Have you ever dreamed of taking a breathtaking train ride? Imagine relaxing and watching beautiful scenery pass by. These scenic train rides are loved by many, showing off the world’s natural wonders.
From Malaysia’s jungles to Canada’s Rockies, these routes let you enjoy the view. They offer old-world charm and stunning sights. Whether in New Zealand or the American West, these journeys are unforgettable.
Key Takeaways
- Scenic train rides offer a unique perspective on landscapes and remote destinations
- The Rocky Mountaineer in Canada and Colorado showcases the stunning Rocky Mountains
- The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express provides a luxurious experience with meticulously restored 1920s train cars
- The California Zephyr covers 2,438 miles from Chicago to San Francisco in 3 days
- The Glacier Express in Switzerland takes passengers through the breathtaking Swiss Alps
The Allure of Scenic Train Journeys
Imagine getting on a train and finding a comfy seat. Then, you start a trip through amazing landscapes. Scenic train journeys let you see the world’s beauty while you relax.
Experiencing Landscapes in a Unique Way
Scenic train journeys let you see landscapes in a new way. You see mountains, valleys, and forests from the train. It’s different from driving or flying.
Think about these amazing train trips:
- The Glacier Express in Switzerland shows off the Swiss Alps for 8 hours.
- The Rocky Mountaineer in Canada takes you through the Canadian Rockies in two days.
- The Qinghai-Tibet Railway in China is the highest railway, showing mountains and Tibetan culture.
Accessing Remote Destinations
Scenic train trips are not just pretty. They also take you to places hard to get to. You can see places far from big cities and airports.
For example, the Rovos Rail in South Africa goes 1,600 km in three days. It stops in small towns. The Venice Simplon-Orient Express goes through Europe, visiting Venice and Istanbul.
“I have seldom heard a train go by and not wished I was on it.” – Paul Theroux
Scenic train journeys are great for anyone. They show you amazing views and take you to special places. It’s why so many people love train trips.
The Reunification Express, Vietnam
Take a journey through Vietnam’s heart on the Reunification Express. It’s one of the world’s top scenic train rides. This iconic train travels 1,072 miles from Ha Noi to Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll see stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.
The train has six different routes. The trip takes about two days. You’ll see jungles, villages, cities, and coastlines.
The Hue to Da Nang section is amazing. It shows Vietnam’s beauty and local life. You’ll see two trains, HD1/2 and HD3/4, on this route.
| Train Route | Distance | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ha Noi to Ho Chi Minh City | 1,072 miles (1,726 km) | 2 days | Iconic journey through Vietnam |
| Hue to Da Nang | – | – | Scenic landscapes, jungles, and villages |
| Muong Hoa – Sa Pa | – | – | Breathtaking mountain railway experience |
| Da Lat to Trai Mat | – | 45 minutes | Connecting traditional villages |
Don’t miss Lang Co Station for a 10-minute break. It’s near Lang Co Bay. Also, try the Muong Hoa – Sa Pa train for a mountain rail trip in northern Vietnam.
The Reunification Express is not just a train ride; it’s a journey through the soul of Vietnam, connecting its people, history, and landscapes in a way that no other mode of transportation can.
Whether you’re new to Vietnam or a seasoned traveler, the Reunification Express is a must-see. Book your ticket now. Get ready to be amazed by Vietnam’s beauty and culture.
The California Zephyr, USA
Start an amazing scenic train journey on the California Zephyr. This legendary train goes from Chicago to San Francisco. You’ll see prairies, deserts, and mountains along the way.
Crossing Prairies, Deserts, and Mountains
The California Zephyr shows off the American West’s beauty. It starts in Chicago and goes through the Midwest prairies. Then, it enters the Rocky Mountains.
As you travel, you’ll see amazing views through the Moffat Tunnel. This tunnel goes through the Continental Divide at 9,239 feet. You’ll also see Glenwood Canyon and Ruby Canyon.
Connecting the Midwest to the West Coast
The California Zephyr connects the Midwest to the West Coast. This breathtaking rail experience shows the change from plains to mountains. You’ll see the Sierra Nevada and Pacific Coast cities.
| Route | Duration |
|---|---|
| Chicago, IL to Emeryville, CA | 51 hours |
| Sacramento, CA to Reno, NV | Varies |
Looking for adventure or a relaxing trip? The California Zephyr is perfect. Plan your next getaway and enjoy this iconic train journey.
The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
Start an amazing trip through New Zealand’s South Island on the TranzAlpine. It’s one of the most beautiful rail routes in the world. You’ll see snow-capped mountains, green valleys, and clear lakes.
