All aboard!
From easing your way through the lush countryside to seeing the sights as you traverse from city to city, travelling by train is one of the best ways to see several exciting destinations at once.
There’s something so incredibly charming about train travel, for those who love the concept of slow travel, train journeys are an ideal way to see the world at a slower, laid-back pace.
It’s easy to see why travellers are so drawn to this tranquil and elegant mode of exploration.
These incredible rail journeys make for an unforgettable escape as you make your way through rolling hills, majestic mountains and quaint villages all leading to some iconic destinations.
Not only can you experience the stunning scenery in a way that you can’t necessarily experience in other modes of travel, but it’s also eco-friendly too, making taking the train a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
From Europe to Canada, where can you find the best train journeys in the world that offer an entirely new perspective on a destination?
Grab your tickets and get on board to embark on a journey of discovery where you can enjoy the world’s best train journeys!
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The spectacular wilderness of the Canadian Rockies is truly a sight to behold and this is why it often tops so many travellers’ best train journeys in the world list.
From the glistening glacial lakes to the spellbinding snow-capped mountains, the mesmerising landscape of the Rocky Mountains offers endless possibilities.
If you want a relaxing ride that takes in these epic views of Canada as you traverse the dramatic scenery between Vancouver, British Columbia and Banff or Jasper, Alberta, but don’t want to compromise on luxury, then the Rocky Mountaineer is for you.
This is also one of the best train journeys in the world for nature lovers and this journey allows you to take in all the fantastic scenery with ease thanks to the train’s picture windows and glass dome ceilings which really makes you feel really connected to the wilderness.
Despite traversing at 35mph, there’s still ample opportunities to see a myriad of wildlife like ospreys, elk, bald eagles and even black bears and grizzly bears too!
Orient Express, Europe
If you are talking about one of the most epic and best train journeys in the world, then an image of the iconic Orient Express surely springs to mind.
It’s one of the most jet-set ways to travel by train and has a real sense of storied history.
The timeless and utterly classic Orient-Express has to be one of the most decadent and luxurious ways to travel through Europe.
From its depiction in old films and books to the chic old travel posters, the Orient Express is possibly the most famous train in the world.
It effortlessly combines the romanticism and elegance of the golden age of travel and it feels like you are taking a step back in time to the roaring 20’s.
As well as admiring the stunning vistas, you can relax in the Champagne bar before indulging in a delicious four course dinner before you retreat to the seclusion of your luxury berth which along with the other areas of the train are an 1920s Art-Deco dream where you can wake up to a different mesmerising destination every day.
From the majestic French Alps and the dramatic scenery of the Swiss Alps to the stunning lagoon and canal ways of Venice, every mile travelled on the Orient Express is a romantic and nostalgic adventure.
Bullet Train, Japan
Whilst it may not be as luxurious an experience as many of its other train counterparts, taking the train from Tokyo to the Mount Fuji area more than makes up for it when it comes to the mind blowing views, plus it is one of the best train journeys in the world to take.
Travellers can take the super fast Nozomi train which makes for a pretty zippy ride.
Whilst the bullet train doesn’t take you to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station, but it will take you to a nearby area where you can enjoy some of the best views of the mountain en route.
The Fuji’s Five Lakes park lies at the northern base of Mount Fuji and offers some of the best views of the mountain.
While riding the Shinkansen between Kobe and Okayama you can spot one of Japan’s finest castles – Himeji Castle.
This spectacular castle is located on top of a hill and is known for its well size and beauty and its large castle grounds.
Travellers can enjoy a bento packed lunch on the bullet train which is filled with simply made but delicious dishes with local ingredients like edamame peas and grated radish.
The Riviera Railway, Europe
This little-known European Train is called the ‘Railway of Marvels’ by locals and it takes you from the Côte d’Azur to the terracotta town of Ventimiglia in Italy.
