There’s something special about railway train travel—the slow pace, the scenic landscapes, and the nostalgia of a golden age of exploration. Unlike airplanes, where the journey is just a means to an end, train travel journey itself is an experience. From the most scenic train rides in the world to the best train vacations, 2025 is shaping up to be the perfect year to explore the world by rail.
Here are 10 of the greatest train rides to book this year, offering everything from scenic train rides through mountains to luxurious cross-country expeditions.
The Glacier Express, Switzerland – The Ultimate Alpine Experience
If you’re looking for one of the best scenic train rides, the Glacier Express is unbeatable. This iconic scenic train journey takes you across the Swiss Alps, from Zermatt to St. Moritz, covering 291 km in about eight hours.
Why Book This Trip?
✔️ Panoramic windows offering uninterrupted views of the Matterhorn, deep gorges, and pristine alpine lakes
✔️ Slow travel at its finest, allowing you to take in every detail of the breathtaking landscape
✔️ First-class service with gourmet meals served onboard
This is not just one of the great scenic railway journeys—it’s an unforgettable experience through some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada – A Journey Through the Wild
For those who love great train trips, the Rocky Mountaineer offers an unforgettable ride through the Canadian Rockies. This scenic train route operates between Vancouver and Banff, showcasing waterfalls, glaciers, and dense forests along the way.
Why Book This Trip?
✔️ Glass-dome coaches for 360-degree views of towering peaks and turquoise lakes
✔️ Luxury seating, gourmet meals, and storytelling from expert guides
✔️ One of the best train vacations in the world for nature lovers
A must-book for anyone wanting to experience great train journeys in North America!
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe – The Epitome of Luxury
A name synonymous with elegance, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is more than just a train trip—it’s a journey back in time. Running from London to Venice, this legendary train features 1920s-style carriages, fine dining, and white-glove service.
Why Book This Trip?
✔️ One of the most luxurious train in the world experiences
✔️ Michelin-star dining with vintage champagne service
✔️ Beautiful art deco interiors that transport you to another era
This is not just one of the best train trips—it’s an experience in opulence.
The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia – The Longest Train Ride in the World
If you’re looking for an adventure, this is the longest railway journey in the world, spanning over 9,000 km from Moscow to Vladivostok. The journey takes about seven days, offering a true deep dive into Russia’s diverse landscapes.
Why Book This Trip?
✔️ Experience railway train travel like never before—crossing eight time zones!
✔️ Stunning views of Lake Baikal, Siberian forests, and historic cities
✔️ A once-in-a-lifetime experience for lovers of long train rides
The Ghan, Australia – The Great Outback Expedition
This legendary scenic train tour takes you through the heart of Australia, from Darwin to Adelaide. Known as one of the best train travel destinations, it covers over 2,979 km of stunning Outback terrain.
Why Book This Trip?
✔️ A true great train trip through Australia’s red desert and lush tropics
✔️ Off-train excursions at remote locations like Alice Springs
✔️ One of the great train vacations for those seeking adventure
If you’re fascinated by train adventures, The Ghan should be on your list.
The Royal Scotsman, Scotland – A Highland Fairytale
The Royal Scotsman is one of the best train tours in the UK, offering a luxurious journey through the Scottish Highlands. With vintage-style cabins, a private spa, and gourmet dining, it’s one of the most exclusive scenic train rides in the world.
Why Book This Trip?
✔️ One of the best rail tours for luxury lovers
✔️ Private excursions, including castle visits and whiskey tastings
✔️ An intimate setting with only 40 passengers onboard
For those looking for romantic train rides, this is a dream come true.
The California Zephyr, USA – The Best Train Ride in America
Consistently ranked among the best train rides in America, the California Zephyr takes passengers from Chicago to San Francisco. It’s one of the cool train rides that showcases the best of the U.S., from the Rockies to the Sierra Nevada.
Why Book This Trip?
✔️ One of the best train excursions for seeing diverse landscapes
✔️ Comfortable sleeper cabins and glass-roof observation cars
✔️ A budget-friendly option compared to luxury train ride trips
If you love rail travel, this is a must!
The Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru – South America’s Finest Rail Experience
For an unforgettable rail journey, the Belmond Andean Explorer offers a stunning ride through the Peruvian Andes, from Cusco to Lake Titicaca.
Why Book This Trip?
✔️ A luxury train travel journey with five-star dining and elegant cabins
✔️ One of the best train trips in the world for high-altitude scenery
✔️ Includes guided excursions to archaeological sites
If you’re searching for great train trips of the world, this should be on your list.
The West Highland Line, Scotland – A Cinematic Adventure
Fans of great scenic railroad journeys will love the West Highland Line, famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films. This scenic tourist train crosses the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.
Why Book This Trip?
✔️ One of the nicest train rides in the world for breathtaking landscapes
✔️ Short but sweet—perfect for a quick train adventure
✔️ Affordable yet iconic
This is one of the best scenic train rides in the UK!
The End of the World Train, Argentina – A Journey to the Edge of the Earth
As the southernmost train trip on the planet, the End of the World Train takes passengers through Patagonia’s Tierra del Fuego National Park.
Why Book This Trip?
✔️ A rare chance to ride the best train in one of the most remote areas on Earth
✔️ Historical significance—it was originally built for prisoners
✔️ Unparalleled views of glaciers, mountains, and forests
This is truly one of the best train travel in the world experiences!
Final Thoughts: 2025 Is the Year of Rail Travel
If you’ve ever wanted to embark on a scenic train journey, there’s no better time than 2025. Whether you prefer long distance train trips or luxury train vacations, these routes offer something for every traveler.
Which of these best train rides in the world will you book first?
