Train journeys remain one of the most relaxing and rewarding travel experiences. Here’s our bucket list of the world’s best routes for travellers.
Nowadays, everyone seems to be in a rush. We book last-minute flights and drop into a destination as quickly as possible. Whatever happened to enjoying the journey?
With a long train trip, it’s all about savouring the travel experience. It’s about drinking in the beautiful scenery, and seeing every inch of a country. There are things you’ll see on a train journey that you’d never see any other way. In this post, we’re celebrating the most beautiful, iconic, and majestic railway journeys on the planet.
The Bergen line, Norway
The Oslo to Bergen route is perhaps the most beautiful railway journey in the world. You hop on the train in Norway’s capital and slowly make your way north-west to Bergen. The journey itself takes seven hours and climbs an astonishing height of 1,200 meters. That’s higher than Ben Nevis, folks!
Those seven hours quickly pass by as you enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery around you. As you leave Oslo, you are treated to a white wonderland that gets more impressive by the minute. The railway leads out towards Norway’s famous fjords and mountains, so you can imagine the beauty.
Along the way, you’ll travel through 182 tunnels, carved out of the Norwegian mountainside. You’ll travel past glaciers, vast green fjords, and snowy peaks – even at the height of summer – all the way. It straddles Europe’s highest largest mountain plateau, so you’re in for a real treat.
Once you land in Bergen, you’re introduced to a chocolate box down in the mountains. It’s quaint, beautiful, and surrounded by nature. It’s time to order a drink or grab some fresh shrimp from the Fish Market, and try to take in all the wonders you’ve just seen! Norway’s second city is a great destination in itself, but arriving by train is the ultimate Norwegian travel experience.
The Rocky Mountaineer
From one snowy landscape to another. This time, we’re in Canada, riding the Rocky Mountaineer trail. This journey takes you through the wonderful Rocky Mountains, drinking in the best Canada has to offer.
A variety of routes exist here though we think the Grand Rail route is the best. It takes you through the very heart of Canada, including the notorious icefields. The route starts out in Vancouver on the west coast.
Vancouver itself is a wonderful city, and well worth spending a few days acclimatizing yourself. Once on the train, you’ll head up into stunning forests of British Columbia. You’ll traverse the Rocky Mountains over the Capilano suspension bridge. And you’ll see the snowy glaciers at Lake Louise.
The train itself is one of the finest in the world. It’s designed specifically for luxury traveling. Their premier ‘Gold Leaf’ service will delight you with breakfast and lunch cooked-to-order. You’ll also indulge in unlimited drinks and cocktails. All the while, you’ll zip through wonderful forests and snow-capped mountains. If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of a grizzly bear along the journey.
Hiram Bingham Orient Express
Machu Picchu is an iconic sight that few people ever have the pleasure of visiting. It’s certainly a once-in-a-lifetime trip, and top of many people’s bucket list. However, you might not have considered arriving there by train.
The Hiram Bingham Orient Express takes you right to the heart of the Incan empire. This is another high-altitude rail route, unsurprising given that Peru is one of the highest countries in the world.
The vintage train itself is another luxury affair, and it does come with a large price tag. It’s named after the intrepid explorer who first rediscovered the wonderful ruins back in 1911. As you reach the top of the Inca Trail, you are greeted by the wonderful sight of Machu Picchu.
It’s one that is not easily forgotten, and you’ll spend a few hours in the Incan empire. On the return journey, train guests are treated to a four-course dining experience. It’s a fitting end to an awe-inspiring trip into an ancient world.
Tsar’s Golden Train, Trans-Siberian Railway
We couldn’t possibly publish a railways list without including the Trans-Siberian. It is perhaps the most iconic and well-known rail line on the planet. The line stretches the length of Russia, through Mongolia, and into the heart of China. It’s one of the best ways to see the vast and magnificent Asian lands.
You’ll see Beijing’s Forbidden City, walk the Great Wall of China, and visit Moscow’s Kremlin. In between, you’ll see the expansive Gobi desert and Mongolia’s nomadic settlements. It’s a truly wonderful glimpse into a world that few have the pleasure to see.
Of course, the Trans Siberian Railway can be enjoyed on any number of trains. There are also various routes you can take. However, we think the Tsar’s Golden Train is the best way to do it. It’s a little more expensive than your traditional Trans-Siberian Railway Trip.
But, that extra money is well worth it! You’re treated to a standard of luxury that even the Russian Tsars would enjoy. It is safe, comfortable, and decadent throughout. There’s no better way to see the Orient.
The Glacial Express
There is no feeling quite like waking up to the sunrise over the Swiss mountains. It’s simply one of the most stunning sights you’ll ever experience.
With the Glacial Express, you can do just that. Boarding early in the morning, you’re treated to a seven-hour journey through the heart of the Alps.
Traversing a route that is carved out through the Swiss mountains, it’s an epic railway indeed. Snaking in and out of mountain tunnels, you are treated to a stunning new view every time you emerge.
The train also spans vast gorges and valleys, crossing enormous bridges to get there. In 2005, panorama coaches were added so passengers could see a 360 degree view of the beauty. Leaving St. Moritz station, you’ll eventually arrive in Zermatt, just on the edge of the Italian border. Waking up in the Alps is a special feeling and one you won’t forget in a hurry!
There are, of course, countless other wonderful railways on this planet. But these five represent the most beautiful and inspiring. It’s time to start planning your itinerary, and choosing your perfect route! Where would you start?
Did this post inspire you to leave the car at home and ride the rails? Why not share your plans on Pinterest? We’ve got just the pin for that:
