Trains have been a popular mode of transportation for centuries, and it’s not hard to see why. They offer a unique way to explore new destinations and enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the way. If you’re a travel enthusiast looking for an unforgettable experience, here are the top ten train journeys you shouldn’t miss:
Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express is a legendary train journey that winds its way through the Swiss Alps, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear streams, and charming mountain towns. This journey is known as the slowest express train in the world, taking about eight hours to complete the 181-mile (291 km) trip from Zermatt to St. Moritz.
The train has been in operation since 1930 and is known for its comfortable, spacious carriages and large panoramic windows that offer uninterrupted views of the stunning scenery outside. The carriages are designed with comfort in mind, with plush seats, large tables, and generous legroom. The train is equipped with all modern amenities, including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a restaurant car serving delicious Swiss cuisine.
The journey begins in the picturesque town of Zermatt, situated at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn. From there, the train climbs steadily through the beautiful Mattertal Valley, passing through charming villages and lush meadows. The train then crosses the famous Landwasser Viaduct, a spectacular feat of engineering that spans a deep gorge and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
One of the highlights of the journey is the Oberalp Pass, which reaches a height of 6,670 feet (2,033 m) and offers stunning views of the Rhine Gorge and the distant Swiss Alps. The train then descends into the scenic Engadin Valley, passing through quaint towns and beautiful lakes before reaching its final destination, the glamorous ski resort town of St. Moritz.
The Glacier Express is not just a train journey, but an experience that showcases the beauty of Switzerland’s natural and cultural heritage. The journey is a popular tourist attraction, and it’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season. The train operates year-round, with different scenic highlights depending on the season. In the winter, the train passes through snow-covered landscapes, while in the summer, the meadows are awash with colorful wildflowers.
Overall, the Glacier Express is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Switzerland, offering an unforgettable experience that combines luxury, comfort, and stunning natural beauty.
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer is a world-famous train journey that takes you through the stunning Canadian Rockies, offering breathtaking views of towering peaks, glaciers, turquoise lakes, and dense forests. This journey is known as one of the most spectacular train rides in the world, and it’s no wonder why.
The Rocky Mountaineer offers four different routes through the Canadian Rockies, each with its own unique scenery and highlights. The most popular route is the First Passage to the West, which travels from Vancouver to Banff or Lake Louise, passing through the historic towns of Kamloops and Banff. The journey covers a distance of approximately 800 miles (1,290 km) and takes two days to complete.
The train features two levels of service, with GoldLeaf Service being the most luxurious. The GoldLeaf Service offers a dome-style carriage with panoramic views of the stunning scenery, a private outdoor viewing platform, gourmet meals served in the lower-level dining room, and complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
The journey begins in Vancouver, one of Canada’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. The train passes through the fertile Fraser Valley before entering the rugged Fraser Canyon, where you’ll witness the powerful rapids of the Fraser River. The train then ascends the Continental Divide through the spectacular Spiral Tunnels, a feat of engineering that enables trains to climb steep mountain grades.
The train passes through the charming town of Banff, surrounded by majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and glaciers. You’ll then journey through the Kicking Horse Pass, known for its stunning mountain vistas and crystal-clear streams. Along the way, you’ll witness wildlife such as elk, deer, and bighorn sheep.
The Rocky Mountaineer journey is not just a train ride, but a unique experience that showcases the natural beauty and history of western Canada. The train operates from April to October, with different highlights depending on the season. In the spring, the train passes through blooming wildflowers, while in the fall, the trees are ablaze with colorful foliage.
The Rocky Mountaineer journey is an unforgettable experience that combines luxury, comfort, and stunning natural beauty. It’s no wonder why it’s one of the most popular train journeys in the world, attracting visitors from all over the globe.
The Ghan, Australia
The Ghan is a legendary train journey that takes you through the heart of Australia, from Adelaide to Darwin. The journey covers a distance of approximately 2,979 kilometers, crossing the continent from south to north and passing through some of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes.
