Best Scenic Railways in the World

Traveling by train offers a unique and immersive way to experience a country’s landscapes. Scenic railways provide breathtaking views, often traversing through regions that are otherwise inaccessible by road. In this article, we'll explore some of the world's most stunning railways, each offering a distinctive journey through spectacular scenery.

1. Glacier Express, Switzerland

The Glacier Express is a renowned scenic railway that connects Zermatt and St. Moritz, two famous Swiss resort towns. This train journey spans approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) and takes about eight hours to complete. Passengers are treated to panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, including the Matterhorn and the Rhine Gorge. The route crosses 291 bridges, passes through 91 tunnels, and reaches an altitude of 2,033 meters (6,670 feet) at the Oberalp Pass.

Highlights:

• Alpine Scenery: Majestic mountain landscapes and picturesque villages.
• Luxurious Comfort: Modern amenities with large panoramic windows.
• Culinary Experience: Gourmet meals served in an elegant dining car.

2. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxurious train service that traverses the Canadian Rockies. It operates several routes, with the most popular being between Vancouver and Calgary. The journey covers around 1,200 kilometers (746 miles) and showcases dramatic mountain scenery, pristine lakes, and vibrant wildlife. Passengers can choose between the GoldLeaf Service, which offers a dome coach with panoramic views, and the SilverLeaf Service, with spacious seats and excellent meal service.

Highlights:

• Breathtaking Views: Scenic highlights include the Spiral Tunnels and the Fraser River Canyon.
• First-Class Service: Luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining.
• Wildlife Sightings: Possible sightings of bears, eagles, and other wildlife.

3. Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy

The Bernina Express runs between Chur in Switzerland and Tirano in Italy, covering a distance of 122 kilometers (76 miles). This railway is famous for crossing the Alps and offers some of the most spectacular views in Europe. The route includes a crossing of the Bernina Pass at 2,253 meters (7,359 feet) and features the stunning Landwasser Viaduct, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Highlights:

• Alpine and Mediterranean Landscapes: Diverse scenery from snowy peaks to lush vineyards.
• Historic Engineering: The Bernina Line is known for its impressive engineering feats.
• Cultural Experience: Journey through Swiss and Italian cultural landscapes.

4. The Ghan, Australia

The Ghan is an iconic railway that stretches from Adelaide to Darwin, covering approximately 2,979 kilometers (1,851 miles). Named after the Afghan camel drivers who helped explore Australia’s outback, the train journey provides an extraordinary experience of the Australian desert and outback. Passengers can witness the changing landscapes from the red sands of the Outback to the lush greenery of the Top End.

Highlights:

• Outback Adventure: Experience Australia’s diverse landscapes and remote regions.
• Luxury and Comfort: High-end accommodations and dining options.
• Unique Experiences: Excursions and activities in key stops like Alice Springs and Katherine.

5. Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the longest railway journeys in the world, spanning about 9,289 kilometers (5,772 miles) from Moscow to Vladivostok. This epic journey takes passengers across Russia’s vast and varied landscapes, from the forests of Siberia to the steppes and the shores of Lake Baikal. The journey can be taken in various segments, allowing travelers to experience different parts of Russia.

Highlights:

• Epic Journey: Cross the entirety of Russia’s diverse landscapes.
• Cultural Insights: Interaction with various ethnic groups and local cultures.
• Historical Significance: Experience a vital part of Russia’s history and infrastructure.

6. The Glacier Express, Norway

Norway’s Glacier Express, not to be confused with its Swiss namesake, offers a picturesque journey from Oslo to Bergen. This railway route passes through stunning fjord landscapes, dramatic mountain scenery, and quaint Norwegian villages. It’s renowned for its striking contrasts between the fjords and the highland plateaus.

Highlights:

• Fjord Views: Marvel at Norway’s famous fjords and rugged coastline.
• Scenic Varieties: A diverse range of landscapes, including lakes and forests.
• Historical and Modern Blend: Experience the blend of historic sites and modern amenities.

7. The West Highland Line, Scotland

The West Highland Line connects Glasgow to Mallaig, a journey of about 165 kilometers (102 miles). This railway is famed for its stunning views of Scotland’s rugged Highlands, including the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, which featured in the Harry Potter films. The route offers spectacular vistas of lochs, mountains, and coastal scenery.

Highlights:

• Scottish Highlands: Breathtaking highland scenery and historic sites.
• Film Locations: Famous locations from the Harry Potter series.
• Traditional Charm: Experience the charm of traditional Scottish railway travel.

8. The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland

Operating on the West Highland Line, the Jacobite Steam Train is a nostalgic journey that mimics the steam trains of the past. This journey between Fort William and Mallaig offers dramatic views of the Scottish Highlands and is a favorite among Harry Potter fans for its role as the Hogwarts Express.

Highlights:

• Historic Steam Train: Enjoy a nostalgic experience on a classic steam locomotive.
• Scenic Beauty: Pass through some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes.
• Cultural Experience: A taste of historic railway travel.

9. The Blue Train, South Africa

The Blue Train offers a luxurious journey between Pretoria and Cape Town, covering approximately 1,600 kilometers (994 miles). This train is known for its opulent interiors and exceptional service. Passengers can enjoy gourmet meals, fine wines, and spectacular views of South Africa’s diverse landscapes, from the semi-desert Karoo to the lush Cape Winelands.

Highlights:

• Luxury and Elegance: World-class accommodations and dining.
• Scenic Diversity: Experience a range of South African landscapes.
• Historic Prestige: Travel on one of Africa’s most iconic trains.

10. The Indian Pacific, Australia

The Indian Pacific traverses the entire width of Australia, from Sydney to Perth, covering about 4,352 kilometers (2,704 miles). This railway journey crosses the Nullarbor Plain and showcases Australia’s diverse landscapes, from coastal regions to arid deserts.

Highlights:

• Cross-Country Journey: Experience Australia’s vast and varied terrain.
• Unique Features: The journey includes the world’s longest straight stretch of railway.
• Comfort and Service: Enjoy high levels of comfort and service throughout the trip.

Conclusion

These scenic railways offer more than just transportation—they provide a window into some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences. Whether you’re traversing the Alps, exploring the Canadian Rockies, or venturing across the Australian outback, each journey promises a unique and memorable adventure.

By choosing one of these spectacular railways, you’re not just taking a trip; you’re embarking on an unforgettable journey through some of the planet’s most stunning scenery.