7 Epic Rail Journeys Around the World: There’s something magical about train travel. The gentle sway of the carriage, the rhythmic clatter of wheels on tracks, and the ever-changing scenery unfolding outside your window, it’s a journey that invites you to slow down and savour the moment. For UK holidaymakers, whether you’re a family seeking adventure, a couple craving romance, or a solo traveller chasing solitude, epic rail journeys offer a unique way to explore the world.
From the misty Highlands of Scotland to the vast Siberian steppes, these seven iconic train routes promise unforgettable experiences. This guide dives into the history, destinations, practical tips, and curated itineraries to inspire your next rail adventure, with a nod to the UK’s own storied rail heritage.
A Brief History of Rail Travel
Railways changed the world. In 1825, the Stockton and Darlington Railway in the UK became the first to carry passengers, kicking off a global revolution in travel. By the late 19th century, trains were stitching continents together, from the Trans-Siberian Railway linking Europe to Asia to the Orient Express epitomising luxury. Today, rail travel is enjoying a renaissance. With growing awareness of sustainable travel, trains produce significantly less carbon than planes or cars, and more travellers are opting for the romance and relaxation of the rails. In the UK, where trains have long been a way of life, this resurgence is particularly exciting, blending nostalgia with modern comfort.
Why Choose Rail Travel?
Rail journeys aren’t just about getting from A to B; they’re about the experience. For families, trains offer space to move, kid-friendly amenities, and ever-changing views to keep little ones entertained. Couples can indulge in luxurious dining cars or cosy cabins, while solo travellers find quiet moments for reflection or chance encounters with fellow passengers. Globally, rail travel is booming. Amtrak reported a 24% increase in US ridership in 2024, while European rail networks like Eurail saw a 15% uptick in pass sales. In the UK, railcards offering a third off fares make domestic trips affordable, and international routes like Eurostar connect you to epic journeys beyond.
7 Epic Rail Journeys Around the World
Here’s a curated list of seven of the world’s most spectacular rail journeys, each offering a unique blend of scenery, culture, and history. While some are far-flung, they’re accessible for UK travellers via flights or connecting trains, and we’ll weave in UK parallels to inspire local adventures.
1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe)
Route: London to Venice (or Paris, Istanbul, and other routes)
Distance: ~1,800 km
Duration: 2 days (varies by route)
Step into a bygone era aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, the epitome of luxury train travel. With its polished wood, art deco interiors, and white-gloved service, this train evokes the glamour of the 1920s. Departing from London Victoria, it crosses the English Channel (via shuttle) and winds through France, Switzerland, and Italy, passing alpine meadows and Venetian lagoons. The journey is as much about the onboard experience, think multi-course dinners with live piano, as the destinations.
Highlights:
- Paris: Stroll the Champs-Élysées during a stopover.
- Swiss Alps: Gaze at snow-capped peaks through panoramic windows.
- Venice: Arrive at the iconic Santa Lucia station, steps from the Grand Canal.
UK Parallel: The Belmond Royal Scotsman, a luxurious journey through the Scottish Highlands, mirrors this opulence closer to home.
2. Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia)
Route: Moscow to Vladivostok
Distance: 9,289 km
Duration: 7 days (non-stop) or 14–21 days with stops
The Trans-Siberian is the world’s longest railway, spanning eight time zones and a quarter of the globe. From Moscow’s bustling Red Square to Vladivostok’s Pacific coast, it’s a journey through Russia’s soul, taiga forests, Siberian steppes, and the shimmering Lake Baikal. Most travellers break the trip with stops in cities like Irkutsk or Yekaterinburg, immersing themselves in local culture.
Highlights:
- Lake Baikal: The world’s deepest freshwater lake, a UNESCO site.
- Irkutsk: Explore wooden architecture in the “Paris of Siberia.”
- Mongolian Steppe: Opt for the Trans-Mongolian route for Gobi Desert views.
UK Parallel: The Caledonian Sleeper from London to Fort William offers a taste of epic overnight travel through the Highlands.
3. Glacier Express (Switzerland)
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Distance: 291 km
Duration: 8 hours
Dubbed the “slowest express train,” the Glacier Express is a love letter to the Swiss Alps. Connecting Zermatt and St. Moritz, it crosses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, offering panoramic views of snowy peaks, alpine villages, and the dramatic Landwasser Viaduct. The leisurely pace ensures you don’t miss a single vista.
Highlights:
- Landwasser Viaduct: A six-arch stone marvel.
- Oberalp Pass: The route’s highest point at 2,033 metres.
- Rhine Gorge: Switzerland’s answer to the Grand Canyon.
UK Parallel: The West Highland Line from Glasgow to Mallaig, with its iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, rivals this scenic splendour.
