In our fast-paced world full of hustle and bustle, today's travel is all about how to get from point A to point B as quickly and inexpensively as possible. Unfortunately, that means that we're now missing out on some of the more relaxing and enjoyable forms of travel including train travel.
If you're feeling a little nostalgic or are looking to see some scenery in places off the beaten trail, traveling by train may be just the perfect idea for your next adventure. Trains are such a relaxing, comfortable and easy way to travel over long stretches of land and they offer a perspective like no other. Let's also not forget how luxurious and spectacular many of these trains are onboard – like 5-star hotels on wheels.
So if you're ready to slow down, relax and see a whole new world, it's time to check out some of the greatest train trips on the planet. We'll leave it up to you to decide where in the world you'd like to take next incredible journey.
The Grand Hibernian, Ireland
The first luxury rail experience of its kind in Ireland. The Belmond Grand Hibernian traverses the sprawling countryside, dramatic coasts, and fascinating cities that define this captivating land.
Via The Belmond
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Within the unique world of rail travel, the Rocky Mountaineer is so much more than just a train. It's the key to unlocking a hidden world of unparalleled beauty as you carve through otherwise inaccessible terrain in the Canadian Rockies. And your job aboard our all-dome fleet? To indulge in the most luxurious journey you've ever experienced.
Tren Crucero, Ecuador
Experience the wonders of Ecuador on board Tren Crucero, recognized as the Leading Luxury Train in South America in 2014, 2015 and 2016. Modern, electric-diesel, and lovingly restored, antique steam locomotives pull a high-quality convoy of two luxury, Colonial and Republican-style themed passenger cars carrying just fifty passengers, to ensure personalized service for all.
Via Tren Ecuador
The GoldenPass, Switzerland
The GoldenPass Panoramic train which travels the 190-kilometre route between the Swiss cities of Montreux and Lucerne is instantly recognizable by its glittering golden and white livery. The train is as beautiful from the inside as it is from the outside. Light and spacious carriages offer comfortable armchair-style seating beside vast panoramic windows which continue into the train's ceiling.
Via Great Trail
The Ghan, Australia
Prepare for trip of unimaginable proportions as the legendary Ghan takes you deep into the heart of Australia. Enjoy the comfort and solitude of your private cabin, lose yourself in conversation with newfound traveling companions, or simply gaze out of the window taking inspiration from the ever changing landscape.
Saxony and the Harz Mountains
Journey to a genuine ‘Winter Wonderland’ in the heart of Germany. Fairytale castles, snow-capped hills, and moody forests add to the enchantment. Ride on the famed ‘little trains’ that circulate on the renowned narrow gauge networks of Saxony and the Harz Mountains. Experience the sights and sounds of mighty steam locomotives in the deep snow, as you journey to iconic locations like Drei Annen Hohne and Mount Brocken.
Via Railway Touring
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
This is the grande dame of luxury trains, simply the most glamorous, luxurious and thrilling service on the planet. Other superlatives abound. Here in magnificent Twenties art-deco carriages, is world-class service. It offers the finest haute cuisine freshly cooked on board, gorgeous alpine scenery, and, for the romantically-inclined, a piano bar for the evenings.
Via Belmond
The Hiram Bingham, Peru
From Poroy, near the ancient city of Cusco, to the Lost City of Machu Picchu, a trip on the Belmond Hiram Bingham takes you through the most romantic scenery in Peru. For many, a trip to Machu Picchu is a once in a lifetime experience. The Belmond Hiram Bingham assures a magical journey, never to be forgotten. Named after the explorer who rediscovered the Inca citadel, the train has two dining cars, an observation/bar car and a kitchen car. It can carry up to 84 passengers.
Via The Belmond
The Bernina Express, Switzerland
The Bernina Express train route takes you through incredible alpine landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it's that amazing. Think of all the clichés about the beauty of scenic train travel and multiply them by 1000. You'll end up on this journey through Switzerland.
Via EuroRail
The Blue Train, South Africa
The famous Blue Train makes the 994-mile run from Cape Town to Johannesburg (24 hours) three times a week in high season (summer) and once a week each way in the off-season. The train travels only at speeds up to 68 miles an hour. The slow, smooth ride allows you plenty of time to soak in the spectacular scenery.
Via Blue Train
The Bergen Line, Norway
The Bergen Line (Bergensbanen) is the train ride from Oslo to Bergen, covering 231 miles (372 km) over a seven-hour trip. Northern Europe’s highest railway overlooks some of the most pristine glacier-carved fjords in Norway. It’s frequently hailed as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the entire world.
Via NSB
California Zephyr, United States
Experienced travelers say the California Zephyr is one of the most beautiful train trips in all of North America. As you climb through the heart of the Rockies, and further west through the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas, you may find it hard to disagree. This historic line takes you through the heart of Gold Rush country’s mining and ghost towns to old stagecoach stations that became stops on the original railroad.
Via Amtrak
The Trans-Siberian Railway, Moscow to Beijing
Experience one of the last great adventures: your journey on the Trans-Siberian Railway, one of the world’s most fascinating and safest train routes. And it's even more interesting, comfortable, and entertaining with our private train. This grand private train journey is the chance to fulfill the dream of a lifetime.
The Royal Scotsman, Scottish Highlands
Belmond Royal Scotsman takes you to the heart of the Highlands. You'll travel through landscapes of pine-clad mountains, reflected in mirror-still lochs. From the moment you step aboard, our welcoming staff will make you feel like part of the family. Dine on world-class cuisine, rich with Scottish specialties, and embark on thrilling excursions each day.
Via The Belmond
The Grand Canyon Railway, United States
Since 1901, the Grand Canyon Railway has been taking people on a fabled journey into the heart of one of the seven natural wonders of the world. For those fortunate to have traveled on this iconic train, the Grand Canyon Railway is more than just a mode of transportation: It’s a trip back in time to what many consider the most awe-inspiring place on Earth.
Via The Train
Hopefully, you'll be lucky enough to take one or a few of these incredible train journeys through new and incredible landscapes one day.