It only takes just over 90 minutes and it takes you on a beautiful journey from the French Riviera including Nice and Monaco, all the way through lesser-known coastal attractions like Cagnes-sur-mer, Juan les Pins and Antibes.
Not only is it one of the best train journeys in the world, The Riviera is also one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world and it’s the perfect way to combine a French and Italian Riviera adventure.
One of the best times to head into Ventimiglia is on a Friday as they have an impressive all-day market.
It’s considered the largest market in Italy. You can buy everything from leather and cashmere goods to Italian delicacies such as artisan specialty cheeses.
The Bergen Line, Norway
Experience one of Europe’s most beautiful train journeys. The Bergen Line is the scenic mountain track to the fjords and is one of the best train journeys in the world.
Travellers can take a ride from cosmopolitan Oslo to the beautiful fjord-and-mountain-flanked Bergen whilst enjoying a relaxing ride through some of Norway’s wildest scenery.
It crosses the Hardangervidda National Park, onto the Hardangervidda plateau, Europe’s largest high mountain plateau and passes through several popular ski resorts, such as Gol, Geilo and Voss where you can also enjoy hiking and cycling in the warmer months too.
The entire journey from Oslo to Bergen will give you seven hours to relax and watch Norway’s postcard-perfect landscapes unfold which includes forests, lakes, mountains, fjords, waterfalls, and rivers.
You can stop off at various points throughout the journey to Bergen which includes the Bear Park (Bjorneparken) Gol which is the gateway to nearby Hemsedal, which is a super destination for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer.
The picturesque town of Voss is also a great place to stop off for a spot of sightseeing and adventure sports.
The Zephyr, USA
The California Zephyr is one of the most beautiful train trips in all of North America and is one of the best train journeys in the world.
It takes you through the heart of the Rockies, and onwards through to the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas whilst running through stops in Salt Lake City, Denver, and Omaha.
It runs from the windy city of Chicago through to the vibrant city of San Francisco, but you can see sights like the Fraser and Winter Park, the flatlands of Nebraska, Denver, the canyons of the Colorado river, the Utah desert and the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas.
Relaxing in the stunning silver double decker superliner train whilst admiring the views makes this one of the best train journeys in the world.
The train features a dining car, snack car and sleeper carriages and it has a cleverly built observation car which has amazing wraparound picture windows that are perfect for sightseeing.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express takes travellers on an epic journey through the Alps and is widely considered one of the best train journeys in the world.
This eight hour trip takes you from Zermatt to St. Moritz and boasts spectacular panoramic views over a series of 291 bridges and 91 tunnels.
It’s absolutely stunning all year round, but we can’t help but think that winter is one of the best times to go where you take in Switzerland’s winter wonderlands thanks to its snow-covered forests and majestic peaks.
Keep your eyes peeled for the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres as well as the elegant resort of St. Moritz, the alpine village of Zermatt with breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Albula with the famous Landwasser Viaduct and the Rhine Gorge, the ‘Grand Canyon of Switzerland’ which is truly a sight to behold.
The Glacier Express is not only famous for its breathtaking views, but also for its luxurious and comfortable amenities.
The train has special panoramic cars with large windows, so travellers can enjoy the scenery to the fullest. There is also a restaurant on board, where travellers can enjoy local specialties and wines.
Blue Train, South Africa
This intoxicating train journey links Africa’s vast south though to the north, taking travellers around the awe-inspiring mountain ranges that dot the continent, through the desert landscapes, vine-woven valleys and onwards untamed savannah grasslands teeming with wildlife.
The Blue Train is one of the best train journeys in the world and is one of the best ways to traverse South Africa and its breath-taking scenery.
Often nicknamed a five-star ‘hotel on wheels’, the Blue train offers a luxurious way to travel through South Africa from lively Pretoria to the fascinating Cape Town and whilst you may never want to leave, you can stop off at the likes of the Limpopo Province, which is home to the Kruger National Park, one of the world’s finest game parks, and home to Africa’s Big Five.
