Unforgettable Train Journeys: Your Best Railway Adventure Awaits
There’s something timeless and majestic about a great train journey. It’s not just about getting from one destination to another—it’s about the rail experience itself. Whether you’re gliding along alpine ridges, winding through tropical valleys, or hugging dramatic coastlines, rail travel offers an immersive and unforgettable way to explore the world.
This guide will introduce you to the best train journeys across the globe—from classic routes in Europe and Asia to scenic railways across the Americas. We’ll explore the beautiful train rides that provide panoramic views, luxurious carriages, and access to some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.
Why Train Travel is an Unforgettable Adventure
The Magic of Rail Travel
Unlike air or road transport, train travel gives you the time and space to sightsee, unwind, and truly absorb the scenery around you. It transforms the act of traveling into an experience of its own—complete with dining cars, picture windows, and a gentle, rhythmic motion.
- Enjoy wide, panoramic windows that frame every majestic vista
- Move freely between carriages, stretch your legs, and relax
- Access remote destinations that cars and planes can’t reach
Rail journeys often include historical touches, from antique locomotives to restored luxury cars reminiscent of a bygone era.
Eco-Friendly and Comfortable
Beyond the aesthetic appeal, railway travel is also more sustainable than air travel and, in many cases, more comfortable than long drives or cramped flights. It's one of the most efficient and relaxing ways to explore vast territories while minimizing your environmental impact.
Best Train Journeys in the World
1. Glacier Express – Switzerland
The Glacier Express is often referred to as "one of the most scenic train journeys in the world." Traveling between Zermatt and St. Moritz, this Swiss route takes around 8 hours and offers breathtaking alpine views, deep gorges, and the iconic Landwasser Viaduct.
- Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
- Highlight: Panoramic windows and stunning mountain landscapes
- Rail Experience: Comfortable carriages, on-board dining, and luxury seating
Learn more about the Glacier Express
2. The Flåm Railway – Norway
The Flåm Railway is a short but dramatic journey through fjords, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks.
- Route: Myrdal to Flåm
- Highlight: The Kjosfossen waterfall stop
- Unforgettable Factor: Views of the fjord and steep valleys
This ride offers one of the steepest standard-gauge rail descents in the world and is a must for those seeking raw natural beauty.
Scenic Train Routes in the United States
3. Amtrak’s California Zephyr – USA
Considered one of Amtrak’s crown jewels, the California Zephyr travels through the heart of the American West.
- Route: Chicago to San Francisco
- Scenic Highlights: Rockies, Sierra Nevadas, Colorado River
- Duration: Approximately 51 hours
This journey is ideal for travelers seeking to experience the vast landscapes of the U.S. through train travel.
4. Coastal Starlight – USA
Another unforgettable option from Amtrak, the Coastal Starlight travels along the Pacific coast.
- Route: Seattle to Los Angeles
- Best Railway Features:
- Panoramic windows
- Dining cars
- Lounge carriages with dramatic coastal views
This is one of the best train journeys in North America for coastal scenery and relaxed travel.
Unparalleled Luxury on the Rails
5. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – Europe
For those seeking an unparalleled rail experience, this iconic route from London to Venice is the epitome of vintage glamour.
- Route: London–Paris–Verona–Venice
- Train Features: Elegant carriages, fine dining, and white-glove service
- Unforgettable Touch: Authentic 1920s locomotive decor and experience
If you're dreaming of an elegant train ride, this journey offers pure majesty on the railway.
✅ Quick Recap for Skimmers:
- Train journeys offer unmatched views and comfort
- Rail travel is eco-friendly, scenic, and ideal for slow exploration
- Global favorites include the Glacier Express, Flåm Railway, and California Zephyr
- Luxury routes like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express deliver five-star experiences on wheels
Train Travel in Asia: Landscapes, Culture & Adventure
6. Ella to Kandy – Sri Lanka
Often referred to as one of the most scenic train rides in the world, the route from Ella to Kandy in Sri Lanka is famous for its lush tea fields and colonial charm.
- Route: Ella to Kandy
- Train Features: Open windows, hanging doors, vibrant local culture
- Scenery: Tea plantations, waterfalls, jungle-clad valleys
This rail journey is especially popular with backpackers and photographers for its unfiltered access to breathtaking nature.
