21 Scenic Train Journeys For Your Bucket List

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Jacobite Express, Scotland - one of the best train journeys in the world

Ask someone their favorite way to travel and there’s probably a low chance they’ll tell you it’s crammed into the economy seat of a budget airline. It’s probably also not going to be a long distance bus. There are, however, many people who will happily tell you how much they love long scenic train journeys.

With the sound of the engine chugging along and the clackety-clack of the rails there’s no doubt train travel is one of the most relaxing ways to travel. Trains cover great distances in a more distinguished and romantic way than any airline will. There’s nothing better than wiling the hours away staring out of a train window. And there are some incredibly train journeys around the world.

Disclaimer: The following article has travel suggestions in Russia, however was written before current events unfolded. I have chosen to leave this in this article in the spirit of the original topic covered here, however I am in no way recommending visiting either Russia at this time. Please check current travel conditions for any country you plan on visiting and travel safely.

Why travel by train?

Amazing train journeys - Hanoi to HCMC Vietnam

It might not be the quickest way to get across a country, but it’s definitely the most fun. So when you take price per distance traveled many train journeys work out way more cost effective than flights.

Trains are also much better for the environment than most other transportation. Traveling by train is the third most eco-friendly way of traveling after walking and cycling.

You’ve heard the saying “It’s about the journey, not about the destination”? Well, you can guarantee that was never said about a plane ride. But it could very well describe a scenic train journey alongside a beautiful countryside setting, or through a majestic mountain range.

Is train travel expensive?

rail seats on the Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service

The good thing about trains is that there are so many options from cheap and cheerful to ultimate luxury.

Economic train journeys are more prolific in countries where train travel is the easiest way to get around. For instance, Europe really has a good rail network. It’s quick, efficient and relatively low priced for some of the more typical routes. Although there are options to splurge and take some rather spectacular rail services.

For many of the more expensive train trip you get what you pay for. Excellent service, top notch culinary delights and the ultimate in comfort. There’s a reason you pay $1000 per day for one rail service and $25 for another, the same as there’s a reason business class is more expensive than economy on a flight.

It’s all what you’re looking for and what rail travel means to you. Is it a way to get somewhere efficiently and on a budget? Or is it for the experience and to savor the journey.

The most scenic train journeys in the world

There are way too many splendid train experiences around the world to cover. But we’re here to recommend some of the best ones you can take on your next trip. Whether you’re planning your backpacking adventures through Asia, a month long holiday around Europe or saving up for the trip of a lifetime in North America we’ve got you covered. Which one is top of your list?

El Chepe Express, Copper Canyon, Mexico

Contributed by Shelley from Travel Mexico Solo

Photo Credit: Shelley, Travel Mexico Solo; El Chepe Express, Copper Canyon Mexico
Photo Credit: Shelley, Travel Mexico Solo

Mexico’s Copper Canyon is the second largest canyon in North America, after the Grand Canyon. Located in the northern part of the country, and considered among the most unique places in Mexico, take the El Chepe Express train that goes through parts of it.

You’ll board the train in the city of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, and travel about 220 miles/350 km to the city of Creel in Chihuahua state. Creel is one of Mexico’s 130 or so pueblos mágicos (magic towns), and a popular tourism destination.

You can also do the route in reverse — starting in Creel and ending in Los Mochis. However, many consider the landscapes around Los Mochis to be the most beautiful, so you’ll want to see them in daylight. For this, you’d have to start the journey in Los Mochis.

Along the nine-hour journey, you’ll pass over bridges, through tunnels, across mountain and desert landscapes, and of course, through the Copper Canyon. You can also stop in three towns along the way: Divisadero, Bahuichivo and El Fuerte.

There are first, executive and tourist class tickets available for the route. They range in price from $5,200-$3,100 pesos ($260USD-$155USD). You can buy them online or in person.

Al Andalus Train, Andalusia, Spain

Contributed by Paulina from Paulina on the Road

Photo Credit: André Marques from Madrid, Wikimedia Commons; Al Andalus train, Spain
Photo Credit: André Marques from Madrid, Wikimedia Commons

Discover the beauty of Spain on a 7-day journey by train from Seville to Cordoba. Relish sightseeing experiences in the luxurious train named Al Andalus. This magnificent train explores Andalusia passing through many charming cities from Seville where it departs.

