BEST EPIC TRAIN JOURNEY
The journey is as fascinating as the destination. Not only does a train journey transport you from one place to another, it also offers the opportunity to explore the world in a slower, more sustainable way. Embark on a grand expedition across countries and enjoy panoramic views through large windows, or travel back in time aboard a historic locomotive.
Ready to set off? Discover some of the world’s most epic train journeys, plus tips on the best routes, timetables, onboard services and activities along the way.
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Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Train journeys: Classic routes include roundtrip destinations to Venice, London, Verona and Paris.
Relive the golden age of travel in historic, lovingly restored 1920s railway carriages. On the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, explore Europe in style on a luxurious locomotive with elegant surroundings, impeccable service and ragtime piano music. Dress elegantly and enjoy a four-course table d’hôte menu accompanied by wines selected by the sommelier. Afterwards, visit the bar car to sip delicious cocktails and chat with fellow travelers. In the evening, relax in one of the luxurious suites with comfortable beds and private bathrooms.
Most classic routes between major European cities (such as Geneva, Innsbruck, Venice and London) last two days, but if you’re looking for an epic adventure, don’t miss the six-day trip from Paris to Istanbul, via Budapest and Bucharest.
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Glacier Express, Switzerland Glacier Express
Journey time: 8 hours
Train journeys: Zermatt to St. Moritz (and back)
Enjoy Switzerland’s most spectacular natural and man-made wonders from the comfort of your seat on the Glacier Express. The train connects Zermatt, Switzerland (home to the iconic Matterhorn and Gornergrat) to St. Moritz, a luxurious and stunning town in the Alps. You’ll pass through 91 tunnels, cross 291 bridges and see landscapes such as the Rhine Gorge, the Oberalp Pass and other lakes, valleys, villages and pastures through the panoramic windows of your cabin.
Upgrade to the “Excellence Class” experience and make your journey even more special. You’ll have the best window seats, a five-course menu with paired wines and exclusive access to the bar.
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Alaska Railroad – United States
Journey time: 2.5 to 12 hours, one way
Train trips: Roundtrip to Anchorage, Fairbanks, Talkeetna, Hurricane, Grandview or Seward.
Explore the majestic mountains of Interior Alaska with the Alaska Railroad. Train trips run year-round, with daily summer routes from May to September. The flagship train, the “Denali Star,” is perfect for summer wildlife viewing, with a stop at Denali National Park and Preserve during the 12-hour trip between Anchorage and Fairbanks. The “Coastal Classic” train between Anchorage and Seward is also ideal for enjoying coastal scenery, fjords, fishing and hiking. Tip: Upgrade to “GoldStar Service” and get access to glass-roofed staterooms, panoramic views and an open-air observation deck on the upper deck, plus meals and drinks.
In winter, you can also enjoy an epic Alaskan voyage on the “Aurora Winter,” which offers incredible views of the snowy landscape and even the chance to see the Northern Lights.
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Eastern & Oriental Express
Journey time: four days
Train journeys: Round-trip from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, Taman Negara, Langkawi Island or Penang Island.
Enjoy an incredible journey through Malaysia on the Eastern & Oriental Express, operated by Belmond. Your four-day journey begins in Singapore and heads north, passing through lush forests, charming cities and relaxing islands. The Wild Malaysia tour is ideal for nature lovers, with the final stop at Taman Negara National Park, one of the world’s oldest rainforests and home to the endangered Malayan tiger. The Essence of Malaysia tour offers a little bit of everything, with stops at the cultural hub of Penang and Pulau Payar Water Park in Langkawi, where you can snorkel and take part in other fun activities.
During your trip, enjoy a luxurious four-course dining experience each evening, with a table d’hôte menu featuring the flavours of Malaysia. In the evening, head to the bar car to sip champagne and specialty cocktails while listening to jazz. It is recommended to book your trip a few months in advance, as places are limited.
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Serra Verde Express, Curitiba, Brazil
Journey time: 4 hours
Train journeys: Curitiba to Morretes (and vice versa)
Travel through the lush vegetation, waterfalls, canyons and mountains of Brazil on the Serra Verde Express, one of the most famous railways in South America. Built over a hundred years ago, the train connects Curitiba to the historic coastal town of Morretes. While it doesn’t offer many amenities on board, some carriages have sliding windows that allow the scents of the forest to enter the cabin, providing an immersive experience.
To make the most of your trip, we recommend booking a round-trip package that includes a tour of Morretes. You’ll get to see the town’s history, churches, markets and colonial homes, before ending the day with a barreado (Brazilian beef stew) overlooking the Nhundiaquara River
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Rocky Mountaineer, North America
Journey length: 2 to 15 days
Train trips: Vancouver to Banff or Jasper in Canada, and Moab to Denver in the US.
Embark on a spectacular journey through the North American Rockies with the Rocky Mountaineer. Choose from three incredible routes across Canada, including the “Journey Through The Clouds,” which departs from Vancouver and passes the Fraser River, Hell’s Gate, Pyramid Creek Falls and the majestic Mount Robson on the way to Jasper.
