All Aboard! The World’s 25 Best Train Trips

Embarking on a train journey provides an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable adventures. From the majestic Swiss Alps to the sprawling Australian Outback, train travel seamlessly combines comfort and breathtaking scenery. Elegant accommodations, fine dining, and expert-guided tours further enrich these extraordinary journeys, ensuring each trip is a truly unforgettable experience. Whether it’s the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express or the awe-inspiring Glacier Express, these train trips guarantee a remarkable adventure. Let’s take a look at the 25 most incredible train journeys around the world that every travel enthusiast should add to their bucket list.

This legendary train journey takes you from London to Venice, offering luxury, opulence, and a taste of history. The route includes stunning views of the Swiss Alps and the Italian countryside. Passengers can enjoy world-class service and gourmet meals in elegantly restored carriages. The experience is a step back in time to the golden age of travel, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.

Travel through the Canadian Rockies on a route that spans from Vancouver to Banff or Jasper. Witness majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and wildlife from the comfort of your glass-domed coach. The Rocky Mountaineer offers luxurious service, gourmet cuisine, and breathtaking views that you can only see by train. Each day of the journey ends with a stay in a comfortable hotel, ensuring a restful night’s sleep before another day of exploration.

Spanning nearly 6,000 miles from Moscow to Vladivostok, this is the longest railway line in the world. The journey offers a glimpse into the diverse landscapes of Russia, from vast plains to dense forests and mountain ranges. Travelers experience the rich culture and history of various regions along the route. The Trans-Siberian Railway is not just a train trip but a cultural immersion and an adventure of a lifetime.

Connecting Zermatt and St. Moritz, the Glacier Express is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. The route crosses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels, including the famous Oberalp Pass. Passengers can enjoy panoramic views from the comfort of their seats, with large windows designed to showcase the stunning scenery. The journey is often described as the slowest express train in the world, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the majestic landscapes.

Travel from Adelaide to Darwin on a transcontinental journey through the heart of Australia. Experience the rugged Outback, the lush landscapes of the Top End, and the rich history of Aboriginal culture. The Ghan offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and guided off-train excursions. This epic journey provides a deep insight into the diverse environments and cultures of Australia.

This luxury train journey from Pretoria to Cape Town combines five-star service with panoramic views of South Africa’s diverse landscapes. Passengers travel through vineyards, mountains, and deserts while enjoying world-class comfort. The Blue Train is renowned for its luxurious cabins, gourmet meals, and attentive service. It’s an elegant way to see some of the most beautiful parts of South Africa.

Explore the Peruvian Andes from Cusco to Arequipa, passing through the highest plains of the Andes and the world-renowned Lake Titicaca. The train offers luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining, making the journey as comfortable as it is scenic. Passengers can enjoy excursions to ancient sites and vibrant markets. The Belmond Andean Explorer provides a unique way to experience Peru’s rich culture and stunning landscapes.

Travel through the Scottish Highlands on this luxurious train, complete with elegant cabins, fine dining, and guided excursions to historic castles and distilleries. The Royal Scotsman offers an intimate travel experience with only 36 passengers. The journey showcases the dramatic landscapes and rich heritage of Scotland. It’s a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and cultural exploration.

This journey takes you from Singapore to Bangkok, offering a blend of modern luxury and colonial charm. The route passes through tropical jungles, rural villages, and bustling cities. Passengers can enjoy sumptuous meals, elegant accommodations, and cultural excursions. The Eastern & Oriental Express provides a unique perspective on Southeast Asia’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

From Chur to Tirano, this scenic journey offers spectacular views of the Swiss Alps, including the famous Landwasser Viaduct and the Morteratsch Glacier. The train crosses the Swiss-Italian border, ending in the charming town of Tirano. Passengers can enjoy panoramic views from the comfort of their seats, with large windows designed to showcase the stunning scenery. The Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage journey, highlighting the engineering marvels and natural beauty of the region.

Experience royal India on this luxurious train, which offers several itineraries covering iconic destinations like Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, and Mumbai. The journey includes visits to palaces, forts, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Passengers can enjoy opulent accommodations, fine dining, and personalized service. The Maharajas’ Express provides a regal way to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of India.

Japan’s bullet trains offer a fast and efficient way to explore the country. The route from Tokyo to Kyoto is particularly popular, passing through picturesque landscapes and offering glimpses of Mount Fuji. Passengers can enjoy the speed and convenience of the Shinkansen while taking in the beauty of Japan’s countryside. The trains are renowned for their punctuality, comfort, and cutting-edge technology.