It continues with Cadiz and Jerez offering various things to do in Cadiz. The train stops at Ronda and Granada on the third, fourth, and fifth days exploring the magnificent views and Alhambra. On the sixth day, the train takes passengers to World Heritage Sites: Linares, Ubeda, and Baeza. On the final day of this journey, the train reaches Cordoba witnessing a Mosque and an intriguing historic quarter.

Its four decorated saloon carriages, buffet, and food of top cuisines make Al Andalus unique. What makes it special is its four beautiful lounge cars, deluxe suites, and Gran Clase bedrooms, whose carriages are from the same series used for British Royal trains in the 20th century.

The grand-class room costs €3.700 (~$4400 USD) per person in double and €6.315 (~$7500 USD) in single. While the deluxe suite room costs €4.560 (~$5400 USD) per person in double and €8.135 (~$9700 USD) per person in single. Expert tip: If you make a reservation in advance, the ticket can be cheaper.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand

Contributed by Martina and Jürgen from PlacesofJuma

Photo Credit: Jürgen Reichenpfader, PlacesofJuma; Thailand rail journey Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Photo Credit: Jürgen Reichenpfader, PlacesofJuma

One of the most beautiful train journeys in Thailand is the 700 kilometer route from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. You travel from the capital in central Thailand to the green north of the country seeing some of the most charming scenery.

Whether you are a backpacker, an adventurer or a luxury tourist, there are various options and price ranges (from ~$35 USD) for this unforgettable journey. In any case, it is the best and most impressive way to travel through the country.

There is a night train option, but you will probably miss the most beautiful vistas. During the 12-14-hour journey, enjoy many wonderful views of green rice fields. Travel through the mountains and jungle, and get a wonderful impression of rural Thailand.

Lovely are also the colorful small train stations, which give amazing photo opportunities. Along the way, vendors selling Thai delicacies pass through the train again and again – what an authentic experience!

If you have enough time, you should definitely plan a few stops along the way at some of Thailand’s best sites. The temple city of Ayutthaya, Lopuri – the city of monkeys and Sukhothai are definitely worth a visit.

Primostek to Ljubljana, Slovenia

Contributed by Lavina from Continent Hop

Photo Credit: Lavina, Continent Hop; Epic train journeys - Slovenia
Photo Credit: Lavina, Continent Hop

The train journey in a steam train from Primostek to Ljubljana, Slovenia, is one of the most picturesque slow train journeys in Europe that not many will know or try.

Primostek or most locations in Slovenia have good public transport; however, it does take long to get from one place to another. If you’re not in a hurry and don’t have your own transportation, trains are worth a try.

The journey takes a little above two hours, and what makes it unique are the stunning rural areas you pass by in Slovenia. Traveling through nature and forests, most trips cost less than 10 Euros (~$12). And while the steam train ride isn’t luxurious, the carriages are spotless and comfortable.  

There is food service available sometimes; however, it may tend to be skipped without notice. Therefore it is always better to carry some snacks and water with you. That way you don’t need to leave the train as the train only stops for a minute or two at some stations. 

Rocky Mountaineer, Western Canada

Rocky Mountaineer - one of the best train journeys in the world

An iconic train connecting two of the most beautiful places in Canada: British Columbia’s west coast and the magnificent Canadian Rockies. Scenic train journeys don’t get more amazing than the ultra-luxurious Rocky Mountaineer. It is one of the must-do bucket list activities in Canada.

It takes two days to cross from Vancouver to Banff, Lake Louise or Jasper (three days if you take the northern route through Whistler and Quesnel). But you likely won’t want to leave the comfort of these modern rail cars at the end of it.

Banff, Canada

With two service levels you can enjoy the cheaper yet still impressive SilverLeaf, or splurge a bit for GoldLeaf complete with custom-built bi-level dome cars. Either way there’s no need to crane your neck to look out the window as it literally feels like the windows are everywhere.

Gourmet food service will keep you happily fed as the train snakes past rivers, mountains and over gravity-defying bridges. Photographers will definitely love the GoldLeaf train cars with the spacious outdoor viewing platform.

