15 Train Trips for Your Travel Bucket List

Train travel isn’t just about reaching a destination. It’s about soaking in scenery, historic routes, and thrilling experiences. Discover 15 of the coolest train trips worldwide—from vintage charmers to modern marvels—each one promising a journey like no other.

Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Hop on board this luxury ride through Canada’s Rocky Mountains, where massive peaks and untamed rivers pass right by your window. The train offers multiple routes, each one rich with natural beauty and thrilling views. Every mile unfolds like a postcard, from Vancouver to Jasper.

The Ghan, Australia

This train trip is pure adventure. Stretching across Australia’s heart, The Ghan promises a journey through desert settings, remote outposts, and wildlife sightings galore. You’ll cover 1,851 miles from Darwin to Adelaide, with plenty of chances to explore and soak in the unique Aussie terrain.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

Travel like royalty on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe’s classic luxury train. Decked in 1920s glam, this ride moves through lush sceneries from London to Venice, with gourmet dining and plush cabins. It’s a time-traveling experience with all the vintage charm and none of the Wi-Fi.

Glacier Express, Switzerland

Every twist and turn with this one brings fresh beauty. Slow it down on Switzerland’s Glacier Express, which slides through stunning Alpine valleys and snow-capped peaks. Linking Zermatt and St. Moritz, this scenic ride is about capturing views that feel straight out of a fairytale.

The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

Set off on a seven-day odyssey across Russia on the world’s longest railway. The Trans-Siberian line delivers endless backdrops, from dense forests to icy lakes. Starting in Moscow, the journey’s end in Vladivostok feels like reaching a whole new world. This train ride redefines epic.

The Blue Train, South Africa

It covers the route between Pretoria and Cape Town and shows off Africa’s changing scenery—from mountains to vineyards—in absolute comfort and style. Slip into pure luxury as you glide through South Africa on the Blue Train, known for its royal suites and five-star service.

The Jacobite, Scotland

Here’s a magical trip for Harry Potter fans! The Jacobite crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, just like the Hogwarts Express. But it’s not all fantasy—the real-life ride features some of Scotland’s best views, including misty hills and lochs. It’s a trip into Scotland’s wild heart.

Eastern & Oriental Express, Asia

This train rolls through lush rainforests, temples, and villages from Bangkok to Singapore. Wander through Southeast Asia in pure style on the Eastern & Oriental Express. The journey feels more like a resort on rails than a train ride, with luxury cabins and an onboard spa.

Royal Scotsman, United Kingdom

It’s a trip fit for anyone craving a royal escape. Step into elegance on the Royal Scotsman, where Scottish sceneries are served alongside fine drinks and luxe cabins. This intimate train journey gives a window into Highland beauty, with stops for distillery tours and castle visits.

Copper Canyon Railway, Mexico

Experience Mexico’s Copper Canyon like never before on El Chepe, a journey that weaves through dramatic cliffs and verdant views. The railway stretches over 415 miles and reveals Mexico’s stunning scenery, with each stop offering a glimpse of remote villages and breathtaking canyon views that rival the Grand Canyon.

Maharajas’ Express, India

You’ll encounter India’s best—from palaces to tigers—in total comfort. It’s a journey that blends culture and luxury in one go. Release your inner royalty on the Maharajas’ Express, India’s top luxury train. This ride covers the Golden Triangle, with stops at Jaipur, Agra, and Ranthambore.

Shiki-shima, Japan

The Shiki-shima train is all about futuristic luxury and features Japanese design with high-end dining. Traveling through Tokyo and rural Japan, this train offers views of mountains and coastlines, plus an onboard spa. It’s a sensory journey for those seeking modern comfort and traditional views.

TranzAlpine, New Zealand

Runs between Christchurch and Greymouth, this trip brings you up close to New Zealand’s natural beauty, including Arthur’s Pass. It’s pure adventure, Kiwi-style. Cross New Zealand’s South Island on the TranzAlpine, a journey famous for dramatic cliffs, alpine backdrops, and roaring rivers.

The Canadian, Canada

Cozy up in your sleeper car and watch the scenery change mile after mile. It’s travel as it should be. Canada’s VIA Rail train from Toronto to Vancouver is a classic cross-country journey. Covers prairies, mountains, and forests, this ride shows off Canada’s stunning variety.

Bernina Express, Switzerland, and Italy

This train doesn’t just cross borders; it has the best of Swiss and Italian settings into one journey. Connecting Switzerland and Italy, the Bernina Express climbs to incredible heights. You’ll pass glaciers, steep valleys, and quaint villages as you head south to Italy’s Tirano.