Traversing the Southern Alps
The TranzAlpine goes from Christchurch to Greymouth, a 223.8km trip. It stops at Arthur’s Pass. The ride is about 4½ hours, leaving Christchurch at 08:15 and reaching Greymouth at 13:05.
You’ll see amazing sights like Lake Sarah and Mount Binser. These views show the beauty of mountains and valleys.
The trip includes the 8.6-kilometer Otira Tunnel, built in 1923. When you come out, you’ll see the West Coast’s rainforests and streams.
From Christchurch to Greymouth
The TranzAlpine has two classes: Scenic and Scenic Plus. Scenic Class has big windows for great views. It’s elegant.
Scenic Plus Class is even better. It has bigger seats, free drinks, and New Zealand food with wine.
| Class | Price (NZD) | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Scenic Class | $219 | Large windows, elegant experience |
| Scenic Plus Class | $499 | Larger seats, complimentary drinks and nibbles, local dishes with regional wines |
In 2024, the TranzAlpine runs on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays until late September. Then, it goes every day. Book through Railbookers for a great experience.
Top 5 Scenic Train Rides Around the World
Start an amazing journey with these top 5 scenic train rides around the world. See the Rocky Mountains in Canada and the tea plantations of Sri Lanka. These picturesque train tours let you see beautiful landscapes and places far away.
The Rocky Mountaineer in Canada goes through Western Canada. It passes by Seattle, Vancouver, and Banff. You’ll see high mountains and rocky areas. This train ride lets you see the Rocky Mountains’ beauty and enjoy luxury on board.
The Expo Rail in Sri Lanka goes from Kandy to Ella. It shows you grasslands, tea plantations, and waterfalls in 6 hours. This coastal train ride lets you see Sri Lanka’s culture and nature.
| Train | Route | Distance | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Ghan | Adelaide to Darwin, Australia | 1,740 miles | 3 days |
| Trans-Siberian Railway | Moscow to Vladivostok, Russia | 5,772 miles | 6 days, 5 hours |
| Glacier Express | Zermatt to St. Moritz, Switzerland | 180 miles | 8 hours |
Other great trips include the Bergensbanen in Norway and the Tazara Railway from Tanzania to Zambia. These top 5 scenic train rides around the world show the beauty of our planet. They give you unforgettable travel experiences.
“I have seldom heard a train go by and not wished I was on it.” – Paul Theroux
Whether you travel a lot or are new to it, these picturesque train tours will amaze you. So, get your bags ready, buy your ticket, and start a scenic train journey of a lifetime.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Start a journey through Canada’s mountains on the Rocky Mountaineer. It’s a trip that feels like a movie. You’ll see mountains, wildlife, and more on this luxury train ride.
Exploring the Wild Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountaineer goes through British Columbia and Alberta. It stops in places like Jasper and Vancouver. You can see the mountains up close.
This train ride is open from mid-April to mid-October. There are three routes to choose from:
- First Passage to the West
- Journey Through the Clouds
- Rainforest to Gold Rush
The Rainforest to Gold Rush route is 2.5 days long. It has two overnight stops. This lets you enjoy the views fully.
Cinematic Views and Wildlife Sightings
Look out for eagles, moose, and bears on the train. The best times for seeing wildlife and views are:
- Spring: Fewer people, waterfalls, and flowers.
- Summer: Longer days, sunshine, and wildflowers.
- Fall: Colors, snow, and bears.
You can choose from two luxury levels:
| GoldLeaf | SilverLeaf |
|---|---|
| Bi-level glass-dome luxury coach | Luxury coach with large picture windows |
| Gourmet meals prepared onboard | Hot gourmet meals served at your seat |
| Outdoor viewing platform | Outdoor vestibules between cars |
Both levels have glass-dome windows for great photos. You’ll see amazing views on this trip.
The Darjeeling Toy Train, India
Take a magical trip through green tea fields and hills in Darjeeling on the Darjeeling Toy Train. This old mountain railway is the oldest in India, built in 1881. It’s a 88-kilometer journey with amazing views of the Himalayas.
The Darjeeling Toy Train is a blue train that goes from the plains to Darjeeling. You’ll see big and small bridges and steep climbs. The Batasia Loop gives you a great view of Darjeeling and Mount Kanchenjunga.
| Route | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling | 80 km (50 miles) | Passes through Siliguri, Kurseong, and Ghoom |
| Darjeeling to Ghoom (Joy Ride) | 2 hours | Popular for those with limited time |
| Ghoom Station | 7,400 feet above sea level | Highest point on the route |
For a quick trip, try the two-hour joy rides from Darjeeling to Ghoom. Ghoom is the highest point at 7,400 feet. In busy times, the train runs up to 20 times a day.