Bonus train ride: Rocky Mountaineer recently added a new route between Denver, CO and Moab, UT in the USA’s Southwest. Explore some of the best national parks in the United States while you’re there.

Belgrade-Bar Railway, Serbia to Montenegro

Contributed by Ellis from Backpack Adventures

Photo Credit: Ellis, Backpack Adventures; Belgrade to Bar rail line
Photo Credit: Ellis, Backpack Adventures

The Belgrade to Bar train connects Serbia with the coast of Montenegro and is one of the most picturesque train journeys in southern Europe. The line is only 476 kilometers, but takes more than 11 hours as you pass through the majestic mountain peaks of the Dinaric Alps. 

Nowadays it is actually much faster to take the bus, but the Belgrade to Bar train remains hugely popular because of its spectacular scenery. It is also a historic journey. The Belgrade to Bar railway was one of Tito’s engineering marvels. More than 400 bridges and 200 tunnels needed to be built to cross the mountainous terrain

Once the railway was finished, Tito himself travelled frequently on this line in his own luxurious blue train where he received visitors like Yasser Arafat and Queen Elizabeth. If you have enough money you can still hire the blue train in its original state or you can take one of the daily passenger trains that will cost you around 25 euros (~$30 USD).

The most scenic part is in Montenegro from Podgorica to Bar. Make sure you have your camera ready here. Due to the amount of tunnels it is difficult to take good pictures. But every time you exit a tunnel again, new spectacular views are waiting for you.

Alishan Forest Railway, Taiwan

Contributed by Nick from Spiritual Travels

Photo Credit: Nick, Spiritual Travels; Alishan Forest Railway - scenic train journeys around the world
Photo Credit: Nick, Spiritual Travels

The Alishan Forest Railway is a former logging train line built by the Japanese during their colonial occupation of Taiwan. Today anyone can hop on this incredibly scenic uphill train ride from Chiayi on the west coast up to Alishan National Scenic Area, the country’s most famous mountain resort.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy grand vistas of Taiwan’s towering Central Mountain Range. One section of the railway line, though, was damaged by a landslide in 2009 and still has not been repaired, which means you’ll need to alight and take a bus for the final hour of the ride.

Photo Credit: Nick, Spiritual Travels; Scenic Train Journeys - Taiwan
Photo Credit: Nick, Spiritual Travels

To break up the journey, you can spend the night on a local high mountain tea farm before continuing on.  

Once at the top, you can witness Alishan’s famous sunrise above a sea of clouds, hike among enormous cypress trees, view cherry blossoms, or ride three other short sections of the railway to various scenic points in the Scenic Area.

The train ride from Chiayi to Alishan (including the bus) takes 3.5 hours and costs around US$20. 

Tren Crucero, Andes Mountains, Ecuador

Contributed by Carley from Home to Havana

Photo Credit: Carley, Home to Havana; Scenic train journeys - Ecuador
Photo Credit: Carley, Home to Havana

Ecuador’s Tren Crucero is one of South America’s finest and most historic train journeys, and a traveler’s highlight when visiting the country. Twisting through the middle of the Andes Mountains and down towards the tropical coast, taking the Tren Crucero from Quito to Guayaquil is truly one of the best ways to see this incredible country.

One of the most incredible parts of the journey is the pass through the Devil’s Nose. It uses a series of switchbacks to make it up through the mountains.

Some of the most popular Tren Crucero packages include the journey to Otavalo market in northern Ecuador. The restored steam engine goes through some of the most picturesque parts of the Ecuadorian Andes. Don’t miss the market and the chance to visit this charming town!

Packages start at around $1000 for four or five nights. But luxury additions and hotel stays along the route can push the price up to around $2000 for those looking to enjoy in style. Regardless of the level of luxury you’re looking for, the train is well appointed, views unforgettable, and experience unmatched anywhere in South America.  

Jacobite Steam Train (Hogwarts Express), Scotland

Contributed by Pauline from BeeLoved City

Photo Credit: Pauline, BeeLoved City; Scenic train journeys - Hogwarts Express
Photo Credit: Pauline, BeeLoved City

Calling all Muggles! If you’ve always dreamt of riding the Hogwarts Express, you’ll be happy to know that Scotland has its very own real-life version of the Harry Potter train. The Jacobite Steam Train was actually used in the movies so this is as close as you can get!

