8 Best Scenic Train Rides Around the World

Recently, more travelers are choosing to slow down and enjoy the journey, not just the destination. Instead of rushing through airports and ticking cities off a list, scenic train travel offers a chance to experience changing landscapes, charming towns, and unforgettable views along the way.

From the snow-covered Swiss Alps to Norway's dramatic fjords and Japan's countryside, train journeys turn transportation into one of the highlights of a trip. They're comfortable, convenient, and often arrive right in the heart of a city, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

In this guide, you'll discover eight of the world's best scenic train rides, plus practical tips for planning your own slow travel rail itinerary.

What Is Slow Travel?

Slow travel is a travel style that focuses on spending more time in fewer places, allowing you to experience local culture, scenery, and everyday life at a relaxed pace. Instead of rushing between destinations, travelers prioritize meaningful experiences, flexible itineraries, and enjoying the journey itself.

Why Slow Travel and Train Journeys Are Growing in Popularity

Slow travel is about spending more time in fewer places and enjoying the experience rather than rushing through a packed itinerary. Train travel naturally fits this approach, allowing you to appreciate landscapes that you'd never see from an airplane while avoiding many of the hassles of flying.

Many rail routes connect city centers, making arrivals easier and giving you the flexibility to stop in smaller towns along the way. Some trains even offer Wi-Fi and power outlets, although connections can be unreliable in mountains, tunnels, and rural areas. For many travelers, the slower pace, beautiful scenery, and opportunity to explore beyond the usual tourist stops make train travel one of the most rewarding ways to see the world.

8 Best Scenic Train Rides Around the World

From luxury rail experiences to affordable regional routes, these scenic train rides prove that getting there can be just as exciting as the destination. Here are eight unforgettable journeys to inspire your next slow travel rail itinerary.

1. Glacier Express, Switzerland

Country: Switzerland
Duration: Around 8 hours
Approximate cost: From $180 (seat reservation required)
Best season: Summer for alpine meadows, winter for snowy mountain scenery

Often called the world's slowest express train, the Glacier Express is one of the most famous scenic train rides anywhere. Traveling between Zermatt and St. Moritz, it winds through the heart of the Swiss Alps, crossing nearly 300 bridges, passing through more than 90 tunnels, and climbing to the breathtaking Oberalp Pass.

Floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows allow passengers to take in dramatic mountain peaks, charming villages, deep valleys, and sparkling rivers without ever leaving their seats. The leisurely pace is intentional, it gives you plenty of time to appreciate some of Europe's most spectacular scenery.

Suggested itinerary: Spend two nights in Zermatt, ride the Glacier Express to St. Moritz, then continue exploring eastern Switzerland or neighboring Italy.

Insider tip: Reserve seats several months in advance if you're traveling during summer or over the winter holidays, as this route regularly sells out.

2. Bernina Express, Switzerland to Italy

Country: Switzerland & Italy
Duration: Around 4 hours
Approximate cost: From $75 plus reservation
Best season: Late spring through early autumn

If you only have time for one scenic rail journey in Europe, the Bernina Express deserves serious consideration. Connecting Chur or St. Moritz in Switzerland with Tirano in northern Italy, this UNESCO World Heritage railway showcases an incredible contrast of landscapes in just a few hours.

The journey climbs over glaciers and mountain passes before gradually descending into Italy, where alpine scenery gives way to vineyards, palm trees, and Mediterranean-style villages. Along the way, you'll cross the iconic Landwasser Viaduct and spiral through engineering marvels that have become symbols of Swiss rail travel.

Suggested itinerary: Zurich → Chur → Bernina Express → Tirano → Lake Como or Milan.

Insider tip: Sit on the right-hand side when traveling south toward Italy for some of the best mountain views.

3. West Highland Line, Scotland

Country: Scotland
Duration: Around 5.5 hours
Approximate cost: From $45
Best season: May through September

The West Highland Line is one of Britain's most beautiful railway journeys, stretching from Glasgow to the fishing village of Mallaig. Along the way, you'll pass shimmering lochs, rugged mountains, remote moorlands, and some of Scotland's most dramatic landscapes.

The route is especially famous for crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, instantly recognizable to Harry Potter fans as the bridge used by the Hogwarts Express. Even for those unfamiliar with the films, the sweeping Highland scenery is unforgettable.

Unlike many luxury scenic trains, this route is part of Scotland's regular rail network, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to experience incredible scenery without a premium price tag.

Suggested itinerary: Glasgow → Fort William → Mallaig, with extra time to hike, visit local castles, or explore the Isle of Skye via ferry.

Insider tip: Morning departures often provide the clearest weather and best lighting for photography.

4. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Country: Canada
Duration: 2-4 days (depending on route)
Approximate cost: From $1,700
Best season: April through October

The Rocky Mountaineer offers one of the most luxurious train vacations in North America. Rather than overnighting on the train, passengers stay in hotels each evening, allowing everyone to enjoy the mountain scenery during daylight hours.

Routes connect destinations such as Vancouver, Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise, passing through the Canadian Rockies, turquoise lakes, rushing rivers, and dense pine forests. Wildlife sightings, including bears, elk, and bald eagles, are common during the journey.

While it represents a larger investment than most scenic rail trips, the combination of exceptional service, gourmet meals, and breathtaking landscapes makes it a bucket-list experience for many travelers.

Suggested itinerary: Vancouver → Kamloops → Banff, followed by a road trip through Banff and Jasper National Parks.

Insider tip: Travel in September for beautiful autumn colors and fewer crowds than peak summer.

5. Japan's Shinkansen and Scenic Local Railways

Country: Japan
Duration: Flexible multi-day itinerary
Approximate cost: Varies by route and rail pass
Best season: Spring or autumn

Japan is famous for its high-speed Shinkansen, but one of the best slow travel rail itineraries combines the efficiency of the bullet train with charming regional railways that reveal a completely different side of the country.

Begin in Tokyo, then take the Shinkansen to Kanazawa, known for its preserved samurai districts and beautiful gardens. Continue to Kyoto, where centuries-old temples meet modern cafés, before slowing down even further with a journey to Kinosaki Onsen, one of Japan's most beloved hot spring towns.

You can also add destinations such as Matsumoto, home to one of Japan's best-preserved castles, or Hakone, where scenic trains, mountain railways, and views of Mount Fuji create unforgettable day trips.

This combination of fast and local trains allows you to cover long distances efficiently while still enjoying relaxed, immersive travel experiences.

Suggested itinerary: Tokyo → Kanazawa → Kyoto → Kinosaki Onsen → Hakone → Tokyo.

Insider tip: Leave room in your schedule for spontaneous stops. Some of Japan's most memorable experiences are found in smaller towns between major cities.

6. Bergen Railway and Flåm Railway, Norway

Country: Norway
Duration: Full-day itinerary
Approximate cost: From $120
Best season: May through September

Few rail journeys showcase Norway's dramatic landscapes as beautifully as combining the Bergen Railway with the famous Flåm Railway.

Start in Oslo and travel west across Europe's highest mountain plateau, passing frozen lakes, waterfalls, and vast open landscapes before reaching Myrdal. Here, transfer to the Flåm Railway, one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world.

The descent into the village of Flåm is spectacular, with cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, and deep fjords appearing around nearly every corner. Many travelers continue by ferry through the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord before returning to Bergen.

Suggested Itinerary: Oslo → Myrdal → Flåm → Fjord Cruise → Bergen.

Insider tip: Spend at least one night in Flåm instead of rushing through as a day trip. The surrounding hiking trails are just as rewarding as the railway itself.

7. TranzAlpine, New Zealand

Country: New Zealand
Duration: Around 5 hours
Approximate cost: From $170
Best season: Year-round

Frequently ranked among the world's best train journeys, the TranzAlpine crosses New Zealand's South Island from Christchurch to Greymouth, showcasing an incredible variety of landscapes in just one day.

The route travels through fertile farmland before climbing into the Southern Alps, where snow-capped peaks, dramatic river gorges, and lush native forests create ever-changing scenery. Large panoramic windows and open-air viewing platforms make it easy to enjoy the views and capture photographs along the way.

Many travelers use the TranzAlpine as part of a longer South Island road trip, combining train travel with visits to glaciers, wineries, and national parks.

Suggested itinerary: Christchurch → Greymouth → Franz Josef Glacier → Queenstown.

Insider tip: Even during summer, pack a light jacket. Mountain weather can change quickly.

8. The Ghan, Australia

Country: Australia
Duration: 3 days
Approximate cost: From $1,800
Best season: April through October

For a completely different type of scenic rail adventure, The Ghan crosses Australia's vast Outback from Adelaide to Darwin, covering nearly 1,850 miles (2,980 kilometers).

Rather than towering mountains or coastal cliffs, this legendary railway highlights the beauty of Australia's red deserts, endless horizons, ancient rock formations, and remote landscapes. Along the way, passengers stop in places such as Alice Springs and Katherine, where guided excursions introduce travelers to the region's unique history, wildlife, and Indigenous culture.

