3 Scenic Train Journeys That Turn the Trip Into the Destination

There’s something undeniably romantic about scenic train journeys.

The gentle sway of the carriage, the ever-changing views, and the slow, deliberate pace that lets you soak it all in—these moments remind us that travel isn’t just about the destination. It’s about the experience along the way. While planes may be faster and buses cheaper, nothing compares to watching mountains, coastlines, and countryside unfold outside your window as you glide toward your next adventure.

If you’re ready to fall in love with the rhythm of the rails, here are three unforgettable scenic train journeys where the trip itself is the highlight of your entire itinerary.

1. The Glacier Express, Switzerland

Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Duration: Around 8 hours

Nicknamed the slowest express train in the world, the Glacier Express isn’t about speed—it’s about spectacle. This train cuts across the Swiss Alps, offering sweeping views of valleys, snow-covered peaks, and quaint alpine villages that feel straight out of a storybook.

What makes this one of the world’s most iconic scenic train journeys? You’ll pass through 91 tunnels, cross 291 bridges, and climb to dizzying altitudes—all while relaxing in panoramic-view carriages. The train snakes along the Landwasser Viaduct and past the Oberalp Pass, both highlights that deserve a permanent place in your memory. Despite its luxury feel, this ride is doable even for those on a budget. If you’re planning a longer Europe trip and want to combine luxury with natural beauty, this route is worth the splurge.

Looking for more tips on smart, budget-friendly travel options? Check out Viral Voyage for travel inspiration that won’t drain your wallet.

And if you’re a photographer or content creator, the Glacier Express is a dream. Every twist of the track reveals a new postcard-worthy scene—ideal for both seasoned pros and casual Instagrammers.

2. The TranzAlpine, New Zealand

Route: Christchurch to Greymouth
Duration: Just under 5 hours

The South Island of New Zealand is known for its dramatic landscapes—and the TranzAlpine delivers all of them in under five hours. This is one of those scenic train journeys where you’ll want to put your camera down (briefly) and just absorb the majesty of the terrain.

You’ll roll past the Canterbury Plains, into the Southern Alps, and through the Otira Tunnel. Along the way, you’ll witness everything from river gorges and beech forests to glacier-fed streams and snow-dusted summits. What makes this train experience extra unique is the open-air viewing carriage. Wind in your hair, fresh alpine air in your lungs, and uninterrupted views in every direction—it’s the kind of freedom you can’t replicate behind a car windshield or airplane porthole.

Need tips for maximizing the experience? Viral Voyage offers smart ways to book the TranzAlpine affordably, including how to sync it with campervan rentals and hiking trails.

Digital nomads looking for unique, offbeat workspaces will also love stopping in Greymouth—a small town with surprisingly cozy cafés and reliable Wi-Fi. If that’s your scene, explore more on digital nomad tips.

3. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Route: Vancouver to Banff (via Kamloops)
Duration: 2 days (overnight in Kamloops)

If luxury travel is your thing, the Rocky Mountaineer will exceed expectations. This is not just one of the most scenic train journeys in North America—it’s one of the most lavish.

The train doesn’t run at night so you don’t miss a single view. Instead, you stay overnight in a hotel arranged by the company. By day, you’ll be mesmerized by British Columbia’s rainforests, river canyons, and the towering peaks of the Canadian Rockies. From Vancouver’s urban shoreline to the turquoise lakes near Banff, this route feels like a nature documentary brought to life. Think elk grazing near the tracks, mist rising over the Fraser River, and glassy mountain lakes reflecting pine-covered slopes.

Meals onboard are gourmet-level, and the two-story glass-dome coaches offer unobstructed views of everything outside—and sometimes above. It’s truly one of those scenic train journeys that feels designed to slow you down and make you present. Yes, it’s pricey. But if you save up for just one major splurge on a trip across Canada, make it this. It’s perfect for honeymooners, retirees, or anyone who wants their vacation to begin before arrival.

Why Scenic Train Journeys Are Worth the Hype

Let’s face it—traveling can be exhausting. Flights are stressful, layovers drag, and road trips sometimes turn into six-hour playlists of potholes and missed turns. Scenic train journeys offer something better: a rare chance to actually enjoy the in-between moments.

There’s no TSA shuffle, no fasten-seatbelt signs interrupting your leg stretch. It’s just you, the landscape, and time that finally feels unrushed. For those of us who see travel as more than a checklist of places, these routes turn movement into magic. And in a world obsessed with getting there fast, there’s something beautifully rebellious about enjoying the ride instead.

Curious how to choose the right route without blowing your budget? This on a budget guide section breaks down planning strategies that still let you travel in style.

Other Scenic Train Journeys Worth Noting

While the Glacier Express, TranzAlpine, and Rocky Mountaineer steal the show, they’re just the beginning. The world is full of equally jaw-dropping rail rides, like:

• The West Highland Line (Scotland): Cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films.
• The Blue Train (South Africa): A luxurious route from Pretoria to Cape Town, often described as a five-star hotel on wheels.
• Kuranda Scenic Railway (Australia): Ride through tropical rainforest between Cairns and Kuranda, with waterfalls just feet from the track.

Each of these scenic train journeys reveals a different side of our planet—whether it’s jungle, savanna, or moorland. And if your goal is to capture unforgettable content or just escape the chaos of modern transit, a well-timed rail trip might be your answer.

Tips for Enjoying Train Travel to the Fullest

Here’s how to make the most of scenic train journeys, whether you’re in Switzerland, New Zealand, or Canada:

• Book early: Popular routes fill up fast, especially in summer and fall.
• Sit on the right side: Some journeys offer better views on one side of the train. Do your research in advance.
• Pack snacks and water: Even luxury rides can have long gaps between meals.
• Bring a power bank: Outlet access can vary by train class or country.
• Don’t rely solely on Wi-Fi: Signal drops are common in mountains and tunnels—download books, maps, or playlists beforehand.

Need more tips like this? Visit the travel hacks section of Viral Voyage.

The Magic Is in the Motion

Scenic train journeys remind us why we travel: to see, to feel, and to slow down. In a world rushing to arrive, these routes invite us to pause. Whether you’re crossing snow-covered Alps, winding through jungle gorges, or tracing rivers beneath the Rockies, each trip is a reminder that the journey itself can be the destination. Next time you’re planning your travel itinerary, maybe skip the red-eye flight or the stressful bus ride. Instead, consider letting the world come to you—one window at a time.