The Most Scenic Rail Routes in the World

Traveling by train provides a unique perspective of a country's landscapes, from breathtaking mountains to serene coastlines. This article explores some of the most scenic rail routes in the world, each offering a visual feast that will leave you in awe. While many train journeys can be comfortable and enjoyable, these specific routes offer sights that transform travel into an unforgettable experience.

1. The Glacier Express, Switzerland

The Glacier Express is renowned for its stunning scenery, making it one of the most celebrated train journeys in the world. This approximately eight-hour trip connects Zermatt and St. Moritz, covering a distance of 291 kilometers. Passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, charming villages, and lush valleys. The train traverses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels, highlighting the impressive engineering of the route. Commencing from the Matterhorn, this scenic journey rises to 2,033 meters at the Oberalp Pass, affording unmatched vistas of Switzerland's snow-capped peaks. Travelers can enjoy panoramic windows that enhance the view, allowing for an immersive experience of Swiss nature.

2. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

If you’re looking for an extraordinary ride through Canada’s Rocky Mountains, the Rocky Mountaineer won’t disappoint. This luxurious train journey takes you through stunning landscapes characterized by soaring mountains, rushing rivers, and dense forests. With several routes available—including the First Passage to the West and the Journey through the Clouds—travelers can spend two days traveling from Vancouver to Banff or Jasper. The highlight of the journey includes traversing the Spiral Tunnels and the picturesque Lake Louise. Travelers can choose to travel during the day, allowing for the maximum appreciation of the scenic views, or at night for a more tranquil experience.

3. The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

One of the longest train journeys in the world, the Trans-Siberian Railway offers travelers a unique glimpse into the vastness of Russia. Spanning over 9,289 kilometers, the ride from Moscow to Vladivostok takes about a week. Along the way, passengers can experience diverse landscapes, ranging from lush forests and mountains to the expansive steppes of Siberia. Lake Baikal, the deepest freshwater lake in the world, is a highlight of this journey. The train makes stops at various towns and cities, allowing travelers to explore Russian culture and history. The transcontinental nature of the railway ensures that travelers witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets across different landscapes.

4. The Blue Train, South Africa

Traveling from Cape Town to Pretoria, the Blue Train is synonymous with luxury and elegance. This 27-hour journey takes you through stunning landscapes of the South African countryside, including the iconic Table Mountain and the Karoo Desert. The train features luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and exceptional service. The route crosses diverse ecosystems, showcasing wildlife and scenic vistas. Unique features include observation cars that offer uninterrupted views of the natural beauty outside. The experience is complemented by fine dining, with South African wines served onboard, adding to the luxury of the journey.

5. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is famed for its narrow-gauge line that meanders through breathtaking mountainous terrain. This historic train ride between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling offers stunning panoramas of the Himalayas, terraced tea gardens, and colonial-era architecture. The steam locomotive adds a nostalgic charm to the experience, as it chugs along the winding tracks with breathtaking views at every turn. The ride is particularly well-known for its steep climbs and loops, such as the famous Batasia Loop, which offers a stunning viewpoint of the surrounding hills.

6. The Coast Starlight, USA

Traveling along the West Coast of the United States, the Coast Starlight offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, beautiful mountain ranges, and impressive vineyards. The journey from Los Angeles to Seattle takes about 35 hours, making it one of the best long-distance train rides available. Key highlights along the way include the stunning vistas of the California coastline and the beauty of the Cascade Range. The panoramic observation car provides an unparalleled view for travelers who wish to immerse themselves in the scenery. This train ride is particularly famous for its beautiful sunsets over the ocean.

7. The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland

Famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films, the Jacobite Steam Train is a must for those wishing to experience the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Running between Fort William and Mallaig, this train ride lasts about two hours and offers stunning views of the West Highland Line. Travelers can admire the majestic Ben Nevis, Scotland's highest peak, as well as the tranquil Loch Shiel. The highlight of the journey is crossing the incredible Glenfinnan Viaduct, a massive brick arch bridge that has become iconic due to its portrayal in film. While riding on a historic steam train, passengers can feel the romance of train travel coupled with some of the longest stretches of natural beauty in the UK.

8. The scenic routes in Norway

Narrating the magnificent nature that Norway has to offer is the Flåm Railway, considered one of the steepest standard-gauge railway lines in the world. This 20-kilometer journey from Flåm to Myrdal takes you through deep ravines, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views of Aurlandsfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The train ride provides incredible views of the Norwegian fjords, making it an experience that combines adventure and nature. Visitors can also enjoy a scenic cruise on the fjords, adding to the experience of the journey.

9. The VSOE (Venice Simplon-Orient-Express)

The iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, known simply as VSOE, is famous for its opulence and historical significance. This luxurious train travels between Paris and Venice, offering an opulent travel experience reminiscent of the Golden Age of travel. Passengers enjoy sumptuous dining in elegant, Art Deco-style carriages while gazing at picturesque landscapes of the French countryside, and the charm of Italian vistas. The journey is filled with elegance, exceptional service, and intricate details that are part of the train's charm. The VSOE is more than just a train ride; it's an experience steeped in history and luxury.

10. The Bernina Express, Switzerland

The Bernina Express connects Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy and is often regarded as one of the most scenic train routes in Europe. This journey takes approximately four hours and passes through stunning alpine scenery, including glaciers, lakes, and charming villages. The train's route includes the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhaetian Railway section, known for its breathtaking viaducts and spiral tunnels. Travelers are treated to views of the impressive Bernina Pass, and the journey takes you through 55 tunnels and across 196 bridges. The panoramic coach features floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring that you don’t miss any of the spectacular views.

Choosing any of these scenic rail routes ensures a journey full of awe-inspiring beauty, cultural heritage, and lasting memories. Traveling by train allows you to connect with the landscapes more intimately than other modes of transportation, enhancing the travel experience while exploring diverse regions around the world. From the opulence of the VSOE to the breathtaking views of the Glacier Express, each route offers a distinct flavor of adventure that travelers will cherish forever.