Most scenic train rides
There are many scenic train rides around the world that offer breathtaking views of stunning landscapes and natural beauty. From the Swiss Alps to the Canadian Rockies, these train journeys provide a unique way to experience some of the most spectacular sights on earth.
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One of the most scenic train rides is the Glacier Express in Switzerland, which takes passengers on a 7.5-hour journey through the Swiss Alps, passing by majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming alpine villages. Another iconic train ride is the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada, which winds through the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains, offering panoramic views of towering peaks, pristine forests, and cascading waterfalls. In Norway, the Flam Railway travels through dramatic fjords and lush valleys, while the TranzAlpine in New Zealand crosses the Southern Alps, showcasing rugged terrain and untamed wilderness. Whether it's the snow-capped peaks of the Andes in Peru or the coastal cliffs of the Amalfi Coast in Italy, these scenic train rides offer a truly unforgettable way to witness the world's natural wonders.
Rocky MountaineerView AllRocky Mountaineer - Luxury train journey through the Canadian Rockies.
Glacier ExpressView AllGlacier Express - Scenic train ride through the Swiss Alps.
Flam RailwayView AllFlam Railway - Scenic train ride through Norwegian mountains.
Bernina ExpressView AllBernina Express - Scenic train journey through the Swiss Alps.
Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge RailroadView AllDurango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad - Scenic historic train through Colorado's mountains.
White Pass and Yukon RouteView AllWhite Pass and Yukon Route - Historic railway through stunning Alaskan and Canadian landscapes.
Alaska RailroadView AllAlaska Railroad - Railroad system in Alaska, United States.
Blue TrainView AllBlue Train - Luxurious, iconic, famous passenger train in South Africa.
Venice Simplon-Orient-ExpressView AllVenice Simplon-Orient-Express - Luxurious vintage train journey across Europe.
TranzAlpine RailwayView AllTranzAlpine Railway - Scenic train journey across New Zealand's South Island.
Most scenic train rides
1.
Rocky Mountaineer
Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train service that offers breathtaking journeys through the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies and Western Canada. Passengers can choose from various routes, including the famous "First Passage to the West" and "Rainforest to Gold Rush" routes, and enjoy the comfort of spacious, glass-domed train cars that provide unobstructed views of the majestic scenery. The train offers exceptional service, gourmet cuisine, and informative commentary, making it a popular choice for travelers looking to experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains in style and comfort.
Pros
Stunning scenery- luxury train experience
Cons
Expensive- limited routes and schedules
2.
Glacier Express
The Glacier Express is a scenic train ride that travels through the heart of the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and charming mountain villages. The journey takes passengers on a 7.5-hour ride from Zermatt to St. Moritz, or vice versa, and is often referred to as the "slowest express train in the world" due to its leisurely pace, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the stunning alpine landscapes. The train is equipped with panoramic windows, offering unobstructed views of the majestic surroundings, making it a popular attraction for tourists seeking a memorable and picturesque railway experience.
Pros
- Stunning scenery
- luxury train experience
- convenient way to travel between Swiss mountain resorts
Cons
- Expensive
- limited seating
- may be crowded during peak tourist seasons
3.
Flam Railway
The Flam Railway is a scenic train journey that takes passengers on a 20-kilometer ride through the stunning Norwegian countryside. The journey begins in the village of Flam, nestled in the Aurlandsfjord, and winds its way through steep mountainsides, cascading waterfalls, and lush valleys. The train travels along one of the steepest railways in the world, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Flam Railway is a popular tourist attraction and a must-see for those visiting Norway, providing an unforgettable experience of the country's natural beauty.
Pros
- Stunning scenery
- historic route
- convenient transportation
Cons
- Expensive
- crowded during peak season
- limited availability
4.