The Jacobite train runs from Fort William, in the highlands, to Mallaig, a coastal town near the isle of the Skye between April and October. It’s known as one of the greatest and most scenic train journeys in the world. 

Starting in Fort William admire the views of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Great Britain. Then travel deeper into the highlands and discover more mountains, forests and lochs. The most scenic place on the journey is Glenfinnan Viaduct – another famous Harry Potter spot. The viaduct itself is beautiful but don’t forget to look at the views as well.

Book tickets online in standard class for £49 return (~$70 USD) or upgrade to first class or the Harry Potter carriage. The journey is 2h30 each way and you’ll have just over an hour in Mallaig. Pro tip: Book seats on the left hand side of the train (when travelling to Mallaig) as the views of Glenfinnan Viaduct are much better on that side.

Kolkata to Shantiniketan, India

Contributed by Sundeep and Bedabrata from Delhi-Fun-Dos.com

Photo Credit: Delhi-Fun-Dos; Scenic train journeys around the world
Photo Credit: Delhi-Fun-Dos

This unique train journey is one on the plains, but not plain at all. Shantiniketan, in the state of West Bengal, India is a well-known destination for students, academicians and tourists from across the globe. Shantiniketan is 160 km from Kolkata, and if you are one for eco-friendly slow travel, then the train is the perfect way to get here.

The view changes to sheer rural Indian beauty as soon as you leave the city limits. Tiered mud huts, grazing cattle, paddy fields, palm trees and bamboo. Ponds punctuate the idyllic setting with emerald green water reflecting the image of the surrounding mango groves. Ducks and cranes complete the picture and you find yourself clicking continuously from the train window.

Food buffs with a palate for spicy food will love the snacks sold on the train. Try Jhal Muri, seasoned and spiced puffed rice or Cholar Chaat, sprouted black chana with onion, cucumber, tomatoes and lemon. Wash down with some lemon tea.  

Strike up a conversation with locals who will passionately talk about local culture, ethos and socio-political views while you’re taking travel notes! 

There are many trains on this route from early morning until late at night, all around $10 USD in cost. You can take Ganadevta Express (early morning), Shantiniketan Express (daytime) or Viswabharati Fast Passenger (evening). Book tickets online a month ahead since this route is rather busy.

Ofotbanen Railway, Norway

Contributed by Petra from Erratic Engineeress

Photo Credit: Michal Knitl, Shutterstock; Narvik Norway
Photo Credit: Michal Knitl, Shutterstock

The Ofoten railway (Ofotbanen) is a spectacular 43 kilometre train line that runs from the Norwegian town of Narvik to the Swedish border within the Arctic circle. It was finished in 1903 and its primary function was and still is to transport iron ore from the mines in Sweden to the port in Narvik. From there the ore is distributed around the world.

Although it was originally built for cargo trains, it passes through a dramatic, beautiful landscape, dotted with the traditional, red-painted station houses and impressive tunnels. From mountains to fjords, the Ofoten railway is considered the hidden gem of northern Norway and passenger trains now run several times per day.

Photo Credit: Petra, Erratic Engineeress; Scenic train journeys Norway
Photo Credit: Petra, Erratic Engineeress

You can experience it as a half-day tourist attraction from Narvik by taking the Arctic train for about 500 NOK (~$60 USD)) per person. Or by taking the local passenger train running between Narvik and Kiruna, which is usually more affordable, because it is part of the regular railway system.

Keep your eyes glued to the windows and you might even spot the remains of a WW2 German destroyer ship sunk in the fjord near Narvik as you pass by! 

Cinque Terre Express, Italy

Contributed by Dymphe from Dymabroad

Photo Credit: Dymphe, Dymabroad; Cinque Terre Express, Italy
Photo Credit: Dymphe, Dymabroad

One of the most picturesque train journeys in the world is the Cinque Terre Express in Italy. The villages of Cinque Terre are wonderful to visit. They lie on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea and you’ll have a wonderful time there for sure.

