Scenic Train Routes Worldwide
Train travel offers a unique perspective on the world, allowing passengers to take in breathtaking views while being transported from one destination to another. Whether it's winding through mountainous terrain or along scenic coastlines, these routes showcase some of the most stunning landscapes and cities globally.
The World's Most Breathtaking Train Journeys
1. The Glacier Express - Switzerland
The Glacier Express is a celebrated train journey that spans over 8 hours, covering 291 kilometers through the Swiss Alps. Departing from Zermatt in the south of Switzerland to Davos or St. Moritz in the east, this route passes through picturesque villages and alongside turquoise lakes, offering breathtaking views of towering mountain peaks.
2. The Blue Train - South Africa
The Blue Train is a luxurious train journey that connects Pretoria and Cape Town, passing through some of the most beautiful landscapes of South Africa. With stops at popular destinations like Sun City and Kruger National Park, this journey offers a glimpse into the country's rich history, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural beauty.
3. The Rocky Mountaineer - Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxurious train service that runs from Vancouver to Jasper in the Canadian Rockies or from Vancouver to Banff in Alberta. This scenic route takes passengers through breathtaking mountain landscapes, with stops at turquoise lakes, picturesque valleys, and towering peaks like Mount Robson.
4. The Flåm Railway - Norway
The Flåm Railway is a short but spectacular train journey that runs from Myrdal to Flåm, passing through stunning fjords and waterfalls in western Norway. With a steep climb from the fjord's edge into the mountains, this route offers breathtaking views of the fjord below, making it one of the most scenic railway journeys globally.
5. The Bernina Express - Switzerland/Italy
The Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for train enthusiasts. Connecting Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, this route passes through some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the Swiss Alps, including the stunning Oberhalbstein Valley.
6. The Trans-Siberian Railway - Russia
The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the world's most epic train journeys, spanning over 9 days and covering an incredible distance of over 11,000 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok in eastern Russia. Along this route, passengers pass through diverse landscapes, from steppes to mountains and forests.
7. The West Highland Line - Scotland
The West Highland Line is one of the most scenic train journeys in the United Kingdom, running from Glasgow to Mallaig in northwest Scotland. This route passes through some of the country's most beautiful landscapes, including the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.
8. The Belmond Hiram Bingham - Peru
The Belmond Hiram Bingham is a luxurious train service that runs from Cuzco to Machu Picchu, passing through the breathtaking Andean highlands. This journey offers a glimpse into the country's rich Inca heritage and stunning natural beauty.
9. The TranzAlpine Train - New Zealand
The TranzAlpine Train is one of the most scenic train journeys in New Zealand, running from Christchurch to Greymouth on the west coast. This route passes through some of the country's most beautiful landscapes, including forests, rivers, and towering mountain peaks.
10. The Golden Pass Line - Switzerland
The Golden Pass Line is a celebrated train journey that runs from Zweisimmen in the Swiss Alps to Lucerne, passing through breathtaking mountain landscapes and picturesque villages along the way. This route offers stunning views of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, making it one of the most scenic railway journeys globally.
These routes not only showcase some of the world's most beautiful landscapes but also offer a unique perspective on local cultures and history. Whether you're looking for adventure or simply want to take in breathtaking views while traveling, these train journeys are sure to leave an unforgettable impression.