When we think of train travel, the first things that come to mind are speed and affordability. But there are some of the best train journeys in the world that not only provide us with quick and affordable transportation but also give us thrilling adventures and unforgettable scenic landscape experiences that we will never forget. These scenic rail routes do not give any feeling of fatigue to the passengers, even on long journeys. Many of these train trips passing through mind-blowing ecosystems have succeeded in delighting tourists. So have you experienced such an unforgettable train journey experience? Whether your answer is yes or no, read this article to discover the world’s extraordinary train rides that you must experience at least once in your lifetime.
Best 30 train journeys in the world you must experience at least once in your lifetime
The Reunification Express, Vietnam
The Reunification Express railway line was constructed during the French colonial era. However, During the Vietnam War, Vietcong fighters besieged and shut down this line until reopened in 1976. Then Reunification Express started its operations connecting Ho Chi Minh City in the south and Hanoi in the north and now it represents the reunification of Vietnam’s north and south. The Reunification Express has become one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic train journeys traveling through bustling cities, tranquil countryside, and scenic coastline.. Along the way, tourists will be able to see Vietnam’s vibrant markets, verdant rice paddies, and numerous historical sites. The entire journey takes 30-36 hours, with ticket prices ranging from $40 to over $100 depending on the class. The dry season from November to April every year is very suitable for this train trip
The California Zephyr, USA
The California Zephyr, which travels across the heart of America from Chicago to San Francisco, is considered one of the best train trips in the world. This epic train traverses the towering Rocky Mountains, the red rock canyons of Utah, and the snow-capped Sierra Nevada offering an unforgettable experience to travelers who love breathtaking landscapes. The journey takes approximately 51 hours and the ticket prices will range from $100-$300 depending on the class and time of year. Spring is generally considered the best time to take this train trip
The Lake Titicaca Train, Peru
The Lake Titicaca train ride is highly recommended for those who looking for a scenic and cultural experience that showcases the beauty of the Andes through the Peruvian highlands. Traveling between Puno and Cusco, the train will allow passengers to experience the beauty of traditional Andean villages, snow-capped peaks, and Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. The dry season, from April to October, is the best time for this 10-hour train journey. The trip cost ranges from $200 to $400, including meals and onboard entertainment.
Nova Gorica to Jesenice, Slovenia
The journey from Nova Gorica to Jesenice in Slovenia can be described as the perfect train adventure that most people have never heard of. On this ride, you will see the Julian Alps, emerald rivers, and the beauty of the Slovenian countryside. The entire trip takes 2 hours and costs $10-$20.
Hiram Bingham, Peru
The Hiram Bingham, a Belmond train, provides a luxurious and unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to the foothills of Machu Picchu, a destination challenging to reach by road. The train departs in the morning from Poroy station in Cusco, Peru, and takes roughly 3.5 hours to reach Aguas Calientes, the village at the base of Machu Picchu. passengers may enjoy spectacular sights along the way, including the Sacred Valley’s lush landscapes, the Urubamba River, and majestic mountains carved by glaciers. Upon arrival, there is ample time to explore the ancient Incan citadel. The dry season from April to October is the ideal time for this train journey. the Hiram Bingham experience can cost from $500 to over $1000 per person as one of the most expensive luxury train rides in the world. This price includes train travel, traditional Peruvian cuisine, drinks like the famous pisco sour, live music and dancing, and often a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
The Ghan, Australia
An adventure is guaranteed on The Ghan, a popular train that travels through the heart of Australia connecting Darwin and Adelaide. The journey offers stunning views of the vast Australian landscape, including red deserts, rocky gorges, and wildlife. The best time is from May to October and the trip takes 3 days and usually costs between $1000-$3000+.
Beijing-to-Lhasa Expres, China
The Beijing-to-Lhasa Express is one of the best train journeys in the world. It gives a spectacular journey across the “Roof of the World.” As the world’s highest railway, it takes you from China’s capital to the heart of Tibet, climbing over 5,000 meters above sea level. Oxygen is provided onboard the train to help passengers avoid the discomfort that may occur at high altitudes. As you travel across the Tibetan Plateau, you will see breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, and sacred monasteries. The route passes through remote Tibetan villages and offers a great view and insight into the unique culture of this region. The best time to travel on this train is in spring or autumn and the journey takes approximately 48 hours. Prices range from $250 to $500 depending on the time of year you travel on this train and the class you choose.
