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There’s something romantic and timeless about traveling by train—the gentle rhythm on the tracks, panoramic windows revealing nature’s finest, and the joy of savoring every mile of the journey. These 11 scenic train rides around the globe are more than transportation—they are immersive experiences that showcase diverse landscapes, cultures, and comforts. Whether you crave alpine views, coastal serenity, or historic luxury, each journey invites you to slow down and see the world in a whole new way.
1. Vancouver to Banff: The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Climb aboard the Rocky Mountaineer and be swept into the heart of Canada’s stunning Rocky Mountains. This luxury rail experience connects Vancouver and Banff, taking you past turquoise lakes, glacier-fed rivers, and towering peaks. Panoramic glass coaches offer unobstructed views, while gourmet meals and attentive service enhance the ride. The real magic lies in watching the landscape evolve—from lush coastal rainforest to dramatic alpine scenery, all without lifting a finger. It’s a slow-travel dream for nature lovers and bucket-list seekers alike.
2. Myrdal to Flåm: The Flåm Railway, Norway
Tucked into the majestic fjords of western Norway, the Flåm Railway descends nearly 3,000 feet over 12 miles, offering one of the steepest and most scenic train journeys in the world. Along the way, passengers are treated to cascading waterfalls, alpine meadows, and remote mountain farms. The route is short, but the beauty is immense, each turn reveals another picture-perfect vista. If you’re seeking a magical blend of engineering and natural wonder, this fairy-tale ride through Norwegian wilderness is a must.
3. Istanbul to Paris: Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
This isn’t just a train ride, it’s a passage through time. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express transports you from Istanbul to Paris in opulent style, echoing the golden age of rail travel. Step inside vintage carriages with polished wood, plush seating, and elegant dining as you glide past the ever-changing European countryside. Stops in historic cities like Budapest and Vienna enrich the route. With gourmet cuisine and five-star service, it’s not only about where you’re going, but how you get there.
4. Colombo to Badulla: Sri Lanka Railways
Often dubbed one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys, the route from Colombo to Badulla immerses travelers in Sri Lanka’s lush interior. As the train winds through tea plantations, cloud forests, and mountain towns, the scenery becomes a sensory feast. Locals hang out of open doors, children wave from hilltop homes, and the landscape is alive with color and mist. Affordable, slow-paced, and deeply rooted in local life, it’s a scenic and cultural ride unlike any other in Asia.
5. Lugano to Lucerne: Gotthard Panorama Express, Switzerland
For a quintessential Swiss experience, ride the Gotthard Panorama Express from Italian-speaking Lugano to German-speaking Lucerne. This journey combines lake cruises and rail travel, showcasing Switzerland’s cultural and geographic diversity. Through panoramic windows, passengers witness serene lakes, snow-capped peaks, and charming villages. The historic Gotthard tunnel, once a marvel of engineering, is part of the route. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or simply seeking tranquility in motion, this scenic ride is a true Alpine delight.
6. Singapore to Kuala Lumpur: Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
Evoking colonial grandeur, the Eastern & Oriental Express rolls through lush jungles, riverside towns, and vibrant cities between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Lavishly appointed cabins, white-glove service, and elegant dining make this more than a train, it’s a five-star hotel on rails. Stopovers include guided cultural tours and excursions. From the golden mosques of Malaysia to the tropical greenery outside your window, this journey offers a seamless fusion of luxury, heritage, and adventure across Southeast Asia.
7. Christchurch to Greymouth: The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
Spanning the South Island, the TranzAlpine train connects the cities of Christchurch and Greymouth through some of New Zealand’s most jaw-dropping scenery. Traversing the Southern Alps, it passes braided rivers, dense rainforests, deep gorges, and snow-covered peaks. The open-air viewing carriage allows you to step outside and fully absorb the elements. Whether you’re chasing nature, photography, or a peaceful ride, the TranzAlpine is a must for those who believe in the journey just as much as the destination.
8. London to Edinburgh: The Caledonian Sleeper, UK
Turn your overnight trip into an experience aboard the Caledonian Sleeper. Departing from bustling London and arriving in Scotland’s capital by morning, this train feels like a boutique hotel on wheels. Private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, fine bedding, and lounge dining create a cozy retreat. Wake up to the rolling highlands and stone viaducts of northern Britain as mist lifts from the hills. It’s the most scenic and stylish way to drift into the heart of Scotland.
9. Tokyo to Hakodate: The Super Hokuto, Japan
Blending efficiency with scenic charm, Japan’s Super Hokuto speeds travelers from the bustling capital to the serene landscapes of Hokkaido. As you move through rural towns, coastal cliffs, and forested mountains, the journey reveals a quieter, more contemplative side of Japan. The train is comfortable, punctual, and offers plenty of windows to admire cherry blossoms in spring or snow-covered scenery in winter. It’s a high-speed invitation to slow down and savor Japan’s natural rhythms.
10. Cuzco to Machu Picchu: Hiram Bingham, Peru
Named after the explorer who rediscovered Machu Picchu, the Hiram Bingham train is Peru’s most luxurious route to the Sacred Valley. Start your journey with welcome cocktails and live Peruvian music, then feast on Andean-inspired cuisine in a vintage Pullman-style dining car. As the train climbs toward the Inca citadel, the views of cloud forests, rivers, and mountain peaks only build the anticipation. When it comes to luxury rail with historical significance, this ride reigns supreme.
11. Pretoria to Cape Town: The Blue Train, South Africa
South Africa’s iconic Blue Train redefines luxury rail travel with its palatial suites, attentive service, and stunning views. Journeying from Pretoria to Cape Town, the train rolls through savannas, vineyards, deserts, and mountain passes. Guests enjoy gourmet meals, cigar lounges, and curated excursions en route. The experience is more than opulent; it’s immersive, offering a grand tour of South Africa’s varied beauty and cultural depth. A night aboard feels like stepping into another era, where every detail is crafted for indulgence.