From
legendary railway lines to lesser-known scenic routes, these
destinations are chosen for unforgettable journeys by train. Discover
where to go for rail and scenic train holidays that combine comfort,
striking landscapes and the joy of slow, immersive travel.
Switzerland – The global benchmark for scenic rail travel, featuring iconic routes such as the Glacier Express, the Bernina Line and the GoldenPass, crossing alpine valleys, glaciers and mountain passes.
Norway – Dramatic rail journeys including the Flåm Railway and mountain routes linking fjords, waterfalls and steep valleys carved into rugged landscapes.
Austria – Alpine rail travel through Tyrol and the Salzkammergut, offering mountain lakes, forested valleys and traditional villages.
Italy – Scenic rail routes along the Cinque Terre Coast, through Tuscany and across the Dolomites, blending coastline, countryside and historic towns.
France – Beautiful regional rail journeys through Provence, the French Alps and Alsace, combining vineyards, mountains and storybook villages.
Spain – Scenic routes in Northern Spain, the Pyrenees and Andalusia, offering green landscapes and historic cities beyond the high-speed network.
Germany – Romantic and historic rail travel along the Rhine Valley, the Black Forest and Bavarian regions, passing castles, forests and riverside towns.
England – Classic scenic rail journeys including the Settle–Carlisle Line, coastal routes in Cornwall and countryside travel through the Peak District and the North of England.
Scotland – One of Europe’s most scenic rail destinations, highlighted by the West Highland Line between Glasgow and Mallaig, plus routes through the Cairngorms and the Highlands.
Portugal – Slower-paced rail travel along the Douro Valley Line, offering vineyard-covered hills and riverside scenery.
Japan – Exceptionally efficient and scenic rail travel, from rural lines in Hokkaido to coastal and mountain routes across Honshu, combining comfort with striking views.
Sri Lanka – One of the world’s most beautiful train journeys through the Hill Country, especially between Kandy and Ella, passing tea plantations and misty valleys.
India – Iconic rail journeys through the Himalayan foothills, Rajasthan and tea-growing regions, blending scenery with cultural immersion.
Vietnam – Coastal rail travel on the Reunification Line, particularly the stretch between Da Nang and Hue, offering sea views and mountain passes.
China – Vast scenic rail routes across diverse landscapes, including high-altitude journeys into western provinces and dramatic rural regions.
Canada – World-famous scenic rail journeys through the Rocky Mountains, linking Vancouver, Banff and Jasper, known for panoramic domed carriages.
United States – Scenic long-distance rail routes along the California Coast, through the Rockies and desert regions, ideal for relaxed travel.
Mexico – Dramatic rail travel through Copper Canyon, featuring deep gorges, remote landscapes and engineering feats.
Peru – Scenic rail journeys through the Andes, linking Cusco with the Sacred Valley and high-altitude landscapes.
Ecuador – Historic mountain rail routes through the Andean Highlands, showcasing steep terrain and dramatic switchbacks.
Argentina – Atmospheric rail travel across Patagonia and wine regions, offering slow, heritage-style journeys.
South Africa – Scenic and luxury rail journeys through the Winelands, the Karoo and safari regions, blending classic rail travel with refined experiences.
Morocco – Comfortable rail routes between Marrakech, Casablanca and Fes, offering views of desert-edge landscapes and historic cities.
Australia – Epic long-distance rail journeys across the Outback, linking coastal cities with vast interior landscapes.
New Zealand – Scenic rail routes through the Southern Alps, river valleys and coastlines, ideal for slow, nature-focused travel.
Rail journeys range from short, picturesque routes to multi-day cross-country experiences. The right destination depends on travel time, comfort preferences and whether scenery, culture or relaxation is the main focus.
Choosing destinations with reliable rail infrastructure, panoramic routes and comfortable onboard facilities ensures a rewarding journey — allowing you to enjoy landscapes and the rhythm of travel without the demands of driving.
Discover scenic rail destinations celebrated for iconic train routes and breathtaking views. Explore places where rail journeys showcase landscapes, culture and timeless travel experiences.