Al Andalus Train, Spain
The Al Andalus train takes a tour of 7 days and 6 nights, visiting cities such as Seville, Cordoba, Cadiz, Ronda and Granada.
This Andalusian train is a benchmark in comfort, elegance and spaciousness and is made up of seven richly decorated carriages and four lounge cars dating back to the 1920’s.
Known as ‘The Spanish Palace On Wheels’, this beautifully decorated express train provides guests with a sophisticated and glamorous way to see some of the most stunning regions of Spain along with noted landmarks such as Seville’s gothic cathedral, the Alhambra Palace and the Mosque of Cordoba.
The Al Andalus offers two categories of cabin accommodations, four lounge cars that frequently host live entertainment, and a changing menu influenced by local dishes throughout the journey.
The train expertly blends classic charm and style with modern comforts to provide an unforgettable experience.
Ghan Train, Australia
Since its debut journey in 1929, The Ghan has widely been considered one of the best train journeys in the world.
Running through the heart of Australia, it starts from the south in Adelaide in the south through to Darwin in the north.
This current route has only been in existence since 2004, but this train has a rich history dating back to the 19th century,
The three-day all-inclusive journey sees the train lilting its way through Australia’s Red Centre with diverse landscapes passing by.
Explore the expansive ridges of the MacDonnell Ranges, witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Simpsons Gap, and visit the opal town of Coober Pedy.
Travelling the 1,850 mile journey over two nights, you can see sights like the Flinders Ranges, the Simpson Desert, the mystical wonders of Uluru and Alice Springs amongst others.
The Ghan delivers so much more than an extended train ride. It provides travellers with access to parts of Australia that aren’t always attainable and the opportunity to travel the historic route of the first pioneers through the very heart of Australia.
Golden Eagle Danube Express, Europe
The Danube Express with its “Castles of Transylvania” route from Istanbul to Budapest is awe-inspiring and unique.
It’s ideal for history lovers who want to combine Europe’s best cities and some seriously dramatic natural landscapes that are simply unforgettable.
Want to swerve on the castles? The Danube runs on several journeys, including between Prague and Budapest and between Venice and Istanbul where you can stop off at intriguing locations like San Marino, and Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia.
You may struggle to tear yourself away from the decadent decor which includes sumptuous velvety, emerald-green fabrics, antique dark-wood panels; and spotless white tablecloths.
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The spectacular wilderness of the Canadian Rockies is truly a sight to behold and this is why it often tops so many travellers’ best train journeys in the world list.
From the glistening glacial lakes to the spellbinding snow-capped mountains, the mesmerising landscape of the Rocky Mountains offers endless possibilities.
If you want a relaxing ride that takes in these epic views of Canada as you traverse the dramatic scenery between Vancouver, British Columbia and Banff or Jasper, Alberta, but don’t want to compromise on luxury, then the Rocky Mountaineer is for you.
This is also one of the best train journeys in the world for nature lovers and this journey allows you to take in all the fantastic scenery with ease thanks to the train’s picture windows and glass dome ceilings which really makes you feel really connected to the wilderness.
Despite traversing at 35mph, there’s still ample opportunities to see a myriad of wildlife like ospreys, elk, bald eagles and even black bears and grizzly bears too!
Orient Express, Europe
If you are talking about one of the most epic and best train journeys in the world, then an image of the iconic Orient Express surely springs to mind.
It’s one of the most jet-set ways to travel by train and has a real sense of storied history.
The timeless and utterly classic Orient-Express has to be one of the most decadent and luxurious ways to travel through Europe.
From its depiction in old films and books to the chic old travel posters, the Orient Express is possibly the most famous train in the world.
It effortlessly combines the romanticism and elegance of the golden age of travel and it feels like you are taking a step back in time to the roaring 20’s.