Bernina Express
The Bernina Express is a scenic railway journey that takes passengers on a breathtaking ride through the Swiss and Italian Alps. The train travels from Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy, passing through stunning landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and charming alpine villages. The route includes several impressive engineering feats, such as the famous Landwasser Viaduct. The train offers panoramic windows and open-air viewing platforms, allowing passengers to fully appreciate the stunning scenery. The Bernina Express is a popular tourist attraction, offering a unique and unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty of the Alps.
Pros
- Stunning scenery
- comfortable journey
Cons
- Expensive
- limited availability
- can be crowded
5.
Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a historic narrow-gauge train that has been in operation since 1882. It runs through the breathtaking and rugged canyons of the San Juan National Forest, offering passengers stunning views of the Animas River and the surrounding mountains. The train departs from Durango, Colorado and travels to the historic mining town of Silverton, providing a unique and immersive experience into the area's rich history. The vintage steam-powered locomotives and authentic 1800s-style cars make this a popular attraction for tourists and train enthusiasts alike.
Pros
- Scenic route
- historic experience
Cons
- Limited schedule
- potential for weather-related delays
6.
White Pass and Yukon Route
The White Pass and Yukon Route is a historic narrow-gauge railroad that was built during the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 19th century. It runs from Skagway, Alaska to Whitehorse, Yukon, and is known for its stunning scenic views of the Alaskan and Canadian wilderness. The railway was an important transportation route for prospectors seeking their fortune in the gold fields of the Yukon. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the region while learning about its rich history.
Pros
- Scenic views
- historic railway
- unique experience
Cons
- Limited schedule
- weather-dependent
- potential for motion sickness
7.
Alaska Railroad
The Alaska Railroad is a Class II railroad that operates in the state of Alaska. It spans 470 miles from Seward to Fairbanks, with additional branch lines and spurs. The railroad was originally built in the early 20th century to support the construction of the Alaska Highway and later became a vital transportation link for the state. Today, it offers passenger and freight services, providing a unique way to experience the stunning Alaskan wilderness. The railroad is known for its scenic routes, including views of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, making it a popular tourist attraction.
Pros
- Scenic views
- eco-friendly transportation
Cons
- Limited routes
- weather delays
8.
Blue Train
Blue Train is a studio album by jazz musician John Coltrane, released in 1958 on Blue Note Records. The album is considered one of Coltrane's best and most influential works, featuring a lineup of top-notch musicians including Lee Morgan, Curtis Fuller, Kenny Drew, Paul Chambers, and Philly Joe Jones. The album showcases Coltrane's distinctive tenor saxophone playing and innovative improvisational style, as well as his skill as a composer. Blue Train is widely regarded as a classic in the jazz genre and remains a significant and enduring part of Coltrane's legacy.
Pros
- Iconic album
- impressive lineup
- influential in jazz history
Cons
- Limited commercial success
- some critics find it overrated
9.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a luxury train service that offers a nostalgic and glamorous travel experience through Europe. The train's carriages are beautifully restored in the Art Deco style, evoking the golden age of train travel in the 1920s and 1930s. Passengers can enjoy fine dining in the train's exquisite restaurant cars and relax in their luxurious private cabins. The journey takes travelers through stunning landscapes and iconic European cities, providing a unique and unforgettable way to explore the continent. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is known for its exceptional service and attention to detail, making it a truly special and indulgent travel experience.
Pros
- luxurious
- historic
- scenic
- romantic
Cons
- expensive
- limited routes
- potentially crowded
10.
TranzAlpine Railway
The TranzAlpine Railway is a scenic train journey that runs between Christchurch and Greymouth on the South Island of New Zealand. The 139-mile route takes passengers through the stunning Southern Alps, past deep gorges, and across picturesque rivers and valleys. The journey offers breathtaking views of the natural landscapes, including snow-capped mountains and lush forests. The train itself is equipped with panoramic windows, allowing passengers to fully appreciate the beauty of the surroundings. The TranzAlpine Railway is a popular tourist attraction and offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty of New Zealand.
Pros
- Stunning scenery
- comfortable travel
- convenient way to see New Zealand's South Island
Cons
- Limited schedule
- can be expensive
- weather-dependent