Top 5 Scenic Train Routes Around the World to Experience
- 1. Glacier Express: The Swiss Alps
- 2. Rocky Mountaineer: Canadian Rockies
- 3. The Blue Train: South Africa
- 4. The Himalayan Queen: India
- 5. Norwegian Coastal Voyage: Norway
1. Glacier Express: The Swiss Alps
One of the most iconic scenic train routes, the Glacier Express, takes you through the breathtaking Swiss Alps. This luxury train journey offers panoramic views of majestic snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and picturesque Swiss villages. Whether it's the crisp winter or the vibrant summer, the Glacier Express promises a surreal journey across some of the most stunning landscapes in Europe. Passengers can sit in glass-domed carriages, offering an unobstructed view of the Alps. As the train moves from Zermatt to St. Moritz, the route crosses over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, providing an unforgettable adventure.
2. Rocky Mountaineer: Canadian Rockies
Spanning over 3,000 miles through the Canadian Rockies, the Rocky Mountaineer offers one of the best scenic train rides in the world. This journey takes travelers through rugged mountain landscapes, alpine lakes, and lush forests, with breathtaking views of Canada’s natural beauty. Whether you're on the First Passage to the West route or the Rainforest to Gold Rush journey, the Rocky Mountaineer immerses passengers in the serene and awe-inspiring landscapes of Western Canada. Many travelers rave about the experience, highlighting the luxurious amenities, gourmet meals, and world-class service that accompany the journey.
3. The Blue Train: South Africa
The Blue Train is South Africa’s symbol of opulence and elegance, providing one of the most luxurious and scenic train experiences in the world. Traveling from Pretoria to Cape Town, the train offers passengers an opportunity to explore the African landscape in style. Along the way, passengers can take in views of South Africa’s vast plains, mountains, and deserts, experiencing the beauty of its diverse ecosystems. Inside, the Blue Train offers world-class amenities, including five-star accommodations and gourmet dining. For many, this is the ultimate way to experience the heart of Africa.
4. The Himalayan Queen: India
The Himalayan Queen train ride is a gem for those looking to combine history, culture, and scenic views in one journey. Operating in the northeastern region of India, this historic narrow-gauge train climbs up the misty hills of the Himalayan range. Along the way, passengers will experience stunning views of tea gardens, lush forests, and colonial architecture. The train, which operates between Kalka and Shimla, offers a nostalgic experience of a bygone era, with vintage-style coaches and a slower pace that allows travelers to soak in the mesmerizing landscapes.
5. Norwegian Coastal Voyage: Norway
Norway’s coastal railway offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe. Stretching along the rugged coastline, this scenic route provides passengers with views of deep fjords, pristine beaches, and towering mountains. The journey between Oslo and Bergen is particularly breathtaking, offering glimpses of Norway's iconic landscapes, including the famous Geiranger Fjord. The Norwegian Coastal Voyage is often complemented by a cruise, adding an extra layer of adventure to the trip as travelers glide through the scenic coastal waters.
