AVSL3-4 – Exploring the Most Scenic Train Rides Around the Globe

Dreaming of an adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes and the charm of classic travel?
There’s no better way to experience the world than by hopping on one of the most scenic train rides out there.
Train journeys offer a unique perspective, weaving through mountains, coastlines, and hidden gems that you might miss by plane or car.
Today, we’re diving into some of the world’s most picturesque train routes.
From snow-capped peaks to coastal cliffs, these train rides promise unforgettable views.
Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting to plan your bucket list, this is the ultimate guide for train enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Get ready to see the world from a seat on the rails!
Let’s embark on a journey through the globe’s most stunning train rides.

1: The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
Starting in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the Glacier Express takes you through some of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe.
This 8-hour journey connects Zermatt and St. Moritz, offering panoramic windows to soak in sweeping views of snow-covered peaks and deep valleys.
You’ll pass over 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels, and witness breathtaking vistas of glaciers, forests, and alpine meadows.
In winter, it’s a snow-capped wonderland; in summer, the green valleys and blooming wildflowers are equally magical.
One of the highlights is crossing the Oberalp Pass, at over 2,000 meters, offering stunning views of the Swiss landscape.
The Glacier Express is a must-do for those looking for an iconic European adventure.
Whether you're a photographer or a nature lover, the scenery along this route will leave you speechless.

2: The Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia)
The Trans-Siberian Railway is legendary for its sheer scale and mesmerizing landscapes.
Stretching from Moscow to Vladivostok, this epic 6,000-mile journey takes you through a vast range of terrains, from dense forests to endless steppes.
One of the most scenic sections is the route through Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest freshwater lake.
As the train winds its way around the lake’s shores, you’re treated to views of sparkling waters, rugged cliffs, and pristine wilderness.
This journey is not just about the scenery; it’s about the experience of crossing an entire continent.
The Trans-Siberian Railway offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to immerse yourself in Russia’s history and landscapes.
It’s a slow, leisurely ride that lets you savor the views and cultures across this vast country.

3: The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
One of the most luxurious and scenic train journeys in the world, the Rocky Mountaineer offers travelers the chance to see the Canadian Rockies in style.
This train winds its way through British Columbia and Alberta, offering panoramic views of majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and pristine lakes.
The GoldLeaf service provides dome windows, allowing for uninterrupted views of the towering peaks and glacial valleys.
The route includes a stop at Jasper National Park, where you can spot wildlife like elk, bears, and mountain goats.
The journey is equally spectacular in both summer and winter, as the snow-dusted mountains contrast with the bright green alpine forests.
The Rocky Mountaineer offers an unforgettable way to experience Canada’s rugged beauty, all while being pampered with gourmet meals and exceptional service.

4: The Settle to Carlisle Line (England)
For a more understated yet equally beautiful train journey, the Settle to Carlisle Line in England is a true gem.
This 72-mile route is often regarded as one of the most scenic in the UK.
Traveling through the stunning Yorkshire Dales and the Pennines, the train offers sweeping views of rolling hills, deep valleys, and charming villages.
The route includes crossing the Ribblehead Viaduct, an architectural marvel that spans the Ribble Valley and offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding countryside.
The Settle to Carlisle Line is a fantastic way to experience the charm of the British countryside, with lush green fields and classic stone cottages dotting the landscape.
This is a trip that allows you to take in the natural beauty of England at a relaxed pace, with plenty of photo ops along the way.

5: The Ghan (Australia)
The Ghan is one of Australia’s most famous and luxurious train journeys, taking you from Adelaide to Darwin, crossing the heart of the Australian Outback.
This 1,850-mile route gives you the chance to explore Australia’s unique desert landscapes, including the iconic red sands and rugged bushlands.
The Ghan is particularly known for its iconic stops, such as Alice Springs, where you can learn about the local Indigenous culture, and the stunning Katherine Gorge.
Throughout the journey, you’ll witness wide-open spaces, rugged mountains, and the occasional kangaroo or camel sighting.
The Ghan provides an immersive and unforgettable experience of Australia’s wilderness, offering luxury services and excellent dining options to complement the incredible scenery.
A trip on The Ghan is a true adventure, offering a chance to discover the real Australia.

6: The Bernina Express (Switzerland and Italy)
Another Swiss gem, the Bernina Express takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes of the Alps, starting in Chur, Switzerland, and ending in Tirano, Italy.
This route is known for its contrast of snowy peaks and lush valleys, with the added beauty of the palm trees and Mediterranean flair you encounter as you cross into Italy.
The Bernina Express crosses the Bernina Range, passing glaciers and high-altitude lakes, before descending into the warmer, more temperate climes of Italy.
One of the highlights is crossing the stunning Brusio Circular Viaduct, a unique spiral-shaped railway bridge.
The Bernina Express is a perfect fusion of dramatic mountains and Mediterranean beauty, making it one of the most beautiful train rides in Europe.

7: The Jacobite Steam Train (Scotland)
For fans of classic trains and stunning landscapes, the Jacobite Steam Train in Scotland is a must.
This 84-mile route takes you through the Scottish Highlands, passing some of the most iconic scenery in the UK, including the famous Loch Ness and Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain.
The Jacobite Steam Train is best known for its appearances in the Harry Potter films, where it doubles as the Hogwarts Express.
Traveling through dense forests, over historic viaducts, and alongside shimmering lochs, this journey feels like stepping back in time.
The combination of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and old-world charm makes this one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

8: The Flam Railway (Norway)
The Flam Railway in Norway offers one of the most breathtaking short train rides you can take.
This 12-mile route takes you from the village of Flam, nestled at the end of the Aurlandsfjord, up to the mountain station at Myrdal.
As you ascend, you’ll witness some of Norway’s most incredible landscapes, including cascading waterfalls, deep valleys, and steep mountain slopes.
The train ride is an engineering marvel, as it climbs almost 900 meters in just 12 miles, offering panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and mountains.
The Flam Railway is a must-do for anyone visiting Norway, offering an unforgettable way to experience the country’s natural beauty.

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And that wraps up our exploration of the world’s most scenic train journeys!
Whether you're chasing mountains, lakes, or historic landmarks, there’s a perfect route waiting for you.
These train rides not only offer incredible views but also the opportunity to slow down, relax, and experience the beauty of the world at a different pace.
Have you ever taken a scenic train ride? Which one is on your bucket list?
Let us know in the comments!
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The world is full of stunning landscapes waiting for you to discover—so hop on a train and start your next adventure.