El Chepe, Mexico
The El Chepe train ride provides breathtaking views of dramatic landscapes, towering cliffs, and lush woods as it passes through the Copper Canyon, a network of valleys deeper and broader than the Grand Canyon. Depending on the class and distance traveled, tickets can cost anywhere from $100 to $300, and the full trip takes around 15 hours. The dry season, which runs from October to May, is the ideal time to go.
TranzAlpine, New Zealand
TranzAlpine offers one of the most scenic train journeys in the world through New Zealand’s Southern Alps. The train crosses the Southern Alps, passing lush forests, deep gorges, fertile plains, high viaducts, the ice-fed Waimakariri River, and snow-capped peaks, providing a short but breathtaking journey between Christchurch and Greymouth. Moreover, Arthur’s Pass National Park and the subtropical native beech rainforests of the West Coast are some of the amazing landscapes you can see from being comfortable in your seat. The best time to have this train travel experience is summer from December to February. The total journey takes around 4.5 hours and train tickets cost between $150-$250.
Bergensbanen, Norway
Bergensbanen is a scenic train journey between Oslo and Bergen and a great way to experience the beauty of Norway’s breathtaking scenery including mountains, valleys, and waterfalls. This train ride takes you through canyons, rivers, cliffs, and barren icescapes to witness the natural beauty of the Nordic country. The best time to visit is during summer or winter and the journey takes 7 hours. Prices for this ride range from $100-$200.
Cairo to Luxor, Egypt
The train experience From Cairo to Luxor through ancient Egypt will be truly memorable. This overnight train ride through the Egyptian countryside offers a glimpse of the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. The journey takes around 10-12 hours. Tickets are relatively inexpensive, usually around $30-$50. The best time for a journey is from October to April.
Tazara Railway, Tanzania and Zambia
The Tazara train will offer an adventurous journey through the heart of Africa, connecting the cities of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia. The railway passes through savannahs, forests, and wildlife reserves and offers a unique view of the African landscape, allowing passengers to see a variety of landscapes and wildlife during the train journey. The Tasara train ride can be said to be one of the few train journeys in the world that offer a unique experience while traveling through wild forests. The dry season from May to October is the ideal time and better wildlife viewing is available during the journey. The complete tour takes 3 days and a seat can be booked at a relatively affordable price. It may cost $80-$150.
The Sunset Limited, USA
The best way to experience the grandeur of the American South is on the Sunset Limited, a train ride between New Orleans and Los Angeles. The train goes from Louisiana Bay through various landscapes including swamps, deserts, and cities. The best time for the journey is spring or autumn when the temperature is comfortable. The trip takes around 48 hours and prices range from $200-$500.
Mombasa to Nairobi train, Kenya
The Mombasa to Nairobi train is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of East Africa. This scenic journey offers the chance to see breathtaking views of the Kenyan savannah, including wildlife sightings. The best time is during the dry season from June to October for optimal wildlife viewing. The entire trip takes 12 hours and prices are relatively affordable at $30-$50.
Tangier to Marrakesh, Morocco
The train journey from Tangier to Marrakesh is the best way to see the colorful culture and landscapes of Morocco. This scenic ride takes you through bustling cities, arid plains, and the stunning Atlas Mountains. The best time for this train trip is in spring or autumn and the journey takes around 5 hours. This trip can cost between 20-40 dollars.
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Rocky Mountaineer is a high-end luxury train that takes travelers through the stunning Rocky Mountains of Canada. The train travels along a 19th-century pioneer railway line, allowing passengers to enjoy a gourmet meal with stunning views of snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, and lush forests. Summer is the best time to take part in this train journey, as it has warm weather and stunning scenery. This train tour is customizable with different routes and durations and prices range from $1000-$5000+ depending on the route and class.
Alexandria to Aswan, Egypt
The train ride from Alexandria to Aswan takes you along the Nile, offering views of Egypt’s ancient temples, pyramids, and rich landscapes. This will show the rich history and culture of Egypt. The best time to travel is in winter and the journey can take approximately 10-12 hours. Ticket prices start from $20-$40
The Hokkaidō Shinkansen, Japan
The Hokkaidō Shinkansen, a high-speed train connecting Tokyo and Hokkaido, is the best option for experiencing Japan’s cutting-edge technology and beautiful scenery. This modern train provides comfortable facilities and breathtaking views of the Japanese countryside. The ideal time is spring or autumn, and this 4-hour train tour costs between $100 and $200.
