Departure station: Hefei South Railway Station
• Terminal station: Fuzhou Railway Station

There is a lot of beautiful scenery at the stations along the way; you can get off at one of them and enjoy your trip. We recommend that you get off at Huangshan North for spectacular views of the Yellow Mountains . Picturesque villages, famous for quaint architecture and spring scenery, can be seen nearby.

• Recommended tour: 4-Day Trekking Tour in the Yellow Mountains

6. Xining to Lhasa — Way to the Sky

• Length: 1,956 km (1,215 mi)
• Duration: 22 hours approx.
• Price: 781 yuan (113 USD) for a soft sleeper
• Train schedule:  7 normal-speed trains (depart from 12:20 to 23:20)
• Scenery: snowcapped mountains, a great lake view, grassland

This train route is popular for travelers who want to visit Tibet — the roof of the world . It is the longest high altitude train trip in the world , and the scenery is beautiful, stark, and almost otherworldly — it is named as the "way to the sky". Most of this route is over 4,000 meters and it goes above 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) several times.

See more about the Qinghai-Tibet Raiwlay

The reward of the route is to see a starkly beautiful part of the world that was almost inaccessible. Instead of city views, you'll see mostly desolate wilderness or pastures . After the train has left Xining Railway Station for about 1 hour, you can see the boundless blue lake — Qinghai Lake. The stunning views outside the train's windows will impressive you during your trip.

See more about Scenery along the Qinghai-Tibet Raiwlay

Recommended Tibet Tour:

• 7-Days Tibet Tours by Train from Xining
• Xining must-sees: Qinghai Lake , Kumbum Monastery
• Lhasa must-sees: Jokhang Temple , the Potala Palace , Bakhor Street
• Recommended tour: 5-Day Lhasa Classics and Holy Lake Yomdrok Tour

Travel Tips for This Route

Summer is the best time to travel by train: We recommend that you take the train in summer to enjoy better scenery and to see the native people out and about and camping alongside the train tracks with their yak herds. But it is very hard to get tickets on a tibet train from June to Octobet . We suggest that you book tickets on tibet trains as early as possible .

Each cabin is supplied with oxygen that comes out of little vents or, if you prefer, you can insert a tube to inhale it.

All foreign travelers are required to apply for a Tibet Entry Permit . See more detailed requirements and how to apply for the Tibet Permits for Traveling in Tibet .

Read more about Tibet Trains .

7. Lhasa to Shigatze — Travel to Mount Everest by Train

• Length: 253 km (157 mi)
• Duration:  2½  hours approx.
• Price: 82.5 yuan (13 USD) for a soft seat
• Train schedule: 3 high-speed trains (depart from 11:07 to 18:10)
• Scenery: the Lhasa River, Brahmaputra Grand Canyon

This railway is an extension of the Qinghai–Tibet railway, with an average altitude of 3,500 km (2,174 mi). It makes Tibet travel more convenient for travelers, especially those who want to see Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world.

The train runs through the Brahmaputra Grand Canyon with magnificent views of the Brahmaputra River through the train's windows. Along the railway line, you can see local farmers and yaks . And most of the time, you can appreciate a plateau landscape of mountains and meadows .

2 Direct Trains' Timetable and Prices

• Departure station: Lhasa Railway Station
• Terminal station: Shigatze Railway Station
• Shigatze must-sees: Mount Everest , Tashilhunpo Monastery
• Recommended tour: 8-Day Lhasa and Everest Base Camp Tour 　

You Might Like

• High-Speed Train in China (Bullet Train)
• The Differences Between Chinese and Western Railways
• How to Choose Between Train Types and Seat Classes in China
• China High-Speed Railway - 8 Main China High-Speed Routes, Maps , and Development
• 2-Week Private China Tour: Beijing–Xi'an–Lhasa-Shanghai
• 12-Day China Silk Road Tour from Xi'an to Kashgar
• 11-Day China Classic Tour
• 14-Day China Natural Wonders Discovery
• 15 Best Places to Visit in China (2024)
• Best (& Worst) Times to Visit China, Travel Tips (2024/2025)
• How to Plan a 10-Day Itinerary in China (Best 5 Options)
• 8 Days in China: Top 15 Tours and Itineraries (2024/2025)
• China Weather in January 2024: Enjoy Less-Crowded Traveling
• China Weather in February 2024: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds
• China Weather in March 2024: Destinations, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in April 2024: Where to Go (Smart Pre-Season Pick)
• China Weather in May 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in June 2024: How to Benefit from the Rainy Season
• China Weather in July 2024: How to Avoid Heat and Crowds
• China Weather in August 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
• China Weather in September 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
• China Weather in October 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in November 2024: Places to Go & Crowds
• China Weather in December 2024: Places to Go and Crowds

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

More travel ideas and inspiration, sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why China Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Southeast Asia
• Japan, South Korea
• India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri lanka
• Central Asia
• Middle East
• African Safari
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty & Referral Program
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 18 Beautiful Train Journeys In India In 2024 That Will Compel You For A Ride!

