Scenic Train Rides That Feel Straight Out of a Movie
From the sweeping vistas of the American West to the charming villages of Europe, there’s something undeniably romantic about a scenic train ride. These journeys offer a chance to sit back, relax, and watch the world go by as you travel through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. If you’re looking for a rail trip that feels like it’s straight out of a movie, here are a few of our top picks.
The Rocky Mountaineer: A Journey Through the Canadian Rockies
The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train that winds its way through the stunning Canadian Rockies. With routes that take you from Vancouver to Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper, this train offers some of the most spectacular views in North America. You’ll pass by towering peaks, glacial lakes, and lush forests as you travel in style, with gourmet meals and impeccable service.
The Bernina Express: A Swiss Alpine Adventure
If you’re looking for a European rail trip that’s sure to take your breath away, look no further than the Bernina Express. This train travels from Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy, passing through the heart of the Swiss Alps along the way. You’ll cross dramatic viaducts, pass by glaciers and snow-capped peaks, and wind your way through picturesque villages as you make your way through one of the most beautiful regions in the world.
The Flåm Railway: A Steep Climb Through Norway’s Fjords
The Flåm Railway is a short but unforgettable journey that takes you from the charming village of Flåm to the mountain station of Myrdal, high above the fjords of Norway. This train climbs over 2,800 feet in just one hour, passing by thundering waterfalls, steep cliffs, and lush green valleys along the way. With its vintage-style carriages and stunning scenery, the Flåm Railway feels like a trip back in time.
The Trans-Siberian Railway: An Epic Journey Across Russia
For the ultimate rail adventure, nothing beats the Trans-Siberian Railway. This legendary train travels over 5,700 miles from Moscow to Vladivostok, passing through some of the most remote and beautiful regions of Russia along the way. You’ll cross the Ural Mountains, skirt the shores of Lake Baikal, and watch as the landscape changes from dense forests to vast steppes to the rugged coast of the Pacific Ocean.
The Glacier Express: A Slow Ride Through the Swiss Alps
If you’re looking for a more leisurely pace, the Glacier Express is the perfect choice. This train travels from St. Moritz to Zermatt, passing through the heart of the Swiss Alps at a speed of just 24 miles per hour. You’ll have plenty of time to take in the stunning scenery, from the Rhine Gorge to the Matterhorn, as you enjoy a gourmet meal and a glass of wine in the dining car.
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: A Journey Through the Wild West
For a taste of the American West, hop aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This historic train travels from Durango, Colorado, to the mining town of Silverton, passing through the rugged San Juan Mountains along the way. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you ride in vintage carriages pulled by a steam locomotive, taking in the stunning views of the Animas River Gorge and the surrounding wilderness.
Whether you’re looking for a short day trip or an epic cross-country adventure, these scenic train rides offer a chance to see the world in a whole new way. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey – you never know what kind of movie-worthy moments await you along the way.