The Most Scenic Train Journeys Around the World

Train travel offers a unique and immersive way to experience the world’s most stunning landscapes. Unlike flying, where views are often limited to clouds and sky, trains allow passengers to witness the changing scenery in real time, from bustling cities to serene countryside. Here are some of the most scenic train journeys around the world, each offering a window into the natural beauty and cultural richness of their regions.

One of the most famous scenic train journeys is the Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia. Spanning over 9,000 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok, this epic journey is the longest continuous railway line in the world. Travelers on the Trans-Siberian Railway are treated to an incredible variety of landscapes, including the rolling hills of the Ural Mountains, the vast plains of Siberia, and the breathtaking shores of Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest freshwater lake. The journey takes about a week to complete, allowing passengers to fully absorb the sheer scale and diversity of the Russian landscape.

In Europe, the Glacier Express in Switzerland is renowned for its picturesque route through the Swiss Alps. Dubbed the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express takes around eight hours to travel between the alpine resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz. Along the way, passengers can marvel at snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and charming mountain villages. The train also crosses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels, offering spectacular views at every turn. Highlights of the journey include the Landwasser Viaduct, a stunning six-arched bridge that seems to defy gravity, and the Oberalp Pass, the highest point of the journey at 2,033 meters above sea level.

For those seeking a taste of the American wilderness, the California Zephyr offers one of the most scenic train routes in the United States. Running between Chicago and San Francisco, the California Zephyr takes passengers through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country. The journey begins in the flat plains of the Midwest, then ascends into the Rocky Mountains, where travelers can gaze at towering peaks, deep canyons, and rushing rivers. The train then crosses the arid deserts of Nevada before descending into the lush, green valleys of California. This 52-hour journey is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers, offering endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the American West.

In Asia, the Kyushu Seven Stars in Japan is a luxurious train journey that showcases the scenic beauty of Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost island. The train’s name refers to the seven prefectures of Kyushu, and the journey takes passengers through each one, offering views of verdant rice paddies, volcanic mountains, and coastal vistas. The Kyushu Seven Stars is as much about the experience on board as it is about the scenery outside. The train features beautifully crafted interiors, gourmet dining, and spacious suites, making it one of the most exclusive and sought-after train journeys in the world.

Another Asian gem is the Eastern & Oriental Express, which runs between Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. This luxurious train journey offers passengers the chance to explore the tropical landscapes of Southeast Asia in style. The route passes through dense rainforests, palm plantations, and traditional villages, with the train making stops at historical cities like Penang and Kanchanaburi. The Eastern & Oriental Express is known for its elegant carriages, fine dining, and impeccable service, making it a popular choice for those looking to experience the romance of train travel.

Lastly, the TranzAlpine in New Zealand is a must for those who want to experience the rugged beauty of the South Island. This journey takes passengers from Christchurch on the east coast to Greymouth on the west coast, crossing the Southern Alps along the way. The TranzAlpine offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, deep gorges, and lush rainforests. One of the highlights of the journey is the passage through Arthur’s Pass National Park, where the train winds through narrow valleys and across steep viaducts, offering stunning vistas at every turn.

In conclusion, scenic train journeys offer a unique way to experience the beauty of the world’s landscapes. Whether you’re crossing the vast plains of Russia, climbing the Swiss Alps, or winding through the rainforests of Southeast Asia, these train routes provide an unforgettable travel experience that combines comfort, adventure, and awe-inspiring scenery.