As well as admiring the stunning vistas, you can relax in the Champagne bar before indulging in a delicious four course dinner before you retreat to the seclusion of your luxury berth which along with the other areas of the train are an 1920s Art-Deco dream where you can wake up to a different mesmerising destination every day.
From the majestic French Alps and the dramatic scenery of the Swiss Alps to the stunning lagoon and canal ways of Venice, every mile travelled on the Orient Express is a romantic and nostalgic adventure.
Bullet Train, Japan
Whilst it may not be as luxurious an experience as many of its other train counterparts, taking the train from Tokyo to the Mount Fuji area more than makes up for it when it comes to the mind blowing views, plus it is one of the best train journeys in the world to take.
Travellers can take the super fast Nozomi train which makes for a pretty zippy ride.
Whilst the bullet train doesn’t take you to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station, but it will take you to a nearby area where you can enjoy some of the best views of the mountain en route.
The Fuji’s Five Lakes park lies at the northern base of Mount Fuji and offers some of the best views of the mountain.
While riding the Shinkansen between Kobe and Okayama you can spot one of Japan’s finest castles – Himeji Castle.
This spectacular castle is located on top of a hill and is known for its size and beauty and its large castle grounds.
Travellers can enjoy a bento packed lunch on the bullet train which is filled with simply made but delicious dishes with local ingredients like edamame peas and grated radish.
The Riviera Railway, Europe
This little-known European Train is called the ‘Railway of Marvels’ by locals and it takes you from the Côte d’Azur to the terracotta town of Ventimiglia in Italy.
It only takes just over 90 minutes and it takes you on a beautiful journey from the French Riviera including Nice and Monaco, all the way through lesser-known coastal attractions like Cagnes-sur-mer, Juan les Pins and Antibes.
Not only is it one of the best train journeys in the world, The Riviera is also one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world and it’s the perfect way to combine a French and Italian Riviera adventure.
One of the best times to head into Ventimiglia is on a Friday as they have an impressive all-day market.
It’s considered the largest market in Italy. You can buy everything from leather and cashmere goods to Italian delicacies such as artisan specialty cheeses.
The Bergen Line, Norway
Experience one of Europe’s most beautiful train journeys. The Bergen Line is the scenic mountain track to the fjords and is one of the best train journeys in the world.
Travellers can take a ride from cosmopolitan Oslo to the beautiful fjord-and-mountain-flanked Bergen whilst enjoying a relaxing ride through some of Norway’s wildest scenery.
It crosses the Hardangervidda National Park, onto the Hardangervidda plateau, Europe’s largest high mountain plateau and passes through several popular ski resorts, such as Gol, Geilo and Voss where you can also enjoy hiking and cycling in the warmer months too.
The entire journey from Oslo to Bergen will give you seven hours to relax and watch Norway’s postcard-perfect landscapes unfold which includes forests, lakes, mountains, fjords, waterfalls, and rivers.
You can stop off at various points throughout the journey to Bergen which includes the Bear Park (Bjorneparken) Gol which is the gateway to nearby Hemsedal, which is a super destination for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer.
The picturesque town of Voss is also a great place to stop off for a spot of sightseeing and adventure sports.
The Zephyr, USA
The California Zephyr is one of the most beautiful train trips in all of North America and is one of the best train journeys in the world.
It takes you through the heart of the Rockies, and onwards through to the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas whilst running through stops in Salt Lake City, Denver, and Omaha.
It runs from the windy city of Chicago through to the vibrant city of San Francisco, but you can see sights like the Fraser and Winter Park, the flatlands of Nebraska, Denver, the canyons of the Colorado river, the Utah desert and the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas.
Relaxing in the stunning silver double decker superliner train whilst admiring the views makes this one of the best train journeys in the world.
The train features a dining car, snack car and sleeper carriages and it has a cleverly built observation car which has amazing wraparound picture windows that are perfect for sightseeing.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express takes travellers on an epic journey through the Alps and is widely considered one of the best train journeys in the world.
