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If you’re tired of the same old road trips and flights, it’s time to hop on a train.
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Scenic train journeys not only offer breathtaking views, but they also transform the travel experience into something unforgettable.
From alpine peaks to desert landscapes, these routes offer some of the most stunning vistas you’ll ever see—all from the comfort of your seat.
Ready for a new adventure? Let’s explore seven of the most scenic train journeys around the world.
1. The Glacier Express, Switzerland
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’re in a winter fairy tale, the Glacier Express should be on your bucket list.
This iconic train ride whisks you from Zermatt to St. Moritz, passing through the Swiss Alps and offering jaw-dropping views that’ll make your camera work overtime.
You’ll travel over 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels, and along the famously winding Oberalp Pass. The snow-capped mountains, sparkling lakes, and alpine meadows will have you glued to the window, even if the train’s comfy interior is begging for you to relax.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to look up. You’ll catch glimpses of the sun glinting off glaciers and peaks that seem almost too dramatic to be real.
2. The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
The Trans-Siberian Railway is the granddaddy of all train journeys.
Stretching over 9,000 kilometers, this mammoth rail network connects Moscow to Vladivostok, crossing eight time zones and vast stretches of untouched wilderness. You’ll pass through birch forests, snowfields, and vast open plains that seem to go on forever.
It’s not just the scenery that makes this train ride spectacular—it’s the people you meet along the way, the stories shared, and the endless cups of tea. Plus, there’s something magical about the rhythm of the train as it clatters through Russia’s heartlands—just don’t forget to stock up on snacks for the long haul!
3. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer train route is the stuff of legends.
The journey takes you through the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains, from Vancouver to Calgary, with stops in places that look like they’ve been pulled out of a postcard.
You’ll glide through deep canyons, past crystal-clear lakes, and over mountain passes so high you might need to remind yourself to breathe. The train’s luxurious glass-domed carriages mean the views are almost too good to be true. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a bear or two rummaging around in the forest—now that’s one way to spice up your journey.
4. The Ghan, Australia
If the idea of crossing Australia’s vast Outback sounds appealing, then you’ve got to experience The Ghan.
This iconic train ride travels from Adelaide to Darwin, covering more than 3,000 kilometers of jaw-dropping scenery.
You’ll pass through the barren beauty of the desert, the ochre-red sands of the Outback, and the lush greenery of the tropics. It’s the kind of journey where the landscape changes every few hours, from endless desert vistas to misty rainforests. Plus, the chance to enjoy a meal in the luxurious dining car while watching kangaroos hop across the horizon? That’s living the dream.
5. The Andean Explorer, Peru
If you think the only way to explore the wonders of Peru is by foot, think again.
The Andean Explorer is one of the most scenic train routes in South America, offering a spectacular view of the high Andes as it travels between Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Puno.
The train’s opulent interiors make you feel like royalty, but it’s the landscape outside that will truly steal your heart.
Picture rugged mountains, deep valleys, and shimmering lakes all set against a sky so blue it’ll make you wonder if someone forgot to paint it. And, of course, no trip to Peru is complete without the opportunity to visit the famed Machu Picchu at the end of your journey.
6. The Glacier Train, New Zealand
When you think of New Zealand, you probably imagine rolling green hills and dramatic mountain backdrops—and the Glacier Train takes you through it all.
This scenic ride offers spectacular views of the Southern Alps, winding through farmland, rugged coastlines, and dense rainforests as it makes its way from Christchurch to Greymouth.
The highlight? The stretch that cuts through the Arthur’s Pass National Park, where the train hugs cliff faces and cuts through deep, mysterious valleys. It’s the perfect way to soak in the magic of New Zealand’s varied landscapes without breaking a sweat.
7. The Flam Railway, Norway
Norway’s Flam Railway is one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world, and it doesn’t disappoint in the scenery department.
The train starts in the tiny village of Flam and climbs up through lush valleys, past thundering waterfalls, and into the mountains that surround the stunning Aurlandsfjord.
As the train chugs upwards, you’ll feel like you’re traveling through an epic Viking saga—minus the dragons (sadly). The panoramic views of fjords, towering peaks, and traditional Norwegian farms are simply unforgettable. Plus, the gentle sway of the train as it winds around the curves feels more like a moving dream than reality.
Final Words
Train journeys are more than just a way to get from one place to another—they’re an adventure in themselves. From the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps to the endless plains of Siberia, these routes promise views that make you feel like you’re traveling through a postcard.
So next time you’re planning a getaway, skip the flight and hop on a train instead. You’ll thank yourself for it. After all, when was the last time you were able to stretch your legs, watch the world go by, and feel like you’re truly living the dream? Go on, start planning your next scenic rail adventure.