Introduction: Discover the World’s Most Scenic Train journeys
Explore the world’s 10 most scenic train journeys, featuring breathtaking landscapes, comfortable amenities, and unforgettable experiences.
Train journeys offer an unparalleled way to experience the world’s natural beauty, all while enjoying comfort and convenience. Whether you’re cruising through snow-capped mountains or along rugged coastlines, these scenic routes promise breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences, perfect for travel enthusiasts seeking adventure and beauty. In this guide, we explore 10 of the world’s most scenic train journeys, with all the essential details you need to plan your next adventure.
1. Glacier Express, Switzerland
Train Journey Details:
- Name of the Train/Route: Glacier Express
- Starting and Ending Points: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Scenery Highlights:
The Glacier Express is one of Scenic Train Journeys that offers an epic view of the Swiss Alps. Expect to see deep valleys, pristine forests, and majestic snow-capped mountains. The route also crosses the famous Oberalp Pass, the highest point of the journey.
Approx. Duration and Distance:
- Duration: 8 hours
- Distance: 291 kilometers (181 miles)
Best Time to Travel:
Winter for snowy landscapes or summer for lush green valleys and alpine flowers.
Comfort and Amenities:
The train features panoramic windows, allowing you to enjoy the views from every angle. There’s a dining car serving gourmet meals, and first-class coaches offer extra comfort with reclining seats and spacious cabins.
Nearby Attractions:
- Zermatt’s Matterhorn Mountain
- The town of St. Moritz
- Swiss National Park
2. The Blue Train, South Africa
Train Journey Details:
- Name of the Train/Route: The Blue Train
- Starting and Ending Points: Pretoria to Cape Town
Scenery Highlights:
The Blue Train journey is one of Scenic Train Journeys that offers stunning views of South Africa’s diverse landscapes, from arid deserts to lush vineyards. You’ll also see wildlife along the way, such as giraffes and zebras, in their natural habitats.
Approx. Duration and Distance:
- Duration: 27 hours
- Distance: 1,600 kilometers (994 miles)
Best Time to Travel:
Spring and autumn provide the best temperatures and clear skies, perfect for enjoying the landscape.
Comfort and Amenities:
This luxurious train features lavish suites with en-suite bathrooms, gourmet meals, and excellent service. There’s even a lounge car for relaxation.
Nearby Attractions:
- Cape Town’s Table Mountain
- Pretoria’s Union Buildings
- Stellenbosch wine region
3. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Train Journey Details:
- Name of the Train/Route: Rocky Mountaineer
- Starting and Ending Points: Vancouver to Banff
Scenery Highlights:
This Scenic Train Journeys provides a front-row seat to the Canadian Rockies. Expect to see towering mountains, glaciers, sparkling lakes, and dense forests. Key highlights include the Fraser River Canyon and the Spiral Tunnels.
Approx. Duration and Distance:
- Duration: 2 days
- Distance: 840 kilometers (522 miles)
Best Time to Travel:
The summer months (June to September) offer the best weather for a comfortable ride and vibrant scenery.
Comfort and Amenities:
The Rocky Mountaineer offers luxurious, glass-domed coaches with excellent views, gourmet meals, and attentive service. There are also spacious sleeper cabins for those taking longer journeys.
Nearby Attractions:
- Banff National Park
- Jasper National Park
- Lake Louise
4. Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
Train Journey Details:
- Name of the Train/Route: Trans-Siberian Railway
- Starting and Ending Points: Moscow to Vladivostok
Scenery Highlights:
The Trans-Siberian Railway spans across vast and diverse landscapes, including the Siberian wilderness, dense forests, and steppes. You’ll also pass Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest lake, and the Ural Mountains.
Approx. Duration and Distance:
- Duration: 7 days
- Distance: 6,434 kilometers (3,998 miles)
Best Time to Travel:
Late spring to early fall is the best time to travel, with mild weather and pleasant temperatures.
Comfort and Amenities:
While the train is more basic compared to luxury trains, it offers comfortable sleeper compartments and a dining car for meals. Some higher-class compartments offer more privacy and luxury.
Nearby Attractions:
- Moscow’s Red Square
- Lake Baikal
- The Ural Mountains
5. The Orient Express, Europe
Train Journey Details:
- Name of the Train/Route: The Orient Express
- Starting and Ending Points: Paris to Istanbul
Scenery Highlights:
The Orient Express passes through historical landmarks and lush countryside, with stunning views of the Alps and the Mediterranean coastline. It’s a journey through time, offering glimpses of grand European cities and rural charm.
Approx. Duration and Distance:
- Duration: 2 days
- Distance: 2,290 kilometers (1,423 miles)
Best Time to Travel:
Spring and fall provide a beautiful mix of mild weather and scenic landscapes.
