What Are the Most Scenic Train Rides Worldwide?

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There’s something magical about train travel.

It’s slower, more deliberate, and it lets you truly soak in the landscapes that unfold outside your window.

From towering mountains to shimmering oceans, some train rides are like stepping into a moving postcard.

So, if you’re ready to embrace the romance of the rails, let’s explore some of the most scenic train journeys from around the world that will leave you in awe.

The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)

Imagine gliding past snow-capped peaks, emerald-green forests, and crystal-clear lakes.

That’s what the Rocky Mountaineer promises in Canada.

This luxurious train winds its way through the Canadian Rockies, covering routes like Vancouver to Banff or Jasper.

• Highlights:

  • Spiral tunnels and dramatic canyons

  • Glacier-fed rivers and wildlife like bears and elk

  • Glass-dome carriages for unobstructed views

Whether you’re sipping champagne or snapping photos, this train journey is pure luxury combined with jaw-dropping scenery.

Glacier Express (Switzerland)

Nicknamed the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express is anything but boring.

Traveling between Zermatt and St.

Moritz, this iconic Swiss train ride offers breathtaking views of the Alps.

• Highlights:

  • 291 bridges and 91 tunnels

  • Views of the Matterhorn and Oberalp Pass

  • Cozy panoramic windows for maximum visibility

This ride is a feast for the eyes and a chance to experience the fairytale beauty of Switzerland.

The Ghan (Australia)

For an outback adventure like no other, hop aboard The Ghan.

Stretching from Adelaide to Darwin, this legendary train covers nearly 3,000 kilometers of rugged Australian landscapes.

• Highlights:

  • The Red Centre and Katherine Gorge

  • Optional off-train excursions

  • Vibrant sunsets over the desert

The Ghan is an unforgettable way to experience Australia’s vastness while indulging in onboard luxury.

Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia)

Spanning 9,288 kilometers, the Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest train journey in the world.

It takes you across the vastness of Russia, from Moscow to Vladivostok, passing through a variety of landscapes.

• Highlights:

  • Birch forests, steppe grasslands, and Lake Baikal

  • Charming villages and historic cities

  • The sense of adventure on a truly epic route

Whether you ride the whole way or just part of the journey, the Trans-Siberian Railway is a bucket-list experience.

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The Blue Train (South Africa)

For a blend of safari-style landscapes and luxury, the Blue Train is an excellent choice.

Running between Cape Town and Pretoria, this train is often called a “five-star hotel on wheels.”

• Highlights:

  • The South African veld and Table Mountain

  • Lavish suites with fine dining

  • Stops at fascinating historical sites

The Blue Train combines unparalleled comfort with South Africa’s iconic scenery.

West Highland Line (Scotland)

Often considered one of the most beautiful train routes in the United Kingdom, the West Highland Line takes you through the heart of Scotland.

If it looks familiar, it’s because parts of the journey were featured in the Harry Potter films.

• Highlights:

  • The iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct

  • Rugged moors and serene lochs

  • A stop in the charming fishing village of Mallaig

It’s a ride that will have you humming Scottish tunes as you gaze out at the majestic highlands.

The TranzAlpine (New Zealand)

For a snapshot of New Zealand’s diverse beauty, the TranzAlpine delivers.

Running between Christchurch and Greymouth, this train journey is often described as one of the world’s most scenic.

• Highlights:

  • Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps, and Arthur’s Pass

  • Lush rainforests and deep gorges

  • Open-air viewing carriages for nature lovers

This ride is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the natural wonders of New Zealand up close.

The Flam Railway (Norway)

The Flam Railway may be short, but it packs a punch.

This hour-long journey in Norway takes you from the fjords to the mountains, offering postcard-perfect views at every turn.

• Highlights:

  • Steep mountain passes and cascading waterfalls

  • Stunning views of the Aurlandsfjord

  • Quaint Norwegian villages

For such a short route, it leaves a lasting impression on travelers.

Bernina Express (Switzerland to Italy)

This cross-border journey from Switzerland to Italy is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed experience.

The Bernina Express connects Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, traversing some of the most picturesque landscapes in Europe.

• Highlights:

  • Alpine glaciers and Italian vineyards

  • The iconic Landwasser Viaduct

  • Spiraling bridges and tunnels

It’s the perfect mix of Swiss precision and Italian charm.

The Coastal Pacific (New Zealand)

If you love ocean views, the Coastal Pacific train in New Zealand is a must.

Running between Christchurch and Picton, this journey hugs the eastern coastline, offering stunning seascapes.

• Highlights:

  • Rolling hills and Pacific Ocean views

  • Stops at Marlborough’s wine region

  • Marine wildlife like seals and dolphins

This ride feels like a love letter to New Zealand’s coastline.

Conclusion

Whether you dream of the snowy Alps, the rugged Australian outback, or the tranquil Norwegian fjords, scenic train rides are a chance to experience the world in a unique way.

They’re not just about getting from point A to point B—they’re about the journey itself.

So, next time you plan a trip, consider hopping on one of these incredible trains and let the scenery take your breath away.

Now, it’s time to grab your camera, sit back, and enjoy the ride—literally!

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