This eight hour trip takes you from Zermatt to St. Moritz and boasts spectacular panoramic views over a series of 291 bridges and 91 tunnels.
It’s absolutely stunning all year round, but we can’t help but think that winter is one of the best times to go where you take in Switzerland’s winter wonderlands thanks to its snow-covered forests and majestic peaks.
Keep your eyes peeled for the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres as well as the elegant resort of St. Moritz, the alpine village of Zermatt with breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Albula with the famous Landwasser Viaduct and the Rhine Gorge, the ‘Grand Canyon of Switzerland’ which is truly a sight to behold.
The Glacier Express is not only famous for its breathtaking views, but also for its luxurious and comfortable amenities.
The train has special panoramic cars with large windows, so travellers can enjoy the scenery to the fullest.
There is also a restaurant on board, where travellers can enjoy local specialties and wines.
Blue Train, South Africa
This intoxicating train journey links Africa’s vast south though to the north, taking travellers around the awe-inspiring mountain ranges that dot the continent, through the desert landscapes, vine-woven valleys and onwards untamed savannah grasslands teeming with wildlife.
The Blue Train is one of the best train journeys in the world and is one of the best ways to traverse South Africa and its breath-taking scenery.
Often nicknamed a five-star ‘hotel on wheels’, the Blue train offers a luxurious way to travel through South Africa from lively Pretoria to the fascinating Cape Town and whilst you may never want to leave, you can stop off at the likes of the Limpopo Province, which is home to the Kruger National Park, one of the world’s finest game parks, and home to Africa’s Big Five.
Al Andalus Train, Spain
The Al Andalus train takes a tour of 7 days and 6 nights, visiting cities such as Seville, Cordoba, Cadiz, Ronda and Granada.
This Andalusian train is a benchmark in comfort, elegance and spaciousness and is made up of seven richly decorated carriages and four lounge cars dating back to the 1920’s.
Known as ‘The Spanish Palace On Wheels’, this beautifully decorated express train provides guests with a sophisticated and glamorous way to see some of the most stunning regions of Spain along with noted landmarks such as Seville’s gothic cathedral, the Alhambra Palace and the Mosque of Cordoba.
The Al Andalus offers two categories of cabin accommodations, four lounge cars that frequently host live entertainment, and a changing menu influenced by local dishes throughout the journey. The train expertly blends classic charm and style with modern comforts to provide an unforgettable experience.
Ghan Train, Australia
Since its debut journey in 1929, The Ghan has widely been considered one of the best train journeys in the world.
Running through the heart of Australia, it starts from the south in Adelaide in the south through to Darwin in the north.
This current route has only been in existence since 2004, but this train has a rich history dating back to the 19th century,
The three-day all-inclusive journey sees the train lilting its way through Australia’s Red Centre with diverse landscapes passing by.
Explore the expansive ridges of the MacDonnell Ranges, witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Simpsons Gap, and visit the opal town of Coober Pedy.
Travelling the 1,850 mile journey over two nights, you can see sights like the Flinders Ranges, the Simpson Desert, the mystical wonders of Uluru and Alice Springs amongst others. The Ghan delivers so much more than an extended train ride.
It provides travellers with access to parts of Australia that aren’t always attainable and the opportunity to travel the historic route of the first pioneers through the very heart of Australia.
Golden Eagle Danube Express, Europe
The Danube Express with its “Castles of Transylvania” route from Istanbul to Budapest is awe-inspiring and unique.
It’s ideal for history lovers who want to combine Europe’s best cities and some seriously dramatic natural landscapes that are simply unforgettable. Want to swerve on the castles?
The Danube runs on several journeys, including between Prague and Budapest and between Venice and Istanbul where you can stop off at intriguing locations like San Marino, and Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia.
You may struggle to tear yourself away from the decadent decor which includes sumptuous velvety, emerald-green fabrics, antique dark-wood panels; and spotless white tablecloths.
