World’s Best Train Journeys
There is something enchanting about traveling by rail. It's a form of transport that harks back to a bygone era, evoking images of luxurious trains snaking through breath taking landscapes. We take a look at some of the world’s best rail journey’s and remind you of a time when the journey was as important as the destination, where passengers would take their time, relishing the scenery passing by their windows.
As the train moves forward, the outside world changes, revealing stunning vistas and hidden corners of the countryside that would otherwise remain unseen. Rail travel allows us to slow down, to appreciate the journey, to savour every moment, and to indulge in the pleasures of travel. It’s a chance to connect with the past and to step away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Whether you’re embarking on a scenic journey through the Swiss Alps or crossing the vast expanse of the countryside on the Trans-Siberian Railway, traveling by rail is an experience like no other. It’s a way to reconnect with the beauty of the world around us, to breathe in fresh air, and to rediscover the joy of travel.
So why not step back in time and embrace the romance of rail travel on your next adventure?
The Belmond Andean Explorer - Peru:
This luxury train offers a unique and unforgettable journey through some of the most breath taking landscapes in Peru. The train takes passengers on a 2 or 3-day journey from Cusco to Arequipa, with stops at Puno and Lake Titicaca along the way.
The train is beautifully designed, with elegant cabins and stylish dining cars serving up delicious Peruvian cuisine. There’s also a luxurious observation car with floor-to-ceiling windows, providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
During the journey, passengers can participate in a range of activities, including guided tours of ancient Incan ruins, visits to remote mountain communities, and boat trips on the highest navigable lake in the world. They can also indulge in traditional Peruvian cuisine, sample local wines and cocktails, and relax in the train’s comfortable lounges.
The Belmond Andean Explorer offers a range of accommodation options, including Deluxe Double Cabins with en-suite bathrooms, Junior Suites with panoramic windows, and the opulent Andean Explorer Suite, which boasts a separate living room and a luxurious spa bath.
The journey takes passengers through some of the most spectacular landscapes in Peru, from snow-capped mountains and verdant valleys to shimmering lakes and remote villages. It’s a chance to experience the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of Peru in comfort and style.
The Glacier Express - Switzerland
A world-famous train journey that takes passengers on an unforgettable trip through the stunning Alpine landscapes of Switzerland. The journey starts in the charming mountain resort of Zermatt and ends in the chic resort of St. Moritz, covering a distance of 290 kilometers.
The train is specially designed for scenic journeys, with panoramic windows that provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and glaciers. The journey takes around eight hours to complete, passing through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges, and reaching an altitude of 2,033 meters at the Oberalp Pass.
The Glacier Express offers a range of classes, from Standard to Excellence, all with comfortable seating and panoramic windows. There’s also a dining car, where passengers can enjoy delicious Swiss cuisine while taking in the scenery.
The journey proceeds through some of the most picturesque landscapes in Switzerland, including the Matterhorn, the Rhine Gorge, and the Oberalp Pass. Along the way, passengers can also admire charming Swiss villages, with their traditional chalets and flower-filled balconies.
The Glacier Express is a truly unique way to experience the beauty of Switzerland’s Alpine landscapes, and it’s no wonder that it’s been named the “world’s slowest express train”. It’s a journey that’s sure to leave a lasting impression and create unforgettable memories for anyone lucky enough to experience it.
The Rocky Mountaineer - Canada
This luxury train journey that takes passengers on a breath taking trip through the majestic Canadian Rockies. The journey starts in Vancouver, British Columbia, and ends in either Banff or Jasper, Alberta, with the option to extend the journey to other destinations such as Whistler or Seattle.
The train is beautifully appointed, with spacious and comfortable seating, large windows for optimal views, and a glass-domed observation car that offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding scenery. The journey is also accompanied by informative and entertaining commentary from knowledgeable on-board hosts.
The Rocky Mountaineer offers a range of different routes and packages, each with unique experiences and sightseeing opportunities. The most popular route is the “First Passage to the West”, which takes passengers on a two-day journey through the mountainous terrain and stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.
Along the way, passengers will marvel the views of mountain peaks, glacier-fed lakes, and deep canyons. They’ll also pass through historic sites and charming towns, such as the quaint mountain town of Banff and the bustling city of Kamloops.
The train also offers excellent dining options, including gourmet cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients and served in elegant dining cars. There are also opportunities to stretch your legs and explore some of the most beautiful natural wonders of Canada, such as Lake Louise, the Columbia Icefield, and the Athabasca Glacier.
