From the Swiss Alps to the Canadian Rockies, these are seven of the most thrilling train journeys worth taking at some point in your life.
Traveling by train has a charm all its own. It is the kind of trip you choose if the journey captivates you more than the destination itself. Enchanting landscapes unfold one after another, offering scenes that stay with you, while the luxurious carriages make the travel experience even more special. From the Highlands of Scotland and the Swiss Alps to the Rocky Mountains of Canada, these are some of the most thrilling train journeys you can take around the world.
Venice Simplon-Orient Express, Europe
The original Orient Express made its first journey in 1883, departing from Paris for Vienna, and a few years later it reached Constantinople. The legendary train carried kings and princes, spies and diplomats, inspired writers and filmmakers and became synonymous with luxury travel. Today, you can turn back time to the 20s by traveling aboard the spectacular Venice Simplon-Orient Express. Beyond the famous Paris-Constantinople route, the trainalso operates other wonderful routes, such asLondon-Venice. The luxurious cabins with vintage aesthetics,the grand suites offering five-star comfortsand haute cuisine make the experience even more compelling. See more here.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express, the slowest express train, as it takes about 8 hours to cross the 290 kilometers between the famous mountain resorts of Switzerland, Zermatt and St. Moritz, is one of the loveliest and most relaxing ways to enjoy the enchanting scenery of the Swiss Alps. The Glacier Express passes striking alpine meadows, mountain lakes and picturesque villages, crossing 91 tunnels and 291 bridges. See more here.
The Bergen Line, Norway
The 500-kilometer route by train that links the two largest cities of Norway, Oslo and Bergen, is among the worlds most scenic, passing through landscapes of unique beauty, fjords, glaciers and snow-capped mountain peaks. The railway line opened in 1909 and remains one of the most impressive worldwide. The journey lasts about seven hours.
West Highland Line, Scotland
The West Highland Line in the Scottish Highlands, which connects the ports of Mallaig and Oban on the west coast of Scotland, is considered the most scenic in Britain and one of the finest train journeys in the world. The most beautiful part of the route is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, one of the worlds most famous railway bridges, known from the Harry Potter films. See more here
Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express, Russia
The 9,300-kilometer journey along the worlds longest railway, in the heart of the vast Russian land, is a once-in-a-lifetime dream for many travelers. With the Golden Eagle train, you can experience it in luxury. The magical route that connects Moscow with Vladivostok passes through eight different time zones, offering unique scenes of Siberias rivers, dense forests, Lake Baikal and the endless steppe. See more here.
The Ghan, Australia
A journey on the Ghan is perhaps one of the best ways to get to know Australia. The route from Adelaide to Darwin lasts three nights and four days and includes excursions in Katherine, Alice Springs and Coober Pedy. Crossing nearly 3,000 kilometers of Australian desert, you will see otherworldly rock formations and spectacular landscapes that will never leave your memory. See more here.
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The most famous railway line in Canada follows the historic route of 19th-century explorers from Vancouver to the town of Banff, offering unique views. The route through the Rocky Mountains passes through beautiful landscapes, snow-capped mountains, dramatic canyons and frozen lakes on an unforgettable journey of exploration that lasts two days. In fact, travelers have the option to enjoy the stunning scenery from a two-level carriage with a glass dome. See more here.
