Traveling by train offers a unique way to experience the world. Unlike air travel, where scenery is hidden beneath clouds, or road trips that often demand constant attention, train journeys invite travelers to sit back and watch the landscape unfold like a moving painting.
From snow-draped mountains to serene lakes and dramatic coastlines, some of the world’s most scenic views are best enjoyed through a train window. Here are some of the most remarkable train journeys across the globe that combine comfort with unforgettable panoramas.
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Arguably one of the most picturesque train rides in the world, the Glacier Express connects the mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz in Switzerland. Over the course of nearly eight hours, the train travels through 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, and breathtaking alpine landscapes.
The route offers uninterrupted views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and quaint Swiss villages. One of the most memorable moments comes when the train passes through the Rhine Gorge, often referred to as the “Swiss Grand Canyon,” where steep cliffs rise dramatically on either side of the turquoise river. Large panoramic windows make sure that no view is missed.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer takes passengers on a journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Several routes are available, but the most iconic is the one between Vancouver and Banff or Jasper. This luxury train runs only during the day, ensuring passengers never miss a moment of the scenery.
Towering mountains, rushing rivers, dense forests, and the chance to spot wildlife like bears and eagles are all part of the experience. The train also offers fine dining and attentive service, making it as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
The West Highland Line, Scotland
For a more rugged and windswept beauty, the West Highland Line in Scotland offers a memorable experience. This route travels from Glasgow to Mallaig, winding its way through the Scottish Highlands. Misty hills, lochs, and ancient glens provide a mystical backdrop.
The journey includes crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a curved bridge made famous by the Harry Potter films, adding a touch of magic to the already enchanting scenery. The remoteness of the Highlands adds a sense of solitude and wonder, making it one of the most serene train experiences in Europe.
The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
New Zealand’s South Island is known for its dramatic natural beauty, and the TranzAlpine train provides a front-row seat. Running from Christchurch to Greymouth, the train crosses the Canterbury Plains, ascends into the Southern Alps, and passes through Arthur’s Pass National Park.
Spectacular gorges, river valleys, and mountain ranges dominate the view. One particularly stunning section is where the train skirts alongside the Waimakariri River with its braided, ice-blue waters shimmering against the rugged terrain.
The Bernina Express, Switzerland to Italy
Another stunning Alpine journey, the Bernina Express travels from Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy. This narrow-gauge railway line is a UNESCO World Heritage site and takes passengers through some of the highest train crossings in Europe.
The landscape transitions from glacial terrains and snowfields to sunny Italian valleys, showcasing dramatic climate and topographic changes in just a few hours. Highlights include the circular Brusio Viaduct and the crossing over the Bernina Pass at over 2,200 meters above sea level.
The Flam Railway, Norway
Norway’s Flam Railway, though relatively short at just 20 kilometers, offers one of the steepest standard-gauge railway climbs in the world and some of the most awe-inspiring views. The train runs from Myrdal to the small village of Flam nestled at the end of the Aurlandsfjord.
Waterfalls cascade down mountain slopes, fjords glisten in the distance, and the landscape alternates between lush green and snow-covered cliffs, depending on the season. The journey is especially magical in winter, when the surrounding mountains are blanketed in snow.
The Reunification Express, Viet Nam
Stretching from Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, the Reunification Express offers a fascinating way to see the length of Vietnam. While much of the journey runs through urban and agricultural landscapes, certain sections such as those along the coast near Da Nang and Hue, offer unforgettable views.
Here, the train hugs the edge of cliffs that plunge into the South China Sea, winding through jungle-covered hills and offering vistas of remote beaches and fishing villages.
