Train travel has always offered a unique way to experience the world—moving at a pace that allows you to enjoy the scenery, discover hidden landscapes, and connect with local cultures. In 2025, scenic train journeys are more popular than ever, combining luxury, comfort, and unforgettable vistas. Whether you love mountains, coastlines, forests, or rivers, there’s a train ride waiting to become a highlight of your travel adventures.
Here’s a guide to the top scenic train journeys to experience in 2025.
1. Glacier Express – Switzerland
Known as the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express offers panoramic views of Switzerland’s breathtaking Alpine scenery.
- Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
- Highlights: Deep gorges, stunning valleys, snow-capped peaks, and charming villages.
- Experience: The train features large panoramic windows, making every view Instagram-worthy.
Tip: Book in advance during peak seasons to secure window seats for the best views.
2. The Ghan – Australia
The Ghan is a journey across the heart of Australia, from the tropical north to the southern temperate regions.
- Route: Darwin to Adelaide
- Highlights: Red desert landscapes, outback stations, and rare wildlife.
- Experience: A luxury train offering fine dining, comfortable cabins, and guided excursions at select stops.
Tip: Choose the “Gold Service” for spacious cabins and exclusive onboard amenities.
3. Rocky Mountaineer – Canada
For nature enthusiasts, the Rocky Mountaineer provides a spectacular view of the Canadian Rockies.
- Route: Vancouver to Banff or Jasper
- Highlights: Majestic mountains, turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and dense forests.
- Experience: Daytime travel ensures unobstructed views, and gourmet meals enhance the journey.
Tip: Book a glass-dome coach for an elevated perspective of the scenery.
4. Bernina Express – Switzerland & Italy
Crossing the Alps from Switzerland into Italy, the Bernina Express is famous for its engineering feats and scenic beauty.
- Route: Chur (Switzerland) to Tirano (Italy)
- Highlights: Glaciers, mountain peaks, viaducts, and picturesque villages.
- Experience: A UNESCO World Heritage route that combines dramatic landscapes with cultural immersion.
Tip: Travel during autumn to witness the Alps in brilliant fall colors.
5. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – India
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the “Toy Train,” offers a nostalgic experience through India’s northeastern hills.
- Route: New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling
- Highlights: Tea gardens, hills, forests, and historic bridges.
- Experience: A UNESCO World Heritage train that evokes colonial charm with its narrow-gauge tracks and steam engines.
Tip: Choose the morning departure for the best lighting and cooler temperatures.
6. West Highland Line – Scotland
The West Highland Line is one of the most picturesque routes in the United Kingdom, offering rugged landscapes and historic landmarks.
- Route: Glasgow to Mallaig
- Highlights: Loch Lomond, Glencoe, Ben Nevis, and the famous Harry Potter viaduct.
- Experience: The line features both daytime sightseeing and overnight sleeper services for extended exploration.
Tip: Don’t miss the section crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, iconic in cinema and photography.
7. Flam Railway – Norway
The Flam Railway in Norway is a short but spectacular route that immerses travelers in fjord scenery.
- Route: Myrdal to Flam
- Highlights: Waterfalls, mountain cliffs, and serene fjords.
- Experience: One of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
Tip: Combine this ride with a fjord cruise for a complete Norwegian adventure.
8. Bernina Express & Glacier Express Combo – Europe
For train enthusiasts seeking an extended European adventure, combining the Bernina Express and Glacier Express offers the ultimate Alpine experience.
- Route: Chur to Tirano (Bernina Express) + Zermatt to St. Moritz (Glacier Express)
- Highlights: Double the scenic landscapes, from Swiss lakes and glaciers to charming villages.
- Experience: Luxurious panoramic trains ensure comfort and unforgettable photo opportunities.
Tip: Plan at least a week to enjoy both journeys fully, including stopovers in scenic towns.
9. Eastern & Oriental Express – Southeast Asia
Travel in style through the tropical landscapes of Southeast Asia on this luxurious train.
- Route: Singapore to Bangkok
- Highlights: Lush jungles, rivers, plantations, and colonial architecture.
- Experience: Elegant carriages, fine dining, and immersive excursions along the route.
Tip: Book themed journeys or private cabins for an elevated luxury experience.
10. California Zephyr – USA
For an American adventure, the California Zephyr travels through the country’s most scenic regions.
- Route: Chicago to San Francisco
- Highlights: Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada, and the Colorado River.
- Experience: Known for its long-haul beauty, offering sleeper cars and dining experiences along the way.
Tip: Travel in summer for clear views of mountains and valleys; winter offers snowy landscapes for a magical experience.
Final Thoughts
Scenic train journeys in 2025 are more than just transportation—they are experiences in themselves. From the snowy Alps of Switzerland to the sun-kissed landscapes of Australia, each route offers unique beauty and adventure.
Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking tranquility, a couple looking for romance, or a family chasing memories, these scenic train journeys provide unforgettable vistas, cultural immersion, and the slow travel experience that modern travel often lacks.