Overall, the Rocky Mountaineer is a truly unforgettable experience that combines luxurious travel with stunning natural beauty. It’s a chance to see some of the most breath taking landscapes in North America while indulging in the comfort and elegance of a luxury train journey.
The Ghan - Australia
The Ghan is an iconic train journey that takes passengers through the heart of Australia, from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north, covering a distance of 2,979 kilometers. The journey takes around three days to complete and passes through some of the most remote and beautiful landscapes in the country.
The train is named after the Afghan camel drivers who used to traverse the Australian outback, and it offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the vastness and diversity of this incredible continent. The Ghan offers a range of classes, from Gold Service to Platinum Service, all with comfortable cabins and panoramic windows that provide stunning views of the passing landscapes.
Along the journey, passengers will see the rugged beauty of the Flinders Ranges, the vastness of the Red Centre, and the tropical splendor of the Top End. They’ll also stop at some of Australia’s most historic and culturally significant destinations, such as Alice Springs and Katherine.
The Ghan also offers excellent dining options, with menus featuring locally sourced ingredients and a range of regional specialties. There are also opportunities to participate in a range of activities, such as guided tours of historic sites and natural wonders, and visits to remote outback communities.
Overall, the Ghan is a once-in-a-lifetime journey that offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beauty and diversity of Australia. It’s a chance to explore some of the most remote and stunning landscapes in the country while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a world-class train journey.
The Blue Train - South Africa
One of the most luxurious train journeys in the world, offering passengers an unforgettable experience of South Africa’s stunning landscapes and cultural heritage. The train runs between Pretoria and Cape Town, covering a distance of 1,600 kilometers.
The Blue Train is beautifully appointed, with spacious and elegant cabins, each with its own private bathroom and shower. The train is also equipped with a lounge car, a dining car, and a club car, all designed to offer passengers maximum comfort and luxury.
The journey takes passengers through some of the most picturesque landscapes in South Africa, including the grassy plains of the Highveld, the stark beauty of the Karoo, and the majestic mountains of the Cape Winelands. Along the way, passengers will see historic sites and charming towns, such as Matjiesfontein and Kimberley, which are famous for their diamond mines.
The train also offers excellent dining options, with gourmet cuisine served in an elegant and sophisticated setting. There’s also a well-stocked bar, where passengers can sample some of South Africa’s finest wines and spirits.
The Blue Train offers a range of packages and routes, each with its own unique experiences and sightseeing opportunities. For example, the Cape Town journey includes a visit to the famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, while the Pretoria journey offers a tour of the Kimberley Diamond Mine.
This is a truly luxurious and unforgettable way to experience the beauty and culture of South Africa.
The Palace on Wheels - India
The Palace on Wheels is a luxurious train journey that takes passengers on a royal tour of Rajasthan, one of India’s most culturally rich and historically significant regions. The train journey covers a distance of around 2,000 kilometers and takes passengers through some of the most beautiful and iconic destinations in Rajasthan.
The train is designed to resemble a palace on wheels, with elegantly appointed cabins, each with its own private bathroom and shower. The train is also equipped with a lounge car, a dining car, and a bar car, all designed to offer passengers maximum comfort and luxury.
The journey takes passengers through the stunning landscapes of Rajasthan, from the desert sands of Jaisalmer to the lush green hills of Udaipur. Along the way, passengers will visit some of the most iconic and historic sites in the region, including the Amber Fort in Jaipur, the Lake Palace in Udaipur, and the Taj Mahal in Agra.
The Palace on Wheels also offers excellent dining options, with gourmet cuisine served in an elegant and sophisticated setting. Passengers can enjoy a range of traditional Indian dishes, as well as international cuisine.
In addition to the cultural and historical sites, the Palace on Wheels also offers opportunities to participate in a range of activities, such as camel rides, desert safaris, and traditional Rajasthani dance performances.
A unique and unforgettable way to experience the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of Rajasthan and a chance to see some of India’s most iconic destinations.
The Eastern & Oriental Express - Southeast Asia
The Eastern & Oriental Express is a luxury train journey that takes passengers on a journey through some of the most beautiful and exotic destinations in Southeast Asia. The train journey covers a distance of around 2,000 kilometers and takes passengers through Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore.
The train is designed to resemble a luxurious hotel on wheels, with elegantly appointed cabins, each with its own private bathroom and shower. The train is also equipped with a lounge car, a dining car, and a bar car, all designed to offer passengers maximum comfort and luxury.
The journey takes passengers through the stunning landscapes of Southeast Asia, from the lush tropical forests of Malaysia to the bustling cities of Singapore and Bangkok. Along the way, passengers will visit some of the most iconic and historic sites in the region, including the Bridge on the River Kwai, the Royal Palace in Bangkok, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Georgetown in Malaysia.