Read more about Sri Lanka’s train routes
Beautiful Train Rides Through National Parks
7. Rocky Mountaineer – Canada
This luxury Canadian train journey lets you travel by daylight through the stunning national parks of the Canadian Rockies.
- Route: Vancouver to Banff (or Jasper)
- Highlights:
- Scenic rail passages through Yoho and Banff National Parks
- Access to the Spiral Tunnels and Glacier National Park
- Rail Experience:
- Domed carriages
- Gourmet meals served on board
- Storytelling by rail hosts
Underrated Train Routes Worth Exploring
While the major railways often steal the spotlight, there are dozens of lesser-known train journeys that offer unique train experiences just waiting to be discovered.
8. The West Highland Line – Scotland
Dubbed one of Britain’s most beautiful train rides, the West Highland Line combines lochs, moors, and misty peaks into one magical rail experience.
- Route: Glasgow to Mallaig
- Unforgettable Element: Crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct (made famous by the Harry Potter films)
- Scenic Landscape: Heather-covered hills, valleys, and isolated coastline
This train journey provides a peaceful, contemplative ride through the Scottish Highlands with a touch of cinematic magic.
9. The TranzAlpine – New Zealand
New Zealand’s South Island delivers jaw-dropping landscapes by road, sea, and sky—but the TranzAlpine offers a next-level rail journey through alpine beauty.
- Route: Christchurch to Greymouth
- Features: Glass-roofed carriages, wide panoramic windows
- Highlight: Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass
If you're looking for train experiences that blend comfort with breathtaking views, this one delivers with style.
Dining Cars and Onboard Comfort
What elevates the best train journeys beyond just transport is the onboard ambiance—especially the dining cars, sleeper carriages, and curated service that makes rail travel feel indulgent.
What to Expect from Dining Cars
- Multi-course meals prepared fresh on board
- Wine and regional specialties based on the rail route
- Lounge seating or booth dining with panoramic windows
On luxury trains like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, meals are served on crisp white linen with silver cutlery. But even mid-range railway lines like Amtrak or Rocky Mountaineer offer hearty dishes and breathtaking dining vistas.
Traveler Tip: Bring your own snacks for budget or regional trains, but always try a local dish when available—it’s part of the full rail experience.
Carriage Comforts and Sleeper Options
- Overnight train rides often include sleeper cabins with beds and private bathrooms
- Reclining seats with legroom are standard on long-distance rail services
- Premium classes include turndown service, showers, and concierge assistance
These onboard comforts make longer train travel restful and truly unforgettable.
Planning Your Best Railway Journey
To make the most of your rail journey, consider these tips:
Book Early
Many of the best railway journeys—especially luxury or seasonal ones—sell out months in advance. Early booking not only secures your spot but also gives you the chance to pick the best seat or carriage.
Choose the Right Side of the Train
Yes, it matters. Depending on the route, the best views may be on one side of the train. For example:
- In the Coastal Starlight, sit on the west side for ocean views
- On the Flåm Railway, both sides offer breathtaking scenes, but the left side going down toward Flåm has a better view of waterfalls
Travel Light, But Smart
- Pack layers—train rides often go through different climates
- Bring a small daypack with essentials for moving around onboard
- Use noise-canceling headphones or a good book for overnight travel
Bonus Tip: Your train journey is not just a ride—it’s a story. Document it with photos, notes, or even a travel blog.
✅ Quick Checklist for a Seamless Train Travel Experience:
- Book windows-side seats for the best vistas
- Choose panoramic window options if available
- Enjoy meals in dining cars for a full cultural experience
- Travel during daylight hours when possible
- Consider off-peak seasons to avoid crowds
- Double-check visa and documentation requirements for cross-border rail travel
Final Thoughts on the Majesty of the Rails
Train travel has a nostalgic charm—and yet, it continues to redefine modern exploration. These unforgettable train journeys remind us that the journey is the destination. With every winding railway, each mountain valley, and every sunrise from a sleeper carriage, we are invited into a slower, more immersive way of seeing the world.
Whether you're venturing across the Norwegian fjords, passing glaciers in Switzerland, or weaving through the tea fields of Sri Lanka, these are more than just train rides—they're full-bodied train experiences that linger long after the journey ends.
So when planning your next adventure, skip the airport chaos and let the locomotive lead the way. Your best railway journey awaits—majestic, scenic, and undeniably unforgettable.
