Traveling by Train: Epic Rail Journeys Around the World

As the world rushes by your window, you can relax, unwind, and truly immerse yourself in the landscapes and cultures that unfold before you—and Booked AI as an AI travel guide can easily help you find your way to the countries that host these train journeys.

From the icy expanses of Siberia to the rugged peaks of the Swiss Alps, here are some of the most epic rail journeys around the world.

1. The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

Route: Moscow to Vladivostok
Distance: 9,289 kilometers (5,772 miles)
Duration: 7 days

The Trans-Siberian Railway is the epitome of epic rail travel. Spanning the vast expanse of Russia, this journey is the longest continuous rail line in the world, stretching from the heart of Moscow to the far eastern city of Vladivostok. As the train chugs through eight time zones, you’ll witness a staggering variety of landscapes—from the bustling cities and historic towns of European Russia to the endless taiga forests, the majestic Ural Mountains, and the windswept steppes of Siberia.

Highlights:

• Lake Baikal: The world’s deepest freshwater lake, a stunning natural wonder that offers pristine beauty and a tranquil escape.
• Irkutsk: Often called the "Paris of Siberia," this city is known for its historic architecture and proximity to Lake Baikal.
• Vladivostok: A bustling port city on the Pacific Ocean, marking the end of the journey with its rich maritime history.

Traveling the Trans-Siberian Railway is not just about reaching a destination—it’s a journey into the heart of Russia, offering a deep dive into its culture, history, and natural beauty.

2. The Glacier Express, Switzerland

Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Distance: 291 kilometers (181 miles)
Duration: 8 hours

Dubbed the "slowest express train in the world," the Glacier Express is a journey that’s all about savoring the spectacular scenery of the Swiss Alps. Connecting the mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz, this route takes you through deep valleys, over towering viaducts, and across dramatic mountain passes, all while offering panoramic views through large, wraparound windows.

Highlights:

• Oberalp Pass: The highest point on the route, offering breathtaking views at 2,033 meters (6,670 feet) above sea level.
• Landwasser Viaduct: A marvel of engineering, this iconic curved viaduct spans 65 meters (213 feet) above the Landwasser River.
• Zermatt and the Matterhorn: Start or end your journey in Zermatt, a charming village at the foot of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic mountains in the world.

The Glacier Express is a journey through Switzerland’s most picturesque landscapes, combining the thrill of train travel with the serenity of the Alps. Ask our AI travel guide about the best times to visit Switzerland to take this journey.

3. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Route: Vancouver to Banff (First Passage to the West)
Distance: 850 kilometers (528 miles)
Duration: 2 days

The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train experience that showcases the best of Canada’s stunning western landscapes. Traveling between Vancouver and Banff, this route takes you through the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains, with snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and crystal-clear lakes providing a breathtaking backdrop.

Highlights:

• Fraser Canyon: Marvel at the steep walls of the canyon and the rushing waters of the Fraser River.
• Spiral Tunnels: Ingenious engineering solutions that allow the train to navigate steep grades through the mountains.
• Lake Louise: A short distance from Banff, this glacial lake is known for its turquoise waters and stunning alpine setting.

With its luxurious service and awe-inspiring scenery, the Rocky Mountaineer is a bucket-list experience for train enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

4. The Blue Train, South Africa

Route: Pretoria to Cape Town
Distance: 1,600 kilometers (994 miles)
Duration: 31 hours

The Blue Train is a symbol of luxury and sophistication, offering an elegant way to experience South Africa’s diverse landscapes. This journey connects the administrative capital of Pretoria with the vibrant city of Cape Town, passing through the arid plains of the Karoo, rolling vineyards, and the dramatic landscapes of the Western Cape.

Highlights:

• Matjiesfontein: A stop in this quaint Victorian village offers a step back in time, with its preserved 19th-century architecture.
• The Karoo: A vast semi-desert region with wide-open spaces and a stark, haunting beauty.
• Cape Town: Arrive in one of the world’s most beautiful cities, with Table Mountain as a stunning backdrop.

The Blue Train is more than just a mode of transport—it’s a luxurious journey that captures the essence of South Africa’s natural and cultural diversity.

5. The Belmond Hiram Bingham, Peru

Route: Cusco to Machu Picchu
Distance: 90 kilometers (56 miles)
Duration: 3.5 hours

Named after the explorer who brought Machu Picchu to the world’s attention, the Belmond Hiram Bingham offers a luxurious way to reach the famed Incan citadel. This journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas is as much about the experience on board as it is about the destination, with gourmet dining, live music, and stunning views of the Andean landscape.

Highlights:

• Urubamba River: The train follows the course of this sacred river, which winds through the lush valley.
• Andean Landscapes: Enjoy panoramic views of the mountains, terraced fields, and small villages that dot the valley.
• Machu Picchu: The journey culminates at this iconic archaeological site, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

The Belmond Hiram Bingham is a journey of both luxury and history, offering an unforgettable way to visit one of the world’s most mysterious and awe-inspiring sites.

6. The TranzAlpine, New Zealand

Route: Christchurch to Greymouth
Distance: 223 kilometers (139 miles)
Duration: 5 hours

The TranzAlpine is one of New Zealand’s most scenic train journeys, taking passengers across the South Island from the east coast to the west. This route traverses the majestic Southern Alps, with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and lush rainforests.

Highlights:

• Waimakariri River Gorge: A dramatic gorge where the river winds through steep, forested cliffs.
• Arthur’s Pass National Park: The train passes through this stunning national park, with views of alpine meadows, forests, and waterfalls.
• The West Coast: Arrive in Greymouth, a gateway to the wild and rugged west coast, known for its dramatic coastlines and rich mining history.

The TranzAlpine is a must-do for nature lovers and adventurers, offering a front-row seat to New Zealand’s stunning and diverse landscapes.

7. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

Route: London to Venice (via Paris)
Distance: 1,600 kilometers (994 miles)
Duration: 1-2 days (depending on the route)

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the epitome of luxury train travel, evoking the glamor and elegance of a bygone era. This iconic train journey takes passengers through some of Europe’s most beautiful cities and landscapes, from the bustling streets of London and Paris to the romantic canals of Venice.

Highlights:

• Paris: The train makes a stop in the City of Light, where passengers can explore its world-famous attractions and charming streets.
• The Swiss Alps: Pass through the scenic Alpine region, with its stunning mountains and picturesque villages.
• Venice: The journey ends in Venice, where the train arrives at the historic Santa Lucia station, a short walk from the city’s famous canals and landmarks.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a journey steeped in history and luxury, offering a taste of the golden age of travel.

Conclusion

Traveling by train is about more than just getting from point A to point B—it’s about the journey itself. These epic rail routes offer some of the most scenic and historic experiences in the world, providing travelers with a unique way to explore diverse landscapes and cultures. Whether you’re dreaming of crossing the vast expanse of Russia, winding through the Swiss Alps, or enjoying the luxury of a historic train, there’s a rail journey out there that’s sure to capture your imagination and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

The journey of a lifetime starts with a single step, as they say, and Booked AI is the first step to take towards your adventures. Book flights to countless vacation destinations and explore what the world has to offer. Simply download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store and start planning with your very own AI travel guide.