The Best Train Routes for Stunning Landscapes

27 December 2025

There’s something magical about train travel. The rhythmic clatter of wheels on rails, the ever-changing view outside your window, and the slow, soothing pace make it one of the best ways to experience a destination. And if you're a fan of breathtaking scenery, you’re in for a treat! Some train routes around the world take you through landscapes so stunning they feel like scenes straight out of a movie.

So, grab a window seat and get ready to embark on a virtual journey through some of the most scenic train routes on the planet.

1. The Glacier Express – Switzerland

If there’s one train ride that deserves the title of "the world's most scenic route," it’s the Glacier Express. Dubbed the "slowest express train in the world," this 8-hour journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz takes you through the heart of the Swiss Alps.

Why It's Special:

- Towering snow-capped peaks
- Deep gorges and picturesque valleys
- 291 bridges and 91 tunnels
- The iconic Landwasser Viaduct

The panoramic windows of the Glacier Express ensure that you don’t miss a single moment of the breathtaking Swiss landscape. Whether it’s crossing the Rhine Gorge (often called the "Swiss Grand Canyon") or gliding past quaint alpine villages, this ride is pure magic.

2. The Trans-Siberian Railway – Russia

The Trans-Siberian Railway isn’t just a train journey—it’s an epic adventure. Stretching over 9,000 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok, it’s the longest railway line in the world!

Why It's Special:

- Endless Siberian forests and remote, frozen landscapes
- Stunning views of Lake Baikal (the world’s deepest lake)
- The mystical Ural Mountains, marking the division between Europe and Asia

If you love vast, untouched landscapes, this train ride is a bucket-list must. And the best part? You can hop off along the way and experience different cultures, from the historic streets of Kazan to the Mongolian desert.

3. The Rocky Mountaineer – Canada

Canada’s Rocky Mountains are breathtaking, but experiencing them from the comfort of a luxury train? That’s next-level amazing. The Rocky Mountaineer is a glass-domed train that takes you through the most jaw-dropping scenery of British Columbia and Alberta.

Why It's Special:

- Glacier-fed lakes and dense pine forests
- Majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies
- The dramatic Spiral Tunnels and the Hell's Gate Canyon

With gourmet dining and impeccable service, this isn’t just a train ride—it’s a first-class experience. If you’ve ever wanted to see Canada’s wild beauty up close, this is the way to do it.

4. The West Highland Line – Scotland

Picture yourself riding through misty moors, past ancient castles, and over dramatic viaducts. That’s exactly what you get on Scotland’s West Highland Line.

Why It's Special:

- The famous Glenfinnan Viaduct (yes, the one from Harry Potter!)
- Rugged coastline and remote highland landscapes
- Lochs, mountains, and endless rolling green hills

This train journey from Glasgow to Mallaig is like stepping into a Scottish fairytale. And if you’re lucky enough to catch a steam train service during the summer months, the experience becomes even more magical.

5. The Flåm Railway – Norway

Norway is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth, and the Flåm Railway offers a front-row seat. This short but spectacular journey takes you from the highlands of Myrdal to the fjords of Flåm in just about an hour—but trust me, it’s an hour you won’t forget.

Why It's Special:

- One of the steepest railway lines in the world
- Cascading waterfalls and towering cliffs
- The breathtaking Aurlandsfjord

This route gives you an up-close look at Norway’s rugged, natural beauty. And with frequent stops for pictures and sightseeing, it’s a photographer’s dream.

6. The Bergen Railway – Norway

If the Flåm Railway left you craving more Norwegian beauty, the Bergen Railway will satisfy your wanderlust. Running from Oslo to Bergen, this is one of Europe’s highest railways.

Why It's Special:

- Stunning views of the Hardangervidda plateau
- Snow-covered peaks and deep fjords
- Frequent sightings of reindeer and mountain wildlife

It's especially magical in winter when the entire landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland. That said, every season offers something special, making it worth the trip no matter when you visit.

7. The TranzAlpine – New Zealand

New Zealand’s South Island is often described as one of the most beautiful places in the world, and the TranzAlpine train ride ensures you see it from the best vantage point.

Why It's Special:

- Snow-dusted peaks of the Southern Alps
- The lush rainforests of Arthur’s Pass National Park
- Turquoise rivers and vast farmlands

This journey from Christchurch to Greymouth takes just under 5 hours, but the ever-changing scenery makes it feel like you’re traveling through multiple worlds in one go.

8. The Blue Train – South Africa

Luxury, elegance, and breathtaking scenery—that’s what the Blue Train is all about. Running between Pretoria and Cape Town, this isn’t just a train ride; it’s a five-star hotel on wheels.

Why It's Special:

- The golden grasslands of the Highveld
- The rugged beauty of the Karoo Desert
- Stunning views of Table Mountain as you approach Cape Town

With fine dining, luxurious suites, and impeccable service, this is one of the most glamorous train rides in the world. If you love train travel with a touch of opulence, this is a must-do.

9. The Ghan – Australia

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the vast, untamed beauty of the Australian Outback, The Ghan is the way to do it. Running from Darwin to Adelaide, this legendary train traverses the heart of Australia.

Why It's Special:

- The endless red deserts of the Outback
- Ancient Aboriginal sites and historic towns
- Ever-changing landscapes, from tropical north to arid south

This journey gives you a true taste of the Australian wilderness. And with gourmet meals and comfortable sleeper cabins, you can soak in the scenery in absolute comfort.

10. The Belmond Andean Explorer – Peru

Peru is known for its rich history and jaw-dropping landscapes, and the Belmond Andean Explorer lets you experience both in style. This luxury train takes you from Cusco to Arequipa, passing through the stunning Peruvian highlands.

Why It's Special:

- The Andes Mountains in all their glory
- The mesmerizing beauty of Lake Titicaca
- High-altitude vistas that seem almost otherworldly

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the Andes up close while sipping fine wine and enjoying gourmet cuisine, this train ride is your dream come true.

Final Thoughts

There’s no doubt that train travel offers a unique way to experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. Whether you’re weaving through the Swiss Alps, racing across the Australian Outback, or winding through Peruvian mountains, these routes offer scenery that will stay with you long after the journey ends.

So, the next time you’re planning a trip, ditch the plane and opt for a train—it’s slow travel at its absolute finest. Which of these stunning train routes would you love to take first?