The journey takes its name from the Afghan camel drivers who once traversed the Australian outback, carrying goods and supplies from one remote town to another. The train is an iconic symbol of Australian culture and history, and the journey is a testament to the rugged beauty and vastness of the Australian outback.
The Ghan operates two services, the Gold Service and the Platinum Service, both of which offer luxurious accommodations and top-notch service. The Gold Service features private cabins, all-inclusive meals served in the dining car, and access to the Outback Explorer Lounge. The Platinum Service offers even more luxurious accommodations, with larger cabins, in-room dining, and exclusive access to the Platinum Lounge.
The journey begins in Adelaide, one of Australia’s most charming and cosmopolitan cities. The train then crosses the expansive Nullarbor Plain, a vast expanse of flat, arid land that’s home to an array of unique wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and wedge-tailed eagles. The train stops at the remote town of Marla before continuing on to Alice Springs, a vibrant town in the heart of the Australian outback.
The train then passes through Katherine, home to the spectacular Katherine Gorge and the Nitmiluk National Park. The final leg of the journey takes you to Darwin, the tropical capital of the Northern Territory, where you can explore the city’s rich history, culture, and wildlife.
The Ghan journey is not just a train ride, but an unforgettable experience that showcases the vastness, beauty, and diversity of the Australian outback. The journey is recommended to be taken during the cooler months, from May to September, when the temperatures are more comfortable and the scenery is at its most spectacular.
Overall, The Ghan journey is a unique experience that combines luxury, comfort, and adventure, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Australian outback. It’s an adventure of a lifetime that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is one of the most luxurious and glamorous train journeys in the world. The journey takes you through some of Europe’s most stunning cities, including Venice, Paris, and Istanbul, and is steeped in history, romance, and glamour.
The train is a work of art, featuring authentic 1920s and 1930s carriages, restored to their original splendor. Each carriage is adorned with intricate marquetry, sumptuous fabrics, and elegant fixtures and fittings. The train also features fine dining restaurants, a bar car, and luxurious sleeping compartments that offer unparalleled comfort and style.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express journey is a classic example of slow travel, where the journey is as important as the destination. The train journey is steeped in history and romance, evoking the glamour and luxury of a bygone era. The journey has been immortalized in literature and film, from Agatha Christie’s classic novel “Murder on the Orient Express” to the James Bond movie “From Russia with Love”.
The journey begins in Venice, one of Italy’s most romantic and charming cities. The train then travels through the Austrian Alps, passing through beautiful mountain towns and stunning landscapes. The train then crosses into France, passing through the beautiful Champagne region before arriving in Paris, the City of Light.
The journey then continues on to Istanbul, crossing through the Balkans and offering breathtaking views of the Bulgarian countryside. The train then travels through the heart of Romania, passing through beautiful cities like Bucharest and Brasov, before finally arriving in Istanbul, where you can explore the city’s rich history and culture.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express journey is not just a train ride, but a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into the golden age of travel. The journey is recommended to be taken during the cooler months, from March to November, when the scenery is at its most spectacular.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express journey is a must-do experience for anyone seeking luxury, comfort, and adventure. It’s an experience that combines history, romance, and glamour, and offers a journey of a lifetime that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the most iconic train journeys in the world, spanning over 9,000 kilometers across Russia, from Moscow to Vladivostok. The journey is a true adventure, taking you through diverse landscapes, from dense forests and vast lakes to towering mountains and rugged deserts.
The journey offers three routes, each with its own unique scenery and highlights. The most popular route is the classic Trans-Siberian, which travels from Moscow to Vladivostok, passing through the heart of Siberia. The journey covers a distance of approximately 9,288 kilometers and takes seven days to complete.
The train offers a range of accommodations, from basic sleeper cars to luxurious private cabins. The train is equipped with all modern amenities, including a restaurant car, a bar car, and comfortable sleeping quarters.
