There’s a certain magic to train travel that no other mode of transportation can match. It’s not just about getting somewhere; it’s about watching the world unfold from your window, slowly and beautifully. Trains give you time to breathe, to reflect, and to see landscapes in a way planes and highways never can.
For travel lovers, riding the rails is less about the destination and more about the experience itself. Whether you’re looking for luxury, adventure, or just a quiet way to see the world, these unforgettable routes deliver something truly special.
These seven train journeys are more than scenic routes; they’re stories waiting to be lived. From alpine passes in Switzerland to the red deserts of Australia, each ride offers its own rhythm and personality:
1. Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express connects two of Switzerland’s most glamorous mountain resorts, Zermatt and St. Moritz, but the ride itself is the real star. Over eight hours, the train winds through deep valleys, tight mountain curves, and high alpine passes.
With its panoramic windows, even the tightest turns reveal sweeping views of snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, and traditional Swiss villages. It’s a slow journey by design, giving you time to take in every detail.
Inside, the experience is just as polished. Gourmet meals are served at your seat on white tablecloths, and the commentary highlights the history and geography of the regions you pass through. Whether you travel in summer or winter, the Glacier Express is a masterclass in scenic travel and a reminder that slowness can be a luxury in itself.
2. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
This spectacular journey through the Canadian Rockies feels like a front-row seat to nature’s greatest show. The Rocky Mountaineer operates only during the day, stopping overnight so passengers never miss the dramatic scenery, towering mountains, rushing rivers, pine forests, and deep canyons.
The train runs between Vancouver and Banff or Jasper, offering a peaceful glide through the untamed wilderness of British Columbia and Alberta. The glass-domed coaches and open-air vestibules make the views even more immersive.
Friendly hosts provide insights into local history and point out wildlife along the way. With premium meals and drinks served onboard and a relaxed pace, the Rocky Mountaineer is less of a commute and more of a rolling retreat through some of Canada’s most pristine landscapes.
3. The Ghan, Australia
Crossing the vast Australian continent from south to north, The Ghan is a legendary outback experience. The route runs from Adelaide to Darwin over three days and nearly 3,000 kilometers, passing through red deserts, remote stations, and tropical wetlands.
Named after Afghan cameleers who helped explore Australia’s interior, the train carries with it a sense of history and adventure. Onboard, you’ll find stylish cabins, gourmet food, and lounge cars where travelers share stories over wine.
The Ghan also includes off-train excursions, like exploring the underground town of Coober Pedy or cruising through Katherine Gorge, which add depth to the journey. It’s a slow and thoughtful ride, offering a unique look into the heart of Australia.
4. Tren a las Nubes, Argentina
The Tren a las Nubes, or “Train to the Clouds,” is one of the highest railways in the world, and it lives up to its dramatic name. Starting in Salta, Argentina, the train climbs over 4,200 meters into the Andes, cutting across desert plateaus and towering mountains.
The journey is short compared to others on this list, but the altitude and views make it unforgettable. This ride is as much about the engineering as it is about the landscape.
You’ll cross massive viaducts, spiral through switchbacks, and zigzag up steep grades that seem impossible by train. It’s a breathtaking mix of rugged terrain and human ingenuity, offering a high-altitude adventure you won’t soon forget.
5. The Blue Train, South Africa
More like a hotel on rails than a traditional train, the Blue Train runs between Pretoria and Cape Town in utter elegance. Deep leather chairs, crystal glassware, and butler service set the tone, making the 31-hour journey a luxurious affair.
But while the interiors sparkle, the views outside are just as mesmerizing, rolling vineyards, wide-open savannahs, and the jagged silhouette of Table Mountain. Despite its luxury, the Blue Train keeps you connected to South Africa’s natural and cultural landscapes.
Stops may include visits to diamond mines or historical landmarks, adding meaning to the ride. For travelers looking to mix indulgence with immersion, this train strikes a memorable balance between the two.
6. West Highland Line, Scotland
Scotland’s West Highland Line is a love letter to the untamed beauty of the Highlands. Departing from Glasgow, the train travels through forests, over shimmering lochs, and across moorlands that stretch to the horizon.
One of its most iconic moments comes as it crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous in the Harry Potter films, a scene that delights kids and adults alike. Unlike other more polished journeys, the charm here lies in its raw simplicity. The weather shifts constantly, casting the landscape in changing shades of light and mist.
Remote stations and quiet villages add to the sense of timelessness. It’s a journey best enjoyed in silence, letting the rhythm of the rails and the wildness of the land speak for themselves.
7. Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan
Seven Stars in Kyushu is more than a train; it’s a carefully curated travel experience. This luxury sleeper train loops around Japan’s southern island, offering one- to four-day itineraries that showcase the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Each stop is designed with intention, from volcanic peaks and coastal cliffs to traditional hot springs and tea houses. The train’s design reflects Japanese craftsmanship at its finest, with polished wood, handmade textiles, and elegant, minimalist cabins.
Guests enjoy seasonal meals, live music, and warm hospitality from the crew. With only a few suites on board, the experience feels intimate and personal, like a private journey through one of Japan’s most enchanting regions.
These seven train journeys aren’t just ways to get somewhere, they’re destinations in themselves. Each offers a unique window into a place’s landscapes, history, and soul, making the ride just as meaningful as the arrival. For travelers who appreciate the beauty of the long way around, the rails offer stories, sights, and memories that no flight ever could.