The Eastern & Oriental Express also offers excellent dining options, with gourmet cuisine served in an elegant and sophisticated setting. Passengers can enjoy a range of traditional Southeast Asian dishes, as well as international cuisine.
In addition to the cultural and historical sites, they also offers opportunities to participate in a range of activities, such as river cruises, guided city tours, and visits to local markets and temples.
Truly a unique and unforgettable way to experience the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of Southeast Asia.
Rovos Rail – South Africa
South Africa’s second luxury train company that offers unforgettable train journeys through some of the most breath taking landscapes of South Africa. The train journey covers a distance of around 1,600 kilometers and takes passengers on a journey through South Africa’s spectacular scenery, including the grassy plains of the Highveld and the rugged mountains of the Drakensberg.
The train is designed to resemble a luxurious hotel on wheels, with elegantly appointed cabins, each with its own private bathroom and shower. The train is also equipped with a lounge car, a dining car, and a bar car, all designed to offer passengers maximum comfort and luxury.
The journey takes passengers through the stunning landscapes of South Africa, from the bustling city of Pretoria to the majestic Victoria Falls. Along the way, passengers will visit some of the most iconic and historic sites in the region, including the Big Five game reserves, the diamond mines of Kimberley, and the battlefields of the Anglo-Boer War.
Rovos Rail also offers excellent dining options, with gourmet cuisine served in an elegant and sophisticated setting. Passengers can enjoy a range of traditional South African dishes, as well as international cuisine.
In addition to the cultural and historical sites, the Rovos Rail offers opportunities to participate in a range of activities, such as game drives, guided city tours, and visits to local markets and museums.
Another unique and unforgettable way to experience the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of South Africa.
The Venice Simplon Orient Express - Europe
One of the most iconic and luxurious train journeys in Europe. The train journey covers a distance of around 1,700 kilometers and takes passengers through some of the most beautiful and romantic cities in Europe, including Paris, Venice, and Istanbul.
The train is designed to resemble a luxurious hotel on wheels, with elegantly appointed cabins, each with its own private bathroom and shower. The train is also equipped with a lounge car, a dining car, and a bar car, all designed to offer passengers maximum comfort and luxury.
The journey takes passengers through the stunning landscapes of Europe, from the rolling hills of France to the stunning Italian coastline. Along the way, passengers will visit some of the most iconic and historic sites in the region, including the canals of Venice, the Basilica of San Marco, and the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul.
Excellent dining options, with gourmet cuisine served in an elegant and sophisticated setting. Passengers can enjoy a range of traditional European dishes, as well as international cuisine.
In addition to the cultural and historical sites, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers opportunities to participate in a range of activities, such as guided city tours, wine tastings, and visits to local markets and museums.
The Maharajas' Express - India
An unforgettable journeys through the stunning landscapes of India. The train journey covers a distance of around 2,000 kilometers and takes passengers on a journey through some of India’s most iconic destinations, including the Taj Mahal, the Amber Fort, and the Khajuraho temples.
The train is designed to resemble a luxurious palace on wheels, with elegantly appointed cabins, each with its own private bathroom and shower. The train is also equipped with a lounge car, a dining car, and a bar car, all designed to offer passengers maximum comfort and luxury.
The journey takes passengers through the stunning landscapes of India, from the bustling city of Delhi to the romantic city of Agra. Along the way, passengers will visit some of the most iconic and historic sites in the region, including the Ranthambore National Park, the Fatehpur Sikri, and the Varanasi ghats.
Gourmet cuisine is served in an elegant and sophisticated setting there passengers can enjoy a range of traditional Indian dishes, as well as international cuisine.
In addition to the cultural and historical sites, the Maharajas’ Express also offers opportunities to participate in a range of activities, such as elephant rides, boat rides, and visits to local markets and museums.
Your second option to a unique and unforgettable way to experience the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of India.
The Canadian - Canada
The Canadian is a legendary passenger train that travels between Toronto and Vancouver, spanning a distance of approximately 4,500 kilometers across Canada. It is considered one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, taking passengers through stunning landscapes and natural wonders.
The train is designed with a classic and elegant style, offering several classes of service, including Sleeper Plus, Prestige, and Economy. Sleeper Plus features comfortable private cabins, while the Prestige class offers spacious suites with panoramic windows, a private washroom and shower, and personalized service. The Economy class provides comfortable seating with access to the Skyline car for spectacular views.
The journey takes passengers through the breath taking scenery of Canada, from the fertile farmlands of Ontario to the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Along the way, passengers will have the opportunity to see some of Canada’s iconic landmarks, such as the shimmering lakes of the Canadian Shield, the prairies of the West, and the stunning vistas of the mountains.