The villages are special because of the houses you find here. There are lots of picturesque houses that are very colorful. This is unlike any other place in the world. Also, you’ll find here lots of viewpoints and there are awesome hiking trails near the villages, which is great if you like to be active!

Moreover, because of how the villages look, there are also many Instagrammable places in Cinque Terre. Furthermore, what’s great is that these villages are all connected by the same train journey, from Monterosso al Mare to Riomaggiore. This makes it possible to visit each of the villages by train.

Each stop is amazing, but the train ride itself is great too. Along the way you can see the sea from very close, which is very unique to see. The train ride costs only €4/$5 USD per person.

Tequila Train, Guadalajara Mexico

Contributed by Nate from Travel Lemming

Photo Credit: Nate Hake, Travel Lemming; Tequila Train Mexico view
Photo Credit: Nate Hake, Travel Lemming

Looking out your window from Mexico’s famous tequila train, you may wonder if the vistas in front of you are the most beautiful you’ve ever seen or if it’s just the tequila talking. And, honestly, it’s probably both. Because no train journey better combines gorgeous scenery with copious amounts of alcohol than the two hour train journey from Guadalajara to the town of Tequila

Given that this is one of the most talked-about activities in Mexico, there are actually a couple different tequila trains to choose from. The most popular ones being run by Jose Cuervo or Herradura. Tickets for both trains start at around $100 per person, alcohol inclusive. But it’s worth it to pay for a better seat in the fancier cars if you can swing it.

Photo Credit: Nate Hake, Travel Lemming; Tequila train
Photo Credit: Nate Hake, Travel Lemming

Once on board, you’ll be treated to several tequila creations with more than generous pours and stunning views of agave fields and desert mountains. The train arrives at a gorgeous hacienda, where you’ll spend the afternoon gorging on a delicious lunch, learning about how tequila is made, and – of course – drinking yet more tequila. Just try not to get too tipsy, lest you get sick on the ride back to Guadalajara

Amtrak California Zephyr, USA

Contributed by Diane from Travels With Eli

Photo Credit: Diane, Travels With Eli; California Zephyr station at Granby CO
Photo Credit: Diane, Travels With Eli

Riding the Amtrak California Zephyr from Colorado to California is an unforgettable adventure. The California Zephyr starts its journey across the United States in Chicago, but for the most picturesque section of the trip, board at Union Station in the heart of downtown Denver

From Denver, the Amtrak heads into the Rocky Mountains and the scenery is stunning until sundown. The train travels through the flat desert of Utah and Nevada overnight and then through the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains starting in Reno.  

For the best views, find a seat in the View Car. The seats are comfortable and the windows are gigantic. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase in the snack car below the view car. For dinner make sure you secure a reservation in the dining car.

Prices for the overnight trip range from $120 per person for basic economy seating to $800 per person for a sleeper car. There are three different sleeper car options- Bedroom, Family Bedroom, and Roomette, that all vary in price. It is important to note that the price of the sleeper cars includes meals in the dining car.

30 hours on a train to San Francisco might seem like a long time, but the stunning scenery along the way makes the time fly by.

Inca Rail, Cusco to Aguas Calientes, Peru

Contributed by Martha from May Cause Wanderlust

Photo Credit: Martha, May Cause Wanderlust; Scenic train journeys - Peru Machu Picchu rail
Photo Credit: Martha, May Cause Wanderlust

The train between Cusco and Aguas Calientes runs through spectacular scenery in the Peruvian Andes.  It follows the gushing Urubamba river that flows in between dramatically steep mountains.

For many, this train takes them to Machu Picchu, that ancient Inca citadel in the mountains.  The train goes to Aguas Calientes, which is the town in the valley below Machu Picchu, and from which you can take a bus up the steep mountainside to the citadel. It is possible to buy train tickets which include entrance to Machu Picchu.  

And for those who chose the more adventurous route to Machu Picchu, via the spectacularly beautiful Inca Trail, the train will be their return journey, and a much-needed moment of comfort after 4 days hiking in those steep mountains.

The train is run by PeruRail and return tickets start from US$54. Top Tip: Upgrade to the Vistadome train which offers panoramic views because there are windows in part of the roof as well as on the sides.

