This guide introduces a selection of the world’s most breathtaking train routes. Whether it’s the camaraderie onboard, the chance to dine or sleep as steel wheels hum beneath you, or the unforgettable vistas that unfold through enormous windows — all combine into immersive journeys that offer a unique glimpse into a nation’s character and terrain. From remote high-altitude deserts to sweeping coastlines and historic landscapes, these rail trips are among the most unforgettable on Earth.
The Reunification Express, Vietnam
Winding over a thousand miles from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, this iconic route—also known as the North–South Railway—offers more than transport. It’s a living narrative of Vietnam’s transformation. Passing through vibrant cities, rural towns and coastal scenery, it immerses travellers in the country’s culture. The aged carriages, colourful local life at stations and changing scenery evoke a journey filled with atmosphere and national identity.
The California Zephyr, USA
Spanning nearly three days across the American heartland, this classic Amtrak service carries passengers from Chicago to San Francisco. Highlights include the rugged beauty of the Rockies and the sweeping vistas of the Sierra Nevada. Particularly impressive is the stretch between Denver and Glenwood Springs, where the route passes through narrow canyons and remote wilderness along the Colorado River. Every day brings a new landscape to look out on.
Lake Titicaca Railway, Peru
Operated by Perurail, this route flies across the high Andes from the shores of Lake Titicaca towards Cusco. Passengers can enjoy fine dining and scenic views from an open-air observatory car, peering out over plateau villages, grazing llamas and dramatic mountain plains. It combines cultural immersion with spectacular altitude and heritage landscapes.
Beijing–Lhasa Express, China
Connecting the modern megacity of Beijing with the ancient spiritual capital of Lhasa, the train climbs to nearly 16,400 ft as it ascends the Tibetan Plateau. Along the way, travellers encounter soaring peaks, fluttering prayer flags, grazing yaks, and remote communities. This route rises from urban sprawl to a high-altitude plateau in a journey through contrasting worlds.
The Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy
Crossing the Eastern Alps from Chur or St. Moritz to Tirano, this panoramic train travels through Swiss glacier valleys and over the dramatic spiral Brusio Viaduct into northern Italy. With oversized windows and commentary in multiple languages, it traces World Heritage landscapes at high elevations. Views of frozen lakes, majestic peaks, and alpine meadows fill every moment.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
Regarded as the world’s slowest express, this nearly eight-hour rail journey covers 291 km between Zermatt and St. Moritz or Chur. The route threads through 91 tunnels and crosses 291 bridges, climbing to the Oberalp Pass at over 2,000 m before descending into the Valais. Fare includes panoramic cars and restaurant service as you glide through the heart of the Swiss Alps and UNESCO listed Rhaetian Railway terrain.
The Ghan, Australia
This legendary rail trip connects Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north over about 54 hours. It pierces the red heart of central Australia, unveiling vast desert expanses, ochre plains and intimate encounters with Outback culture. Far from empty, the interior is rich with Indigenous history, unique flora and wildlife that bloom after rains.
The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
Daily service between Christchurch and Greymouth takes passengers over the Southern Alps, descending through lush valleys to the West Coast’s rugged shores. Mountains, glaciers, rivers and farm country unfurl outside the window on a journey hailed by travellers and media alike as one of the finest train rides in the world.
Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
Originally launched in the early 1990s between Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Bangkok, this luxurious train was relaunched in February 2024. Now operating through Malaysia and southern Thailand (and occasionally into Laos), it delivers opulent carriages, gourmet dining, and scenery that alternates between tropical greenery, rivers, rice paddies and colonial-era towns over multiple days aboard an elegant vintage-style service.
Maharajas’ Express, India
The pinnacle of luxury rail travel, this Indian train runs chiefly through Rajasthan and central regions on seasonal itineraries. Often compared with legendary Orient Express service, it has won multiple awards as the world’s leading luxury train. The route blends heritage architecture, palatial hotels, royal palaces and dining with fine cuisine as you journey through India’s rich cultural regions from October to April.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Offering premium scenic trips in British Columbia and Alberta—and occasionally into the U.S.—this celebrated rail tour company delivers glass domed observation cars, gourmet meals and deluxe service. Routes wind through pristine mountain wilderness, rivers and valleys. Recognised repeatedly as the world’s top train experience, it’s ideal for travelers seeking comfort and dramatic nature.
Final Overview
Each of these train routes exemplifies the magic that rail travel can offer—whether through sweeping panoramas, cultural immersion, historic paths or luxury experience. From high mountain passes and remote deserts to vibrant cities and serene lakesides, these journeys provide more than transport—they invite you to explore the story of a place at a pace that allows connection and discovery.
