The Most Beautiful Train Journeys in the World
Train travel is the most exquisite way of experiencing the breathtaking landscape that travels by the window seat. There are some train rides that remain unforgettable: whether they go through the majestic mountains, past serene lakes, or through lush forests. So if you are up for a decent adventure, here are ten scenic train journeys around the world with just the right amount of travel information.
1. The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Experience: Known as the “world’s slowest express train,” the Glacier Express passes through the heart of the magnificent Swiss Alps. Passengers enjoy stunning vistas of the deep valleys, untouched glaciers, and lovely Alpine villages. With huge panoramic windows, each passenger can enjoy the beauty of one of the most picturesque lands in Switzerland-a land of snowy peaks and emerald meadows sprinkled with colourful wildflowers. This train crosses 291 bridges and goes through 91 tunnels, making it not only a delight to behold but also an engineering marvel.
Budget: Prices start at around $160 for second-class tickets. Booking in advance can help secure discounts.
2. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Route: Vancouver to Banff or Jasper
Experience: This luxurious train ride carries travelers through the majestic Canadian Rockies. Glass-domed coaches and gourmet meals offer an unmatched experience in nature's beauty. From Hell's Gate, where the Fraser River rushes in, down to Pyramid Falls, one of the most magnificent sites in North America is what this journey is meant to show. Sightings of wildlife such as bears, elk, and bald eagles create an extra thrill along the way. The leisurely pace allows sufficient time to enjoy each picture-postcard moment.
Budget: Prices vary depending on the package, but expect to pay at least $1,500 for a two-day journey with overnight stays included.
3. The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
Route: Moscow to Vladivostok
Experience: Traveling as the world's longest railway route-the epic traverse across eight times zones-implies diverse landscapes that simply flow by: from the Ural Mountains to Baikal; it takes around a week. Along the train rides, travelers even get to see the vast and ever-changing landscape of Russia: the dense birch forests to the seemingly endless remoteness of the Siberian tundra. It evokes an inexplicable sense of adventure and solitude. One cannot simply ignore the presence of secluded villages and ancient cities that make these journeys cultural as well as scenic.
Budget: Basic tickets start at $500, but luxury cabins can cost over $5,000.
4. The Ghan, Australia
Route: Adelaide to Darwin
Experience: The train of legend divides Australia in two: the rugged Outback, remote towns, and scenic desert landscapes are tailored to that endless journey into the heart of the continent through the Red Centre, signifying arid terrain and ancient outcroppings. Sunrise and sunset utter colors upon the shifting sands of the desert, imparting a super-real and mesmerizing experience. Kangaroos and emus can frequently be sighted dashing by on their journey.
Budget: Prices range from $500 for a basic ticket to over $3,000 for a luxury experience.
5. The West Highland Line, Scotland
Route: Glasgow to Mallaig
Experience: This is an awesome route across lochs, over moors, and crossing mountains, taking in the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct known from the Harry Potter films. The train journey itself has a certain enchantment to it, threading through Scotland's rugged scenery-terrains of misty hills and sparkling lochs. Other viewable items include Glenfinnan Viaduct, when, on crossing this bridge, passengers are treated to their own vantage point of the panoramic view leading into the highland range.
Budget: A standard ticket costs around $50, making it an affordable yet breathtaking journey.
6. The Bergen Railway, Norway
Route: Oslo to Bergen
Experience: The Bergen Railway is often considered to be one of the most scenic train courses in Europe, a train journey past fjords, waterfalls, and snow-covered mountains. It showcases Norway's incredible landscapes from the lush green fields of Oslo to the icy realm of Hardangervidda, which is known to be the highest mountain plateau in Europe. Seasonal changes enhance the attraction: spring brings blooming flowers and lush meadows, while winter covers everything in snow.
Budget: Tickets start at $100, but early bookings can reduce costs.
7. The Blue Train, South Africa
Route: Pretoria to Cape Town
Experience: A luxury train experience of lavish cabins, gourmet dining, and spectacular views across South Africa's landscapes ranging from vineyards to rugged mountains. This legendary train journey acts as a window into South Africa's diverse beauty, all the way from the vast Karoo plains down to the undulating vineyards of Cape Winelands. With elegant interiors, personal butler service, and fine dining, this is perhaps the most glamorous train experience in the world.
Budget: Prices start at $1,000 per person.
8. The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
Route: Christchurch to Greymouth
Experience: Without a doubt, one of the most picturesque train journeys in the Southern Hemisphere, the TranzAlpine runs through the Southern Alps, green forests, and deep gorges. Glimpses of the rivers from the Waimakariri to broad beech forests to the peaks punctuating the Alps will be afforded to the travelers. The open-air outdoor viewing cars invite an experiential journey, making this the best way to see New Zealand's spectacular landscapes.
Budget: Standard fares start at around $100, with premium options available.
9. The Maharajas’ Express, India
Route: Various luxury routes across India
Experience: The "Orient Express of India" offers a royal experience with palatial interiors and world-class service, stopping at historical sites. Hence travelers can explore India's rich heritage with utmost luxury. From the palaces of Rajasthan to the ghats of Varanasi, every stop serves as a gateway into India's vibrant history and culture.
Budget: Prices start at around $3,000 per journey.
10. The Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru
Route: Cusco to Arequipa
Experience: This first luxury sleeper train in South America whisks visitors through the Peruvian Andes beside Lake Titicaca and remote villages. The elegant design of the carriages echoes the style of 1920s Pullman cars. With high-altitude landscapes, ancient ruins, and views over incredible lakes along the way, it becomes one of the most memorable rail journeys in the world.
Budget: Prices start at $1,500 for an overnight journey.
Conclusion
Train travel is not merely transportation; it is the absorbing experience of magnificent landscapes and cultural wonders. Whether you choose expensive luxury or budget accommodation, these train routes send you home with memories for a lifetime. Which of these fascinating journeys would you love to embark upon?