The journey begins in Moscow, Russia’s vibrant capital city, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural landmarks. The train then travels eastward through the vast Siberian taiga, passing through remote towns and cities like Yekaterinburg and Novosibirsk.
One of the highlights of the journey is Lake Baikal, the deepest lake in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The train skirts the southern edge of the lake, offering stunning views of its crystal-clear waters and dramatic landscapes.
The train then passes through the beautiful and historic city of Irkutsk before continuing eastward towards Vladivostok, a major seaport on the Pacific Ocean. The journey offers a unique glimpse into Russia’s rich history and culture, showcasing the diversity and vastness of the world’s largest country.
The Trans-Siberian Railway journey is not just a train ride, but a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into the heart of Russia. The journey is recommended to be taken during the summer months, from May to September, when the temperatures are more comfortable and the scenery is at its most spectacular.
The Trans-Siberian Railway journey is an adventure of a lifetime, offering a unique combination of luxury, comfort, and natural beauty. It’s an experience that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the vastness and diversity of the world’s largest country.
Palace on Wheels, India
The Palace on Wheels is a luxurious train journey that takes you through the royal cities of Rajasthan, India. The journey is a royal experience, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of India’s majestic past.
The train features 14 luxurious carriages, each named after the former Rajput states of Rajasthan, and decorated in a royal style befitting of a maharaja. The train offers private cabins with en-suite bathrooms, gourmet meals served in the dining car, and a lounge car where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
The journey begins in Delhi, India’s capital city, before heading west to Jaipur, known as the Pink City, and the capital of Rajasthan. The city is known for its stunning palaces, ancient forts, and vibrant markets. The journey then continues on to the beautiful city of Jaisalmer, located in the heart of the Thar Desert, where you can explore the city’s stunning sandstone architecture and take a camel ride through the desert.
The train then heads to Jodhpur, known as the Blue City, for its stunning blue-painted houses and magnificent Mehrangarh Fort. The journey continues to the beautiful city of Udaipur, known as the Venice of the East, for its beautiful lakes and stunning palaces.
The Palace on Wheels journey is not just a train ride, but a royal experience that showcases the rich history and culture of Rajasthan. The journey is recommended to be taken during the cooler months, from September to April, when the temperatures are more comfortable and the scenery is at its most spectacular.
The Palace on Wheels journey is a luxurious and unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of India’s royal past. It’s an experience that combines luxury, comfort, and adventure, and offers a journey of a lifetime that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Belmond Hiram Bingham, Peru
The Belmond Hiram Bingham is a luxurious train journey that takes you through the stunning Andes Mountains of Peru, from Cusco to Machu Picchu. The journey is named after the American explorer who rediscovered Machu Picchu in 1911 and offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Inca Empire.
The train features luxurious carriages, designed in a style reminiscent of the 1920s Pullman carriages. The train offers spacious seating, live music, and gourmet meals served in the dining car. The train also has a bar car, where you can enjoy a pisco sour, Peru’s national cocktail, as you take in the stunning scenery.
The journey begins in Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The train then winds its way through the picturesque Sacred Valley, passing through lush green valleys and colorful Andean villages.
One of the highlights of the journey is the stunning scenery of the Andes Mountains, which tower over the valley below. The train then arrives at Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, where you can explore the ancient ruins of the Inca citadel.
The Belmond Hiram Bingham journey is not just a train ride, but a luxurious and unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Peru. The journey is recommended to be taken during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is more comfortable and the scenery is at its most spectacular.
The Belmond Hiram Bingham journey is a luxurious and unforgettable experience that combines luxury, comfort, and stunning natural beauty. It’s an experience that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the rich history and culture of the Inca Empire.
The Blue Train, South Africa
The Blue Train is a luxurious train journey that takes you through the stunning landscapes of South Africa, from Pretoria to Cape Town. The journey is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of South Africa, and showcasing the country’s natural beauty and diversity.
