There is something magical about train travel. Unlike flights that rush you from one place to another, trains let you witness the world slowly unfolding outside your window—mountains rising in the distance, rivers carving through valleys, and small towns passing by like scenes from a movie. For travelers who want more than just a destination, scenic train journeys offer an experience filled with beauty, nostalgia, comfort, and unforgettable views.
In a world that loves speed, these train routes remind us how charming slow travel can be. From snow-covered peaks to desert landscapes and coastal curves, these breathtaking journeys offer a front-row seat to the planet’s most spectacular regions. Here are the most scenic train routes that every traveler should experience at least once in their lifetime.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express is often called the slowest express train in the world, and that’s exactly what makes it special. Running between Zermatt and St. Moritz, this iconic route takes you through the heart of the Swiss Alps.
Massive snow-covered peaks, deep gorges, charming wooden villages, and crystal-clear alpine lakes create a landscape that almost feels unreal. The train offers panoramic windows, allowing uninterrupted views of bridges, tunnels, and valleys. The highlight is the Oberalp Pass, where the train climbs high into the mountains through some of Europe’s most stunning terrain.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Canada’s Rocky Mountains are known for their extraordinary natural beauty, and the Rocky Mountaineer offers the best seat in the house. Traveling between Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies, this luxurious train runs only during daylight so travelers don’t miss a single view.
As you move through the route, you witness massive waterfalls, bright blue rivers, dense forests, and snow-draped peaks. The train’s glass-domed coaches allow you to see everything—from wildlife roaming the forests to glaciers sitting atop towering mountains. This is one of the most scenic journeys in North America and a dream trip for photography lovers.
The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
New Zealand is known for its dramatic landscapes, and the TranzAlpine route captures its beauty perfectly. Running from Christchurch to Greymouth, this journey crosses the legendary Southern Alps.
You travel through rich farmlands, turquoise rivers, lush plains, and rocky gorges before climbing into mountain regions that look like scenes from a fantasy movie. The train has outdoor viewing platforms where travelers can feel the wind, smell the fresh air, and capture raw landscapes up close. For nature lovers, this is one of the most unforgettable train experiences in the world.
The Blue Train, South Africa
The Blue Train is less of a train ride and more of a luxury hotel on wheels. Traveling from Pretoria to Cape Town, it showcases South Africa’s vibrant and diverse landscapes—from deserts and vineyards to rugged mountain ranges.
Along the route, you experience vast open plains, wildlife reserves, and dramatic coastlines. Elegant interiors, gourmet dining, and personalized service enhance the experience, making it one of the most exclusive scenic train journeys globally. Travelers who love comfort as much as scenery will find this route unforgettable.
The Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy
Connecting Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, the Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed railway—and for good reason. It crosses glaciers, spirals over stone viaducts, and passes through high alpine landscapes that look untouched by time.
The most iconic moment is crossing the Landwasser Viaduct, a stunning curved bridge rising dramatically from a cliff. As the route descends into Italy, the scenery shifts from icy mountains to warm Mediterranean landscapes, offering a rare blend of two climates in one journey.
The West Highland Line, Scotland
Considered one of Europe’s most atmospheric train journeys, the West Highland Line travels between Glasgow and Mallaig. Misty mountains, lonely lochs, rugged coastlines, and charming villages create a dramatic backdrop.
Fans of Harry Potter will love crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct—the same bridge where the Hogwarts Express was filmed. The mood, landscape, and peacefulness make this train journey feel like stepping into a storybook.
The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland
One of the most iconic steam trains in the world, the Jacobite runs between Fort William and Mallaig. Although it overlaps with the West Highland Line, the experience is entirely different because of the vintage steam engine.
The train moves slowly, whistling through valleys, glens, woodlands, and lochs. The highlight is again the Glenfinnan Viaduct, but this time you experience it with old-world charm—puffs of steam, vintage carriages, and a nostalgic atmosphere that transports you to another era.
The Kuranda Scenic Railway, Australia
Running through Queensland’s tropical rainforest, the Kuranda Scenic Railway connects Cairns to the mountain village of Kuranda. This is one of Australia’s most scenic and unique train journeys.
You pass through lush rainforests, steep ravines, and spectacular waterfalls, including the famous Barron Falls. The route is full of bridges, tunnels, and historic railway engineering, making it both educational and breathtaking. The sounds of the forest and the vibrant green landscapes create a serene travel experience.
The Flam Railway, Norway
Norway’s Flam Railway is one of the steepest and most beautiful train routes in the world. Running from Myrdal to Flam, it plunges down through valleys, waterfalls, cliffs, and charming Scandinavian villages.
The star attraction is the Kjosfossen Waterfall, where the train stops for passengers to take photos. Surrounded by forested slopes and mountain cliffs, the scenery feels both wild and peaceful. This journey captures the essence of Norway’s natural beauty.
The Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
If you love elegance, culture, and scenic landscapes, the Eastern & Oriental Express offers a journey through Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore. It combines Southeast Asia’s diverse landscapes with luxury accommodations and world-class service.
You’ll pass through green rice paddies, tropical forests, riverside villages, and ancient temples. The blend of nature, culture, and fine dining makes it one of the most enjoyable train journeys in Asia.
Final Thoughts
Scenic train journeys offer more than transportation—they provide an emotional and visual experience that stays with you forever. Whether it’s the snowy Alps, the Canadian Rockies, tropical rainforests, or historical viaducts, every route on this list showcases the world’s beauty in a way no other form of travel can.
These journeys remind us that travel is not just about reaching the destination—it’s about savoring the moments in between. If you’re looking for unforgettable travel memories, add at least one of these scenic train routes to your 2025 bucket list.
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