By Elena 
In an age where air travel gets you from point A to point B in hours, train journeys offer something else entirely: the journey itself. With panoramic windows, unhurried movement, and access to remote and stunning landscapes, trains offer one of the most relaxing and visually rich ways to explore the world.
At our official travel platform, we believe the route matters just as much as the destination. Below, we highlight some of the most breathtaking train journeys on Earth—routes that wind through mountains, deserts, coasts, and countryside. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or simply seeking a new kind of escape, these trips promise unforgettable views and timeless charm.
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Duration: ~8 hours
The Glacier Express is often called the “slowest express train in the world,” but that’s exactly why it’s so beloved. As it glides through the Swiss Alps, passengers are treated to dramatic mountain passes, deep valleys, viaducts, and spiral tunnels.
Highlights include:
- The iconic Landwasser Viaduct
- The Rhine Gorge (Switzerland’s Grand Canyon)
- Views of the Matterhorn and other alpine peaks
Large panoramic windows ensure that every seat is the best seat. It’s a feast for the eyes—and the soul.
Route: Vancouver to Banff or Jasper
Duration: 2 to 3 days (daylight travel only)
The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train experience that showcases the wild beauty of western Canada. You’ll pass snow-capped mountains, emerald lakes, and dense forests, all while enjoying gourmet meals and glass-domed observation cars.
What makes it special:
- You travel only during the day—nights are spent in comfortable hotels
- Attentive hosts provide storytelling and regional history
- Wildlife sightings (bears, eagles, moose) are common
It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed pace with five-star comfort.
Route: Moscow to Vladivostok (or Beijing via Mongolia)
Duration: 6–7 days (non-stop) or 2+ weeks with stops
The Trans-Siberian is one of the longest continuous train rides in the world, stretching over 9,000 kilometers. It’s not just a journey—it’s an odyssey across a continent.
What to expect:
- Cross 7 time zones
- See the Ural Mountains, Lake Baikal, and Siberian forests
- Meet locals and international travelers alike
It’s a bucket-list trip for those who seek adventure, cultural immersion, and stories that last a lifetime.
Route: Glasgow to Mallaig
Duration: ~5.5 hours
If you’ve seen the Harry Potter films, you’ve already caught a glimpse of this magical route. The West Highland Line is widely regarded as the most scenic railway in the UK—and perhaps the world.
Must-see features:
- The Glenfinnan Viaduct (aka the “Hogwarts Bridge”)
- Views of lochs, moors, and rugged highland scenery
- Access to remote areas rarely visited by car
The steam-powered Jacobite train operates on part of this line during summer, adding even more nostalgia.
Route: Christchurch to Greymouth (South Island)
Duration: ~5 hours
New Zealand is known for its stunning landscapes, and the TranzAlpine delivers them in full. This east-to-west journey crosses the Southern Alps and traverses remote, dramatic terrain.
Highlights include:
- The Canterbury Plains and Waimakariri River
- Arthur’s Pass National Park
- Rainforests and views of the Tasman Sea near Greymouth
It’s a compact but powerful visual experience—perfect for photographers and nature lovers.
Route: Pretoria to Cape Town
Duration: 2 days / 1 night
Luxury and landscape combine on South Africa’s iconic Blue Train. This is more than transportation—it’s a rolling five-star hotel with butler service, fine dining, and opulent suites.
Unforgettable elements:
- Golden savannas and mountain backdrops
- Wine tastings and lounge cars with panoramic views
- Optional off-train excursions, including diamond mine tours
For those who want elegance and adventure, the Blue Train is unmatched.
Route: Chur (Switzerland) to Tirano (Italy)
Duration: ~4 hours
Another Swiss masterpiece, the Bernina Express offers one of the highest railway crossings in Europe, taking passengers from glaciers to palm trees in a single trip.
Spectacular features:
- UNESCO-listed Albula and Bernina lines
- The spiraling Brusio Viaduct
- Sharp mountain peaks, alpine villages, and Italian lakes
This journey is proof that beauty knows no borders.
- Book window seats (or upgrade to observation cars when possible)
- Bring a camera or binoculars for better views
- Pack light snacks and water—some routes have no onboard dining
- Layer clothing as temperatures can vary, especially in mountain regions
- Download offline maps or entertainment in case Wi-Fi is limited
And most importantly—put your phone down, look out the window, and be present.
In a time where speed often dominates travel, train journeys invite us to slow down and see. They remind us that movement can be peaceful, luxurious, and deeply moving. Whether it’s crossing continents or winding through mountain valleys, these unforgettable routes connect us not only to places—but to the spirit of exploration itself.
At our platform, we celebrate travel that transforms. So next time you’re planning an escape, consider swapping your boarding pass for a train ticket—and let the rails take your breath away.