Nothing is more magical than a long train trip through cities with beautiful landscapes and scenery. Who would not want to soak in a route that is equally wonderful as the destination? Additionally, as trains frequently go through less well-known cities and regions, you're more likely to see something rare or interesting because railroad tracks are mostly built in places with little to no foot activity.
Of course, not every train trip will leave you in wonder, but some will have you gazing out the window. Discover the world's most stunning train journeys by reading on.
Image Credit: Travel Nevada
In Ely, Nevada, only four hours west of Las Vegas, this antique steam train transports travelers back in time. The Nevada Northern Railway travels through Robinson Canyon into the Ruth Copper Mining District, as it's been doing for over a century. In addition to regular daytime trips, the rail line also provides a "star train" midnight tour that allows passengers to see the clear night sky without any smog or pollution.
The train will pause for a while so that passengers can grab a telescope to see the night sky. The line also provides a special kind of trip that departs and returns to the station a little earlier for those with early bedtimes. Guests can get something to drink as the sky changes from day to night.
Image Credit: Glacier Express
The Glacier Express traverses the Swiss Alps as it travels from Zermatt to St. Moritz.
The Glacier Express connects Zermatt and St. Moritz, two of Switzerland's most gorgeous mountaintop resorts, is the most tranquil way to soak in the breathtaking Swiss Alps views. The day-long journey from Zermatt to the east passes across 291 bridges and 91 tunnels by southern Switzerland's idyllic hamlets, pure mountain lakes, and alpine meadows. The Oberalp Pass, the highest point of the trip at 244 meters (6,706 feet), and the Landwasser Viaduct, a majestic six-arch structure rising at around 61 meters (200 feet) and descending into a tunnel carved directly into the rock, are among the journey's major attractions.
Image Credit: Journey Beyond Rail
Australia is quite big, and while most people would be a bit hesitant to drive the 1,880 miles in 32 hours from Darwin to Adelaide, taking the train can be extraordinarily satisfying. The transcontinental Ghan travels across Australia in under three days, passing through some of the most beautiful landscapes the Outback offers. It stops for four hours at Alice Springs so that passengers can get off and walk about or get off completely to see Ayer's Rock (a 45-minute flight or six-hour drive away). The train is available to passengers with a spectrum of budgets (different seating options, which vary from basic twin sleepers with shared toilets to luxurious Platinum Cabins).
Image Credit: Belmond
Consider taking a trip on Peru's Andean Explorer if you're planning to visit Cuzco (near Machu Picchu) and Puno's town on Lake Titicaca's shores. When traveling, you'd go through historic Incan towns, bustling commercial cities, and towering peaks throughout the 10-and-a-half-hour ride. The ride's top point is more than 14,000 feet at La Raya. Dance performances and cultural events are among the onboard entertainment options, and lunch, tea, and snacks are all included in the ticket fee.
Image Credit: Durango Train
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad was initially built to transport gold and silver ore extracted from Colorado's San Juan Mountains. Since 1882, the train has been running continuously. Views of the Animas River, the famous Horseshoe Curve, and the High Bridge are among the journey's highlights. It is now a well-known classic railway with "astounding splendor.
These are the top 5 most stunning train trips in the world in no particular order. Any of these rides will guarantee you a unique experience you'll never forget.
Make sure you pack the necessities for travel, such as a camera and a journal or notepad to keep track of memorable encounters. Making wonderful memories is part of the journey; you shouldn't ignore that.
Cover Image Credit: Florian van Duyn on Unsplash