The best months to experience the Darjeeling Toy Train are October, November, and December.
The Steam Engine Toy Train costs INR 1300. The Diesel Engine Toy Train is INR 800. Either way, the Darjeeling Toy Train is a memorable trip through history and beauty.
Luxury Train Experiences
Looking for the best in luxury train travel? There are amazing journeys that offer top comfort, style, and views. These train vacations let you see beautiful places while enjoying great amenities and service.
The Belmond Royal Scotsman, Scotland
Travel through Scotland’s Highlands on the Belmond Royal Scotsman. This train has cozy rooms for 40 guests, making it personal. Enjoy tasty food made from local stuff and spa services like facials and massages.
The train’s fancy look and friendly staff make it feel like a special time.
The Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
See the beauty of Southeast Asia on the Eastern & Oriental Express. This train has been around for 30 years, going from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok and Singapore. Its design is like the 1932 film “Shanghai Express,” with fancy dining cars and comfy rooms.
Learn about the area’s culture and see amazing views in Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
Experience the old days of rail travel on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This famous train goes from London to Venice, stopping in Paris and Verona. Its 1920s cars have art deco and fancy fabrics.
Enjoy top service, great food, and views of famous cities.
| Luxury Train | Route | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| The Ghan | Darwin to Adelaide, Australia | 4 days |
| Rocky Mountaineer | Denver to Moab, USA | 2 days |
| The Blue Train | Pretoria to Cape Town, South Africa | 27 hours |
“Luxury train travel is not just about the destination; it’s about the journey itself. It’s a chance to slow down, unwind, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the world around you.”
Choose to see Scotland’s wilds, Southeast Asia’s beauty, or Europe’s romantic cities. Luxury train travel is a special way to see new places. It’s perfect for those wanting a unique and fancy way to travel.
Planning Your Scenic Train Adventure
Going on a scenic train trip is a great way to see amazing views. You get to travel by train, which is comfy and luxurious. When you plan your railway adventures and train vacations, think about a few things for a great trip.
Choosing the Right Route
First, pick the right train route. Think about the views you want to see, how fancy you want it, and how long you want to travel. Here are some cool routes to check out:
- The Flåm Railway in Norway, a 20km ride for 55 minutes for about US$50
- The Canadian Rockies Railway, trips start at 3 days for $617 in economy
- The Trans Siberian Railway in Russia, it’s 6,000 miles long with many ticket choices
- The Cusco to Machu Picchu train in Peru, costs from US$125 to US$800
- The Royal Scotsman in Scotland, trips last from 2 to 7 days, prices from US$1300 to $14,000
Booking with Railbookers for a Seamless Experience
After picking your route, book with Railbookers for an easy trip. They have many luxury train trips worldwide. You can also add them to bigger trips. Their experts will help you pick the best route and plan everything, making your trip smooth and fun.
| Destination | Tour Name | Reviews | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | Canadian Rockies Featuring Banff & Lake Louise | 173 | $400 per person |
| Canada | Canadian Rockies by Rail | 171 | $400 per person |
| Canada | Highlights of French Canada and Nova Scotia | 88 | $400 per person |
| Canada | Canadian Rockies & Rocky Mountaineer | 55 | $400 per person |
| Canada | Canadian Rail Adventure | 48 | $400 per person |
| Canada | Calgary Stampede, Canadian Rockies & Glacier | 64 | $400 per person |
| Canada | Across Canada by Train | 201 | $400 per person |
Vacations by Rail has been the trusted experts on rail travel for over 20 years, with more than 2,500 satisfied customers giving top ratings on Trustpilot for their vacations and services.
Choosing a good company like Railbookers or Vacations by Rail means your trip will be memorable and easy.
Conclusion
The world’s top 5 scenic train rides are amazing. They take you to places you can’t see by car or plane. You’ll see the Rocky Mountains and New Zealand’s Southern Alps.
These trains go through Canada, India, Vietnam, and more. You can see wild places and beautiful views. Prices start at £5 for a one-way ticket.
For luxury, try the Belmond Royal Scotsman in Scotland. Or the Eastern & Oriental Express in Southeast Asia. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in Europe is also great.
These trains offer fancy rooms, great food, and top service. Taking a scenic train ride is a special experience. It’s a chance to relax and enjoy the journey. So, start planning your scenic rail adventure today!