Reunification Express, Hanoi to HCMC, Vietnam

Contributed by Marco from Nomadic FIRE

Photo Credit: Marco, Nomadic FIRE; scenic train journeys - Vietnam
Photo Credit: Marco, Nomadic FIRE

Vietnam has a well-deserved reputation as Southeast Asia’s most fascinating, scenic, and cheap country for expats and tourists. The motorbike ride from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City through the stunning Hai Van pass and down the gorgeous Vietnamese coast is a bucket-list-worthy trip for most visitors to Vietnam.

Yet, jumping on a small 125cc motorbike’s hard seat for a 770 mile, three-week adventure isn’t doable for everyone. Braving the precarious road conditions, hairpin curves, and deadly Vietnamese traffic is not for the faint of heart.

A safer and more comfortable way to travel the country’s coast and view the scenic Vietnamese countryside is the Reunification Express.  

The passenger train from Hanoi to HCMC is one of the best ways to see the country. Pass-through countless picturesque villages, vast rice fields, and spot an occasional water buffalo. The jewel of the trip is a beautiful stretch of the Hai Van Pass with jaw-dropping views of the jungle mountains on one side and the ocean beaches on the other.

Fare options for the 35-38 hour train ride include: Soft Seats (equivalent to cushioned bus seats) ~$45 (USD); Hard Beds (thinly padded beds) ~$61 and Soft Beds (comfortable beds) ~$69. For a trip this long beds are a must, and the $8 upgrade from Hard Sleeper to Soft Sleeper Bed is well worth the upgrade.

Porto to Douro Valley, Portugal

Contributed by Soumya from Stories by Soumya

Photo Credit: Soumya, Stories by Soumya; Portugal
Photo Credit: Soumya, Stories by Soumya

Among all the picturesque train journeys in the world, the train ride from Porto to Douro Valley is very special. And all for only around €15 (~$18 USD).

Douro Valley, with its verdant rolling hills, terraced vineyards, and sumptuous citrus trees, is not just stunningly beautiful but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site owing to its long and unique tradition of viticulture. With the Douro River snaking and glistening through the valley, the place looks absolutely surreal.

It is easy to enjoy the unique landscape of Douro Valley on a train journey from Porto. Just hop onto a Linhao do Douro train at Sao Bento or Porto Campanha train stations in Porto and get off at Pinhao or Regua.

As the train moves along rivers it gives you a clear view of local fishermen, traditional Rabelo boats, and the scenic valley beyond. Make sure to get a seat on the right side of the train to get the best views.

Photo Credit: Soumya, Stories by Soumya; Pinhao Train station Portugal
Photo Credit: Soumya, Stories by Soumya

Get off at Pinhao (2.5hours from Porto) to enjoy a boat ride, visit a winery and taste some Port Wine. And make sure you appreciate the azulejo panels at the train station. If you wish to check out the Douro Museum, you can get off at Regua. 

Kandy to Ella, Sri Lanka

Contributed by Haley from HaleyBlackall.com

Photo Credit: Haley, HaleyBlackall.com; Kandy to Ella scenic train journey - Sri Lanka
Photo Credit: Haley, HaleyBlackall.com

Don’t count Sri Lanka out if you are daydreaming about one of your next international train journeys. This teardrop isle located in the Indian Ocean at the southeastern tip of India has it all. Sri Lanka is an absolute paradise, but what makes this truly a trip to remember is the Kandy to Ella scenic train ride

The journey starts in the cultural and historical city of Kandy, in Sri Lanka’s central foothills and climbs to the mountain village of Ella. You will experience expansive views, locals smiling and waving or working in rows on rows of tea fields, quaint villages and more. 

Make your way to the city train station for one of the best things to do in Kandy. Top Tip: Purchase your tickets beforehand if you are looking for a seat in the observation car, which will give you the best view of the landscape.

If you are a bit more spontaneous, you can purchase a 2nd or 3rd class ticket at the train station the day of for around $1.50 USD. Make sure to sit on the right-hand side of the train for the best views. The trip can also be done in reverse from Ella to Kandy, in which case you’ll want to park yourself on the left-hand side window for a journey you will never forget.