Travel through Mexico’s Copper Canyon on this scenic route from Chihuahua to Los Mochis. The journey offers stunning views of deep canyons, waterfalls, and remote villages. Passengers can explore the rich culture and history of the region through guided excursions. The Copper Canyon Railway provides a unique way to experience one of Mexico’s most spectacular natural wonders.

From Glasgow to Mallaig, this scenic route takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. The journey includes the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, which features in the Harry Potter films. Passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, lochs, and glens. The West Highland Line is often described as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

Travel from Sydney to Perth on a transcontinental journey that spans the entire width of Australia. The route offers diverse landscapes, from the Blue Mountains to the vast Nullarbor Plain. Passengers can enjoy comfortable accommodations, fine dining, and guided excursions. The Indian Pacific provides an unforgettable way to experience the vastness and beauty of Australia.

Known as “The Pride of Africa,” Rovos Rail offers several luxurious routes across Southern Africa, including journeys from Pretoria to Victoria Falls and Cape Town. Passengers can enjoy elegant accommodations, gourmet meals, and stunning views. The train provides a unique blend of comfort and adventure, with guided excursions and safari experiences. Rovos Rail is renowned for its timeless elegance and exceptional service.

Explore California’s wine country on this gourmet journey through Napa Valley. The train offers fine dining, wine tastings, and views of vineyards and rolling hills. Passengers can enjoy luxurious service and a relaxed atmosphere while sampling some of the best wines in the region. The Napa Valley Wine Train provides a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty and flavors of Napa Valley.

Travel from Myrdal to Flam on one of the steepest standard gauge railway lines in the world. The journey offers breathtaking views of fjords, waterfalls, and mountains. Passengers can enjoy panoramic windows and comfortable seating while taking in the stunning scenery. The Flam Railway is a must-experience for anyone visiting Norway, showcasing the natural beauty of the region.

Explore the royal heritage of Rajasthan on this luxurious train journey, which includes visits to palaces, forts, and temples in cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. Passengers can enjoy opulent accommodations, fine dining, and personalized service. The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels provides a regal way to experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Rajasthan. The journey is a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and cultural immersion.

Travel from Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon on this historic railway. The journey offers stunning views of the canyon and surrounding landscapes. Passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride with onboard entertainment and dining options. The Grand Canyon Railway provides a unique and nostalgic way to experience one of America’s most iconic natural wonders.

Travel through Central Europe on this luxurious train, with routes covering cities like Budapest, Prague, Vienna, and Istanbul. The journey combines cultural exploration with opulent accommodations. Passengers can enjoy gourmet dining, elegant suites, and guided excursions. The Golden Eagle Danube Express provides a unique and refined way to experience the rich history and diverse landscapes of Central Europe.

This scenic train journey takes you from Cusco to Machu Picchu, offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, the Urubamba River, and the Andes mountains. Passengers can enjoy comfortable seating and large windows that showcase the stunning scenery. The Vistadome offers a unique way to reach the iconic Incan citadel, combining convenience with breathtaking views. It’s a memorable experience that enhances the adventure of visiting Machu Picchu.

Travel through the picturesque Yorkshire Dales and the rugged Pennines on this historic railway. The route includes the famous Ribblehead Viaduct and offers stunning views of the English countryside. Passengers can enjoy comfortable seating and panoramic windows that showcase the beautiful landscapes. The Settle-Carlisle Railway provides a unique and scenic way to experience the charm of rural England.

Experience a luxurious journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu on this elegant train, named after the explorer who rediscovered the ancient citadel. The journey includes gourmet dining and live music, making it as entertaining as it is scenic. Passengers can enjoy opulent accommodations and personalized service throughout the trip. The Hiram Bingham offers a unique and sophisticated way to reach one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites.

For a truly luxurious experience, travel the Trans-Siberian Railway on the Golden Eagle, which offers opulent accommodations, fine dining, and guided excursions along the route. The journey spans nearly 6,000 miles from Moscow to Vladivostok, providing a comprehensive view of Russia’s diverse landscapes. Passengers can enjoy world-class service and personalized itineraries. The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express is the epitome of luxury rail travel, combining adventure with unparalleled comfort.

Embarking on one of these amazing train journeys is not just about getting from one place to another; it’s about experiencing different eras, stunning natural landscapes, and diverse cultures. Each train ride provides a special view of some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery and historical areas, creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for thrills, luxury, or a bit of both, these train journeys have something for every type of traveler. As the train wheels roll and the landscape unfolds before your eyes, you’ll be fully absorbed in the beauty and marvel of each destination. So, pack your bags and prepare to be enchanted by the enchanting world of train travel.