Embarking on a scenic train journey offers a unique opportunity to experience some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes from the comfort of a railway carriage. Whether you’re traversing snow-capped mountains, winding through lush valleys, or gliding alongside serene fjords, these train journeys provide a harmonious blend of adventure and relaxation. With updated routes and destinations that highlight the best of both classic and modern travel experiences, let’s explore the most iconic and unforgettable train journeys across the globe.
The Bergen Line, Norway
The Bergen Line is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery, traversing from Oslo to Bergen. The journey includes views of fjords, forests, and the Hardangerjøkulen glacier. A notable highlight is the transfer at Myrdal station to the Flåm Line, which descends through some of Norway’s most breathtaking nature.
The Flåm Line, Norway
Despite its brief duration of about one hour, the Flåm Line captivates travelers with its steep journey from Myrdal station down to the village of Flåm, located in the innermost part of the Aurlandsfjord. The route features dramatic waterfalls, rivers, valleys, and mountains, epitomizing Norwegian nature.
The Dovre Line, Norway
Connecting Oslo to Trondheim, the Dovre Line offers a seven-hour ride through Gudbrandsdalen, Rondane, and Dovrefjell, passing through some of Norway’s stunning national parks. The journey includes views of Lake Mjøsa and the opportunity to spot wildlife such as musk oxen.
The Rauma Line, Norway
The Rauma Line is celebrated for its dramatic scenery, including the Romsdalen valley, the Trollveggen rock face, and the unique Kylling bridge. The 114-kilometer journey from Bjorli to Åndalsnes is considered one of Norway’s most beautiful stretches.
The Røros Line, Norway
As Norway’s oldest main line, the Røros Line connects Hamar and Trondheim through the wilderness and forests of Østerdalen, continuing to the UNESCO-listed mining town of Røros. The five-hour journey offers the chance to spot wildlife such as moose and bears.
The Nordland Line, Norway
Spanning 729 kilometers between Trondheim and Bodø, the Nordland Line is Norway’s longest railway line. The journey crosses the Arctic Circle and offers views of coastal scenery, inland towns, and high mountain stretches. The night train journey has been named one of the world’s most beautiful by Lonely Planet.
The Ofoten Line, Norway
Norway’s northernmost train line, the Ofoten Line, takes you from Narvik by the Ofotfjord through a historic landscape with views of fjords, jagged mountain peaks, and waterfalls. The journey to the Swedish border takes about an hour and offers connections to destinations in Europe.
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Known as the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express offers a scenic journey through the Swiss Alps, passing through quaint villages, vineyards, and deep gorges. The route showcases majestic landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and pristine lakes.
The Bernina Express, Switzerland
The Bernina Express takes passengers on a breathtaking ride through UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes, showcasing the beauty of the Swiss Alps. The journey includes panoramic views of mountains, glaciers, and viaducts.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer offers luxury train journeys through Western Canada, with routes that pass through the Canadian Rockies, providing views of snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and turquoise lakes. The train features glass-domed coaches for optimal viewing.
The Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
This opulent sleeper train travels between Singapore and Penang, Malaysia, with stops at Kuala Lumpur and the Langkawi archipelago. The journey offers luxurious accommodations and views of Southeast Asia’s diverse landscapes.
The European Sleeper, Europe
Launched in May 2024, the European Sleeper runs between Brussels and Berlin, with stops in Antwerp, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam. The line is set to extend to Dresden and Prague, offering a convenient and scenic overnight travel option in Europe.
The Nightjet, Europe
Nightjet connects more than 25 cities across Europe and has reinstated overnight rail service between Berlin and Paris after a nine-year hiatus. The service offers comfortable overnight travel with scenic views of European landscapes.
The Coast Starlight, USA
The Coast Starlight is a daily route between Los Angeles and Seattle, passing through Santa Barbara, the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and Portland. The journey offers views of the Pacific Ocean coastline and the Cascade Range.
The Virginia Scenic Railway, USA
The Virginia Scenic Railway offers excursions such as the Alleghany Special and the Blue Ridge Flyer, departing from the historic Amtrak Staunton station in Virginia. The journeys provide scenic views of the Virginia landscape, including mountains and forests.
These train journeys provide travelers with unparalleled views of some of the most beautiful landscapes around the world, combining the romance of rail travel with the allure of scenic exploration.