Experience breathtaking landscapes—without ever leaving your seat.
Sometimes, the journey is every bit as remarkable as the destination.
For travelers who want to slow down and truly soak in the beauty of the world,
scenic train rides offer a front-row seat to nature’s most spectacular views.
From snow-capped mountains and sweeping valleys to rugged coastlines and cultural heartlands, these train journeys redefine the magic of travel.
Best of all? You can book them all easily through Viator.
Here are some of the world’s most scenic train rides to consider for your next unforgettable getaway.
1. Glacier Express – Switzerland
Often called the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express takes you on an 8-hour journey through the Swiss Alps between Zermatt and St. Moritz. Panoramic windows give you unobstructed views of towering peaks, deep gorges, and charming alpine villages. It’s like traveling inside a postcard.
2. Rocky Mountaineer – Canada
For a luxurious ride through Western Canada’s untamed wilderness, the Rocky Mountaineer is unbeatable. With glass-domed coaches and gourmet meals onboard, you'll pass turquoise lakes, dense forests, and the towering Canadian Rockies. This is the gold standard of scenic rail travel.
3. TranzAlpine – New Zealand
The TranzAlpine is one of New Zealand’s most jaw-dropping train experiences. Running between Christchurch and Greymouth, this route crosses the Canterbury Plains, winds through the Southern Alps, and rolls past lush rainforests—all in under five hours. It’s a compact yet unforgettable adventure.
4. Flam Railway – Norway
Short but spectacular, the Flam Railway is considered one of the steepest and most scenic railways in the world. In just an hour, you’ll travel from sea level to over 860 meters, passing cascading waterfalls, dramatic fjords, and picture-perfect mountain scenery.
5. The Jacobite Steam Train – Scotland
Harry Potter fans will recognize this iconic train from the films—it’s the Hogwarts Express in real life. Running from Fort William to Mallaig, the Jacobite takes you over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct and through the rugged Scottish Highlands. It’s nostalgia and natural beauty rolled into one.
6. Bernina Express – Switzerland & Italy
Crossing from Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, the Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed route. You’ll travel across the Landwasser Viaduct, glide past glacial lakes, and descend through palm-lined Italian towns—all in a single trip.
7. Maharajas’ Express – India
If you’re after grandeur and culture, the Maharajas’ Express delivers both. This luxury train offers multi-day itineraries that whisk you through India’s most enchanting cities and palaces in regal comfort—think of it as a moving five-star hotel.
Why Book Through Viator?
From reserving your seat to adding guided excursions at each stop, Viator makes booking scenic train experiences seamless. With verified reviews, flexible options, and local expertise, your journey will be as stress-free as it is scenic.
Ready to ride the rails?
Add a scenic train ride to your next adventure and discover the world in a whole new way.
Book your tickets and experiences now on Viator—where the journey is just as spectacular as the destination.