The Flåm Railway, Norway

Contributed by Helen from Helen on her Holidays

Photo Credit: Helen, Helen on her Holidays; Scenic train journeys - Norway
Photo Credit: Helen, Helen on her Holidays

The Flåm Railway, or Flåmsbana, is a stunning 12.6 mile long line through some of Norway’s most beautiful countryside. The line connects with the Oslo to Bergen main line at Myrdal, high in the mountains and travels down a steep gradient to the picturesque village of Flåm on the shores of the Aurlandsfjord.

The line opened in 1940 to help improve access for people living in Flåm. Today, with Flåm enjoying better road connections, the Flåm line is one of Norway’s top visitor attractions and one of the nicest train journeys in the country.

The journey is hard to beat for scenery; starting its descent immediately upon leaving Myrdal, the line travels through 18 tunnels, along narrow ledges carved into cliffs and alongside rushing streams. The highlight of the trip is the Kjosfossen waterfall where the train pauses for a short musical show depicting a seductive forest spirit.

Photo Credit: Helen, Helen on her Holidays; Kjosfossen waterfall, Norway
Photo Credit: Helen, Helen on her Holidays

You can enjoy a trip on the FlÃ¥m Railway either standalone or as part of a Norway in a Nutshell tour which includes a boat trip through the fjords and sections of the Bergen to Oslo line in addition to the trip on the FlÃ¥m line. One-way adult tickets on the FlÃ¥m Railway cost 420 NOK (~$48 USD).

Maria Fumaça, Brazil

Contributed by Carla from Travel by Carla Vianna

Photo Credit: Carla, Travel by Carla Vianna; Scenic train journeys in South America
Photo Credit: Carla, Travel by Carla Vianna

Did you know Brazil has its very own Tuscany? Vale dos Vinhedos — which translates to Valley of Vineyards â€” is located in Rio Grande do Sul in the south of Brazil. One of the best ways to experience the beautiful region is via the old-school steam train known as Maria Fumaça.

The romantic train journey winds through rolling green hills and quickly turns into a vibrant party as traditionally dressed dancers parade through the carriages. They sing and dance Brazilian-Italian songs, and you’re encouraged to get up and join them. You also get to taste wine on board, all while the train slowly chugs along through the picturesque mountains.

The Maria Fumaça train departs from the city Bento Goncalves and costs 178 Brazilian reais (~35 USD) per person. Prices include a cultural center visit where you’ll learn about the history of Italian immigrants in Brazil. It’s one of the most popular attractions in Bento, which is a great place to stay when visiting Brazil’s Valley of Vineyards.

Aside from the entertaining train ride, you can also visit award-winning wineries and dine in traditional Italian restaurants nearby. The region is popular with domestic travelers yet little known to outside tourists, making it a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for anyone visiting Brazil.

Circum Baikal Railway, Siberia, Russia

Contributed by Sarah from ASocialNomad

Circum Baikal railway Russia

The Circumbaikal Railway is found in Siberia, Russia. Despite the name, it’s not a circular train ride, but it does skirt the edges of the deepest lake in the world – Lake Baikal. Until recent years, this 74-kilometre route formed part of the Trans Siberian railway, but today it’s simply a local and tourist service that gets you close to fabulous views and the area of lake Baikal.

The CircumBaikal runs from Slyudyanka to Port Baikal through 4 stations and 38 tunnels. You can take the regular Russian trains service to Slyudyanka to start your journey. At the terminus of the service in Port Baikal, there’s a ferry that takes you to Listyvanka from where you can take a bus to Irkutsk. 

There are tour companies in Irkutsk that will arrange the trip for you or you can take the trip independently. If you take a tour then you’ll certainly be on the tourist specific trains and these only run on certain days and which make stops for photos.

Bucket List Train Journeys

These train journeys pass through some of the most beautiful places around the world. Incredible lakes and fjords, through high mountain passes and everywhere from tropical climes to Arctic landscapes. With prices from super cheap to ultra luxury these are the train journeys you can plan on a whim or save up for years to do. But whichever one you choose will be its own unique adventure and worthy of skipping a flight for.

If you’ve enjoyed this post leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. Which of these scenic train journeys do you most want to take?

