The World’s 7 Most Beautiful Train Journeys
Airplanes may be fast and buses practical, but train travel is one of the most romantic ways to slowly take in landscapes, discover new cultures, and truly enjoy the journey. Traveling by train is not just a means of transportation—it transforms the road itself into an experience. From the historic Orient Express to the breathtaking Swiss Alps, from Canada’s wild nature to Australia’s red deserts, unforgettable train routes can be found all over the world. Here are the seven most beautiful train journeys every traveler should experience…
1. Orient Express (Paris – Istanbul)
When it comes to train travel, the legendary Orient Express is often the first that comes to mind. Launched in 1883, this luxury train traveled from Paris through Budapest, Bucharest, and Sofia before arriving in Istanbul.
Highlights: Elegant dining cars, cabins reflecting old-world grandeur, and a route that showcases Europe’s cultural diversity.
Why take it? More than a journey, it’s a doorway to history and nostalgia. Inspiring Agatha Christie’s famous novel, the train immerses passengers in the classic atmosphere of Europe.
2. Glacier Express (Zermatt – St. Moritz, Switzerland)
Known as the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express winds through the heart of the Swiss Alps. The journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz takes about eight hours, crossing 291 bridges and 91 tunnels.
Highlights: Panoramic glass cars offering views of snowy peaks, glaciers, and lush valleys.
Why take it? A unique way to experience Switzerland’s natural beauty in comfort. For nature photographers and romantics, this route feels like an open-air gallery.
3. Trans-Siberian Express (Moscow – Vladivostok, Russia)
The world’s longest train journey, the Trans-Siberian stretches 9,289 kilometers. Starting in Moscow, the route passes the Ural Mountains, endless Siberian steppes, and the shores of Lake Baikal before reaching Vladivostok.
Highlights: Crossing seven time zones, meeting locals, and feeling the immensity of Russia.
Why take it? Considered one of the most iconic and epic rail journeys in the world. Its cultural and geographical diversity makes it feel like a round-the-world trip.
4. Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
Operating in western Canada, the Rocky Mountaineer starts in Vancouver and winds through the famous Canadian Rockies.
Highlights: Dome-shaped cars offering pristine views of waterfalls, forests, and snow-capped peaks.
Why take it? Perfect for nature lovers who want to witness North America’s grandest landscapes. Travelers also get the chance to spot Canada’s wildlife along the way.
5. The Ghan (Adelaide – Darwin, Australia)
Crossing Australia from south to north, The Ghan covers 2,979 kilometers, offering one of the best ways to explore the heart of the continent.
Highlights: Sweeping red deserts, wild landscapes, and the chance to connect with Aboriginal culture.
Why take it? An adventurous journey across the entire continent. Along the way, passengers pass close to iconic natural wonders such as Ayers Rock (Uluru).
6. The Blue Train (Cape Town – Pretoria, South Africa)
Renowned for its luxury, the Blue Train is one of Africa’s most glamorous rail experiences. Covering about 1,600 kilometers between Cape Town and Pretoria, it’s the epitome of comfort and style.
Highlights: Lavish suites fit for royalty, gourmet restaurants, and stunning South African scenery.
Why take it? A blend of five-star hotel luxury with the raw beauty of Africa’s landscapes. An experience that feels as indulgent as it is adventurous.
7. West Highland Line (Glasgow – Mallaig, Scotland)
Fans of the Harry Potter films will remember the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct bridge. The West Highland Line offers that view and much more. Starting in Glasgow, the journey unfolds through mountains, lochs, and the enchanting landscapes of Scotland.
Highlights: Scenic lochs, forests, historic bridges, and misty highlands.
Why take it? Perfect for those who want to soak up Scotland’s mystical atmosphere. A route that captivates both nature lovers and cinema fans alike.
🎧 You can also listen to this article as a podcast (created with NotebookLM).
The World’s Most Beautiful Train Routes – Overview
| Rota | Ülke / Bölge | Mesafe | Ortalama Yolculuk Süresi | Öne Çıkan Özellikler |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orient Express | Europe (Paris – Istanbul) | ~3.000 km | 4–6 days | Historic luxury train, European cultural route |
| Glacier Express | Switzerland (Zermatt – St. Moritz) | ~290 km | 8 hours | Swiss Alps, panoramic glass carriages |
| Trans-Sibirya Ekspresi | Russia (Moskova – Vladivostok) | 9.289 km | 7 days | World’s longest train journey, Lake Baikal |
| Rocky Mountaineer | Canada (Vancouver – Rockies) | ~1.200 km (variable route) | 2–3 days | Dome-shaped carriages, wild nature views |
| The Ghan | Australia (Adelaide – Darwin) | 2.979 km | 3–4 days | Red deserts, Aboriginal culture |
| Blue Train | South Africa (Cape Town – Pretoria) | 1.600 km | 27–30 hours | Royal comfort, African nature |
| West Highland Line | Scotland (Glasgow – Mallaig) | ~260 km | 5–6 hours | Glenfinnan Viaduct, mystical mountains |
Enjoy the Journey
Train journeys offer far more than just getting from one place to another. Sipping coffee by the window as the scenery shifts turns travel into a memory to cherish. Whether aboard the luxurious Orient Express or riding through Scotland’s misty highlands, every train journey carries its own soul.
These seven routes capture the romance, adventure, and cultural richness of train travel at its best. Adding one of them to your travel plans means more than just a trip—it’s an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.