Planning a vacation rarely encompasses a train expedition nowadays. But if it does, it certainly takes us back to the childhood days when holidaying meant embarking on beautiful train journeys in India . It also meant admiring the changing landscapes as the train passed through towns and villages; playing cards or memory game; chitchatting over warm tea in earthen cups (locally called Kulhad); yummy munchies and lot more! This time round, we take you on some of the most beautiful train routes in India that cover absolutely enthralling and diverse landscapes – steep mountain slopes, narrow valleys, and wide seas.

18 Most Beautiful Train Journeys In India

Go through the list of these most beautiful train rides in India and make sure you head to one of them, the one that you find to be truly out of this world. You will realize the journey is nothing short of a dream. There’s mountains, waterfalls, rivers, plains, deserts and every possible landscape that you can imagine of. They are spread across the northern frontier to the southern frontier. Have a look!

• Jammu – Baramulla
• Pathankot – Jogindernagar
• Kalka – Shimla
• Jaisalmer – Jodhpur
• Mumbai – Goa
• Hubli – Madgaon
• Matheran – Neral
• Karjat – Lonavala
• Ratnagiri – Mangalore
• Mandapam – Rameshwaram
• Mettupalayam – Ooty
• Vishakhapatnam – Araku Valley
• Bangalore – Kanyakumari
• Hassan – Mangalore
• Bhubaneshwar – Brahmapur
• New Jalpaiguri – Darjeeling
• Alipurduar – Jalpaiguri
• Guwahati – Silchar

1. Jammu – Baramulla

Kashmir Railway Gifts you Travel Charisma

Image Source

The railway track connecting Jammu, Udhampur, Srinagar and Baramulla is not only picturesque and enthralling but also one the most challenging railway projects. It is located in the high earthquake intensity zone with undulating and rugged terrain, extreme cold temperature, and is the most beautiful railway route in India .

Train Journey Time : 4 hours

Must Read: 30 Unbelievably Beautiful Places To Visit In Kashmir One Cannot Miss

Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

Spellbinding Cochin Family Tour 2D/1N Package @ Rs 2,750

Plan your trip today!

Himachal Family Tour Package 4D/3N @ Rs 8,750

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Exciting Andaman Family Trip 5D/4N @ Rs 10,250

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Wonderful Goa Family Package 3D/2N @ Rs 6,500

Best prices guaranteed.

Riveting Rajasthan Vacation 3D/2N Package @ Rs 6,499

EMI option available.

Enchanting Uttarakhand Tour 4D/3N Package @ Rs 7,199

Explore best destinations with our experts.

Delightful South Weekend Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Thrilling weekend full of fun.

Marvelous Gujarat Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Talk to our experts today.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Pathankot – Jogindernagar

Mystics of Kangra Valley

Image Source If you want to enjoy the thrills of Kangra Valley, the river bridges, deep gorges and exclusive flora, enjoy the pleasant but quite slow ride of 164 km from Pathankot to Jogindernagar in Himachal Pradesh. It is not only located at a challenging height, but is also one of the most scenic train routes in India .

Train Journey Time : 8 hours

Suggested Read : 43 Famous Historical Places In India To Visit

3. Kalka – Shimla

A Spellbinding Journey to the Summer Capital

If you want to cherish picturesque valleys, steep pathways and foggy meadows, travel to Shimla in the narrow gauge train. This little toy train, now considered as World Heritage Site by UNESCO, starts from Kalka and travels 96 km upslope through 102 tunnels: (the longest tunnel located at Barog), 82 bridges, deep valleys, steep curves, rolling bends, forests of deodar and rhododendron, pine and oak.

Few trains like Siwalik, Kalka-Shimla, Himalayan Queen, Rail Motor and Siwalik Queen ply on this route. The journey is truly enchanting but at a slow pace as the train ascends the slope rhythmically through stations of Dharampur, Solan, Kandaghat, Tara Devi, Barog, Salogra, Totu, and Summerhill to reach the summer capital. It is one of the best in north Indian and most beautiful train journeys in India .

