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Home » Adventure Tales » The Most Magnificent Train Journeys in the World

The Most Magnificent Train Journeys in the World

Come with us on a multi-stop trip through some of the world’s best train journeys.

We’re covering popular destinations including Canada, Australia and India. Stopping off at the world’s highest train station, the world’s longest railway track and some iconic Harry Potter scenery.

It’s a whistle stop tour that’s good for train travel experts, and newbies alike, with plenty of practical information on where to get on and off the train, how to buy the most affordable tickets, the kind of views you’ll see, and more!

Reserve your ticket, pack a pillow, and nab yourself a window seat – we are taking you on an action-packed trip through 10 of the most beautiful train journey’s in the world.

Travelling by Train

Best train journeys in the world, final thoughts.

Travelling by Train

A train journey may take a little longer than a flight, and it may be a little less private than a car, but the advantages of travelling by train far outweigh any disadvantages. The best thing about taking a train instead of a plane is you get to enjoy the scenic views along the way. You don’t have to hang around in airports for ages before and after your journey, and there’s no turbulence to deal with! Travelling by train is a lot more environmentally friendly than the air and road alternatives.

Throw it back to another century, and hop aboard one of the most classic ways of exploring.

From Japanese bullet trains, to the Trans-Siberian Express and the West Highland Line, check out this list of the best train journeys in the world!

Jungfraubahn, Switzerland

Jungfraubahn, Switzerland

The Jungfraubahn is one of Europe’s most popular train rides. It runs through the Bernese Alps, starting at Kleine Scheidegg and ending at Jungfraujoch – the highest train station in Europe at 3454 m above sea level! The Jungfraubahn is an ideal train journey for those seeking breath-taking views, but it might also be of interest to any history buffs, as it dates back more than a century! When you arrive at Jungfraujoch, you’ll find souvenir shops, a coffee shop, restaurants and Europe’s highest post office. For those who aren’t afraid of heights, you can go even higher by taking a lift up to the Sphinx observation deck which is 3,571 m above sea level. While you’re exploring S witzerland’s Alpine Region, you may as well indulge in some of the other adventures the region has to offer. With 365 days of snow per year, snow-related activities are an absolute must – snowball fight anyone? The Jungfraubahn operates hourly from 8:00am until mid-afternoon, every day, all year round. Tickets can be pricey, and most of the journey takes place inside tunnels that run through the Eiger mountain, but the spectacular views at the top will make it all worthwhile. You can buy tickets on the day of travel. But if you order them online from Klook , you can get a special deal on a Jungfraujoch Round Trip from Interlaken Ost.

Inca Rail, Machu Picchu

Inca Rail, Machu Picchu

The train route from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu is considered one of the best train journeys in the world. The route is quite short (about 30 kilometres) and takes approximately one hour and 20 minutes with Inca Rail. It’s a direct train, and the earliest one leaves Ollantaytambo at 6:40 in the morning, arriving in Machu Picchu at 8:00am, giving you the whole day to explore. Along the route, you will see stunning landscapes of the Cusco mountain ranges, the Vilcanota River and traditional Andean villages. Sit back, relax, indulge in the onboard catering facilities, and let the views speak for themselves. Ticket prices will usually vary depending on what time of day you decide to travel. You can book a departure trip for 2 passengers online with Book a Way for just $110. Remember, you will also need to book your tickets for Machu Picchu in advance as there are a limited number on offer per day.

best train journeys in the world

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Japanese Bullet Trains

japan safe public transportation

In Japan, the Japanese bullet trains are known as Shinkansen. They began operating in 1964, and are famous for being Japan’s first high-speed trains, reaching speeds of 320 kilometres per hour. They are also well known for being impeccably punctual! There are nine lines on the Shinkansen. The most popular is the Tokaido Shinkansen which travels from Tokyo to Osaka.

From Tokyo, you have the option to jump aboard the Hokkaido Shinkansen which will take you northbound to Hakodate. And from Osaka, you have the option to continue your travels southwest as far as Kagoshima using the Sanyo Shinkansen, followed by the Kyushu Shinkansen. If that sounds like a lot to take in all at once, have a look at the Shinkansen railway map , and it will all make perfect sense. Not only are the trains mega speedy and reliable, but during your journey, you’ll be gifted with incredible city and countryside views. If you decide to travel on the Tokaido Shinkansen, you’ll also get to see the lofty peak of Mount Fuji. To avoid queuing you can book tickets in advance. Ticket prices will vary depending on how far you wish to travel, however, children aged between zero and five can travel for free as long as they don’t occupy a separate seat.

