Best Scenic Train Journeys Around the World: A Bucket List for Travelers

Length: Approximately 8 hours.

Overview: The Glacier Express, often called the “slowest express train in the world,” offers a luxurious journey through the Swiss Alps.

Key Highlights:

• Connects Zermatt to St. Moritz.
• Travels through 91 tunnels and crosses 291 bridges.
• Features the Rhine Gorge (Switzerland’s Grand Canyon) and the Oberalp Pass, reaching 2,033 meters in elevation.

Travel Tip: Bring compact binoculars to fully appreciate the stunning Alpine scenery.

Length: Approximately 5 hours (Glasgow to Mallaig).

Overview: This iconic Scottish route is renowned for its untamed natural beauty and historic charm.

Key Highlights:

• Views of Loch Lomond and the remote Rannoch Moor.
• Crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films.
• An optional extension via ferry to the Isle of Skye.

Travel Tip: Document your reflections and sketches in a travel journal.

Length: Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes (Tokyo to Kyoto).

Overview: Japan’s bullet trains combine speed, efficiency, and spectacular scenery in an unparalleled travel experience.

Key Highlights:

• Iconic views of Mt. Fuji.
• Rolling rice paddies and countryside.
• A seamless blend of modern and traditional Japan.

Travel Tip: Enjoy a peaceful ride with noise-canceling headphones.

Length: Approximately 7 hours (Darjeeling to New Jalpaiguri).

Overview: The “toy train” takes you on a charming ride through misty hills and lush tea plantations.

Key Highlights:

• UNESCO World Heritage status.
• The iconic Batasia Loop with panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga peaks.
• Stops at Ghum, India’s highest railway station.

Travel Tip: Sip chai during your ride with an insulated travel mug.

Length: 2 days with an overnight stop (Vancouver to Banff).

Overview: This luxury train ride offers breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies.

Key Highlights:

• The Fraser Canyon and the Spiral Tunnels.
• Lake Louise with its turquoise waters.
• Glass-domed carriages for panoramic sightseeing.

Travel Tip: Capture the majestic scenery with a lightweight tripod.

Length: Approximately 35 hours (Seattle to Los Angeles).

Overview: The Coast Starlight offers a spectacular journey along the Pacific coastline and through diverse landscapes.

Key Highlights:

• Views of Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains.
• Ocean vistas along the California coast.
• Onboard amenities like a glass-domed lounge car.

Travel Tip: Stay comfortable with a soft travel blanket for long stretches.

Length: 4 days, 3 nights (Darwin to Adelaide or reverse).

Overview: The Ghan traverses Australia’s vast Outback, offering an epic and diverse journey.

Key Highlights:

• Northern Territory wetlands and the Flinders Ranges.
• Excursions to Katherine Gorge and Coober Pedy.
• A luxurious onboard experience with gourmet dining.

Travel Tip: Shield yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed sun hat.

Length: Approximately 5 hours (Christchurch to Greymouth).

Overview: This breathtaking ride crosses New Zealand’s South Island, showcasing incredible natural diversity.

Key Highlights:

• The flat Canterbury Plains and rugged Southern Alps.
• The lush rainforests of the West Coast.
• Arthur’s Pass and the Waimakariri River gorge.

Travel Tip: Pack your essentials in a durable backpack for off-train excursions.