Photo by Martin Sanchez on Unsplash
Some journeys are simply a way to reach a destination. Others become the highlight of the trip itself.
These extraordinary train journeys cross mountain ranges, deserts, fjords, forests and some of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth. Whether you are seeking luxury, adventure or unforgettable scenery, these rail experiences prove that sometimes the journey is more memorable than the destination.
1. Glacier Express
Often called the world’s slowest express train, the Glacier Express travels through the heart of the Swiss Alps.
Passengers enjoy panoramic windows, dramatic mountain scenery, deep valleys and 291 bridges along one of Europe’s most iconic railway routes.
Why it’s special: The ultimate Swiss alpine railway experience.
Official website: Glacier Express
2. Bernina Express
The Bernina Express crosses UNESCO-listed mountain landscapes before descending into the palm trees and Mediterranean atmosphere of northern Italy.
The contrast between snow-covered peaks and Italian villages makes this one of the world’s most remarkable rail journeys.
Why it’s special: One of the most scenic railway crossings on Earth.
Official website: Bernina Express
3. Rocky Mountaineer
This luxury train journey through the Canadian Rockies offers spectacular views of glaciers, rivers, forests and snow-capped mountains.
Wildlife sightings can include bears, elk and bald eagles, adding to the sense of travelling through a vast natural landscape.
Why it’s special: Luxury rail travel through one of the world’s most beautiful mountain ranges.
Official website: Rocky Mountaineer
4. The Ghan
Crossing almost the entire Australian continent, The Ghan journeys through deserts, remote outback landscapes and some of the country’s most isolated regions.
Why it’s special: One of the world’s great long-distance rail adventures.
Official website: The Ghan
5. Belmond Andean Explorer
South America’s first luxury sleeper train travels through the Peruvian Andes at altitudes exceeding 4,000 metres.
Expect dramatic mountain scenery, traditional villages and views of Lake Titicaca.
Why it’s special: Luxury travel through one of the world’s highest railway routes.
Official website: Belmond Andean Explorer
6. Flam Railway
Although relatively short, the Flam Railway delivers extraordinary scenery.
Passengers travel past waterfalls, cliffs, valleys and dramatic fjord landscapes on one of the steepest railway lines in the world.
Why it’s special: Norway’s most spectacular train journey.
Official website: Flam Railway
7. West Highland Line
Crossing wild moorlands, remote lochs and dramatic mountains, the West Highland Line showcases some of Scotland’s finest scenery.
The route also crosses the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films.
Why it’s special: Britain’s most scenic railway journey.
Official website: ScotRail
8. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Perhaps the world’s most famous luxury train, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express recreates the glamour of rail travel’s golden age.
Art Deco carriages, fine dining and elegant cabins make this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Why it’s special: The ultimate luxury train journey.
Official website: Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
9. Maharajas’ Express
Frequently ranked among the world’s most luxurious trains, the Maharajas’ Express visits some of India’s most famous destinations, including Jaipur, Agra and Udaipur.
Why it’s special: Palace-level luxury combined with India’s extraordinary culture and history.
Official website: Maharajas’ Express
10. TranzAlpine
This spectacular route crosses New Zealand’s South Island through mountain passes, forests, rivers and alpine landscapes.
Why it’s special: One of the Southern Hemisphere’s greatest rail journeys.
Official website: Great Journeys New Zealand
11. Jacobite Steam Train
Known worldwide as the Hogwarts Express from the Harry Potter films, this steam train attracts visitors from across the globe.
Why it’s special: Nostalgia, history and iconic scenery.
Official website: West Coast Railways
12. California Zephyr
Crossing the Rocky Mountains, deserts, canyons and the Sierra Nevada, this is often considered America’s most scenic train route.
Why it’s special: An epic cross-country rail adventure.
Official website: Amtrak California Zephyr
13. Eastern & Oriental Express
This luxury train journey combines tropical landscapes, fine dining and elegant carriages inspired by the golden age of rail travel.
Why it’s special: Luxury train travel through Southeast Asia’s most beautiful scenery.
Official website: Eastern & Oriental Express
14. Blue Train
One of Africa’s most luxurious trains, the Blue Train combines exceptional service with spectacular landscapes.
Why it’s special: A luxury hotel on rails through South Africa.
Official website: Blue Train
15. Semmering Railway
Opened in 1854, the Semmering Railway was the world’s first mountain railway and remains a masterpiece of engineering.
The route crosses viaducts, tunnels and dramatic alpine scenery.
Why it’s special: Railway history combined with beautiful Austrian landscapes.
Official website: OBB
How To Choose The Right Scenic Train Journey
Choose the Glacier Express or Bernina Express if you want classic alpine scenery without needing a long itinerary. For luxury, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Maharajas’ Express, Blue Train and Belmond Andean Explorer are the most memorable options.
For wild landscapes, look at the Rocky Mountaineer, The Ghan, West Highland Line, TranzAlpine and California Zephyr. If you only have a short window, the Flam Railway, Jacobite Steam Train and Semmering Railway offer big scenery in a smaller amount of time.
Always check the official operator before planning around a specific route. Timetables, seasonal schedules and route details can change.