4. The Ghan (Australia)
Route: Adelaide to Darwin
Distance: 2,979 km
Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
The Ghan cuts through Australia’s heart, from the vineyards of Adelaide to the tropical north of Darwin. Named after Afghan camel drivers who once traversed the Outback, this journey showcases red deserts, the MacDonnell Ranges, and indigenous culture. Off-train excursions add depth, from Alice Springs’ desert trails to Katherine Gorge’s dramatic cliffs.
Highlights:
- Alice Springs: Discover Aboriginal art and history.
- Katherine Gorge: Take a boat cruise through this stunning landscape.
- Flinders Ranges: Marvel at rugged South Australian peaks.
UK Parallel: The Night Riviera Sleeper from London to Penzance offers a shorter but scenic coastal journey.
5. Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
Route: Vancouver to Banff/Jasper
Distance: ~595 km
Duration: 2 days
The Rocky Mountaineer is a daylight-only journey through Canada’s Rockies, with glass-domed carriages offering unobstructed views of turquoise lakes, towering peaks, and wildlife like elk or bears. Overnight stops in hotels ensure you see the scenery at its best.
Highlights:
- Fraser Canyon: Dramatic cliffs and rushing rivers.
- Lake Louise: An iconic turquoise gem in the Rockies.
- Spiral Tunnels: Engineering marvels in steep terrain.
UK Parallel: The Kyle Line from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh offers dramatic Scottish coastal and mountain views.
6. Bernina Express (Switzerland to Italy)
Route: Chur to Tirano
Distance: 144 km
Duration: 4 hours
A UNESCO World Heritage route, the Bernina Express links Switzerland’s glaciers with Italy’s vineyards. From Chur to Tirano, it crosses 196 bridges and 55 tunnels, including the iconic Brusio Spiral Viaduct. The short duration makes it ideal for a day trip.
Highlights:
- Bernina Pass: Europe’s highest railway crossing at 2,253 metres.
- Brusio Spiral Viaduct: A stunning engineering feat.
- Lago Bianco: A pristine alpine lake.
UK Parallel: The Settle-Carlisle Line offers historic viaducts and Yorkshire Dales scenery.
7. The Blue Train (South Africa)
Route: Pretoria to Cape Town
Distance: 1,600 km
Duration: 2 days, 1 night
The Blue Train is a rolling five-star hotel, blending luxury with South Africa’s diverse landscapes. From Pretoria’s jacaranda-lined streets to Cape Town’s Table Mountain, you’ll pass savannahs, vineyards, and the arid Karoo. Butler service and gourmet dining elevate the experience.
Highlights:
- Kimberley: Tour the Big Hole and Diamond Mine Museum.
- Cape Winelands: Lush vineyards near journey’s end.
- Table Mountain: A dramatic finale in Cape Town.
UK Parallel: The Great Western Railway’s Pullman Dining service from London to Cardiff offers a taste of luxury dining.
Travel Tips and Practical Advice
Booking and Planning
- Book Early: Iconic trains like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and The Ghan sell out months in advance, especially for peak seasons (summer for Europe, winter for Australia). Use official websites or trusted operators like Railbookers.
- Rail Passes: For European routes, a Eurail Pass can save money on connecting trains. In the UK, a BritRail Pass offers flexibility for international visitors.
- Choose Your Class: Luxury trains offer tiers (e.g., GoldLeaf on Rocky Mountaineer, Grand Suite on Orient-Express). Budget travellers can opt for standard classes on routes like the Trans-Siberian.
- Check Visa Requirements: Long-haul routes like the Trans-Siberian may require visas for Russia, Mongolia, or China. Plan at least 2–3 months ahead.
Accessibility
- Most luxury trains offer wheelchair-accessible cabins, but older trains (e.g., Trans-Siberian) may have limited facilities. Contact operators directly for details.
- UK trains, like the Caledonian Sleeper, have accessible berths, though narrow carriages can be challenging. Book assistance 24 hours in advance via National Rail.
Family-Friendliness
- Trains like the Rocky Mountaineer and Glacier Express are ideal for families, with spacious seating and kid-friendly menus. The Trans-Siberian is better for older children due to its length.
- In the UK, the West Highland Line’s Jacobite Steam Train (the “Hogwarts Express”) is a hit with Harry Potter fans of all ages.
When to Go
- Spring/Autumn: Ideal for Europe (Glacier, Bernina, Orient-Express) for mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Summer: Best for Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer to maximise daylight views.
- Winter: The Ghan and Blue Train shine in the Southern Hemisphere’s summer (UK winter).
- UK Routes: Spring and autumn offer vibrant landscapes; avoid peak summer for lower fares.
Suggested Itineraries
1. European Extravaganza (10 Days)
- Day 1–2: Fly from London to Paris, board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to Venice. Explore Venice’s canals.
- Day 3–4: Train to Chur, ride the Bernina Express to Tirano, then continue to Lake Como for a romantic retreat.
- Day 5–6: Travel to Zermatt, take the Glacier Express to St. Moritz. Enjoy alpine hikes.
