Is This the Most Beautiful Train Ride in the World?

There’s something magical about scenic train travel. From the moment the train pulls away from the station and starts snaking through mountains, valleys, and storybook villages, you know you’re in for something extraordinary. For years, travelers have argued about which route holds the title of “the world’s most beautiful train ride.” Is it the legendary Glacier Express in Switzerland?

The West Highland Line through the wilds of Scotland? Or perhaps one of those lesser-known journeys winding through forests, lakes, and cliffs? If you’re chasing adventure, postcard views, and a real taste of slow travel, nothing beats the unforgettable experience of scenic train travel.

The Timeless Allure of Scenic Train Travel

Scenic train travel isn’t just about getting from point A to B. It’s about the thrill of anticipation as you board, the gentle sway of the carriages, and the mesmerizing landscapes that unfold outside your window. While air travel is efficient and buses are budget-friendly, train journeys have a nostalgic charm that’s hard to beat. The world slows down. Suddenly, the journey becomes just as meaningful as the destination.

For many, scenic train travel offers the perfect escape from daily routines. If you’re searching for adventure without draining your savings, check out these smart ways to explore the world on a budget while riding the rails. There’s a sense of freedom in watching towns and cities fade into wilderness.

The Most Beautiful Train Routes: An Overview

So, what makes a route worthy of the “most beautiful” label? It’s a combination of raw, natural beauty and dramatic landscapes—plus a little touch of magic. The best scenic train travel routes wind their way through breathtaking mountain passes, alongside sparkling lakes, across ancient bridges, and past charming towns that look like they were lifted straight from a fairy tale.

Here are a few routes that frequently top the “scenic train travel” lists around the globe. For even more jaw-dropping ideas, check out these epic destinations that deserve a spot on every traveler’s bucket list:

• The Glacier Express, Switzerland
• The West Highland Line, Scotland
• The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
• The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
• The Flam Railway, Norway
• The Bernina Express, Switzerland to Italy
• The Maharajas’ Express, India

Each route offers something different, but all provide that spine-tingling sensation that only comes from truly great scenic train travel.

The Glacier Express: The Crown Jewel of Scenic Train Travel

Let’s start with a legend. The Glacier Express is a name that’s practically synonymous with scenic train travel. Nicknamed the “slowest express train in the world,” it journeys between Zermatt and St. Moritz, passing through 91 tunnels and across 291 bridges. What makes it so special? The ever-changing Alpine panorama. The Glacier Express is regularly featured among National Geographic’s best train trips in the world, showcasing its blend of comfort, romance, and sweeping Alpine panoramas.

Picture this: snow-dusted peaks, impossibly deep valleys, tiny villages clinging to hillsides, and sparkling rivers twisting far below. Every window frames a new masterpiece. There’s a reason seasoned travelers call the Glacier Express the gold standard in scenic train travel.

It’s not just the views—though they are showstoppers. The onboard experience is just as memorable. Order a glass of wine, settle into your plush seat, and watch the world unfold at a pace that feels just right. If you want to experience the heart of Switzerland, scenic train travel doesn’t get much better than this.

The West Highland Line: Wild Scotland by Rail

If your dream version of scenic train travel includes misty mountains, lochs that look straight out of a fantasy novel, and a dash of historic mystery, then the West Highland Line in Scotland is for you. This famous route runs from Glasgow to the fishing port of Mallaig, crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct—yes, the same bridge made famous by Harry Potter.

What makes the West Highland Line so unique is its sense of wilderness. The farther you travel, the more remote and rugged the scenery becomes. One minute you’re surrounded by dense forests, the next by sweeping moors and dramatic cliffs. It’s a visual feast. If you’ve ever wanted to lose yourself in the heart of the Highlands, this is scenic train travel at its best.

The Rocky Mountaineer: Canada’s Great Wilderness

North America’s answer to the world’s great rail journeys is the Rocky Mountaineer, winding its way through the wild heart of Western Canada. This isn’t just scenic train travel—it’s an epic adventure, complete with glass-domed carriages and gourmet meals.

The Rocky Mountaineer runs several routes, but the most famous connects Vancouver to Banff or Jasper, climbing through the Canadian Rockies. Think turquoise lakes, tumbling waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and forests so dense they seem impenetrable. Wildlife sightings are common—keep an eye out for bears, elk, and eagles.

What really sets the Rocky Mountaineer apart is the luxury. Scenic train travel here comes with white tablecloths, attentive service, and fascinating commentary about the history and nature flashing by outside. If you want to experience the grandeur of Canada without lifting a finger, this is the way to go.

The TranzAlpine: Crossing New Zealand’s South Island

Few countries do scenery quite like New Zealand, and the TranzAlpine train is the perfect showcase. This iconic route slices straight across the South Island, linking Christchurch on the east coast with Greymouth on the west.

On this journey, scenic train travel means watching everything from rolling farmland and river gorges to dense rainforest and snowy peaks. The Otira Tunnel, a marvel of 19th-century engineering, takes you right through the heart of the Southern Alps. By the time you reach the wild West Coast, you’ll understand why this route is considered one of the best for scenic train travel anywhere on Earth.

The Bernina Express: From Glaciers to Palms

Europe does scenic train travel like nowhere else, and the Bernina Express might just be its most dramatic ride. Linking Chur in Switzerland with Tirano in Italy, this UNESCO World Heritage route traverses a landscape that seems almost unreal.