Train Journey Time : 5 hours

Suggested Read: 53 Best Places To Visit In Shimla On Your Soothing Weekend Getaway!

4. Jaisalmer – Jodhpur

Xerophytic Route

The Rajasthan trip which is otherwise full of colors, can have an extra bright shade if you travel to Jaisalmer from Jodhpur in Delhi Jaisalmer Express. The travel time in the train called the ‘Desert Queen’ takes close to 6 hours to reach the destination.

The journey is not at all monotonous. In fact you see diversified topography like typical desert landscape with xerophytic vegetation, yellow soil, dunes, grazing camels and scattered settlements of the desert inhabitants. The passengers will surely get a feel of the desert safari before reaching the land of the Golden Fort. This is amongst the most beautiful train journeys in India .

Suggested Read : Longest Rivers In India: Know About The Important Water Bodies Of The Country

5. Mumbai – Goa

Journey through the Enigmatic Ghats

The journey from Mumbai to Goa intersecting through the gorges of Sahyadari and fringes of Arabian Sea is equally or perhaps the most scenic train rides in India . Mandovi Express, as a part of the Konkan Railway network, travels between Mumbai and Goa.

The route is full of scenic landscapes, ranging from tunnels, bridges, coastal peripheries, steps of Western Ghats (other name for Sahyadari), innumerable small rivers, seasonal streams and lush green meadows. Do not forget to take out your handicam or camera and capture the highlights of one of the stunning and beautiful train journeys in India .

Train Journey Time : 12 hours

Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

Nikhil Recites A Tale Of 11 Friends Who Went From Bengaluru To Ladakh

Bengaluru - Delhi - Leh - Ladakh - Leh - Delhi - Amristsar - Chandigarh - Bengaluru

Pranav Took A Solo Trip To Andaman & It Was Truly Wonderful

A backpacker's guide to the predominant Honeymoon destination!

Shivani Talks Of Her Trip To Mcleodganj & Dalhousie With Her Husband And Friends

Sunset views. Monasteries. Bhagsunath falls. And amazing street food.

Kanika Proves That Traveling With An Infant To Kerala Is Totally Safe & Wonderful

Beaches, Backwaters, Spas, & More. Take me there now, please!

Here's Why Aakanksha's Trip To Manali Changed Her Idea About Group Tours

Ideal long weekend getaway from Delhi! Isn't it?

Isha Elaborates On How She Went Solo To Kasol & Returned With Lots Of Friends

And tales of her exciting Kheerganga & Chalal trek...

Prasham's Account Of A Goa Tour Proves That Goa Is More Than A Party Destination

Adventure, sightseeing, laid-back beach tours, and it doesn't stop there!

Bhavya Gives An Extensive Account Of His Jaisalmer Trip With Friends

Desert safari, haunted Kuldhara village, & Gadisar Lake. There's more...

Ashish Tells Why Kashmir Turned Out To Be A Winter Wonderland For His Family

For Gondolas, Shikaras, and plenty of snow!

Arunav Can't Stop Praising His Adventurous Trip To Sikkim & Darjeeling With Friends

For adventure in Air, on Land, and in Water!

Avneet Describes Her Trip To Spiti With A Group Of Strangers That Became Friends

Sightseeing. Monasteries. Trekking. And beauty all along

6. Hubli – Madgaon

Vasco da Gama Route

Image Source While travelling from Hubli to Madgaon, experience one of the most thrilling and enchanting train journeys in India. The train passes through the gigantic and most magnificent Dudhsagar waterfalls gushing out from a 300 metres in full vigor.

Once the train reaches the waterfall, you will be amazed at the cascading beauty and force on a thrilling and best train journeys in India. If you decide to enjoy it closely, quickly get down at Londa junction, which is the nearest station to Dudhsagar falls.

Train Journey Time : 10 hours

Suggested Read : Scuba Diving In India: Explore The Breathtaking Underwater Universe At The 14 Best Spots

7. Matheran – Neral

Heritage of Maharashtra

The narrow gauge railway running between Matheran and Neral passes is one of the best train routes in India. It passes through the rugged terrains of the Ghats and gained immense tourist attraction. This only Heritage railway of Maharashtra running a distance of 20 km is surely included in the list of India’s best train journeys. This is one of the best train routes in India .

Train Journey Time : 2 hours

Suggested Read: Top 38 Weekend Getaways From Mumbai For The Love Of Traveling

8. Karjat – Lonavala

Monsoon Trip

Another line that passes through the Western Ghats is the journey from Karjat to Lonavala through Thakurwadi, Monkey Hills and Khandala. It is the very scenic and one of the best train routes in India known for its mystic nature. Monsoon season is recommended because of the lush green views and beautiful rain scenery that it offers. The ride is pure scenery and being hill stations connected by train, it is the most adventurous way to reach the destinations.