21 of the most amazing train journeys
21 scenic train journeys around the world

30 thoughts on “21 Scenic Train Journeys For Your Bucket List”

  1. Aw I love train travel so much! Definitely have to add some of these to my bucket list – the Hogwarts Express for sure and one day the Rocky Mountaineer (but it’s so pricy!). The Slovenia trip would be gorgeous too. We drove through Slovenia in early 2020 and it was beautiful, so I’m sure it’s just as pretty from the train.

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  2. I would LOVE to take a train through Scotland. or really anywhere! I saw a deal for an Amtrak pass the other day and just thought what a fun experience that would be!

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  3. I love a scenic train journey & there are some epic journey’s in this article. The most recent train trip I loved was in Myanmar in a rattling old colonial train from Inle Lake to Kalaw in the mountains…..

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  4. Those train views are so epic! Love scenic train rides and I’m sad I didn’t get to do more of them when I was in Europe. I took the train from London to Paris and from London to Scotland, both had beautiful views. But I would love to do more scenic train views like this!

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  5. These are some of the most iconic trips in the world by train – and there are many more too. I’ve done ones other than these and I adore train travel. The Inca rail and Kandy to Ella are two I have on my list to complete so this article has given me even more great info, thanks.

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  6. I love train rides! I’m riding the California Zephyr next month and I’m so excited for it 🙂 I’m going from Chicago and plan to get off at some of the stops to sleep in a bed every few nights because 50+ hours on a train might be a bit too much haha

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  7. Any of these trips would be incredible, but I’d really love to try the Norway, Slovakia, and Mexico options. I imagine the scenery on the Norway route in particular would be incredibly stunning. Loved all the great photos you (and your friends) shared!

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  8. Great post! Train travel is one of my favourite ways to travel. I recently saw the Jacobite steam train in Scotland, it’s such a beautiful area. I’d love to do some of the other train journeys you’ve shared.

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  9. Such a great post, love me a good train ride!! So many bucket list train rides to take still. I’d have totally added Kuranda Scenic Railway in Cairns to this list too. 😀

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  10. such a great article! i always encourage train travel, after my first train trip from seattle to crater lake nation park, i’ve been addicted. i didn’t know what to expect before the trip, but ended up falling in love with the whole experience.

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  11. Great collab post! Train rides can be so magical. I have only done ‘rocky mountaineer’ out of all the choices in your blog post. It was simply a wonderful experience. I am adding the others in my bucket list. The California Zephyr is tempting! 🙂

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  12. I love traveling by train. I find it really gives you a chance to see another side of the country. I’ve done a few on the list. My favorite so far has been the Inca Rail journey. The landscapes were just beautiful. I’ve actually been looking to do Rocky Mountaineer….it looks just awesome. Thanks for putting together such a comprehensive list! 🙂

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  13. Wow so many great train journeys! The only one I’ve done is Bangkok to Chiang Mai, and I did the overnight option so barely saw the scenery. Would love to go back and do it during daylight hours!

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  14. I’ve always wanted to take the scenic train routes through the States or even from New York to Canada! Hopefully we do this soon cause we’ve been talking about it for a bit now!

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  15. Wow, you have got the whole world covered. I am super excited that Sri Lanka and Cinque Terre have scenic train rides as I would love to visit these places once International travel is open!

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  16. I love a train journey! I travelled across Europe via train and would love to see more of the world by train. Thanks for sharing

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  17. When I petsit in Europe, I take trains a LOT and whether they are short or long trips, the experience has always been quite positive for me. It might take longer, or it might just SEEM like it takes longer. Because when you factor in the amount of time you have to spend in airports these days just to get checked in, airline travel is not as “fast” as it used to be. I loved the romantic travel inspiration of this article!

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  18. There’s just something about train rides isn’t there? I’ve done quite a few and it’s my preferred way to travel when in Europe. There are a few on this list that I would love to do one day- Norway, Scotland, Slovenia and Rocky Mountain.

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  19. This is my whole travel heaven in one post! Serious train buff here. I’ve done the Jacobite, steam-hauled – was magical. I also recommend the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth, New Zealand. On my bucket list in addition to your list: The Ghan and the Indian Pacific in Australia, the Blue Train in South Africa and the Eastern and Oriental Express (Bangkok to Singapore).

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