Top 5 Most Scenic Train Travel Routes Around the World

Train travel offers a unique and immersive way to experience breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and cultural wonders. Whether you're crossing snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, or coastal cliffs, these scenic train journeys provide unforgettable views. Here are some of the most stunning train routes to add to your travel bucket list!

1. Glacier Express – Switzerland

The Glacier Express is often called the slowest express train in the world, but that’s part of its charm. This eight-hour journey takes passengers through the Swiss Alps, offering panoramic views of deep valleys, snowy peaks, and picturesque villages.

Highlights:

• Cross 291 bridges and pass through 91 tunnels.

• Enjoy luxury seating and gourmet dining onboard.

• Marvel at the Oberalp Pass, the highest point of the journey.

2. Rocky Mountaineer – Canada

The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train that travels through the Canadian Rockies, offering glass-domed coaches for uninterrupted views of towering mountains, dense forests, and glacial rivers.

Highlights:

• Travel between Vancouver and Banff or Jasper.

• Experience five-star service with gourmet meals.

• Witness breathtaking landscapes, including waterfalls and wildlife.

3. West Highland Line – Scotland

The West Highland Line is one of Scotland’s most cinematic train routes, featuring moody lochs, misty moors, and dramatic coastlines. It’s famous for the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which appeared in the Harry Potter films

Highlights:

• Travel from Glasgow to Mallaig, passing through remote Highland villages.

• Cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct, an iconic railway bridge.

• Enjoy views of Scotland’s rugged coastline and historic castles.

4. Kandy to Ella – Sri Lanka

The Kandy to Ella train journey is one of the most photogenic routes in the world, passing through rolling tea plantations, cloud forests, and lush green landscapes.

Highlights:

• Ride in bright blue carriages, a signature of Sri Lanka’s railway.

• Experience local culture, with vendors selling snacks onboard.

• Capture stunning views of waterfalls, bridges, and tropical forests.

5. TranzAlpine – New Zealand

The TranzAlpine train crosses New Zealand’s South Island, offering spectacular views of mountains, rivers, and alpine landscapes.

Highlights:

• Travel between Christchurch and Greymouth, crossing the Southern Alps.

• Pass through Arthur’s Pass National Park, a haven for nature lovers.

• Enjoy open-air viewing platforms for the best photography opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Scenic train journeys offer a relaxing and immersive way to explore the world’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re traveling through the Swiss Alps, Canadian Rockies, Scottish Highlands, Sri Lankan tea plantations, or New Zealand’s mountains, these routes promise unforgettable experiences.

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