Dining options include fresh and delicious meals served in the elegant dining car where passengers can enjoy regional specialties, as well as international cuisine, all prepared with the freshest ingredients.
In addition to the scenic beauty, the Canadian also offers a range of onboard activities, such as live entertainment, lectures, and workshops, providing a truly immersive experience of Canada’s history and culture.
The Bernina Express - Switzerland
The Bernina Express is a scenic train journey that travels through the Swiss Alps, offering breath taking views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and stunning landscapes. The journey begins in Chur, the oldest town in Switzerland, and travels through the Albula Pass and the Bernina Pass, reaching the Italian border town of Tirano.
The train journey takes approximately four hours, covering a distance of approximately 144 kilometers, and features comfortable and modern panoramic cars with large windows that provide unobstructed views of the stunning scenery. The train also offers onboard commentary in several languages, providing passengers with interesting facts about the landscapes, history, and culture of the region.
The Bernina Express also travels on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhaetian Railway, one of the most spectacular railway routes in the world. The route features over 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, including the famous Landwasser Viaduct, which spans across a deep gorge and is considered an engineering masterpiece.
Along the way, the train passes through charming alpine villages, including St. Moritz, Pontresina, and Poschiavo, offering passengers the opportunity to explore and discover the region’s history and culture. The journey also takes passengers through the stunning Morteratsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Bernina Range.
The Bernina Express offers a range of services, including first and second-class seating, a panoramic restaurant car serving regional cuisine, and a bar car offering a variety of drinks and snacks.
The Caledonian Sleeper - Scotland
This overnight train service runs between London and Scotland, providing a comfortable and convenient way to travel between the two destinations. The train operates six nights a week, with services to Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness, and Fort William.
The train offers a range of accommodation options, including reclining seats, private cabins with a sink, and ensuite cabins with a private shower and toilet. The cabins are compact but comfortable, providing passengers with a peaceful and restful night’s sleep.
The Caledonian Sleeper also features a dining car, serving delicious meals made from locally sourced Scottish produce. The menu includes classic Scottish dishes, such as Cullen Skink (a smoked haddock soup), haggis, neeps, and tatties (a traditional Scottish dish), and Scottish salmon.
The train journey offers stunning views of the Scottish countryside, with highlights including the breath taking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, the iconic Forth Bridge, and the picturesque Loch Lomond.
Passengers can also take advantage of the onboard lounge car, offering a comfortable and relaxing space to socialize, read, or enjoy a drink while taking in the views.
The Caledonian Sleeper is a unique and enjoyable way to travel between London and Scotland, providing a comfortable and convenient overnight journey that allows passengers to maximize their time in their destination. It’s a chance to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beautiful Scottish scenery.
The Hiram Bingham - Peru
The Hiram Bingham is a luxury train that offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beauty and culture of Peru, traveling from the city of Cusco to the famous Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Named after the explorer who discovered the lost city, the Hiram Bingham offers a luxurious and exclusive way to travel through the stunning Andean landscape. The train features elegant carriages with polished wood and brass finishes, comfortable armchairs, and large windows that provide stunning panoramic views of the rugged Andes.
The train journey begins in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, and travels through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing through beautiful landscapes of rolling hills and ancient ruins. Along the way, passengers can enjoy a delicious gourmet brunch, accompanied by live music and traditional Andean dance performances.
The highlight of the journey is the arrival at Machu Picchu, where passengers disembark and take a guided tour of the magnificent Inca citadel. After the tour, passengers can enjoy a sumptuous afternoon tea at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, overlooking the stunning views of the ruins and the surrounding mountains.
The Hiram Bingham also offers a range of amenities, including a luxurious bar car serving a selection of Peruvian cocktails, wines, and spirits, and a dining car serving delicious Peruvian cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
A luxurious and unforgettable way to experience the beauty and culture of Peru, providing a unique and exclusive journey through some of the country’s most stunning landscapes and ancient ruins.
The West Highland Line - Scotland
The West Highland Line is a scenic railway route in Scotland that is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. The line runs from Glasgow to Mallaig, passing through some of Scotland’s most breath taking landscapes along the way.
The journey begins in Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, and travels through the rolling hills and glens of the West Highlands. The train passes through stunning scenery, including lochs, mountains, and forests, with highlights including the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, which features in the Harry Potter movies.
The train also stops at several picturesque towns and villages along the way, including Fort William and Oban, where passengers can take a break and explore the local area.
