20 Unbelievably Scenic Train Rides That Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

Train travel offers a unique way to experience the world’s landscapes, combining comfort with stunning views that unfold right outside your window. From towering mountain ranges to coastal cliffs, we look at 20 of the most scenic train rides that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

The Glacier Express, Switzerland

Known as the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express takes you on an eight-hour journey through the Swiss Alps, connecting Zermatt to St. Moritz. The train winds through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and charming Swiss villages.

The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Traveling through the Canadian Rockies, the Rocky Mountaineer offers an unparalleled journey across towering mountain passes, turquoise lakes, and dense forests. The train provides luxury service with glass-domed coaches, ensuring uninterrupted views of the dramatic scenery. Popular routes include Vancouver to Banff and Jasper, both of which showcase the rugged beauty of Canada’s wilderness.

The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the longest train journeys in the world, spanning over 9,000 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok. The seven-day journey takes travelers through diverse landscapes, including the Ural Mountains, Siberian taiga, and Lake Baikal, revealing the diverse history and culture of Russia.

The West Highland Line, Scotland

Scotland’s West Highland Line is often hailed as one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world. The train travels from Glasgow to Mallaig, passing through the remote Highlands, across the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, and along rugged coastlines and  lush greenery that surround the lochs.

The Bergen Railway, Norway

Connecting Oslo to Bergen, this seven-hour journey takes passengers across the Hardangervidda Plateau, one of Europe’s highest mountain plateaus. The train offers spectacular views of fjords, waterfalls, and snow-covered landscapes. Travelers will also get to experience Finse, the highest station in Norway, where you can witness the breathtaking views of the  Arctic-like environment.

The Ghan, Australia

Stretching from Adelaide to Darwin, The Ghan is one of the most iconic train journeys in Australia. Over the course of four days, passengers travel through the heart of the Outback, passing red desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and vast open plains. The train offers luxurious accommodations and off-train excursions that allow travelers to explore indigenous heritage sites and remote regions.

The Flam Railway, Norway

One of the steepest railway lines in the world, the Flam Railway takes passengers from Myrdal to Flam, descending nearly 900 meters over 20 kilometers. The route offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, deep valleys, and towering peaks, with the highlight of the journey being  the stunning Kjosfossen Waterfall.

The Blue Train, South Africa

The Blue Train, which runs between Pretoria and Cape Town, is renowned for its elegance. Passengers go across expansive savannas, undulating vineyards, and magnificent mountain peaks. With fine dining, elegant suites, and impeccable service, this train ride is as much about indulgence as it is about scenery.

The Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy

This four-hour journey from Switzerland to Italy takes passengers across the dramatic Bernina Pass. The train climbs to an altitude of 2,253 meters before descending into the beautiful Italian town of Tirano. Highlights along the way include the Landwasser Viaduct, the Morteratsch Glacier, and stunning alpine lakes that make the perfect photographs.

The Maharajas’ Express, India

Dubbed the “Orient Express of the East,” the Maharajas’ Express offers a luxurious train journey through India’s most beautiful and historic sites. From the Taj Mahal to Jaipur’s palaces, passengers are treated to royal service while enjoying the vibrant scenery of India’s countryside, deserts, and mountains.

The California Zephyr, USA

Traveling from Chicago to San Francisco, the California Zephyr is one of the most scenic train routes in the United States. The trip offers unmatched views of gorges, deserts, and mountain peaks as it travels through the Colorado River, the Sierra Nevada, and the Rocky Mountains.

The Reunification Express, Vietnam

Experience the breadth of Vietnam’s beauty on a train journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. The route traverses the country’s diverse landscapes, including lush rice fields, breathtaking coastal views, and dense jungles, providing a comprehensive and visually stunning experience.

The Coastal Pacific, New Zealand

This train ride takes passengers from Christchurch to Picton along New Zealand’s South Island. The journey offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling vineyards, and the Kaikoura mountain range as well as lots of opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to spot seals and dolphins.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, USA

This historic steam train runs through the Colorado Rockies, offering dramatic views of deep gorges, rushing rivers, and towering peaks. The train’s vintage carriages add a nostalgic charm to the breathtaking ride.

The Settle-Carlisle Railway, England

One of England’s most scenic railways, this route takes passengers through the Yorkshire Dales and over the famous Ribblehead Viaduct. The rolling hills, historic stone bridges, and charming villages make for a picturesque journey.

The Andean Explorer, Peru

Linking Cusco to Lake Titicaca and Arequipa, this luxury train journey takes passengers through the breathtaking Peruvian Andes. The train features elegant interiors, gourmet dining, and stunning panoramic views of high-altitude landscapes.

The Belmond Hiram Bingham, Peru

Named after the explorer who rediscovered Machu Picchu, this luxury train takes travelers from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. The journey offers incredible views of the Urubamba River, lush valleys, and misty mountains.

The Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia

This luxury train travels through Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, offering stunning views of tropical rainforests, rice paddies, and charming villages. With five-star service, fine dining, and elegant carriages, it’s one of the most luxurious ways to explore Southeast Asia.

The TranzAlpine, New Zealand

Running from Christchurch to Greymouth, the TranzAlpine crosses the Southern Alps, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and winding rivers. It’s considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland

Often referred to as the “Harry Potter Train,” this steam locomotive runs from Fort William to Mallaig, passing over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. The journey offers stunning views of lochs, mountains, and the rugged coastline of Scotland’s west coast.