The train features luxurious cabins, decorated in a style reminiscent of the Edwardian era. The train offers world-class cuisine, served in the elegant dining car, and a lounge car where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The train also features a butler service, ensuring that your every need is taken care of.
The journey begins in Pretoria, South Africa’s administrative capital, before heading south through the vast and beautiful landscape of the South African countryside. The train passes through the stunning vineyards of the Cape Winelands, offering a glimpse into South Africa’s rich wine-making history.
One of the highlights of the journey is the majestic mountain scenery of the Hex River Valley, known for its towering peaks and beautiful vineyards. The train then passes through the spectacularly beautiful Karoo Desert, known for its unique flora and fauna, before arriving in Cape Town, one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities in Africa.
The Blue Train journey is not just a train ride, but a luxurious and unforgettable experience that showcases the natural beauty and diversity of South Africa. The journey is recommended to be taken during the cooler months, from May to September, when the temperatures are more comfortable and the scenery is at its most spectacular.
Overall, the Blue Train journey is a luxurious and unforgettable experience that combines luxury, comfort, and adventure, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of South Africa. It’s an experience that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of this beautiful country.
Eastern and Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
The Eastern and Oriental Express is a luxurious train journey that takes you through the stunning landscapes of Southeast Asia, from Bangkok to Singapore. The journey is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region, and showcasing its natural beauty and diversity.
The train features luxurious cabins, decorated in a style reminiscent of the colonial era, with exquisite furnishings and elegant fixtures and fittings. The train offers world-class cuisine, served in the elegant dining car, and a lounge car where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
The journey begins in Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant and cosmopolitan capital city, before heading south through the beautiful countryside of central Thailand. The train then crosses the border into Malaysia, passing through the lush green forests and dramatic mountains of the Malay Peninsula.
One of the highlights of the journey is the stunning scenery of the River Kwai, a beautiful and historic river that is home to the famous bridge that was built during World War II. The train then passes through the bustling cities of Penang and Kuala Lumpur before arriving in Singapore, a modern and vibrant city-state known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
The Eastern and Oriental Express journey is not just a train ride, but a luxurious and unforgettable experience that showcases the natural beauty and diversity of Southeast Asia. The journey is recommended to be taken during the cooler months, from November to February, when the temperatures are more comfortable and the scenery is at its most spectacular.
Overall, the Eastern and Oriental Express journey is a luxurious and unforgettable experience that combines luxury, comfort, and adventure, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Southeast Asia. It’s an experience that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of this beautiful region.
The California Zephyr, United States
The California Zephyr is a legendary train journey that takes you through the stunning landscapes of the American West, from Chicago to San Francisco. The journey is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the American West, and showcasing its natural beauty and diversity.
The train features comfortable cabins and amenities, including a dining car, observation car, and lounge car. The journey takes approximately 51 hours to complete, covering a distance of approximately 2,438 miles. Passengers can expect to pass through some of the most iconic landmarks of the American West.
The journey begins in Chicago, one of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in the United States. The train then passes through the vast and beautiful prairies of the Midwest, before reaching the stunning Rocky Mountains. The train stops in Denver, Colorado, a vibrant city known for its outdoor recreation, cultural landmarks, and stunning natural beauty.
One of the highlights of the journey is the majestic mountain scenery of the Rockies, known for its towering peaks and beautiful valleys. The train then passes through the rugged deserts of Utah and Nevada before arriving in California, where you can explore the stunning landscapes of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the beautiful coastline of San Francisco.
The California Zephyr journey is not just a train ride, but a unique and unforgettable experience that showcases the natural beauty and diversity of the American West. The journey is recommended to be taken during the cooler months, from May to September, when the temperatures are more comfortable and the scenery is at its most spectacular.
The California Zephyr journey is an adventure of a lifetime, offering a unique combination of luxury, comfort, and natural beauty. It’s an experience that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of the American West.