You’ll climb over the Bernina Pass, passing glaciers so close you can almost touch them. Then, as the train descends into Italy, the landscape shifts dramatically—snow and ice give way to lush vineyards and sunlit valleys. It’s a jaw-dropping transformation, all experienced from the comfort of your seat.

The Bernina Express is proof that scenic train travel isn’t just about the destination—it’s about savoring every moment in between.

Why Travelers Fall in Love with Scenic Train Travel

Ask any fan of scenic train travel what keeps them coming back, and you’ll hear some familiar themes. First, there’s the comfort—there’s something deeply satisfying about being able to stretch your legs, walk around, and even enjoy a meal while you’re moving. No cramped airline seats or long security lines.

Second, the windows are your own personal cinema. Instead of catching a fleeting glimpse of mountains from a car or airplane, scenic train travel lets you drink in every detail. Trains glide along routes that often aren’t accessible by road, cutting through untouched wilderness, high passes, and river valleys.

Third, it’s about community. Scenic train travel tends to attract fellow travelers who are equally excited about the journey, not just the endpoint. If you’re a remote worker or looking to work while you wander, these digital nomad resources can help you make the most of every mile.

What to Pack for the Ultimate Scenic Train Travel Experience

Planning a scenic train travel adventure? Packing can make or break your journey, but there are clever ways to get the most out of your trip. Don’t miss these travel hacks to travel smarter and more comfortably.

Here are a few essentials to make the most of your time on the rails:

• Layers: Weather can change dramatically on long routes, especially when crossing mountains or passing through tunnels.
• Camera or smartphone: You’ll want to capture those unforgettable vistas!
• Snacks and water: Even if meals are served, it’s always good to have a backup.
• A good book: Perfect for downtime between highlights.
• Travel journal: Scenic train travel inspires reflection. Jot down your impressions as you go.
• Binoculars: Especially handy for spotting wildlife or distant peaks.

Most importantly, bring an open mind. Scenic train travel is about letting go, enjoying the moment, and seeing the world in a new light.

Making the Most of Your Scenic Train Travel

To truly appreciate scenic train travel, slow down. Resist the urge to document every single moment. Sometimes the most magical memories are those you simply sit back and enjoy. Talk to your fellow travelers, listen to the stories told by staff, and take in the shifting colors and moods of the landscape outside.

If your journey offers the option, upgrade to a panoramic carriage or book a seat with extra-large windows. For overnight routes, consider splurging on a sleeper cabin—the luxury of falling asleep and waking up to fresh scenery is unbeatable.

Remember, scenic train travel is about the journey, not just the destination. Savor every mile.

Unusual Scenic Train Travel Routes Worth Discovering

While the world-famous lines get most of the press, there are dozens of lesser-known routes where scenic train travel truly shines. Some hidden gems include:

• The Qinghai-Tibet Railway, China: The world’s highest train line, climbing over 5,000 meters above sea level, with views of wild plateaus and snow-capped mountains.
• The Reunification Express, Vietnam: Travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City and watch as cityscapes give way to emerald rice paddies and dramatic coastline.
• The Andean Explorer, Peru: Wind through the high Andes, from Cusco to Lake Titicaca, with ancient ruins and colorful villages along the way.
• The Ghan, Australia: Cross the continent from Darwin to Adelaide—red deserts, tropical savannahs, and star-filled skies await.

For more unforgettable routes from Vietnam’s Reunification Express to New Zealand’s TranzAlpine, check out Lonely Planet’s guide to the world’s most amazing train journeys and start planning your next epic rail adventure.

The Sustainable Side of Scenic Train Travel

With the world more conscious than ever about sustainable travel, scenic train travel is having a renaissance. Trains generally have a smaller carbon footprint than planes or cars, especially when running on electricity or other green energy sources. You can cover vast distances with less guilt, all while enjoying an up-close look at the world outside.

Scenic train travel also supports local economies—many routes run through rural communities that benefit from tourism. By choosing to travel by rail, you’re investing in experiences that are both memorable and responsible.

Why Scenic Train Travel Is More Than Just a Ride

In the end, the real magic of scenic train travel isn’t just the views—though those are unforgettable. It’s about slowing down, soaking up the world’s beauty, and remembering that travel is as much about the journey as the destination.

So, is this the most beautiful train ride in the world? Maybe. But really, the “best” scenic train travel is the one that makes your heart skip a beat, that lingers in your memory, and that reminds you why we wander in the first place.

Wrapping Up the World’s Most Beautiful Train Rides

If you’ve ever daydreamed about embarking on an adventure where the journey itself steals the show, scenic train travel is your ticket. There’s no rush, no stress—just the steady rhythm of the rails and the ever-changing show outside your window.

Whether you pick the Glacier Express, the West Highland Line, the Rocky Mountaineer, or a hidden gem halfway across the world, you’re guaranteed more than just a ride. You’re signing up for a moving panorama, a reminder of the beauty that lies just beyond the next bend. So, grab your ticket, settle in, and let scenic train travel change the way you see the world. The most beautiful train ride might just be the next one you take.

Ready to start your own adventure? Head to Viral Voyage for more travel inspiration, guides, and tips to plan your next scenic train travel journey!