The Ghan offers a slower pace than most modern transportation, making it an ideal journey for travelers who want to disconnect from busy schedules and appreciate the sheer scale of Australia's interior.

Suggested itinerary: Adelaide → Alice Springs → Katherine → Darwin.

Insider tip: Upgrade your cabin if your budget allows. Multi-day journeys are significantly more comfortable with extra space and included dining.

Tips for Planning Your First Scenic Rail Adventure

A little planning can make your rail journey even more enjoyable. Whether you're traveling across one country or several, these simple tips will help you get the most out of your trip.

Book Popular Routes Early

Iconic train journeys like the Glacier Express, Rocky Mountaineer, and The Ghan often sell out months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking early gives you the best choice of travel dates, seat locations, and ticket prices.

Choose the Right Rail Pass

If you're planning to visit multiple destinations, compare the cost of individual tickets with regional or national rail passes. In many cases, passes offer excellent value and give you the flexibility to adjust your itinerary along the way.

Pack Light

One of the biggest advantages of train travel is how easy it is to move between destinations. A lightweight suitcase or backpack makes boarding easier, especially if you're changing trains or walking through busy stations.

Reserve a Window Seat

The scenery is the highlight of any scenic rail journey. If seat reservations are available, choose a window seat for uninterrupted views and better photo opportunities.

Download Maps and Tickets

While many trains offer onboard Wi-Fi, connections can be unreliable in tunnels, mountain regions, or remote areas. Download maps, tickets, and entertainment before you depart so everything is available offline if needed.

Pack for Changing Weather

Scenic rail routes often travel through different climates in a single day. Wearing layers and carrying a reusable water bottle, portable charger, and light jacket will keep you comfortable throughout the journey.

Staying Connected During Long Train Journeys

Many scenic train routes travel through mountains, rural landscapes, or even cross international borders where onboard Wi-Fi can be slow or unavailable. Having reliable mobile data makes it much easier to navigate stations, check train schedules, book transportation, translate signs, or contact your accommodation after arriving.

An eSIM is one of the most convenient ways to stay connected while traveling. Instead of searching for a local or regional SIM card, you can activate your data plan before your trip and connect as soon as you arrive at your destination. This is especially useful for multi-country rail itineraries where crossing borders is part of the adventure.

If you're planning a scenic rail journey, we at Maaltalk offer affordable eSIM plans for more than 200 destinations worldwide. Whether you're traveling through Switzerland, Japan, Norway, Australia, or beyond, you can stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming charges or swapping physical SIM cards.

One of the greatest joys of train travel is that the journey becomes part of the adventure. Instead of rushing from one destination to the next, you'll have the chance to admire changing landscapes, discover charming towns, and enjoy a slower pace of travel.

Whether you're crossing the Swiss Alps, exploring Japan's countryside, or traveling through Australia's Outback, these scenic rail journeys offer unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.

If you're planning your next adventure, consider building a slow travel rail itinerary around one of these incredible routes. With a little planning, and reliable mobile data to keep you connected along the way, you'll be free to enjoy every mile of the journey.

FAQ: Best Scenic Train Rides

1. What is the most scenic train ride in the world?

There's no single answer, but the Glacier Express in Switzerland, Bernina Express, and Rocky Mountaineer in Canada are consistently ranked among the world's most scenic train rides thanks to their spectacular mountain landscapes and panoramic views.

2. Is train travel cheaper than flying?

It depends on the destination, travel season, and how far in advance you book. Regional trains can often be less expensive than flights, while premium scenic trains cost more because the journey itself is part of the experience.

3. How far in advance should I book scenic train tickets?

For popular routes such as the Glacier Express, Rocky Mountaineer, and The Ghan, it's recommended to book three to six months in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season.

4. Do scenic trains have Wi-Fi?

Some scenic trains provide onboard Wi-Fi, but the quality varies. Connections may be limited or unavailable in tunnels, mountains, or remote areas, so it's best not to rely on it for uninterrupted internet access.

5. Can I use an eSIM while traveling by train?

Yes. A Maaltalk eSIM lets you access mobile data whenever network coverage is available, making it easy to use maps, check train schedules, communicate with family, and book transportation during your trip.

6. Which countries are best for scenic rail travel?

Switzerland, Japan, Norway, Scotland, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia are among the world's top destinations for scenic train travel, offering everything from alpine landscapes and fjords to coastal routes and desert adventures.