Traveling by train offers an unparalleled experience where the journey becomes just as memorable as the destination. These train routes, with their breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences, often surpass the convenience of air travel. Whether winding through mountains, skirting pristine coastlines, or traversing vast plains, these routes showcase the world’s beauty in a way that flying simply cannot. Here are 16 train routes that truly beat flying every time.
1. The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Dubbed the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps. It connects the glitzy resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz, passing through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges.
2. The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
Spanning eight time zones, the Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest railway line in the world. It offers a mind-boggling journey from Moscow to Vladivostok, revealing Russia’s diverse landscapes and cultures along the way.
3. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer is famed for its daylight-only train journeys through the breathtaking Canadian Rockies. Experience dramatic landscapes from the comfort of luxurious glass-dome coaches, with attentive service and gourmet meals.
4. The Blue Train, South Africa
The Blue Train offers a luxury travel experience across South Africa, from Pretoria to Cape Town. Known for its opulent décor and personalized service, the journey showcases the captivating South African landscapes.
5. The Ghan, Australia
Named after the Afghan cameleers, The Ghan traverses from Adelaide to Darwin. This epic journey offers a vivid exploration of Australia’s interior, where desert sands give way to lush tropics.
6. The Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy
The Bernina Express takes passengers through some of the most beautiful scenery in Switzerland and Italy. This UNESCO World Heritage route includes spiraling viaducts and stunning alpine passages.
7. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
Step back in time on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Known for its legendary luxury and style, this train connects cities like Paris, Venice, and Istanbul, offering a glamorous travel experience.
8. The Shinkansen, Japan
Japan’s Shinkansen, or bullet train, epitomizes speed and efficiency. Connecting major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, it offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the future of rail travel.
9. The West Highland Line, Scotland
The West Highland Line offers a dramatic route through Scotland’s remote highlands. Famous for the Glenfinnan Viaduct, it provides stunning views of lochs, mountains, and castles.
10. The Indian Pacific, Australia
The Indian Pacific travels coast-to-coast from Sydney to Perth. This four-day journey showcases Australia’s diverse environments, from the Blue Mountains to the Nullarbor Plain.
11. The Royal Scotsman, Scotland
The Royal Scotsman offers an intimate, luxurious travel experience through Scotland’s rugged landscapes. With gourmet dining and exclusive excursions, it epitomizes luxury travel.
12. The Canadian, Canada
Spanning the vast Canadian landscape, The Canadian travels from Toronto to Vancouver. This four-day journey offers a quintessential Canadian experience, with panoramic views of forests, lakes, and mountains.
13. The Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
This luxurious train travels between Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. Known for its elegant interiors and gracious service, the journey offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Southeast Asia.
14. The Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru
South America’s first luxury sleeper train, the Belmond Andean Explorer travels through Peru’s breathtaking Andes. This journey offers a mix of adventure and opulence, from Cusco to Lake Titicaca.
15. The Maharajas’ Express, India
The Maharajas’ Express is an opulent way to explore India’s rich heritage. This luxury train offers various itineraries across northern and western India, featuring palaces, forts, and temples.
16. The Flåm Railway, Norway
The Flåm Railway offers a mesmerizing journey through Norway’s breathtaking fjords and mountains. This short yet stunning route showcases Norway’s natural beauty, with dramatic elevation changes and tunnels.
