The allure of luxury train journeys has captivated travellers for generations, offering a elegant way to explore the world’s most dramatic landscapes. From snow-dusted Alpine peaks to remote Arctic wilderness, these remarkable rail adventures transform the journey into the destination itself. As modern travellers seek more meaningful ways to explore, these iconic train routes provide an intimate connection with landscapes that are often inaccessible by other means.
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
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Gracefully winding through the Swiss Alps, the “slowest express train in the world” transforms an eight-hour journey into an unforgettable adventure. Floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows frame UNESCO-protected landscapes as the train traverses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels. The journey between Zermatt and St. Moritz reaches elevations of 2,033 metres, offering views of the iconic Matterhorn and Oberalp Pass. Excellence Class service elevates the experience with an exclusive lounge bar, personal travel guides, and Champagne-paired regional cuisine.
glacierexpress.ch, @glacierexpress
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
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Traversing the Canadian Rockies in unparalleled luxury, this daylight-only journey ensures guests don’t miss a moment of the spectacular scenery. The Vancouver to Banff route, known as the First Passage to the West, retraces historic rail routes through otherworldly landscapes. GoldLeaf Service offers a bi-level glass dome coach where guests enjoy gourmet dining while watching for wildlife like elk, bighorn sheep, and eagles against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks and emerald lakes.
rockymountaineer.com, @rockymountaineer
Amtrak’s Empire Builder, USA
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This historic route spans nearly 2,000 miles between Chicago and Seattle, threading through America’s most dramatic northern landscapes. The 46-hour journey showcases the transition from prairies to mountains, with a highlight being the passage through Glacier National Park. The train’s Superliner cars offer private bedrooms and an upper-level observation lounge perfect for watching the ever-changing panorama unfold.
Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
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The world’s longest railway journey spans eight time zones and 9,289 kilometres of fascinating terrain. This legendary route between Moscow and Vladivostok takes seven days, passing through 87 cities and across the Ural Mountains. The Golden Eagle luxury train offers an opulent way to experience this bucket-list journey, with fine dining, expert lectures, and excursions to remote Siberian villages.
goldeneagleluxurytrains.com, @goldeneagleluxurytrains
The Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy
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This UNESCO World Heritage journey provides a masterclass in railway engineering and natural beauty. The four-hour route between Chur and Tirano crosses 196 bridges and penetrates 55 tunnels, including the spectacular Landwasser Viaduct. The train’s panoramic cars offer unobstructed views of the journey from glaciers to palms as it descends from the Alps into Italian wine country.
Norway’s Arctic Circle Train
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The Nordland Line presents an extraordinary 10-hour journey through Norway’s Arctic wilderness. Between Trondheim and Bodø, passengers witness the dramatic transition from fjord landscapes to polar territory. In winter, the Northern Lights often dance across the sky, while summer brings the midnight sun. The journey crosses the Arctic Circle, marked by a monument visible from the train.
The Flåm Railway, Norway
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Despite its brevity, this 20-kilometre journey between Myrdal and Flåm is considered one of the world’s most beautiful train rides. The track descends 866 metres through spiral tunnels and past cascading waterfalls, including the magnificent Kjosfossen. The journey offers comfort class carriages with panoramic views of the spectacular Nærøyfjord region, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
norwaysbest.com, @norwaysbest_
The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland
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This 84-mile round trip through the Scottish Highlands, famously featured as the Hogwarts Express, offers a journey through Britain’s most dramatic scenery. The route between Fort William and Mallaig crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct with views of Ben Nevis and the Small Isles. First-class dining service includes afternoon tea while passing through remote glens and alongside misty lochs.
westcoastrailways.co.uk, @westcoastrailways
Belmond British Pullman, UK
Step into the golden age of travel aboard the Belmond British Pullman, where every journey through the British countryside becomes an occasion for celebration. Each lovingly restored carriage tells its own story, from “Audrey,” with its intricate marquetry, to “Phoenix,” resplendent with Art Deco details. The train’s day trips from London Victoria Station offer experiences ranging from afternoon tea journeys to murder mystery lunches. Guests dine on fine British cuisine served on bespoke china while passing through rolling hills and historic towns. The experience is elevated by white-gloved service, Champagne receptions, and seasonal menus crafted by celebrated chefs.
