6 Scenic Train Journeys You Need to Take in 2025

There is something timeless about exploring the world by train. Without the stress of driving or the rush of air travel, scenic train journeys let you slow down, enjoy the view, and experience landscapes in a way that no other mode of transportation can match. For travelers looking for adventure mixed with comfort, 2025 offers an incredible lineup of routes that belong on every bucket list.

From snow-covered mountains to vast deserts and coastal cliffs, these scenic train journeys showcase the beauty of the world while delivering an unforgettable travel experience. Here are six that should be at the top of your list when planning your rail adventures.

The Glacier Express, Switzerland

Known as one of the most iconic scenic train journeys, the Glacier Express takes passengers through the heart of the Swiss Alps. The eight-hour trip connects Zermatt and St. Moritz, passing through 91 tunnels and crossing 291 bridges. Along the way, you will see deep gorges, alpine meadows, and picturesque villages.

The large panoramic windows give you unobstructed views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. Traveling through Switzerland by rail feels like stepping into a postcard, and the Glacier Express is the perfect introduction to the country’s natural beauty. With onboard dining and comfortable seating, this trip is as relaxing as it is visually stunning.

The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

The Rocky Mountaineer is one of the most luxurious scenic train journeys in North America. Running through the Canadian Rockies, it offers a front-row seat to towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and sprawling forests. Depending on the route you choose, you might travel from Vancouver to Banff, Jasper, or Lake Louise, each offering its own unique scenery.

One highlight of this journey is the glass-domed train cars, which allow you to take in the full grandeur of the mountains. Gourmet meals inspired by local ingredients are served at your seat, making the experience as much about flavor as it is about the views.

The West Highland Line, Scotland

Often ranked among the top scenic train journeys in the world, the West Highland Line takes you from Glasgow to Mallaig, passing through some of Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes. The route includes rolling hills, lochs, and rugged coastlines, as well as the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, recognizable to many from the Harry Potter films.

This journey offers a true sense of adventure. The remote stretches of land you pass through feel untouched by time, and the slower pace of the train allows you to soak in the beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

The TranzAlpine, New Zealand

New Zealand is famous for its natural beauty, and the TranzAlpine is one of the best ways to experience it. This scenic train journey runs from Christchurch to Greymouth, crossing the Southern Alps and passing through lush rainforests, serene lakes, and vast plains.

The highlight for many is the crossing of the Waimakariri River on its series of bridges and viaducts. The train’s open-air viewing carriage offers the perfect spot for photography, making it one of the most visually rewarding scenic train journeys you can take in the Southern Hemisphere.

The Bernina Express, Switzerland to Italy

Connecting Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, the Bernina Express offers passengers an unforgettable ride through some of Europe’s most stunning mountain scenery. The train climbs to over 7,000 feet, passing glaciers, alpine lakes, and charming villages along the way.

The route is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for good reason. This is one of the few scenic train journeys where you can watch the landscape transform from snow-covered peaks to sunny Mediterranean towns in just a few hours. The shift in climate and scenery is truly remarkable.

The Ghan, Australia

The Ghan is an epic transcontinental route running from Darwin to Adelaide, covering nearly 3,000 kilometers. It is one of the longest scenic train journeys in the world and offers a deep dive into Australia’s diverse landscapes. From tropical regions in the north to the vast Red Centre and the rolling hills of South Australia, the variety is astounding.

Passengers enjoy spacious cabins, fine dining, and off-train excursions that make the most of each region. Whether it is exploring ancient gorges or visiting remote towns, The Ghan offers more than just beautiful views—it provides an immersive travel experience.

Why Scenic Train Journeys Are Perfect for 2025

With the growing interest in slower, more sustainable travel, scenic train journeys are an ideal choice for traveling in 2025. Trains allow you to cover great distances in comfort, often reaching places inaccessible by car. They also give you the freedom to focus on the journey itself, not just the destination.

Scenic train journeys combine the romance of old-world travel with modern conveniences. You can relax in spacious seats, enjoy freshly prepared meals, and strike up conversations with fellow passengers, all while the world’s most breathtaking views roll by outside your window.

Unlike flights, which often rush you from one point to another, scenic train journeys let you savor every moment. The landscapes become part of the story of your trip, making the journey just as memorable as where you end up.

For travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation, these six scenic train journeys offer the perfect blend. They allow you to explore diverse environments, from icy mountains to tropical forests, all without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads or dealing with airport crowds.

If you are planning your next big adventure in 2025, consider adding one of these scenic train journeys to your itinerary. Not only will you witness incredible views, but you will also experience the joy of travel at a pace that lets you truly appreciate your surroundings.

Scenic train journeys have a way of staying with you long after you return home. The rhythm of the rails, the ever-changing landscapes, and the comfort of knowing everything is taken care of create a sense of peace that is hard to find elsewhere. In a world where travel often feels rushed, these journeys remind us that sometimes the best experiences come when we slow down and simply watch the world go by.