Comfort and Amenities:
The train offers opulent luxury with restored 1920s-style carriages, private suites, gourmet meals, and fine wines.
Nearby Attractions:
- Venice’s canals
- Paris’ Eiffel Tower
- Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia
6. Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy
Train Journey Details:
- Name of the Train/Route: Bernina Express
- Starting and Ending Points: Chur (Switzerland) to Tirano (Italy)
Scenery Highlights:
The Bernina Express is one of Scenic Train Journeys that offers some of the most stunning mountain views in Europe. Expect to pass glaciers, alpine meadows, and dramatic landscapes, including the famous Landwasser Viaduct.
Approx. Duration and Distance:
- Duration: 4 hours
- Distance: 125 kilometers (78 miles)
Best Time to Travel:
Winter offers a magical snowy landscape, while summer provides lush green valleys.
Comfort and Amenities:
The train features panoramic windows, and although it’s not as luxurious as some other trains, it’s comfortable and provides stunning views.
Nearby Attractions:
- Engadine Valley
- St. Moritz
- Lake Como in Italy
7. The Ghan, Australia
Train Journey Details:
- Name of the Train/Route: The Ghan
- Starting and Ending Points: Darwin to Adelaide
Scenery Highlights:
The Ghan offers a unique opportunity to see the Australian Outback. Travelers will witness vast deserts, red cliffs, and the iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock), as well as indigenous culture.
Approx. Duration and Distance:
- Duration: 3 days
- Distance: 2,618 kilometers (1,626 miles)
Best Time to Travel:
The best time is in the cooler months from May to September.
Comfort and Amenities:
The Ghan features comfortable sleeper cabins, fine dining options, and exclusive off-train excursions for a complete experience.
Nearby Attractions:
- Uluru (Ayers Rock)
- Alice Springs
- Flinders Ranges National Park
8. Coastal Pacific, New Zealand
Train Journey Details:
- Name of the Train/Route: Coastal Pacific
- Starting and Ending Points: Picton to Christchurch
Scenery Highlights:
- This scenic journey offers breathtaking coastal views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and serene blue waters.
- Travelers pass through vineyards, rolling farmlands, and enjoy mountain backdrops.
Approx. Duration and Distance:
- Duration: 5 hours
- Distance: 348 kilometers (216 miles)
Best Time to Travel:
- Summer for vibrant coastlines, clear skies, and abundant wildlife.
Comfort and Amenities:
- Spacious seating with panoramic windows to enjoy the views.
- Onboard refreshments and a relaxing travel experience.
Nearby Attractions:
- Kaikoura: Renowned for whale watching and marine life.
- Christchurch Botanic Gardens: A tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
- Marlborough Wine Region: Famous for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc.
9. Seto Ohashi Line, Japan
Train Journey Details:
- Name of the Train/Route: Seto Ohashi Line
- Starting and Ending Points: Okayama to Takamatsu
Scenery Highlights:
- This route offers spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea, featuring turquoise waters, scattered tiny islands, and the impressive Seto Ohashi Bridge network.
Approx. Duration and Distance:
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Distance: 110 kilometers (68 miles)
Best Time to Travel:
- Spring and autumn for ideal temperatures, cherry blossoms, and colorful foliage.
Comfort and Amenities:
- Modern, comfortable trains with spacious seating and large windows for scenic views.
Nearby Attractions:
- Seto Inland Sea National Park: A haven for nature and island exploration.
- Ritsurin Garden: A traditional Japanese landscape garden in Takamatsu.
- Okayama Korakuen Garden: One of Japan’s top three gardens, offering serene beauty.
10. TranzAlpine, New Zealand
Train Journey Details:
- Name of the Train/Route: TranzAlpine
- Starting and Ending Points: Christchurch to Greymouth
Scenery Highlights:
- This journey showcases dense forests, the majestic Southern Alps, and stunning coastal views.
- Highlights include the Waimakariri River and the serene Canterbury Plains.
Approx. Duration and Distance:
- Duration: 4.5 hours
- Distance: 223 kilometers (138 miles)
Best Time to Travel:
- Summer for clear skies, vibrant greenery, and pleasant weather.
Comfort and Amenities:
- Comfortable seating with panoramic windows for a fully immersive scenic experience.
- Onboard commentary and refreshments to enhance the journey.
Nearby Attractions:
- Arthur’s Pass National Park: Ideal for hiking and alpine adventures.
- West Coast Wilderness Trail: A scenic cycling route through lush landscapes.
- Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki: Unique limestone formations with blowholes.
These scenic train journeys not only offer breathtaking views but also provide an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re seeking luxury or a more rugged adventure, these journeys offer something for every traveler. Don’t forget to plan ahead, as many of these routes fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons!