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The Most Beautiful Train Trips: Enjoy the Ride, Even if It Takes a Little Longer
In the US, train travel may not be the primary mode of transport for everyday errands, but train trips in the USA and abroad offer a perfect way to relax when traveling long distances. Whether you’re heading to Europe or embarking on a summer vacation on rails, there’s something peaceful about train trips.
No traffic jams to worry about — just the opportunity to read or watch a movie. And, of course, nothing beats simply gazing out the window at stunning landscapes as you roll along. The beauty of the route itself often becomes the highlight of the journey. Here’s a look at the best train trips and some of the most scenic and iconic train routes around the world that deserve a spot on any traveler’s bucket list.
The World’s Most Breathtaking Train Routes
Even more spectacular than domestic train routes are international ones like the Trans-Siberian Railway between Moscow and Beijing, the TranzAlpine in New Zealand, or the Copper Canyon Railway in Mexico — where the journey itself is the real highlight. Whether luxurious or simple, we present ten of the most fascinating and scenic train routes around the world, where the focus is not on how quickly you arrive but on the journey itself and the incredible landscapes along the way.
Trans-Siberian Railway (Moscow – Beijing)
The Trans-Siberian Railway stretches over 5,700 miles from Moscow to Vladivostok. It’s the longest uninterrupted train journey in the world and would take about seven days to complete without breaks. The route crosses two continents and seven time zones while passing through more than 200 cities. While the original route runs from Moscow to Vladivostok on the Pacific coast, many alternatives exist, including the Trans-Mongolian Express, which takes travelers through Mongolia and into China. Whether you’re looking for the classic route or a longer adventure, the Trans-Siberian Railway offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
Eastern & Oriental Express (Singapore – Bangkok)
Step aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express, and you’ll be transported to a world of luxury and nostalgia. This three-day journey from Singapore to Bangkok, Thailand, is steeped in colonial charm. Guests enjoy tea served by waiters in white uniforms while relaxing in air-conditioned compartments. Along the way, travelers can enjoy views of Penang, the River Kwai, and more. The train’s dining experience features haute cuisine prepared by award-winning chefs. Evenings are accompanied by live piano music and traditional Thai dance performances. For those who prefer more space, the observation car provides an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the passing scenery. This train journey offers a unique, high-end experience with a price tag starting at $2,400 per person.
Glacier Express (Switzerland)
Starting in the picturesque town of St. Moritz, the Glacier Express takes passengers on a scenic ride through the Swiss Alps. From every seat, passengers are treated to spectacular views of mountains, forests, and rivers. The journey includes breathtaking sights such as the Rhine and the Inn rivers and the beautiful alpine villages along the way. At a mile above sea level, dining here is an adventure in itself. When the train arrives in Zermatt, many travelers may opt for a piece of Toblerone chocolate to savor the moment. This ride is a must for anyone seeking an unforgettable alpine experience.
TranzAlpine (New Zealand)
New Zealand’s South Island is home to stunning snow-capped mountains, and the TranzAlpine route offers some of the most breathtaking views on the planet. This 140-mile journey runs from Christchurch to Greymouth, offering passengers a chance to witness the natural beauty of the country’s diverse landscapes. Stops along the way include the Canterbury Plains, the Torlesse Range, and the lush rainforests. The journey lasts just under five hours, but the incredible scenery makes it feel like a much longer adventure. Despite its simplicity, the views make this one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. Tickets typically cost around $200.
Semmering Railway (Austria)
The Semmering Railway in Austria is a short but spectacular journey, spanning just 25 miles between Gloggnitz and Murzzuschlag. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed route winds through the eastern Austrian Alps and offers stunning mountain vistas. The railway itself is a marvel of engineering, constructed between 1848 and 1854 by architect Carlo di Ghega. Travelers are treated to a glimpse of 19th-century technical advancements while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. The route only takes about 90 minutes to complete, making it a quick but unforgettable experience, and at only around $20, it’s a bargain compared to some other luxury train rides.
Interrail – Explore Europe by Train!
You’ve probably heard of the Interrail ticket, which allows travelers to explore Europe by train at a very affordable price. This pass provides the flexibility to visit multiple countries at your own pace. For example, you can travel through five different countries in just one trip, discovering the diverse cultures and stunning sceneries that Europe has to offer. Whether you prefer short weekend trips or a longer exploration, Interrail offers a unique and cost-effective way to see Europe.
The Jacobite Steam Train: Travel Like Harry Potter on the Hogwarts Express through Scotland
Attention, Harry Potter fans — hold on tight! If Harry Potter can do it, so can we! Today, we’re taking you on a magical journey aboard the Jacobite Steam Train, where you can relive the iconic ride of the Hogwarts Express through the stunning landscapes of Scotland. This historic steam train runs from Fort William to Mallaig, passing through breathtaking Scottish countryside and mountains, just like the fictional journey to Hogwarts.
Copper Canyon Railway (Mexico)
If you don’t feel like heading north for cold Canadian train trips, then head south to the border. Traveling aboard the Chihuahua-Pacific Express, also known as “El Chepe,” is a journey through some of the most remote landscapes in Mexico. The train winds its way through the Copper Canyon area, which is four times larger than the Grand Canyon. This sparsely populated region is home to the Rarámuri people, an indigenous group who have made this rugged environment their home.
The journey begins on the Pacific coast in Los Mochis and takes travelers past cactus-filled deserts to El Fuerte before entering the canyons. The route is dotted with bridges, tunnels, and dramatic landscapes. At almost 1.5 miles above sea level, passengers are treated to an unforgettable panoramic view when the train halts to allow them to take in the surroundings. After covering 400 miles, the train reaches its final destination, leaving travelers with lasting memories and experiences. Prices start around $700 for the economy class and can reach up to $1,400 for the best category.
Shinkansen (Japan)
Japan’s Shinkansen is famous for its punctuality, arriving right on the minute. The doors open precisely in front of waiting passengers, with attendants dressed in white gloves and hats guiding them aboard. This high-speed train experience is luxurious, though not inexpensive. Even at speeds of up to 186 mph, the Shinkansen glides smoothly along the tracks.
The route from Tokyo to Kyoto takes travelers through picturesque rice fields, forests, temples, and bustling metropolises. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji. One thing to keep in mind: phone calls are not permitted during the journey for a peaceful travel experience.
A Train (USA)
No train route in the US embodies the nation’s history quite like the “A Train,” which runs from Brooklyn through Manhattan to Harlem. This route is closely associated with jazz, particularly the legendary Duke Ellington. As the train travels through the diverse neighborhoods of New York City, it offers a journey through the heart of the city.
A recommended stop is at Jay Street in Brooklyn, where you can explore the area before hopping back on at Park Place. The train then travels through Manhattan, with a stop at West 41st Street, before reaching the final destination in Harlem’s Sugar Hill. Taking a sleeper train trip in the USA is a cultural experience.
Santa Claus Express (Finland)
The Finnish double-decker, the Santa Claus Express, offers a unique and scenic journey from Helsinki and Turku to the snow-covered Lapland. With one route stopping at Rovaniemi, the official home of Santa Claus, and continuing to Kemijärvi, the train brings you closer to the heart of Finland. Another service takes a northern route near the Swedish border, allowing passengers to experience even more of Finland’s breathtaking landscapes. Passengers can enjoy the comfort of the train’s compartments while traveling overnight. You’ll wake up above the Arctic Circle to witness the stunning beauty of Finland’s wilderness.
Flamsbana (Norway)
Riding the Flamsbana in Norway is like taking a rollercoaster ride through breathtaking mountains and valleys. The train, painted in vibrant green, travels from the cold heights of Myrdal down to the picturesque Aurlandsfjord in Flam. The interior is crafted entirely from wood, preserving a nostalgic charm that has remained mostly unchanged since the 1920s.
It took four years to complete the connection, and today, travelers enjoy enormous windows with panoramic views. The Flamsbana operates year-round, primarily used by the residents of the fjords, and it combines historical charm with modern technological advancements.
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