12 Scenic Train Journeys for Unforgettable Views
Hop aboard these 12 breathtaking train rides that showcase the world’s most stunning landscapes, one track at a time.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
The experience of taking the train is quite remarkable. Sitting back and unwinding while taking in the world via panoramic windows. A visual feast unlike any other is guaranteed on these train excursions.
1. Glacier Express – Switzerland
Peter Thoeny - Quality HDR Photography on Flickr
This iconic Swiss route connects Zermatt to St. Moritz, gliding through the majestic Alps. With towering mountains, deep gorges, and picturesque villages, the journey is like moving through a postcard.
2. Rocky Mountaineer – Canada
Roderick Eime on Flickr
Winding through the Canadian Rockies, this trip offers jaw-dropping views of glaciers, forests, and wildlife. The glass-domed coaches give you front-row seats to nature’s finest show.
3. West Highland Line – Scotland
PaulT (Gunther Tschuch) on Wikimedia Commons
From Glasgow to Mallaig, this route is pure Scottish charm. Expect rolling hills, rugged coastlines, and even the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct — known from the Harry Potter films.
4. TranzAlpine – New Zealand
denisbin on Flickr
This ride cuts through New Zealand’s Southern Alps from Christchurch to Greymouth. Expect dramatic mountain passes, braided rivers, and rainforests.
5. Bernina Express – Switzerland to Italy
Kabelleger on Wikimedai Commons
A UNESCO World Heritage route, this train moves from snowy peaks to palm-lined towns in just hours. It traverses spirals, tunnels, and high viaducts with sweeping alpine views.
6. The Ghan – Australia
Luxury Train Club on Flickr
Stretching from Darwin to Adelaide, The Ghan cuts across the heart of Australia. Think red deserts, remote outposts, and sunbaked plains. It’s an epic outback journey that feels like time travel.
7. The Flam Railway – Norway
Karen on Wikimedia Commons
This steep route climbs from sea level to alpine heights in under an hour. Waterfalls, cliffs, and emerald valleys fill every frame. It’s short but stunning.
8. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad – Colorado, USA
pixelFire on Wikimedia Commons
An old-school steam train that winds through the rugged San Juan Mountains. It hugs cliffs and crosses deep canyons with thrilling precision. It’s nostalgic and adrenaline-pumping.
9. The Blue Train – South Africa
Shine 2010 on Wikimedia Commons
Luxury meets wilderness on this opulent ride between Pretoria and Cape Town. Rolling vineyards, vast plains, and mountain ranges slide by in style. Think five-star hotel on wheels.
10. Belmond Hiram Bingham – Peru
Jorge Láscar on Wikimedia Commons
This lavish train takes you from Cusco to the base of Machu Picchu. Along the way, expect cloud forests, river valleys, and ancient Andean landscapes. Live music and fine dining complete the experience.
11. Sagano Scenic Railway – Japan
Gordon Cheung on Wikimedia Commons
A short but sweet route through Kyoto’s lush Arashiyama forest. It’s especially gorgeous in autumn when the maples blaze with color. It feels like a storybook come to life.
12. Coast Starlight – USA (California to Washington)
Laser1987 on Wikimedia Commons
This long-distance Amtrak line hugs the Pacific coast, serving up nonstop ocean views. Cliffs, beaches, forests, and snow-capped mountains fill the window.