- Day 7–10: Return to the UK via Eurostar, stopping in Paris for a night. Add a UK leg on the Caledonian Sleeper to Fort William.
2. UK Rail Adventure (7 Days)
- Day 1–2: Start in London, take the Caledonian Sleeper to Fort William. Visit Ben Nevis.
- Day 3–4: Ride the Jacobite Steam Train to Mallaig, explore the West Highland Line’s lochs and viaducts.
- Day 5–6: Travel to Edinburgh, then take the Kyle Line to Kyle of Lochalsh for coastal views.
- Day 7: Return to London via the Settle-Carlisle Line, stopping in York for history.
3. Transcontinental Trek (21 Days)
- Day 1–3: Fly to Moscow, begin the Trans-Siberian Railway. Stop in Yekaterinburg for Romanov history.
- Day 4–7: Continue to Irkutsk, explore Lake Baikal. Add a Trans-Mongolian leg to Ulaanbaatar.
- Day 8–14: Reach Vladivostok or Beijing, fly to Adelaide for The Ghan to Darwin.
- Day 15–21: Fly to Vancouver, ride the Rocky Mountaineer to Banff. Return to the UK.
Where to Eat and Stay
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
- Eat: Onboard dining is a highlight, with multi-course meals featuring lobster and truffles. In Venice, try Trattoria al Gatto Nero on Burano for seafood.
- Stay: In Venice, Hotel Danieli offers historic luxury near St. Mark’s Square. In Paris, Le Bristol is a five-star gem.
Trans-Siberian Railway
- Eat: Onboard dining cars serve borscht and pelmeni, but stock up on snacks in Moscow. In Irkutsk, Rassolnik Restaurant offers Siberian specialities.
- Stay: In Moscow, the Metropol Hotel blends history and comfort. In Irkutsk, try the Courtyard Marriott.
Glacier Express
- Eat: Onboard, order Swiss dishes like rösti. In St. Moritz, try Restaurant Engiadina for local fare.
- Stay: In Zermatt, the Mont Cervin Palace offers alpine luxury. In St. Moritz, Badrutt’s Palace is iconic.
The Ghan
- Eat: Onboard dining features kangaroo fillet and barramundi. In Alice Springs, Hanuman serves Thai-Australian fusion.
- Stay: In Adelaide, the Mayfair Hotel is a stylish base. In Darwin, try the Hilton Darwin.
Rocky Mountaineer
- Eat: Onboard gourmet meals include Alberta beef. In Banff, The Bison Restaurant offers farm-to-table dining.
- Stay: In Vancouver, the Fairmont Pacific Rim is luxurious. In Banff, the Fairmont Banff Springs is a castle-like retreat.
Bernina Express
- Eat: Onboard snacks are available, but in Tirano, try Trattoria Gagin for Italian classics. In Chur, visit Restaurant Calanda.
- Stay: In Chur, Hotel Stern is a historic choice. In Tirano, Hotel Bernina is convenient.
The Blue Train
- Eat: Onboard, enjoy five-star dining with South African wines. In Cape Town, La Colombe is a fine-dining gem.
- Stay: In Pretoria, the Sheraton Pretoria Hotel is elegant. In Cape Town, the Belmond Mount Nelson is iconic.
UK Recommendations
- Eat: On the Caledonian Sleeper, the Club Car serves haggis and whisky. In Fort William, The Geographer offers local seafood.
- Stay: In London, The Goring is a luxurious base. In Fort William, the Inverlochy Castle Hotel is a Highland gem.
Seasonal Events and Special Experiences
- Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Book the annual Paris-Istanbul route (late August) for a six-day odyssey. Winter trips to Vienna include Christmas markets.
- Trans-Siberian Railway: Winter (January–February) offers snow-covered landscapes and frozen Lake Baikal. Summer (June–August) is ideal for city stops.
- Glacier Express: Winter (December–March) showcases the snowy Alps. Summer (June–August) offers vibrant meadows.
- The Ghan: Australia’s winter (June–August, UK summer) is perfect for comfortable Outback temperatures.
- Rocky Mountaineer: Summer (May–September) maximises daylight. Autumn (September–October) brings vibrant foliage.
- Bernina Express: Spring (April–May) offers blooming alpine flowers. Winter (December–February) is a snowy wonderland.
- The Blue Train: South Africa’s summer (November–February, UK winter) is ideal for Cape Town’s beaches.
- UK Events: The Jacobite Steam Train runs from April–October, with special Christmas services. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay (December 31) pairs well with a Caledonian Sleeper trip.
Final Thoughts
These seven epic rail journeys offer something for every traveller: families bonding over scenic vistas, couples indulging in luxury, and solo adventurers finding stories in every mile. From the UK’s own Highland routes to the far reaches of Siberia, Australia, and beyond, trains invite you to slow down, connect with the world, and make the journey the destination. So, grab a railcard, pack a good book, and let the rails lead you to your next adventure.