Himalayan Queen, Kalka to Shimla, India

Himalayan Queen, Kalka to Shimla, India

The Himalayan Queen from Kalka to Shimla is aptly named, as she is the queen of all train journeys, stretching 96km in length and taking five hours to complete. It’s also considered one of the most unique train journeys in the world! ‘Why?’, you may ask. For starters, it has been recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records for rising to the steepest altitude over a 96km distance.

Secondly, the train itself is something to behold due to its colourful appearance, and is often referred to as a “toy train”.

Thirdly, the train passes through 101 tunnels and travels over 82 bridges! Super impressive.

Lastly, the journey is incredibly picturesque with views of valleys, forests and yes, you guessed it, the Himalayas! The easiest and most convenient way to book a ticket for the train is online. You’ll be given the option to book a spot in either an AC coach, or a sleeper coach. However, unless you prefer sleeping to witnessing superb views, you should definitely book yourself a seat in the AC coach!

Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage, Canada

Rocky Mountaineer Train Canada

The Rocky Mountaineer operates on three separate routes that each take you on a journey through the imposing Canadian Rockies. For those who didn’t know, the Rockies are a famous mountain range in western Canada. The best train route in Canada – and arguably one of the best train routes in the world – is The First Passage to the West. This route takes you between Banff and Vancouver, in either direction. There’s so much to see, which is complemented by an expert guide who will keep you informed every step of the way. You’ll be mesmerised by snow-capped mountains, winding rivers, dense forests and quaint log cabins. This is all before you take a trip through the famous spiral tunnels! There are various ticket options when travelling on the First Passage to the West route, but be aware that all options include at least one overnight stop off. Unlike some trains, the Rocky Mountaineer trains do not run overnight. This is in your best interest, so you don’t miss any of the spectacular views. You’ll thank them later. The shortest journey you can take is one way, with two days onboard, plus an overnight stay in Kamloops. However, there are roundtrip options that include four or five days if you fancy a little longer on board the train.

Trans-Siberian Express

Trans-Siberian Express

The Trans-Siberian Express is a the longest railway line in the entire world – if that’s not impressive, then nothing is! If you’re not familiar, the Trans-Siberian Express is a Russian railway network designed for freight trains and passenger trains. It begins in Moscow (where it also connects with the European rail network), and ends in Vladivostock (where it connects with the Chinese rail network). In total, it travels an impressive distance of 9,289 kilometres! To travel the full distance takes approximately seven days. However, you can’t buy an open ticket. Each ticket comes with a specific date, car and berth number. You can’t just hop off at a station to go site seeing and then jump on a later train. If you want to do this kind of stop/start trip you would have to book separate tickets from each destination. There are multiple stop-offs along the way, but the breaks are quite short, lasting approximately 20 minutes. As you can imagine on such a lengthy journey, there will be plenty of spectacular views that include plenty of beautiful historical buildings, such as churches and monasteries. But, one of the best things about travelling on the Trans-Siberian Express is the people you meet. The strangers you’re sat next to at the beginning of the journey won’t be strangers by the end of it. The train runs the whole year round. It’s most popular throughout the summer months, making it easier (and cheaper) to get tickets during the winter months.

Trans-Mongolian Express

Trans-Mongolian Express

The Trans-Mongolian Express connects Russia and China. It splits off from the Trans-Siberian Railway at Zaudinskiy, and continues further south to cross the Russian-Mongolian border. The journey is beautiful, but also culturally and historically significant. Not only will you immerse yourself in various Russian customs whilst you mingle with the locals throughout your train journey, but you’ll also get to see the city where Russia’s line of tsars came to an abrupt and bloody end – how interesting! The same rules apply to the Trans-Mongolian Express as they do for the Trans-Siberian Express in that you can’t just hop on and off the train whenever you fancy. Once you’ve booked a bed, that’s where you’ll lay your head for the rest of the journey. Unless, you book separate tickets so you can stop off and see the sites. You can book them separately yourself which can be a bit of a chore, or alternatively, you can book a guided tour and all the leg work will be done for you. Tickets go on sale 45 days before the departure date, and it’s recommended you buy your tickets as close to this time as possible, especially if you are buying them during peak season (summer).

Also remember, that since you are crossing various borders, you will need to organise visas ahead of time for Russia, Mongolia and China!

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West Highland Line, Scotland

West Highland Line, Scotland

Scotland is a stunner, which is why it isn’t surprising that many people consider the West Highland Line to be the best train journey in Europe, and one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. It takes around five and a half hours to complete, begins in Glasgow and ends in Mallaig (a cute fishing village) with multiple stop-offs along the way. The journey is famous mostly because it crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which is the bridge that the Hogwarts Express uses in Harry Potter! Aside from its links to Harry Potter, the most special thing about the West Highland Line is seeing stretches of land that have never been touched, and with no roads. You’ll get to see nature in all its glory, including many (and we mean many) fields of heather. Tickets for this journey are relatively inexpensive, especially if you book outside of peak season (winter time excluding Christmas and New Year). The average price for a one-way ticket is between $40 and $50. But, with a little bit of searching, you can find a one-way, off-peak ticket for as little as $17.

The Ghan, Australia

The Ghan, Australia

The Ghan will take you on a journey through Australia’s outback all the way from Darwin down to Adelaide, passing through places such as Katherine, Alice Springs (known as the Aboriginal Art capital of Australia) and Coober Pedy. Coober Pedy is well known for precious opals that are mined there, but it’s also famous because more than half of its inhabitants live underground. The views are obviously spectacular, but that’s not the only treat you’ll get on your three-day train journey. You’ll also enjoy all-inclusive meals and beverages, off-train experiences in towns along the way, and the choice between cruising through Nitmiluk Gorge’s natural wonders or experiencing authentic outback life at a huge cattle station. One thing you’ll need to factor in when planning your trip is that the train doesn’t run all year round, it only operates between April and October. Book your tickets for one of the best train journey’s in the world here .

The Bergen Railway

The Bergen Railway

The Bergensbanen (the Bergen Railway) will take you on a train journey between Oslo and Bergen. The journey is approximately seven hours long, gliding through 180 tunnels and stopping at 22 stops. It’s considered one of the best train journeys in Europe, and holds the title of Northern Europe’s highest railway! There’s onboard catering and refreshments, but you won’t care much about those once you are spellbound by the views of Norway’s narrow fjords, luscious forests, and magnificent mountains. The recommended places to stop and explore on the journey from Oslo to Bergen are Flåmsbana (an historical train station), Trolltunga (a famous rock formation), and Vøringfossen (a cascading waterfall). Treat yourself to a Eurail Pass so you can get unlimited train rides for three, four, five, six or eight days. This way you won’t need to purchase several tickets throughout your trip. Just present your Eurail Pass at the train station and hop on the train. It’s the easiest most flexible way to travel around Norway!

These are just some of the best train journeys available in Europe and the world, but it is in no way exhaustive. There are so many incredible train journeys to embark upon, and this list will just get you started. There are some things you should remember when travelling anywhere by train.

  • You should always remember to take an appropriate amount of snacks. If you accidentally take too many, I’m sure your temporary neighbours would be more than happy to help you out – especially on those super long journeys.
  • Contact whatever travel company you are booking through to find out which side of the train has the best views! You don’t want to have to look to the opposite side of the train the whole time.
  • Always wear comfortable clothes – long-distance travel is no place for fashion.
  • Carry travel sick pills in your pocket – just to be on the safe side.

What are you waiting for? Get booking your train trip pronto.

Don’t forget to sort your travel insurance! We’ve put together a roundup of Travel Insurance for backpackers – check it out here , or if you’re low on time, get a quote from World Nomads , our favorite travel insurance provider.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

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And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aaron

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These Are the Best Train Journeys in the World

The Qinghai-Tibet railway is the highest rail route in the world

It’s said that it’s all in the journey, not the destination – and while this is hard to apply to flying, it certainly is the case with train travel. Nothing tops the romanticism and window-side sightseeing opportunities of a train ride. Interest piqued? These are the greatest train journeys around the world.

Rocky mountaineer’s first passage to the west, canada.

The Rocky Mountaineer transports passengers between Vancouver and Banff

Covering the spectacular scenery of southern British Columbia between Vancouver and Banff, the Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West is one of the most picturesque train rides in Canada . Leaving the cosmopolitan coastal city of Vancouver behind, passengers are treated to brilliant sights from the comfort of luxurious carriages, including the wild waters of Hell’s Gate in Fraser Canyon and steep tracks running alongside the Thompson River. The journey starts with an overnight stay in the lakeside city of Kamloops, before rising over the Canadian Rockies and arriving at blissful Banff.

Glacier Express, Switzerland

Connecting the two most picturesque mountain resorts in Switzerland – Zermatt and St Moritz – the Glacier Express is the most relaxing way to enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Swiss Alps. Travelling eastwards from Zermatt, the day-long trip covers 91 tunnels and 291 bridges as it rolls past the alpine meadows, pristine mountain lakes and picture-perfect hamlets of southern Switzerland. Highlights of the journey include Oberalp Pass – the highest point on the ride at 244m (6,706ft) – and the Landwasser Viaduct — a magnificent six-arch structure standing at around 61m (200ft) and plunging into a tunnel cut straight into the mountainside.

TranzAlpine, New Zealand

Passengers are treated to a range of scenery onboard the TranzAlpine, which travels from Christchurch to Greymouth

All aboard the TranzAlpine for a stage-side seat to the most dramatic landscape in New Zealand — the Southern Alps. Starting out in Christchurch , the TranzAlpine travels northwest through the fertile fields of the Canterbury Plains alongside the Waimakariri River, before rising up into the mountains, where it crosses the mighty Staircase Viaduct. Passing through the magnificent mountains of Arthur’s Pass National Park, the TranzAlpine chugs onwards through the subtropical rainforests of the West Coast. The journey ends in the historic former gold mining town of Greymouth.

people cheering on a mountain

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West Highland Line, Glasgow to Mallaig, Scotland

The impressive steam train on the West Highland Line was used in the Harry Potter movie franchise

The West Highland Line is an excellent way to experience the wild, western coast of Scotland as it travels through the most diverse scenery in the country. Once the train leaves Glasgow – the most populated city in Scotland– the urban landscape quickly succumbs to verdant glens and tranquil lochs. Heading northwards, the West Highland Line passes through the remote wilderness of Rannoch Moor, before skirting the towering Ben Nevis and touching down in Fort William. Switching direction and moving westwards, the train then traverses the Glenfinnan Viaduct (featured in the Harry Potter film series) prior to arriving at the bustling port of Mallaig.

The Ghan, Australia

The Ghan is a luxury train that travels through Central Outback Australia

The Outback of Australia is home to some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on the planet – and The Ghan offers travellers the opportunity to experience this landscape in pure luxury. Cutting a path directly through the fiery red centre of Australia, The Ghan travels 2,797km (1,846mi) from Darwin in the north to Adelaide. It takes passengers from the lush, tropical coast of the Northern Territory via the red rocks of the MacDonnell Ranges and onto the fertile plains of South Australia. A trip on The Ghan also features off-train excursions, including a leisurely boat tour of Nitmiluk Gorge and a trip to the unique desert town of Alice Springs.

Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

The Trans-Siberian Railway passes the shores of Lake Baikal, Siberia

The Trans-Siberian Railway is among the longest rail routes in the world, running for 9,289km (5,772mi). Starting at the westward terminus in Moscow, the Trans-Siberian crosses over the Ural Mountains and through dense Siberian forest. It spans the entire width of Russia and connects the capital with Vladivostok in the east. The seven-day journey takes passengers by landmarks including the magnificent 984m (3,227ft) bridge that crosses the River Ob at Novosibirsk (the third-largest city in Russia) and the incredible blue waters of Lake Baikal, the largest freshwater lake by volume in the world.

The Flåm Railway, Norway

Just an hour long, the Flåm Railway ride through Norway is short but sweet

At just an hour long, the Flåm Railway may not be the grandest of journeys, but it’s certainly among the most picturesque. In fact, it’s one of top attractions in Norway and is frequently hailed as one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. The railway rises 863m (2,831ft) from the starting point in the tiny village of Flåm in the Sognefjord (making it one of the steepest rail routes in Europe), and passes by deep ravines, cascading waterfalls and towering peaks to the mountaintop station of Myrdal. The Flåm Railway is most magical in the colder months when a blanket of snow turns the landscape into a winter wonderland.

Rovos Rail’s Namibia Safari, South Africa

The Rovos Rail luxury train cuts through beautiful southern Africa

Rovos Rail’s Namibia Safari, a luxury train trek spanning some 3,219km (2,000mi), passes some of the most spectacular scenery the Southern African region has to offer. The train departs from Pretoria and takes passengers into Kimberley – a former diamond-rush town that’s home to Big Hole, one of the largest hand-dug mines in the world. It then traverses the Northern Cape and Fish River Canyon. As it moves onwards into the Kalahari Desert, the train visits Windhoek – the lively capital of Namibia – before crossing the Namib Desert and finishing at Swakopmund. This last stop is a perfectly preserved German Hansa town on the Namibian coast.

Belmond Hiram Bingham, Peru

The luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham is named after the American explorer who rediscovered Machu Picchu

See the Unesco-protected Machu Picchu a different way from the Belmond Hiram Bingham. This train ride travels through the most romantic scenery in Peru , and ends at the ancient Inca ruins, high in the Andes Mountains. It starts from the ancient city of Cusco, before traversing the Sacred Valley of the Incas (a stunning vale formed by the winding Urubamba River), and passing through the tiny village of Ollantaytambo.

Golden Eagle Danube Express, Istanbul to Budapest

The Golden Eagle Danube Express is described as a luxurious hotel on wheels

Traverse from Istanbul to Budapest on this epic route through four countries. You’ll start in Turkey with a chance to see the Blue Mosque, before wending through Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary over seven days. The highlight for some, particularly literary fans, will be the views of 14th-century Bran Castle – also known as Dracula’s Castle – in Brasov, Romania.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado, USA

The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad travels along the Animas River as it passes through the San Juan Mountains

The coal-fired Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is the one for history buffs. It was originally constructed as a means of hauling silver and gold from the San Juan Mountains in Colorado, and has been in continuous operation since it was completed in 1882. Now, the railroad allows passengers to enjoy the same incredible journey taken by Old West miners and settlers more than a century ago. The 72km (45mi) route moves alongside the Animas River, winding through the remote wilderness and fabulous canyons of San Juan National Forest.

Bangkok to Nam Tok, Thailand

The bridge over the River Kwai is an important WWII landmark and memorial

It may be nicknamed The Death Railway, due to its dark World War II roots, but don’t be fooled by the misleading moniker of this section of the Thailand-Burma railway. Over 402km (250mi) of Thai railroad track will tempt travellers with a fantastic journey from Bangkok to Nam Tok. Trudging deep into the jungle, the train rattles along wooden trestles, waving to vibrant stations and batting away low-hanging branches. Though this route is a sombre one, travellers can learn more about the tragic history of the railway in Kanchanaburi, just west of Bangkok.

Cannes, France, to Ventimiglia, Italy

The Riviera Railway affords beautiful views of Villefranche-sur-Mer

Train travel often caters to slow travel, but for those who are short on time, the Riviera Railway is ideal. Travellers are transported from Cannes, France to Ventimiglia, Italy, in under two hours with spectacular views of the Mediterranean. Shutterbugs will love snapping shots of the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, while country-counters can conveniently check Monaco off their list. When the train rolls to a stop in Ventimiglia, ancient Roman sites and sun-soaked beaches await.

Hanoi to Da Nang, Vietnam

See amazing landscape when you travel through the mountains of Da Nang

The capital city of Vietnam is rich with culture, but visitors would be remiss if they didn’t take advantage of the diverse scenery offered via the Reunification Express. Though one could ride the rails all the way to Ho Chi Minh City, the stretch leading to Da Nang is a wondrous journey in itself. Miles under the jungle canopy are juxtaposed with intimate views of villages and jaw-dropping cliffside glimpses of the South China Sea. Da Nang awaits with French colonial architecture and century-old pagodas.

Xining to Lhasa, China

The Qinghai-Tibet railway is a high-elevation route that connects Xining, Qinghai Province, to Lhasa, Tibet

Mountain climbers and locomotive lovers should set their sights on the Qinghai-Tibet railway. Scaling up the mountainside to around 5,000m (16,404ft) above sea level, this route is home to the highest section of railway in the world. Passengers shouldn’t be surprised if they are left breathless by the temples, wildlife and snow-capped mountain tops – thankfully, purified oxygen is pumped into each train compartment to help with any altitude sickness.

Mumbai to Madgaon, India

The Mandovi Express is named after the Mandovi River, of which passengers have spectacular views

There are few better ways to spend the day along the Konkan Coast of India than on the Mandovi Express. This half-day train ride from Mumbai to Madgaon may consume other breakfast, lunch and dinner plans, but it’s well worth the trip for those with an appetite for indulging in one of the finest routes offered by Indian Railways. The Mandovi Express has a reputation for serving great regional cuisine (at an extra cost) throughout the 12-hour journey. Between quaint countryside views and flavourful meals, travellers will disembark with a full stomach and a full camera roll. Nick Dauk contributed additional reporting.

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Sarah Baxter | 18 March 2018

All aboard the 12 best rail journeys in the world.

From the timeless Trans-Mongolian to the exhilarating Marrakech Express – hop on board these characterful trains that showcase some of earth's best landscapes

1: Oslo-Bergen railway, Norway

View of Finse town in Norway (Dreamstime)

View of Finse town in Norway (Dreamstime)

Best for... Really old rocks

The Bergen Railway to Oslo might just be the toughest battle between man and Mother Nature ever to have been fought in the name of train travel. This link between Norway’s capital and its second city, on the west coast, has to cross the cold, high, remote Hardangervidda, the largest eroded plain in Europe, where the tough, engineering-unfriendly metamorphic rock is around 1.5 billion years old. Thankfully, a railway did find a way across this hostile plateau, giving train fans a chance to ride from cosmopolitan Oslo to beautiful fjord-and-mountain-flanked Bergen via some of Norway’s wildest scenery. To prove a point: look out for Finse (1,222m), the line’s highest station – this is the gateway to the Hardangerjøkulen ice cap, where Scott and crew trained before their 1912 South Pole expedition.

Need to know: 496km; 6.5hrs; www.nsb.no

Like that? Try this... Take a detour off the main railway at Myrdal to ride the waterfall-splattered, hold-your-breath steep line down to the fjord-side village of Flåm.

2: Northern Explorer, New Zealand

A railway viaduct on North Island's main trunk link (Dreamstime)

A railway viaduct on North Island's main trunk link (Dreamstime)

Best for... Terrific topography

The North Island Main Trunk railway, finally completed in 1908, was not an easy undertaking – but that’s what makes it such an impressive ride today. New Zealand’s North Island is a volatile place; early engineers had to negotiate gully-sliced plateau and active volcanoes in order to link Auckland and Wellington. Today, the line’s big-windowed panorama carriages slice through Hobbiton-like green hills and undulating farmland, pass smoking mountains and rocky shores, and traverse some manmade marvels – from the 79m-high Makatote Viaduct, just below Mount Ruapehu, to the Raurimu Spiral, which utilises two tunnels, three horseshoe curves and a complete circle in order to tackle the precipitous terrain.

Need to know: 681km; 11hrs; www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Like that? Try this... Traverse South Island aboard the TranzAlpine , which links Christchurch and Greymouth by surmounting the Southern Alps.

3: Trans-Mongolian, Russia to China

Trans-Mongolian train (Dreamstime)

Trans-Mongolian train (Dreamstime)

Best for... A lot of trees, a lot of teas

Aping the route 17th-century traders once used to cross Siberia, carrying tea from China to the cups of Russia’s elite, the Trans-Mongolian is arguably the greatest train journey on the planet. It’s epic, taking almost a week ridden non-stop between Moscow and Beijing, crossing six time zones and penetrating parts of Asia that most just don’t reach.

Out the window, the endlessness of Russia rolls by – grand cities, birch trees and snowy plains. Then comes Mongolia’s ger -dotted steppe and capital Ulan Batar before crossing into China and negotiating the Great Wall to reach Beijing. But the onboard experience is arguably just as interesting – enjoy days of bonding with your eclectic cabin-mates over hot tea, card games and a shot of vodka or two.

Need to know: 7,621km; 6 nights; www.realrussia.co.uk

Like that? Try this... Hop off the Trans-Mongolian at Tayshet and take the even remoter, Baikal-Amur line to Russia’s east coast.

4: White Pass and Yukon railroad, Canada and USA

The White Pass and Yukon railroad (Dreamstime)

The White Pass and Yukon railroad (Dreamstime)

Best for... Gold rush grandeur

When a trio of prospectors found gold in a tributary of the Klondike River in 1896, they triggered one of the world’s largest gold rushes. To begin with, stampeders had to hike the treacherous Chilkoot Trail to get their treasure. But between 1898 and 1900, a narrow-gauge railway was built through the seemingly impossible terrain to make the journey a lot easier. The White Pass & Yukon Railroad necessitated tunnels, trestles, grades of up to 3.9% and tight cliff-teetering bends; it climbs almost 1,000m in its first 32 kilometres. Now, it carries visitors along the Skagway River, squeezing between waterfalls, thick forest and groaning glaciers, crossing the US/Canada border at White Pass, and descending to Lake Bennett, once the site of a bustling tent city, where pre-train prospectors paused after surviving the Chilkoot Trail.

Need to know: 109km; 4hrs 45mins; www.wpyr.com

Like that? Try this... Equally pioneering in feel, Canada’s Jasper-Prince Rupert line takes two days to clamber over the Rockies and through British Columbian wilderness to reach the Pacific at the port city of Prince Rupert, a great place to take a whale-spotting tour.

5: Copper Canyon railway, Mexico

Copper Canyon railway (Dreamstime)

Copper Canyon railway (Dreamstime)

Best for… Dramatic drops

The Spanish conquistadores , who found silver in northern Mexico’s Copper Canyon in the 17th century, had to employ mules and the local Rarámuri people to haul out their spoils. They would have loved ‘El Chepe’, aka the Copper Canyon Railway, which links the coastal town of Topolobampo to the dusty inland city of Chihuahua via this network of plunging ravines. Taking almost 90 years to complete, the line finally opened in 1961. On its dramatic journey, El Chepe has to negotiate 87 tunnels, 36 bridges and sweeping hairpin bends as it climbs from sea level to the rim-top views it offers at 2,400m.

Need to know: 655km; 15hrs; mexicoscoppercanyon.com

Like that? Try this... Cut through another gorgeous gorge on Arizona’s Verde Canyon Railroad. Look out for cottonwood trees, bobcats, bald eagles and Native American ruins.

6: Cusco to Machu Picchu, Peru

Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu (Dreamstime)

Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu (Dreamstime)

Best for… Inca intrigue

If you’ve no time or permit to hike the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, then this is a fine second choice. The train (which leaves from Poroy, just outside Cusco) slices through the mountains, passing Andean villages, the raging Urubamba River and the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo. It terminates at the hot-springs town of Aguas Calientes, from where the mist-swirled ruins of Machu Picchu teeter just above. Do the ride in opulent style aboard the Belmond Hiram Bingham , named after the explorer who rediscovered the ‘lost’ city in 1911. Or perhaps just opt for cheaper Vistadome or Expedition class instead – the views are just as good.

Need to know: 86km; 3hrs; www.perurail.com

Like that? Try this... Board the Belmond Andean Explorer , South America’s first luxury sleeper, to cross the plains from Cusco to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

7: St Kitts scenic railway, St Kitts and Nevis

St Kitts railway (Dreamstime)

St Kitts railway (Dreamstime)

Best for... A sweet ride

St Kitts’ narrow-gauge tourist train – the ‘Last Railway in the West Indies’ – is a reminder of a time when the fertile Caribbean island’s prime industry was not tourism but sugar. In 1775, when the British owned the isle, St Kitts had 200 estates growing ‘white gold’; in the early 20th century, a round-island railway was built, to transport the cane to a central factory. When the industry declined, the line reopened as a wonderful way for visitors to see the wave-crashed shores, swaying palms, emerald highlands – rising to 1,156m Mount Liamuiga – and crumbling remains of old cane plantations. Currently, the train only runs along St Kitts’ Atlantic coast with a bus tour completing the circuit. There's a stop at Brimstone Hill Fortress, which was built by the British to protect their precious sugar isle.

Need to know: 48km; 3hrs; www.stkittsscenicrailway.com

Like that? Try this... Complete the circuit, sort of. The St Kitts Rail to Trails project is gradually converting the abandoned Caribbean coast segment of the railway into a hiking and biking trail ( www.facebook.com/heartofstkitts ).

8: California Zephyr, USA

Train station in San Diego, California (Dreamstime)

Train station in San Diego, California (Dreamstime)

Best for... Winning the West

The California Zephyr isn’t a train. It’s a dream realised, a nation united. When the railway line across the US was completed in 1869, slashing the time it took to travel from coast to coast, the way was paved for all manner of pioneers to try their luck in the wild west. And what a journey the Zephyr still is, blowing from the windy city of Chicago, crossing the plains, mastering the Rockies and the Sierra Nevada to come to rest at Emeryville (for San Francisco), on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. Bag a seat in the Sightseer Lounge Car and watch the country unfurl.

Need to know: 3,900km; 51hrs 20mins; www.amtrak.com

Like that? Try this... Take the more southerly Southwest Chief , which links Chicago and Los Angeles via the Great Plains, Rocky Mountains, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon country and the Mojave Desert.

9: Heart of Wales line, United Kingdom

Coastal views near Llanelli, Wales (Dreamstime)

Coastal views near Llanelli, Wales (Dreamstime)

Best for... The green, green grass of home

Bucolic and beautiful now, perhaps, but in medieval times the landscapes traversed by this railway were once the fraught frontierlands of England and Wales. Indeed, at Knighton it crosses Offa’s Dyke, the eighth-century earthwork built by Mercian King Offa to keep the Welsh at bay. The Heart of Wales Line, completed in 1868, celebrates its 150th birthday this year, a good excuse to hop aboard in Swansea and ride it all the way to Shrewsbury, enjoying the Loughor Estuary, the rolling hills of Carmarthenshire, pointy Sugar Loaf and the brooding Black Mountains en route.

Need to know: 195km; 4hrs; www.heart-of-wales.co.uk

Like that? Try this... A perennial favourite of Wanderlust readers and Harry Potter fans, Scotland’s West Highland Line runs from Glasgow via Fort William to Mallaig, scurrying below Ben Nevis and sweeping across the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct.

10: Reunification Express, Vietnam

The Reunification Express passes through Hoi An (Dreamstime)

The Reunification Express passes through Hoi An (Dreamstime)

Best for… Covering a country

The North-South railway, known as the Transindochinois or sometimes the Reunification Express, was opened in 1936 to link the extremes of Vietnam, running from Hanoi in the north to Saigon in the south. The line was damaged and disconnected by the Vietnam War but, miraculously, less than two years after the surrender of South Vietnam and the unification of the country, a full Saigon-Hanoi rail journey was possible once more. The route, seen as a powerful symbol of solidarity, earned itself a nickname: the ‘Reunification Express’; it’s proved a boon to this long, skinny country, providing a simple, scenic way to travel between highlights, with plenty of interesting stops along the route. From the poignant war reminders of Saigon, head for the laidback beach resort of Nha Trang, the charming old port of Hoi An (via the railhead of Danang) and the former imperial capital of Hué, ending amid the frenetic and pho-fragrant streets of Hanoi.

Need to know: 1,726km; 36hrs; www.vr.com.vn

Like that? Try this... Take a sobering ride along a remaining stretch of Thailand’s ‘Death Railway’, from Kanchanaburi to Nam Tok via the River Kwai Bridge.

11: Marrakech Express, Morocco

Marrakech Express pulled into a station (Dreamstime)

Marrakech Express pulled into a station (Dreamstime)

Best for... Hippy holidays

By the late 1960s, Morocco was becoming an essential stop-off for long-haired counter-cultural types seeking exotic unconventionality. This included rock band Crosby, Stills and Nash, whose 1969 ditty ‘Marrakech Express’ inspired a heap of people to take the train to the millennia-old imperial city. The best way to tackle this journey now is to start with the ferry ride from southern Spain to Northern Africa, to get the full effect of arriving on this vast new continent. Then you can hop aboard the train in labyrinthine Tangier and plunge south, via capital Rabat and art deco Casablanca, to reach Marrakech’s magical old medina.

Need to know: 570km; 8hrs; www.oncf.ma (French)

Like that? Try this... Ride alongside the River Nile by taking the train from Cairo to Aswan, via palm trees, farmland, Luxor’s temples and millennia of Ancient Egyptian history.

12: Konkan railway, India

A train crosses the railroad bridge past Dudhsagar Waterfall (Dreamstime)

A train crosses the railroad bridge past Dudhsagar Waterfall (Dreamstime)

Best for… Engineering excellence

Opened in 1998, the Konkan Railway connects the megalopolis of Mumbai and the port of Mangalore (Karnataka). It’s an engineering masterstroke: over 2,000 bridges and some 90 tunnels were required to forge a route between the Arabian Sea and the Sahyadri Hills. Along the way are rivers, valleys, mountains, mango trees, coconut palms and tiny villages. It also enters the heartland of Portuguese India, which ruled parts of the subcontinent from 1505 up to 1961. Disembark at Karmali Station to wander Old Goa, once the capital of the Portuguese viceroyalty and now an atmospheric ruin.

Need to know: 741km; 13hrs; www.irctc.co.in

Like that? Try this... If size matters, opt for India’s Vivek Express , a 4,273km ride from Assam to the Tamil Nadu town of Kanyakumari – the country’s longest train trip.

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best train journeys in the world

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  1. The 12 Most Amazing Train Journeys in the World » Road Less Travelled

    best train journeys in the world

  2. Top 10 most incredible train journeys in the world

    best train journeys in the world

  3. 15 Most Beautiful Train Journeys In The World

    best train journeys in the world

  4. All aboard! The 12 best rail journeys in the world

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  6. 15 Beautiful Train Journeys Across The World You Have To Travel On

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  1. 10 Most INCREDIBLE Train Journeys in the World

    Come with us on a multi-stop trip through some of the world’s best train journeys. We’re covering popular destinations including Canada, Australia and India. Stopping off at the world’s highest train station, the world’s longest railway track and some iconic Harry Potter scenery.

  2. The world’s most incredible rail journeys

    Qinghai-Tibet Railway, China: Known as the "Railway to Heaven," the 1,215-mile route from Xining to Lhasa tops out at the Tanggula Pass, 16,627 feet above sea level and uses pressurized carriages...

  3. These Are the Best Train Journeys in the World

    These are the greatest train journeys around the world. Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West, Canada The Rocky Mountaineer transports passengers between Vancouver and Banff | © robertharding / Alamy Stock Photo

  4. Top 10 most incredible train journeys in the world

    Top 10 most incredible train journeys in the world. April 19, 2021 13. Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire. Today: Top 10 greatest train rides in the world. The lure of rail travel has always had a romantic and adventurous air.

  5. All aboard! The 12 best rail journeys in the world

    The 12 best rail journeys in the world. From the timeless Trans-Mongolian to the exhilarating Marrakech Express – hop on board these characterful trains that showcase some of earth's best landscapes. 8 mins. 1: Oslo-Bergen railway, Norway. View of Finse town in Norway (Dreamstime) Best for... Really old rocks.