Colombo to Badulla, Sri Lanka
One of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, this Sri Lanka train travels from Colombo to Badulla through lush tea plantations, mountains, valleys, and waterfalls. The train passes other amazing places including the famous Nine Arch Bridge, farmhouses, rural Sri Lankan farming life, and stunning landscapes. From December to April is recommended for this train journey and the entire journey can take 8-10 hours. Depending on the class and train chosen for the trip, the journey can cost between $10-$20.
Heart of Wales Line, UK
The Heart of Wales offers a scenic drive through the heart of Wales with scenic valleys, charming villages, and rolling hills. The entire journey takes about 4-5 hours. Tickets are reasonably priced, usually around £20-£40. The ideal time is during the spring or summer months.
Bangkok to Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore
As an international train adventure, this journey takes travelers across three Asian countries. From the bustling cities of Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur to the modern cities of Singapore, trains travel through Malaysia’s scenic countryside. The journey spans tropical forests, bustling cities, and picturesque beaches, making for one of the most exciting rail travel experiences in Southeast Asia. The entire trip can take several days and can cost anywhere from $100-$300+. The dry season from November to April is recommended as the best for this train journey.
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Nicknamed the ‘world’s slowest express train,’ the Glacier Express travels through the heart of the Swiss Alps, connecting Zermatt and St. Moritz. It offers a luxurious and scenic journey. The recommended time for this train is summer or winter, as it passes through stunning mountain passes, picturesque villages, and gorges. The trip takes around 8 hours and can cost between $150 and $300.
The Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy
The Bernina Express is one of the world’s best train journeys from Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy. This is a UNESCO-listed route that takes tourists through breathtaking alpine scenery and the famous Landwasser Viaduct and then reaches an altitude of over 2,000 meters. This is an ideal trip by train for those who enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and picturesque villages, and for 4 hours the breathtaking beauty of the Alps can be seen. Summer or winter are the ideal times for a Bernina Express train trip; the entire trip can cost an average of $100-$200.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, England, France, Switzerland and Italy
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the best train ride from London to Venice. It guarantees a luxurious and unforgettable nostalgic journey through France, Switzerland, and other European cities. The entire journey can take approximately two days. You can enjoy fine dining and luxury accommodations throughout. The best time to travel is in spring or fall when the weather is pleasant. Depending on your cabin and route, the trip can cost between $3000-$10,000+.
Cannes to Menton, France
This short scenic train ride along the French Riviera offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. This comprehensive journey from Cannes to Menton takes about an hour, passing through picturesque coastal towns, luxury villas, and stunning beaches. Spring and autumn are the recommended times to travel on this train and a ticket for this costs around €10-€20.
Maharajas’ Express, India
A train that recreates the opulence of India’s royal era, Maharajas Express offers a luxurious train experience with excellent accommodation and fine dining. The train travels through various routes in India, showcasing the country’s cultural heritage and historical sites. Complete train travel can last anywhere from a few days to a week and can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 per person, depending on the route and cabin class. The ideal time is from October to March.
Harz Narrow Gauge Railways, Germany
A trip into the enchanted past is provided by the Hars Narrow Gauge Railway, a system of steam trains that travels across the picturesque Hars Range. A nostalgic trip through woods, valleys, and small towns is provided by this endearing train. Although travel times vary by route, a normal trip might take several hours. Typically costing between €10 and €20 for a single journey, tickets are affordable. The greatest seasons to travel by train are spring or fall when the weather is agreeable and the scenery is stunning.
The Acela Express, USA
Connecting major cities in the Northeast Corridor, the Acela Express provides a convenient and comfortable way to travel between cities such as Washington, DC, Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston with high-speed rail travel in the United States. Travel times vary by route, but a trip from Washington to New York takes about 3 hours. Tickets can range from $100 to $300 or more depending on the class and how far in advance you book.
Douro Line, Portugal
The train traveling on the Douro route provides an opportunity to explore the stunning Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This scenic train journey follows the Douro River, offering breathtaking views of vineyards, terraced hillsides, and charming villages. The journey from Porto to Pocinho takes about 3.5 hours. Tickets are reasonably priced, usually around €10-€20. The recommended time is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant.
The Serra Verde Express, Brazil
The Serra Verde Express travels through Brazil’s lush Atlantic rainforest and is a hidden gem among the best train journeys in the world. This line connecting Curitiba to Paranaguá showcases the beauty of Brazil by passing dozens of rainforests, canyons, waterfalls, bridges, and tunnels. The entire journey can take approximately 4 hours and the dry season from April to September is recommended as the best time for the journey. This journey can cost a traveler between $50-$80 per seat.