Australia’s greatest train journey offers a 54 hour adventure across Adelaide, Alice Springs and Darwin. Journey into the heart of Australia and experience the magic of the Red Centre with first-class views of wine regions, ancient gorges and desert land. Celebrating its 90th year in 2019, The Ghan has been dazzling passengers with its elegant cabins, sumptuous dining and attentive service.
These are the 12 best scenic train rides around the world
All aboard! Journey back in time and enjoy classic railway travel like never before. From frozen lakes to snowcapped mountains, treat your eyes to astonishing views you won’t find anywhere else. This is your boarding call for 12 of the world’s best scenic trains.
TranzAlpine Train, New Zealand
This 10 hour round-trip between Christchurch and Greymouth is the perfect way to explore New Zealand’s South Island. Pass through farmland and the Southern Alps before making the ascent into the mountains, 40 feet above the spectacular Waimakiriri River Gorge. And, with panoramic windows and skylights, you’ll feel right at home with nature.
Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian, Russia
Undoubtedly one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys, this 16 day excursion takes you from Vladivostok to Moscow. This epic railway route crosses through the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar, the Ural Mountains’ Great Divide and Lake Baikal, the deepest lake on Earth.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
Claiming to be the most-sought after seats in Switzerland, the Glacier Express is all about world class excellence. The 8 hour journey connects two breathtaking mountain resorts, Zermatt and St Moritz. Also known as the world’s slowest train, you can take your time and enjoy the beauty of the Swiss Alps from a comfortable cabin. Enjoy views of meadows and mountain lakes, travel through 91 tunnels and 291 bridges, and experience the Oberalp Pass at 6,707 feet high.
Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland
Behold the Scottish Highlands on this 135km journey through green hills, blue lochs and quaint villages. A notable highlight is the crossing of the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct, overlooking Loch Shiel and the Jacobite monument. Harry Potter aficionados will recognise this view and the carriages, which became the Hogwarts Express for the movie.
The Bergen Railway, Norway
A 7-hour ride through the unspoiled nature and serenity of Norway, this will take you from Oslo to Bergen. Being Northern Europe’s highest railway, you’ll get unprecedented access to jaw-dropping views from the comfort of your carriage. Take in fjords, waterfalls and rivers as you travel up to the mountains, with the highest point being Finse Station (sitting at about 1222 meters above sea level!)
The Reunification Express, Vietnam
Historic cities meet spectacular coastlines in this two-day trek from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi. It’s one of South East Asia’s most loved railways for a reason, exploring all the hidden gems between these two hotspots. Get ready for an atmospheric encounter with the country’s beautiful landscape, friendly people and fascinating history.
Pacific Surfliner, USA
Starting in the lively town of San Luis Obispo and travelling through to San Diego, this train celebrates the Southern Coast of California. This journey is perfect for a family holiday, with stop offs at Seaworld, Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood. Finish off the trip near Edna Valley, where you can sample the delicious wines made in the region.
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Firmly establishing itself as one of Canada’s most scenic train rides, The Rocky Mountaineer ushers you from bustling Vancouver to the resort town of Banff. Experience breathtaking sights like the wild waters of Fraser Canyon’s Hell’s Gate before an overnight stop in the city of Kamloops. Rise the next morning over the snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies, before arriving in Banff.
Shongololo Express, Africa
Traverse South Africa, Namibia, Swaziland, Mozambique and Zimbabwe over this 12-15 day panoramic experience. A variety of off-train excursions allows you to experience the magic of the continent, before heading back to a comfortable en-suite cabin. You’ll visit iconic destinations and World Heritage Sites, along with safari experiences, hikes and cultural tours.
The Bĕijīng to Lhasa Express, China
Linking the futuristic city of Beijing with old-world urban China, this journey boasts breathtaking scenery, snow-capped mountains, blue skies and grasslands. The 40 hour train ride has laid claim to many world firsts, including the world’s highest railway, the world’s highest railway station and the world’s longest track on frozen earth.
Royal Rajasthan On Wheels, India
This mobile palace comes complete with an onboard spa, highlighting India’s temples, forts and the Taj Mahal on a seven-night passage. You’ll feel like a true maharaja as you receive the royal treatment with pampering and luxurious amenities.