The 5 Most Stunning Train Journeys In The World
Some places can only be fully appreciated by slowing down. Train travel or train tours are a beautifully scenic and peaceful way to take in some wondrous natural sights. Whether you’re winding through mountain ranges or cutting across wide open plains, these six famous train journeys offer unforgettable views, real-world adventure, and a unique chance to see landscapes that aren’t visible from any highway or sky.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
This luxury route runs through the Canadian Rockies, linking Vancouver with towns like Banff and Jasper. Towering pine forests, turquoise rivers, and rugged mountains surround you the whole way through. The train only runs during daylight, so you never miss a view. Service is also said to be very thoughtful and personal, making it feel more like a rolling hotel than a commuter train. It's a great way to experience the raw beauty of western Canada in comfort.
The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
Crossing New Zealand's South Island from Christchurch to Greymouth, the TranzAlpine train shows you glaciers, gorges, and misty beech forests. You’ll climb through the Southern Alps and roll past wide river valleys and rolling farmland. There’s an open-air viewing car if you want to feel the wind and hear the sounds of the landscape. It’s a short trip, just under five hours, but it’s packed with gorgeous colors the whole ride.
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Running between Zermatt and St. Moritz, the Glacier Express is a breathtaking ride across the Swiss Alps. This isn't a fast train by any means, but that's the point. You’ll pass deep valleys, ancient bridges, and snow-covered peaks that look like they jumped out of a painting. With panoramic windows and a smooth ride, this train lets you take in the heart of alpine Switzerland at a slow and steady pace that’s both calming and dramatic.
The Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru
This train takes you from Cusco to Arequipa, passing through some of the highest rail tracks in the world. You'll ride across the vast altiplano, surrounded by grazing llamas, distant volcanoes, and Andean villages. The train is stylish and peaceful, with comfortable cabins and large windows. It’s a great way to travel through Peru while still feeling connected to the landscape and local culture.
The West Highland Line, Scotland
This route takes you from Glasgow into the remote Highlands, ending in the fishing port of Mallaig. It's best known for the stretch over the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films. But even beyond that, it’s full of misty hills, lochs, and long, empty stretches of wilderness. It’s an affordable, scenic ride that feels like a trip back in time, with plenty of charm and character.
Not every trip needs to be rushed or packed with stops. These train journeys invite you to slow down and pay attention. They offer a chance to see places in a way that's more relaxed, more personal, and sometimes more moving than flying or driving. Whether you’re drawn to mountains, coasts, or open plains, there’s something on this list that’s worth planning a trip around. These are rides you’ll remember, even long after the final stop.