The West Highland Line features a range of different classes of travel, including standard class, first class, and the luxurious Royal Scotsman train. Passengers can enjoy comfortable seating, large windows to take in the stunning views, and on-board dining options that serve traditional Scottish cuisine.
One of the most popular journeys on the West Highland Line is the Jacobite Steam Train, which runs between Fort William and Mallaig. This iconic train is powered by a steam locomotive and offers passengers a truly unique and nostalgic experience.
A must-do journey for any train enthusiast or anyone looking to experience the stunning beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
The Flam Railway - Norway
The Flam Railway, or Flamsbana, is a spectacular journey that takes passengers through majestic scenery of western Norway. The train journey starts in the small village of Flam, located at the end of a fjord, and travels through some of the most beautiful and dramatic landscapes in the world.
The railway is one of Norway’s most popular tourist attractions and is known for its steep inclines, hairpin bends, and stunning views of mountains, waterfalls, and deep valleys. The train journey takes around an hour, covering a distance of just over 12 miles, but packs in some of the most awe-inspiring scenery that Norway has to offer.
The Flam Railway features a range of different classes of travel, including standard class, premium class, and the luxurious panoramic train, which offers stunning views through glass walls and ceilings.
Along the way, the train passes through some of Norway’s most beautiful landscapes, including the Kjosfossen waterfall, where passengers can disembark and take a short walk to take in the stunning views. The waterfall is also accompanied by a mystical music and light show that adds to the enchanting experience.
The Flam train journey ends in the town of Myrdal, where passengers can either continue their journey by train to other destinations in Norway or return to Flam.
An unforgettable way to experience the stunning natural beauty of Norway’s fjords and mountains. The journey is a must-do for any traveler to Norway, providing a unique and unforgettable perspective of one of the world’s most beautiful countries.
The Shinkansen - Japan
The Shinkansen, also known as the “Bullet Train,” is a high-speed rail network that connects major cities in Japan. The Shinkansen is renowned for its speed, efficiency, and punctuality, and is one of the most popular and convenient ways to travel in Japan.
The first Shinkansen line was opened in 1964, just in time for the Tokyo Olympics, and since then, the network has expanded to cover most of Japan’s main island of Honshu and parts of Kyushu. The trains run at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest trains in the world.
The Shinkansen features a range of different classes of travel, including standard class, green class (similar to first class), and Gran Class (a premium class with the most luxurious and spacious seats).
The trains are equipped with comfortable seating, clean bathrooms, and spacious luggage areas. Some of the newer Shinkansen models even have special observation areas, allowing passengers to take in the scenic views as they travel.
The Shinkansen is a popular way to travel between major cities in Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Fukuoka. The trains run frequently and are usually on time to the minute, making it an efficient and reliable mode of transportation for both tourists and locals.
The Shinkansen is a testament to Japan’s commitment to technological innovation and efficiency, and it offers a comfortable and convenient way to explore the beauty and culture of Japan.
The Grand Canyon Railway - USA
An historic train ride taking passengers on a scenic journey from Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The train ride is a great way to experience the beauty and majesty of one of America’s most iconic natural wonders.
The Grand Canyon Railway has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the late 1800s, when it was originally built to transport ore from the surrounding mines. Today, the railway is a popular tourist attraction, offering a nostalgic and charming way to travel to the Grand Canyon.
The train journey takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes and covers a distance of 65 miles. Along the way, passengers can enjoy stunning views of the Coconino National Forest, high desert plains, and the San Francisco Peaks.
The train features a range of different classes of travel, including coach class, first class, and luxury parlor class. All classes offer comfortable seating and panoramic windows to take in the stunning scenery.
Once the train arrives at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, passengers have about 3 hours to explore the park, take in the breath taking views, and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants or cafes. Visitors can also take guided tours or hike along the rim of the canyon to experience its natural beauty up close.
A wonderful way to experience the beauty and grandeur of one of America’s most iconic natural wonders, and a memorable and unique experience that offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the American West.
Rail travel vacation offers a unique and unforgettable experience that’s hard to replicate. It’s a chance to slow down, to immerse yourself in stunning scenery, and to indulge in the romance of the journey. From the luxurious elegance of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to the rugged charm of the Rocky Mountaineer, there’s a rail journey for every taste, style, and hopefully pocket.
With rail travel, the journey is as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself. It’s a chance to disconnect from the distractions of modern life, to unwind, and to appreciate the simple pleasures of traveling.
So, whether you’re seeking the thrill of crossing the world’s most breath taking mountain passes or the luxury of being pampered in a lavish private cabin, a rail travel vacation is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
All you have to do is sit back, relax, and let the train take you on a journey you’ll never forget.
