Scenic Train Route: The 7 Most Beautiful Railway Trips in the World

Scenic Train Route: The 7 Most Beautiful Railway Trips in the World

Exploring the world by train offers a unique way to experience the beauty of diverse landscapes while traveling in comfort. Unlike air travel, which rushes through vast distances in hours, or road trips, which often involve long hours of driving, train journeys offer a more relaxed and scenic way to explore some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. Whether you’re passing through towering mountain ranges, dense forests, or along shimmering coastlines, a scenic train journey transforms travel into an adventure.

In this post, we’ll explore the 7 most beautiful railway trips in the world that every travel enthusiast should add to their bucket list. From Switzerland’s snow-capped Alps to Australia’s untamed outback, these journeys offer unforgettable views and an immersive travel experience.

The Glacier Express, Switzerland

Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz

The Glacier Express is often referred to as the “slowest express train in the world,” but that’s exactly what makes it so special. Covering 291 kilometers (181 miles) in about 8 hours, this iconic Swiss train connects the mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz, offering an unparalleled view of the Swiss Alps.

Highlights:

• Landwasser Viaduct: This impressive six-arched bridge is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers spectacular views as the train crosses over a deep gorge.
• Oberalp Pass: At over 2,000 meters (6,600 feet), this is the highest point on the journey, where you’ll see snow-covered peaks even in summer.
• Rhein Gorge: Known as the “Swiss Grand Canyon,” this area features dramatic cliffs and turquoise rivers.

Why It’s Special:

Large panoramic windows give passengers stunning views of the landscapes, and the slow pace of the train allows you to savor the experience, making it perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Route: Vancouver to Banff

The Rocky Mountaineer is one of the most famous luxury train journeys in the world, whisking travelers through the majestic Canadian Rockies. This multi-day train trip is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, from verdant forests and rushing rivers to towering peaks and deep valleys.

Highlights:

• Hell’s Gate in Fraser Canyon: Watch as the train snakes through the narrow canyon, with the Fraser River thundering below.
• Pyramid Falls: A stunning waterfall that seems to cascade out of the forest, visible from the comfort of your seat.
• Spiral Tunnels: These engineering marvels allow the train to climb the steep slopes of Kicking Horse Pass.

Why It’s Special:

This journey offers a luxurious onboard experience, with glass-dome coaches that allow for 360-degree views. The service includes gourmet meals and knowledgeable guides who share insights about the landscapes and wildlife you’re passing through.

The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

Route: Moscow to Vladivostok

The Trans-Siberian Railway is not only the longest railway journey in the world but also one of the most iconic. Spanning over 9,000 kilometers (5,772 miles), it takes seven days to cross from Europe to Asia, traveling through vast stretches of Siberia, taiga forests, and remote villages. This epic route connects Moscow to Vladivostok, on Russia’s Pacific coast, and offers an authentic glimpse into the heart of Russia.

Highlights:

• Lake Baikal: The world’s deepest freshwater lake, with crystal-clear water and stunning mountainous surroundings.
• Ural Mountains: The natural divide between Europe and Asia, offering panoramic views of rolling hills and forests.
• Mongolian Steppes (if you take the Trans-Mongolian route): Experience the vast, open landscapes of Mongolia, dotted with yurts and nomadic settlements.

Why It’s Special:

This journey is about more than just scenery. It’s a cultural experience, allowing travelers to interact with locals, try Russian cuisine, and get a real sense of the country’s vastness.

The Ghan, Australia

Route: Adelaide to Darwin

Named after the Afghan camel drivers who once traversed Australia’s outback, The Ghan is an iconic train journey that covers nearly 3,000 kilometers (1,850 miles) from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north. This route takes you through the heart of Australia, offering views of the outback’s red deserts, rugged mountain ranges, and tropical landscapes.

Highlights:

• Flinders Ranges: A dramatic mountain range that stretches for hundreds of miles, rich in Aboriginal history and culture.
• The Red Centre: Pass through Alice Springs and witness the surreal, red desert landscapes that Australia is famous for.
• Nitmiluk Gorge: Near the end of the journey, travelers can take a river cruise through this stunning gorge carved by the Katherine River.

Why It’s Special:

The Ghan offers a luxurious way to experience the vast, untamed beauty of Australia’s interior. The onboard experience is world-class, with gourmet dining, elegant cabins, and fascinating excursions along the way.

The West Highland Line, Scotland

Route: Glasgow to Mallaig

The West Highland Line is often described as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. This picturesque Scottish route takes passengers from the bustling city of Glasgow through the wild, rugged beauty of the Highlands, passing lochs, glens, and mountains before arriving at the fishing port of Mallaig.

Highlights:

• Loch Lomond: One of Scotland’s most famous lochs, with serene waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Rannoch Moor: A remote and desolate stretch of moorland that offers a true taste of Scotland’s untamed wilderness.
• Glenfinnan Viaduct: Famously featured in the Harry Potter films, this curved viaduct offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley.

Why It’s Special:

This journey captures the essence of Scotland, offering not only incredible landscapes but also a deep sense of history and folklore. The West Highland Line is perfect for those who want to experience Scotland’s natural beauty away from the cities.

The Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy

Route: Chur to Tirano

The Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed train route that takes passengers from the Swiss town of Chur, through the Alps, and into the Italian town of Tirano. This stunning journey covers 144 kilometers (89 miles) and includes dramatic scenery, from snow-capped mountains to palm-lined streets.

Highlights:

• Bernina Range: Pass through the towering Bernina Alps, with panoramic views of glaciers and rugged peaks.
• Brusio Spiral Viaduct: A unique circular viaduct that allows the train to descend the steep Alpine terrain.
• Lago Bianco: A serene mountain lake that turns bright white in winter, offering a stark contrast to the dark mountains around it.

Why It’s Special:

The Bernina Express is one of the steepest railways in the world and offers unparalleled views of two countries’ landscapes, making it a favorite among travelers seeking a mix of Alpine and Mediterranean beauty.

The Blue Train, South Africa

Route: Pretoria to Cape Town

The Blue Train is South Africa’s answer to luxury train travel, offering an opulent experience as you traverse the stunning landscapes between Pretoria and Cape Town. This two-day journey covers nearly 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles) and is known for its top-notch service, gourmet cuisine, and breathtaking scenery.

Highlights:

• Karoo Desert: A vast, arid landscape that showcases South Africa’s raw beauty.
• Table Mountain: As you approach Cape Town, you’ll catch glimpses of the iconic Table Mountain, one of the most famous landmarks in the country.
• Winelands: The final stretch of the journey passes through South Africa’s wine country, with rolling hills covered in vineyards.

Why It’s Special:

The Blue Train is all about luxury and comfort. With private suites, personal butler service, and gourmet dining, it’s the ultimate way to experience the beauty of South Africa in style.

Conclusion: Embark on the Journey of a Lifetime

Scenic train journeys are more than just a means of transportation; they are immersive travel experiences that allow you to see the world’s most beautiful landscapes at a leisurely pace. From the towering peaks of the Swiss Alps to the untamed outback of Australia, these seven railway trips offer something for every type of traveler.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, luxury, or a deep connection with nature, these rail journeys will transport you to some of the most stunning and remote corners of the globe.