Ivan Brown A great train trip doesn’t just get you from one place to another; it offers you the chance to explore the world at a slower and more sustainable pace. Imagine embarking on a cross-country adventure, soaking up breathtaking views through floor-to-ceiling windows, or stepping back in time on a historic locomotive.
Are you ready to hop aboard? Below are some of the most epic train journeys in the world, along with tips on routes, travel times, onboard services, and must-see sights along the way.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
Travel Time: Two days (for Classic Routes)
Highlights:
- Routes between Venice, London, Verona, and Paris.
- Annual six-day Paris to Istanbul journey via Budapest and Bucharest.
Experience the glamour of the 1920s aboard this legendary train. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express boasts historic carriages with plush interiors, exceptional service, and live ragtime tunes. Dine in style with a four-course menu paired with fine wines and unwind in the luxurious Bar Car with signature cocktails.
For the ultimate indulgence, book their six-day journey from Paris to Istanbul and traverse some of Europe’s most iconic cities and landscapes.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
Travel Time: Eight hours
Highlights:
- Scenic journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz.
- Sights include Rhine Gorge, Oberalp Pass, and more.
Nicknamed “The Slowest Express Train in the World,” the Glacier Express offers unbeatable views of Switzerland’s alpine beauty. Ride through 91 tunnels and cross 291 bridges while marveling at iconic sights like the Matterhorn and Gornergrat.
Upgrade to Excellence Class for:
- The best window seats.
- A five-course meal with wine pairings.
- Exclusive access to the in-house bar.
Alaska Railroad, United States
Travel Time: 2.5 to 12 hours one-way
Highlights:
- Summer Denali Star Train offers wildlife spotting.
- Winter Aurora Train showcases snowy landscapes and northern lights.
Discover Alaska’s vast wilderness aboard the Alaska Railroad. This iconic journey features:
- Daily summer routes to Denali National Park and Preserve.
- Coastal Classic Train for fjords, fishing, and hiking.
- GoldStar Service with glass-domed cabins and panoramic views.
For winter travelers, the Aurora Winter Train delivers magical views of Alaska’s snowy terrains and, with some luck, the aurora borealis.
Eastern & Oriental Express, Singapore
Travel Time: Four days
Highlights:
- Round-trip routes from Singapore to Malaysia.
- Stops at Taman Negara National Park and Langkawi Island.
The Eastern & Oriental Express combines luxury and adventure on a grand four-day journey. Choose from wildlife-packed excursions in Taman Negara or cultural explorations in Penang. Onboard, enjoy:
- Four-course fine dining with Malaysian flavors.
- Jazzy evenings at the Bar Car with champagne and cocktails.
Seats are limited, so book well in advance for this unforgettable journey.
Serra Verde Express, Brazil
Travel Time: Four hours
Highlights:
- Connects Curitiba to the historic city of Morretes.
- Passes waterfalls, canyons, and mountain passes.
The Serra Verde Express is a feast for the senses. This scenic ride immerses you in Brazil’s rainforest beauty, with open windows allowing fresh rainforest aromas to waft in. Opt for a round-trip package that includes:
- A guided tour of Morretes.
- A traditional barreado lunch by the Nhundiaquara River.
Rocky Mountaineer, North America
Travel Time: Two to fifteen days
Highlights:
- Routes through Canada and the U.S., including Vancouver to Banff.
- U.S. journeys from Moab to Denver.
The Rocky Mountaineer offers majestic views of the Rockies. Popular routes like the Journey Through The Clouds pass landmarks such as:
- Fraser River.
- Pyramid Creek Falls.
- Mount Robson.
Upgrade to GoldLeaf Service for:
- Wraparound glass dome windows.
- Outdoor viewing platforms.
West Highland Line, Scotland
Travel Time: 3.5 to 5.5 hours
Highlights:
- Routes from Glasgow to Fort William, Mallaig, or Oban.
- Passes Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in Harry Potter films.
The West Highland Line showcases Scotland’s rugged beauty, from glens to lochs. For an enchanting experience, travel westward to Oban, stopping at:
- Kilchurn Castle.
- Loch Lomond.
Watch out for adorable red deer along the way!
The Lake Titicaca Train, Peru
Travel Time: Ten hours
Highlights:
- Connects Cusco to Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca.
- Onboard Peruvian music and dance performances.
The Lake Titicaca Train is as vibrant as its surroundings. Enjoy a luxurious journey with:
- A three-course gourmet meal.
- A Peruvian cocktail in the Bar Car.
Don’t miss a visit to the floating islands of Uros near Puno, home to indigenous communities.
Bernina Express, Switzerland, and Italy
Travel Time: 1.5 to 4.5 hours
Highlights:
- Classic route from Chur to Tirano.
- Passes UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Landwasser Viaduct.
The Bernina Express combines Swiss precision and Italian charm. Travel through the Swiss Alps’ snowy peaks, past Lago Bianco and Palü Glacier. Day trips from Milan to St. Moritz include guided tours for added convenience.
Coast Starlight Train, United States
Travel Time: 35 hours
Highlights:
- Daily journeys between Seattle and Los Angeles.
- Stops include Mount Shasta, Santa Barbara, and the Golden Gate Bridge.
This epic West Coast train adventure offers:
- Superliner rooms with convertible beds.
- Delicious seasonal meals onboard.
- Stops at San Luis Obispo for wine tasting or Klamath Falls for outdoor adventures.
The Ghan, Australia
Travel Time: Two to four days
Highlights:
- Cross-country journey from Darwin to Adelaide.
- Off-train excursions to Katherine and Coober Pedy.
The Ghan is the ultimate Australian train experience. Enjoy:
- Stylish cabins with ensuite bathrooms.
- Regionally inspired meals and world-class wines.
- Social lounges stocked with games, books, and drinks.