Train Journey Time : 1 hour

Suggested Read: 21 Hill Stations Near Mumbai To Soothe Your Senses On A Trip

9. Ratnagiri – Mangalore

Charming Konkan Railway

Image Source One of the most mesmerizing railway tracks lies in the Konkan Railway network, in the Ratnagiri to Mangalore sector. The is one of the most scenic train journeys in India which is truly absorbing and wherein the dense forests, mighty Western Ghats, deep tunnels, river bridges, sharp bends and innumerable seasonal streams will leave the travelers spellbound and hypnotized.

Suggested Read: 20 Road Trips During Monsoon In India That Every Biker Ought To Take

10. Mandapam – Rameshwaram

Journey Intersecting the Ocean

Image Source Besides thrill and adventure, train travel from Mandapam in Tamil Nadu to Rameshwaram on Pamban Island oozes calm and serenity. It is certainly one of the top ten best Indian train journeys. One of the most beautiful train routes in India, it passes over the second longest bridge of India, the Palk Strait, which is the only route that connects mainland India to Pamban Island.

Suggested Read : 15 Offbeat Places In South India That Will Make You Go ‘WOW’ With Natural Beauty!

11. Mettupalayam – Ooty

Voyage in Landscapes of Nilgiris

Image Source Running since 1908, ‘Nilgiri Passenger’ still runs on steam engine, going from Mettupalayam to Ooty. As the train ascends the Nilgiri Mountain, thick pine, oak and eucalyptus forests, bends, curves and tunnels, it moves along Asia’s steepest track with maximum gradient of 8.33 percent. Nilgiri Passenger travels 26 km up the slope in almost 5 hours via stations like Kallar, Adderly, Hillgrove, Kateri, Runneymede, Kateri, Coonoor and Lovedale.

Suggested Read: 25 Mesmerizing Hill Stations In South India That Are A Must Visit

12. Vishakhapatnam – Araku Valley

The Tunnel Topography

Image Source The journey from Vishakhapatnam to Araku Valley through innumerable tunnels and sharp loops is quite an interesting one. Started as a mode to transport iron ore and other minerals to Vishakhpatnam from Chhattisgarh, this railway route in India is a treat for the eyes as well as the soul.

Train Journey Time : 3 hours

Suggested Read : 14 Most Unusual Beaches In India That Will Make You Fall In Love At First Sight

13. Bangalore – Kanyakumari

The Malgudi Voyage

Image Source Another scenic journey through the typical landscape of South India – the picturesque villages, plantations, meadows and water bodies is from Bangalore to Kanyakumari. The Island Express travels 944 km in about 19.5 hours and surely take you the land of ‘Malgudi Days’, undoubtedly paving its way to the list of best train journeys in India.

Train Journey Time : 15 hours

Suggested Read: 35 Road Trips From Bangalore You Must Plan With Your Friends

14. Hassan – Mangalore

Magical Malnad

Witness a pleasant train journey through scenic waterfalls, lofty mountains, palm plantations and rice meadows from Hassan to Mangalore. Railway voyage along this stretch of the Malnad region is truly refreshing and perfect delight for travelers.

Train Journey Time : 1 and half hours

Suggested Read : Discover 6 Incredible Rain Forests In India For A Memorable Wildlife Adventure

15. Bhubaneshwar – Brahmapur

The Serene Journey

Image Source Another of most beautiful train journeys in India is from Bhubaneshwar to Brahmapur, with lush green Malyadri on one side and serene Chilika Lake on the other. You may be lucky enough to see lots of migratory birds, so don’t forget your camera. You can capture the glimpse of the best lakes in Odisha while traveling through this train. 

Suggested Read : Mountain Biking In India: 10 Most Thrilling Adventure That Is A Must Try

16. New Jalpaiguri – Darjeeling

The Heritage Voyage to the Summer Resort of British Raj

Image Source How good does it feel to ride through hill stations connected by train? A pleasant upslope journey from the foothill region through loops, turns and bends can be experienced from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. The 78 km long quaint journey takes almost 8 hours and passes through Siliguri Town, Siliguri Junction, Sukna, Rangtong, Tindharia, Mahanadi, Kurseong, Tung, Sonada, Ghum, Rongbul, Jorebunglow and Batasia Loop.

