Top Train Journeys That Offer Incredible Views

There’s something uniquely magical about train travel—the rhythmic clatter of wheels on tracks, the ever-changing landscapes outside your window, and the unhurried pace that lets you savor every moment. While flights get you to your destination quickly, trains offer an immersive experience, transforming the journey itself into a destination. Here are some of the world’s most breathtaking train rides that promise unforgettable vistas.

The Glacier Express, Switzerland

Dubbed the “slowest express train in the world,” Switzerland’s Glacier Express is an eight-hour spectacle of Alpine grandeur. Connecting Zermatt to St. Moritz, this route winds through deep gorges, across towering viaducts, and past snow-capped peaks. The highlight? The Landwasser Viaduct, a stunning stone arch bridge that seems to disappear into a mountainside tunnel. With panoramic windows stretching to the ceiling, every seat feels like the best in the house.

The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

For those who crave wilderness and rugged beauty, Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer delivers in spades. This luxury train glides through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offering unobstructed views of emerald lakes, dense forests, and towering mountains. The “First Passage to the West” route, running from Vancouver to Banff, includes iconic sights like Lake Louise and the Spiral Tunnels. By day, passengers relax in glass-domed coaches; by night, they rest in comfortable lodgings—because this journey is all about savoring the scenery.

The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

Spanning 5,772 miles and crossing eight time zones, the Trans-Siberian Railway is the ultimate epic train journey. From the golden domes of Moscow to the vast wilderness of Siberia and the shores of Lake Baikal, this route offers a mesmerizing mix of cultures and landscapes. Opt for the Trans-Mongolian branch to witness the Gobi Desert’s stark beauty or the Trans-Manchurian for a glimpse of rural China. Whether you take a week or break it into segments, this is a trip that stays with you forever.

The Flåm Railway, Norway

Short but spectacular, Norway’s Flåm Railway covers just 12 miles, yet it’s one of the steepest standard-gauge lines in the world. Starting at the Aurlandsfjord, the train climbs through lush valleys, past cascading waterfalls like the Kjosfossen, and up to the Myrdal mountain station. The descent offers dizzying views of fjords and cliffs—a perfect prelude to a Norwegian cruise.

The Blue Train, South Africa

Luxury meets wild beauty aboard The Blue Train, which runs between Pretoria and Cape Town. As you glide past the Karoo desert’s vast plains and the Hex River Valley’s vineyards, you’ll be treated to gourmet meals and five-star service. The train’s large windows frame South Africa’s diverse landscapes, from golden savannas to dramatic mountain passes.

Final Thoughts

Train journeys like these remind us that travel isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the stories we collect along the way. Whether you’re gazing at Swiss Alps, Canadian glaciers, or Siberian steppes, these routes prove that the world’s most stunning views are best enjoyed at a slower pace. So next time you plan a trip, consider trading a boarding pass for a train ticket—you might just find that the ride is the highlight.