There’s a quiet magic to train travel, the rhythmic clatter of wheels, the unfolding landscapes, and the nostalgic allure of slower motion. Unlike flights that skip the journey, trains immerse travelers in it, revealing the world at eye level. From snow-capped mountains to sweeping deserts, these rail routes tell stories of ambition, innovation, and beauty. Each one, built across different eras, remains proof that sometimes, the best way to see the world is one track at a time.
1. California Zephyr, USA
Launched in 1949, Amtrak’s California Zephyr offers one of America’s most scenic rides, connecting Chicago to Emeryville, California, over 2,400 miles. It crosses the Rocky Mountains, the Sierra Nevada, and the vast plains of the Midwest. Observation cars showcase red canyons, river valleys, and mountain tunnels. The route, once run by the Burlington and Rio Grande railroads, remains a timeless cross-country journey that celebrates the sheer diversity of American geography and spirit.
2. Coast Starlight, USA
Since 1971, Amtrak’s Coast Starlight has traced the stunning Pacific coastline from Seattle to Los Angeles. Stretching over 1,300 miles, this journey passes through evergreen forests, seaside cliffs, and vibrant cities like Portland and San Francisco. Its panoramic observation lounge and vintage dining car create a golden-age ambiance. Built to connect the Pacific Northwest with California, the route remains one of the most cinematic ways to experience the American West Coast.
3. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Originally founded in Canada in 1990, the Rocky Mountaineer expanded its luxury service into the U.S. in 2021 with the “Rockies to the Red Rocks” route. Running between Denver and Moab, it showcases Colorado’s canyons, red rock arches, and desert mesas. Designed for daytime viewing only, guests enjoy glass-domed coaches and regional cuisine while hearing stories about pioneers and rail history. It’s a modern, luxurious take on classic American exploration.
4. Grand Canyon Railway, USA
Operating since 1901, the Grand Canyon Railway runs from Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Once a vital route for early visitors, it now serves as a nostalgic link to the golden age of travel. The 65-mile ride passes forests, plains, and canyon vistas while historic steam engines occasionally lead the way. Restored vintage coaches and costumed attendants make this more than transport; it’s living history with an unforgettable view.
5. The Empire Builder, USA
Launched in 1929, Amtrak’s Empire Builder connects Chicago to Seattle and Portland, following the route once built by the Great Northern Railway. The 2,200-mile journey crosses the northern U.S., including Glacier National Park and the Mississippi River. Its large observation windows showcase America’s untamed wilderness and historic rail towns. Born during the railroad boom, the Empire Builder remains one of the last grand rail adventures across the country’s vast northern frontier.
6. Glacier Express, Switzerland
Since 1930, the Glacier Express has linked Zermatt and St. Moritz through the Swiss Alps. Covering 181 miles in eight hours, it passes 91 tunnels and 291 bridges, including the famous Landwasser Viaduct. Known as the “slowest express train in the world,” its panoramic windows reveal pristine glaciers, alpine valleys, and traditional villages. More than a scenic ride, it’s a perfect showcase of Swiss precision, hospitality, and mountain engineering brilliance.
7. The Ghan, Australia
Dating back to 1929, The Ghan travels from Adelaide to Darwin, slicing through Australia’s heartland. Spanning nearly 1,850 miles, it traverses deserts, gorges, and Aboriginal territories. Named after the Afghan camel drivers who once roamed this terrain, The Ghan offers fine dining and private cabins. The 54-hour journey reveals Australia’s red interior in all its raw beauty, an epic reminder of how vast and wild the continent truly is.
8. West Highland Line, Scotland
Opened between 1894 and 1901, Scotland’s West Highland Line is among the most beautiful in Europe. The route runs from Glasgow to Mallaig through moors, lochs, and misty mountains. Its most iconic feature, the Glenfinnan Viaduct, became world-famous through the Harry Potter films. With few modern intrusions, this train feels like stepping back in time, an enchanting escape into the rugged, romantic heart of the Scottish Highlands.
9. The Blue Train, South Africa
In operation since 1946, The Blue Train connects Pretoria and Cape Town in five-star luxury. Originally built to host royalty and dignitaries, it now welcomes travelers seeking elegance and adventure. The 994-mile journey crosses the Karoo desert, vineyards, and mountain ranges. Crystal chandeliers, polished wood interiors, and gourmet dining turn this ride into an opulent showcase of South African grace and grandeur on steel rails.
10. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India
Completed in 1881, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, known fondly as the Toy Train, winds from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. Covering just 55 miles, it ascends over 7,000 feet through sharp curves, tea gardens, and mist-covered hills. Its steam engines and narrow tracks are marvels of 19th-century engineering. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the journey offers breathtaking Himalayan views and a nostalgic charm that remains unmatched in Asia.
11. The Orient Express, Europe
Launched in 1883, the Orient Express was Europe’s most iconic luxury train, connecting Paris to Istanbul. With wood-paneled cars, brass fixtures, and white-linen dining, it defined old-world sophistication. Revived today as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, it continues to enchant travelers across routes from London to Venice and beyond. The train’s elegant rhythm and storied history embody the glamour of a bygone era that still feels alive within its polished corridors.
12. Alaska Railroad, USA
Built in 1923, the Alaska Railroad runs from Seward to Fairbanks, spanning 470 miles through untouched wilderness. It passes glaciers, fjords, and Denali National Park, where moose and bears often roam near the tracks. The route was vital for Alaska’s development, carrying freight and pioneers northward. Today, its glass-domed cars and outdoor viewing platforms offer passengers a front-row seat to one of the most pristine landscapes on Earth.
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