For 360° panoramic views, upgrade to the “GoldLeaf” experience, which includes glass-roofed cabins and a large outdoor observation deck. Most trips last two to three days, but round-trip packages can last up to 15 days from Vancouver to Whistler.
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West Highland Line, Scotland
Journey time: 3.5 to 5.5 hours
Train journeys: Glasgow to Oban, Fort William or Mallaig
Explore Scotland’s stunning west coast with the West Highland Line, which takes you past imposing glens, large lochs and majestic mountains. From Glasgow, head north to Fort William and Mallaig, passing scenic spots such as Monessie Gorge, Ben Nevis and the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct (known as the Hogwarts Express railway in the Harry Potter films).
The western route from Glasgow takes you to the port town of Oban, passing historic Kilchurn Castle, the beautiful Falls of Lora and the picturesque Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for red deer hiding in the trees.
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Lake Titicaca Train, Peru
Train Journey time: 10 hours
Train journeys: Cusco to Puno (and back)
Travel from Cusco to the port city of Puno on PeruRail’s Titicaca train. Known as the “Lake Titicaca train,” the journey takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Peruvian Andes to the magical Lake Titicaca, one of the largest lakes in South America. From the train carriage, you can take in the incredible views while enjoying onboard experiences such as live Peruvian music and dance performances, a gourmet three-course menu, and afternoon tea. A highlight is sipping a Peruvian cocktail in the bar car with a semi-open-air observatory.
While in Puno, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the mystical Uros Floating Islands, home to the indigenous Uros people, who built their homes entirely from reeds.
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Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy
Journey time: 1.5 to 4.5 hours
Train journeys: Chur or St. Moritz to Tirano or Poschiavo (and vice versa)
Take the Bernina Express and explore the snow-capped Swiss Alps from the comfort of your cabin. Travel along Europe’s highest railway line, past UNESCO World Heritage sites, the magnificent Landwasser Viaduct and ancient natural wonders such as Lago Bianco and the Palü Glacier.
Take the classic 4.5-hour route from Chur, Switzerland, to the Italian town of Tirano. In this small town near the Swiss-Italian border, you can visit historic sites such as the Santuario della Beata Vergine di Tirano, an ornate church with interesting historical artefacts and intricately painted ceilings. If you’re in Milan, take a day trip to St. Moritz with the Bernina Express tour package. It includes a tour of St. Moritz, round-trip transfers on the journey, and transfers to and from your accommodation in Milan.
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Coast Starlight Train, United States
Train Journey time: 35 hours
Train trips: Seattle to Los Angeles (and back)
With a daily route, you won’t want to miss out on the chance to ride the Amtrak Coast Starlight train at least once in your life. This West Coast adventure takes you from Seattle to Los Angeles, passing through incredible scenery. The train passes the snow-capped peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta, the Golden Gate Bridge and the beaches of Santa Barbara.
Don’t worry: all meals are provided on the train, including a three-course dinner featuring seasonal ingredients. Economy class seats are available, but consider treating yourself to a good night’s sleep during the long journey in Superliner rooms and suites with fold-down beds. If you need to get away for a while during the 35-hour journey, stop in San Luis Obispo, California for a wine tasting at a winery. If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, visit Klamath Falls in Oregon.
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The Ghan, South Australia and Northern Territory
Trip length: 2–4 days
Train routes: Darwin to Adelaide (and back) and Darwin or Adelaide to Alice Springs
The Ghan offers a unique and luxurious experience, taking you on an unforgettable journey through Australia. This four-day expedition crosses the country, from Darwin in the Top End to Adelaide in the south, passing through some of Australia’s most remote regions. Enjoy even more of the Australian outback with outdoor activities in Katherine and Coober Pedy, or opt for shorter trips to Alice Springs, ideal for exploring the Red Centre.
In the elegant cabins, you can enjoy regionally inspired meals and renowned wines. Afterwards, relax and socialize in the lounges, stocked with games, books and drinks. For an even more luxurious experience, choose the Platinum service, which includes cabins with panoramic windows, private bathrooms and personalized servisse
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Deccan Odyssey, India
Journey time: 15 days
Train routes: Delhi to Mumbai, or Mumbai to Kolkata or Hyderabad (or vice versa)
Embark on a journey through India aboard the luxurious Deccan Odyssey. Admire India’s diverse landscapes as you relax in glamorous cabins and dine on delicious Indian and international cuisine. If you’re looking for a break from the sights, the train offers a sauna and spa, where you can indulge in traditional Ayurvedic massages. There’s also a gym and even a beauty salon.
For majestic palaces and cultural wonders, the “Splendours of Northern India” route takes you from Delhi to Mumbai, passing by the beautiful lakes of Udaipur and, of course, the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. If you prefer sunny beaches and sunsets, the “Madras Mail” route is ideal, passing through the coastal cities of Goa, Kochi and Pondicherry on the way to Hyderabad from Mumbai.
