Trains may not be the most popular form of travel. However, they give you landscape views that are unparalleled in the world of travel.

Whether you’re a train fanatic or not, you’ve most likely heard of the Orient Express, the most famous train in the world. Other charming, unique, and stylish trains like this one can be found in countries all around the globe. 

In this article, we are going to dive into some unique, breath-taking train rides from various locations.

Who wouldn’t want to find themselves in the heart of nature whilst also being able to put their feet up?

First Passage to the West | Canada

Rocky Mountaineer is the only passenger rail service to travel this historic line. The journey is described as ‘legendary, and for good reason. You will experience magnificent views of the vast greenery, canyons, and mountain passes. 

On top of this, you’ll be served breakfast and 3-course lunches throughout your trip.

Route

This two-day train ride begins in Vancouver, on day one you will travel to your first destination, Kamloops. This is the perfect place to stretch your legs along the riverside. On day two, you will make your way to the beautiful Lake Louise and Banff.

What you’ll see

• Cisco Crossing
• Black Canyon
• Craigellachie
• Kinbasket Lake
• Kicking Horse River
• Spiral Tunnels
• Castle Mountain

Prices and journey time

Cost: CA$1,994 to CA$3,739 (this includes overnight accommodation in each Vancouver, Kamloops, and Banff)

Duration: 2 days of traveling, approximately 10-12 hours total train time

Distance: Around 621 miles

The Ghan | Australia

This train is the perfect example of traveling in style. It offers luxury private cabins, all-inclusive meals, fine wines, and attentive cabin crew staff. The Ghan is now celebrating more than 90 years of service, beginning way back in 1929.

This journey of a lifetime takes you through South Australia and into the Northern Territory. 

Route

The Ghan begins in the city of Adelaide, then to Manguri and Marla, where it carries on through the city of Alice Springs, then Katherine, and finally reaches its final destination in Darwin. 

What you’ll see

• Nitmiluk Gorge
• MacDonnell Ranges
• Australian Outback
• Ancient Indigenous Rock Paintings of Katherine
• Flinders Ranges
• Red Centre

Prices and journey time

Cost: The price per day can vary between AUD$1529 and AUD$4199, depending on cabin class and the specific journey

Duration: Three days and two nights, approximately 53 hours and 15 minutes of train travel time

Distance: 1,870 miles

The Flåm Railway | Norway

The Flam Railway is one of the most famous trains in the world, and one of the most popular visitor attractions in Norway. It is known for being amongst the steepest rail line gradients there are.

This route ascends at a gradient of 5.5 percent for around 80% of the journey. It passes through 20 tunnels, 18 of which were made by hand. 

Route

This train operates between Myrdal and Flam. The line has been in use since the 1940s, when it was used for small steam locomotives. 

What you’ll see

• Kjosfossen Waterfall
• Brekkefossen National Park
• Flam Kirke/Church
• Rjoandefossen Waterfall
• Myrdalsvingane Tourist Attraction

Prices and journey time

Cost: Prices from 500 NOK (around $60). Prices will be lower for children and dogs

Duration: 2 hours round trip

Distance: 12 miles

Final Thoughts

The list of incredible rail lines doesn’t stop here, in fact, we’ve barely even touched the surface.

Each train ride offers widely different landscapes and history. It is no wonder that people will travel so far to experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Image by Sean Stratton