Though the journey, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is sluggish but certainly leisurely. The surrounding hill-valley topography, especially from Ghum (the highest narrow gauge railway station in India) and Batasia Loop, adds extra flavors of delight to your trip.

Train Journey Time : 7 hours

Suggested Read : Visit 14 Luxury Holiday Destinations In India For A Lavish Stay

17. Alipurduar – Jalpaiguri

Jungle Safari on the Wheels

Want to pass through dense forest and see elephants and rhinos while passing by? Plan a train journey in the foothills region of North Bengal. Travelling to Alipurduar, Jayanti, Moorti, Samsing, Baux and Jalpaiguri will take you through the reserve forests of Gorumara, Jaldapara, Mahananda and Buxa while crossing seasonal streamlets.

Suggested Read : 20 Unbelievable Experiences In India That You Must Add On Your Bucket List To Enjoy An Offbeat Escape

18. Guwahati – Silchar

Awes of Assam

Image Source This journey meanders through river Jatinga, lush green Assam Valley, tea plantations and undulating Haflong valley. The route from Guwahati to Silchar via Lumding and Barak Valley makes it one of the most beautiful train journeys in India. The train makes you witness the beauty of hill stations in Assam .

Train Journey Time : 9 hours

Further Read: 23 Types of People You Meet While Travelling in an Indian Train

Aren’t all these beautiful train journeys in India absolutely stunning? If you have more to the list, share us with them in the comments below, and let the word spread. But for now, plan your holiday in India  with TravelTriangle to experience these wonderful train rides. We have no doubt that these rides will sweep you off your feet and make your heart skip a beat.

Disclaimer : TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beautiful Train Journeys In India

Is it safe to travel in Indian trains during COVID times?

You need to follow all the mandatory guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure your safety. Wear mask while traveling in train or being at the railway station, avoid crowds and maintain social distancing. Keep sanitizing your hands regularly. You can also carry a disinfectant spray to disinfect your seat and surroundings.

Which is the best train in India?

This is no definite answer to this because of the way you define best. It could be in terms of service or the route it runs on. If you have to pick one, Samjhauta Express would be the best train of India as it connects India and Pakistan displaying the amazing coordination between the two countries with communal tensions. It connects Amritsar with Lahore.

Which is the long-distance train in India?

Vivek Express is the longest distance train in India that connects Dibrugarh in Assam with Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. The train runs weekly and takes about 79 hours to complete a journey of 4234 km. It has 57 intermediate stoppages. Whoa! Imagine the journey that would be on this train.

Which are the dangerous train routes in India?

Chennai - Rameswaram route is considered to be the most dangerous train route in India. It is ironic because it is also a pilgrimage route. So, your faith in God is put to test when you travel on this train. The 2.3 km long stretch of this train runs over the ocean fighting strong winds and tides that make this journey dangerous and testing.

Which are the best train journeys from Bangalore?

The train journey from Bangalore to Kanyakumari is the most scenic one. Ditch the car ride and take the train instead if you want to enjoy the scenery

Which is the longest rail bridge in India?

The longest rail bridge in India is the Vembanad Rail Bridge that connects Vallarpadam and Edappally in Kerala’s Kochi. The bridge is 4.62 km long and dedicated only to good trains.

Is the Indian railways run by private or public?

The Indian railways is a public railway organization run by the Ministry of Railways, Government of India.

Which is the fastest train in India?

The Vande Bharat Express or Train 18 is currently the fastest train in India with a maximum operational speed of 180 km/h. The average speed of the train is around 102 km/h.

Which railway station has the most number of platforms in India?

Howrah Junction in Kolkata, West Bengal is one of the largest junctions in the country and a perfect bridge between North, South, East and West India. It has 23 platforms that spread in a huge area.

People Also Read:

Beautiful Train Journeys In The World Beautiful Train Journeys In Canada Luxurious Train Journeys In India

Recent Posts

15 कश्मीर में सर्वश्रेष्ठ हाउसबोट: प्रकृति प्रेमियों के लिए एक सौगात!

17 Meilleures destinations de lune de miel en Italie en 2024 pour les couples fous amoureux

10 Voyages les plus populaires en Europe pour planifier l’évasion ultime de 2024

आनंदपूर्वक घूमने के लिए 52 भारत में सर्वश्रेष्ठ छुट्टियाँ बिताने की जगहें

2024 में एक ताज़गी भरी 49 छुट्टियों के लिए उत्तर भारत में घूमने की जगहें

भारत से घूमने के लिए सबसे सस्ते देश जहां आपको 50K से भी कम खर्च आएगा!

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Travel Punch »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan