18 Scenic Train Routes Around the World for Relaxing Journeys
If you’re looking for a way to unwind while exploring stunning landscapes, hopping on a scenic train route could be just what you need. Trains allow you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ever-changing scenery as it unfolds outside your window. There’s no rushing, no traffic, just the steady hum of the train and the beauty of nature all around. Each journey offers a chance to witness dramatic landscapes, from towering mountains to tranquil lakes. These scenic routes don’t just get you from one place to another; they make the journey itself a part of the adventure. Whether traveling through the countryside or along a coastline, trains provide a unique and peaceful way to see the world.
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Glacier Express – Switzerland
The Glacier Express is one of Switzerland’s most famous scenic train rides, connecting the mountain towns of Zermatt and St. Moritz. It’s an unforgettable journey through the Swiss Alps, where passengers are treated to a variety of breathtaking landscapes.
Throughout the journey, passengers pass through pristine valleys, dense forests, and idyllic Swiss villages. The train’s route also includes more than 290 bridges and 90 tunnels, providing an extraordinary view of Switzerland’s natural beauty from a unique perspective.
The Blue Train – South Africa
The Blue Train is a luxurious travel experience that runs between Pretoria and Cape Town, offering a comfortable way to explore South Africa. Known for its opulence and high-end amenities, the train combines luxury with the beauty of South African landscapes.
Traveling through vineyards, open savannahs, and dramatic mountain views, passengers can enjoy a scenic view of the country’s diverse geography. The Blue Train experience is heightened with gourmet dining, exceptional service, and elegant accommodations, making it one of the most prestigious train rides in the world.
The Trans-Siberian Railway – Russia
The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the most iconic and longest train journeys in the world, stretching over 9,000 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok. The route offers passengers the chance to experience the vastness of Russia, with a diverse range of landscapes, including dense forests, sprawling plains, and snowy mountains.
Along the way, passengers have the opportunity to see Russia’s rural areas, remote villages, and famous sites like Lake Baikal, one of the world’s oldest and deepest freshwater lakes. This journey provides a remarkable opportunity to experience the sheer scale and natural beauty of Russia.
The Rocky Mountaineer – Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer is one of Canada’s most celebrated train journeys, providing a luxurious ride through the stunning Canadian Rockies. This scenic route connects Vancouver with cities such as Banff and Jasper, passing through some of Canada’s most picturesque landscapes, including dense forests, towering mountains, and pristine lakes.
The train is designed for comfort, featuring glass-domed cars that offer panoramic views, allowing passengers to fully appreciate the stunning vistas. The journey is a perfect way to explore the Canadian wilderness in style while enjoying gourmet meals and first-class service.
The Ghan – Australia
The Ghan is a legendary train that travels through the heart of Australia, offering a unique experience of the country’s vast and remote interior. Starting in Adelaide and ending in Darwin, the journey covers thousands of kilometers through deserts, red plains, and iconic outback landscapes.
Along the route, travelers can visit famous Australian landmarks like Alice Springs and Uluru, exploring the natural beauty and rich culture of the region. With luxury accommodations and fine dining on board, The Ghan offers a comfortable and scenic way to explore the Australian wilderness.
The West Highland Line – Scotland
The West Highland Line is a breathtaking train journey through the Scottish Highlands, traveling from Glasgow to the picturesque coastal town of Mallaig. The route passes through spectacular landscapes, including rugged mountains, deep lochs, and expansive green valleys.
The train ride also includes stops at historic towns such as Oban and Fort William, where visitors can enjoy hiking, local culture, and panoramic views. Famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is one of the highlights along this scenic route.
The Bernina Express – Switzerland and Italy
The Bernina Express connects the Swiss Alps with the Italian town of Tirano, traveling through some of the most stunning landscapes in both countries. The journey offers panoramic views of glaciers, Alpine meadows, and snow-capped mountains, making it a highlight for nature lovers.
This UNESCO World Heritage-listed route is one of the highest train journeys in Europe, reaching elevations of over 2,250 meters. Along the way, passengers can marvel at the ever-changing scenery, which includes vast mountain ranges, rolling valleys, and charming Swiss villages.
The Andean Explorer – Peru
The Andean Explorer is the highest luxury train in the world, offering a remarkable journey through the Peruvian Andes. Departing from Cusco, the train travels to destinations like the Sacred Valley and Lake Titicaca, passing through stunning mountain landscapes, Inca ruins, and traditional villages.
Onboard, passengers can enjoy the comfort of luxury cabins, gourmet meals, and expert-guided tours. The train offers an immersive experience in Peruvian culture, with stops at ancient archaeological sites and opportunities to experience the beauty of the Andean highlands.
The Palace on Wheels – India
The Palace on Wheels offers a regal train journey through the heart of Rajasthan, India, providing a glimpse into the country’s rich royal history. The luxurious train is designed with opulent interiors that evoke the grandeur of India’s maharajas, featuring fine dining, spa treatments, and personalized service.
The route takes passengers through historic cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur, where they can explore majestic forts, palaces, and vibrant markets. The Palace on Wheels offers an unforgettable experience, combining the beauty of Rajasthan’s landscapes with the splendor of royal India.
The TranzAlpine – New Zealand
The TranzAlpine is one of New Zealand’s most scenic train routes, traveling between Christchurch and Greymouth on the South Island. The journey takes passengers through the Southern Alps, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and rushing rivers.
Along the route, travelers can enjoy the sight of lush rainforests and towering viaducts, as well as views of the expansive Canterbury Plains. Whether in winter, when the mountains are dusted with snow, or in the warmer months, the TranzAlpine provides a picturesque journey through New Zealand’s natural wonders.
The Indian Pacific – Australia
The Indian Pacific is one of the most iconic train journeys in the world, traveling from Sydney to Perth across Australia’s vast landscape. This long-distance train ride covers a remarkable 4,000 kilometers, offering travelers views of the Australian Outback, rugged mountains, and expansive deserts.
Along the way, passengers can enjoy the beauty of the Blue Mountains, the Nullarbor Plain, and the small towns that dot the route. The journey is a relaxing way to explore Australia’s diverse geography, with luxurious accommodations and fine dining that make the experience even more memorable.
The Cinque Terre Express – Italy
The Cinque Terre Express is a charming train journey along Italy’s Ligurian coast, connecting the five picturesque villages of Cinque Terre. This short yet stunning ride offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, steep cliffs, and vineyards that blanket the hillsides.
The train route offers easy access to each of the five villages, allowing passengers to hop on and off to explore the charming streets, historic sites, and local markets. The scenic ride provides a leisurely way to experience the beauty of the Ligurian coast without the hustle and bustle of driving.
The Shinkansen – Japan
The Shinkansen, often referred to as Japan’s bullet train, is a fast and efficient way to travel between cities, but it also offers scenic routes, especially between Tokyo and Kyoto. Along the way, passengers can enjoy the majestic view of Mount Fuji, which stands tall above the Japanese countryside.
Despite its speed, the Shinkansen provides ample opportunity to relax and enjoy the passing landscapes, which include rural farmlands, serene lakes, and charming villages. The train offers comfort and efficiency while letting travelers experience Japan’s natural beauty, particularly during spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
The Bernina Express – Switzerland
The Bernina Express offers a spectacular journey from Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, showcasing some of Europe’s most breathtaking Alpine scenery. Along the way, the train crosses over high-altitude mountain passes, glaciers, and valleys that offer a dramatic contrast to the lush greenery below.
As a UNESCO World Heritage-listed route, the Bernina Express is a marvel of engineering and nature. Passengers can enjoy the stunning landscapes from glass-domed cars, which provide unobstructed views of the snow-capped peaks, charming alpine villages, and crystal-clear lakes along the way.
The Orient Express – Europe
The Orient Express is synonymous with luxury and romance, offering a historic and glamorous way to travel through Europe. Connecting cities like Paris, Venice, and Istanbul, the train is a moving hotel that combines opulent interiors with the charm of old-world Europe.
The journey aboard the Orient Express includes lavish cabins, exquisite dining, and exceptional service. As the train travels through some of Europe’s most scenic regions, passengers can enjoy the rolling hills of the French countryside, the canals of Venice, and the historic landscapes of Istanbul.
The Royal Scotsman – Scotland
The Royal Scotsman is a luxury train that takes passengers through the heart of Scotland’s Highlands, offering an unparalleled experience of Scotland’s rugged beauty. The train travels from Edinburgh to Inverness, passing through rolling hills, sparkling lochs, and remote glens that capture the essence of the Scottish countryside.
With elegant accommodations, fine dining, and a full-service bar, passengers can enjoy the highest level of comfort while exploring the Highlands. The Royal Scotsman also offers exclusive tours of whisky distilleries, castles, and historic sites, making it an ideal way to experience Scotland in style.
The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad – USA
The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad offers a historic journey through the Colorado Rockies, traveling between Antonito, Colorado, and Chama, New Mexico. This narrow-gauge railroad provides an authentic Old West experience as it passes through deep canyons, lush forests, and towering mountain ranges.
Along the route, passengers can enjoy the beauty of the San Juan Mountains, particularly during the fall when the aspen trees turn golden. This historic train journey offers a glimpse into the past, with its vintage cars and carefully preserved tracks that date back to the 1880s.
The Maharajas’ Express – India
The Maharajas’ Express is an opulent train that takes passengers on a journey through India’s vibrant landscapes, from Delhi to Mumbai. This luxury train offers an unforgettable experience with royal-style suites, fine dining, and first-class service that make the journey feel like a royal affair.
Traveling through Rajasthan, passengers can explore iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s Amber Fort, and the Ranthambhore National Park, home to Bengal tigers. The Maharajas’ Express is a journey through India’s cultural and natural beauty, offering an immersive experience of the country’s rich history and diverse landscapes.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.