The Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy
Connecting Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, the Bernina Express is a masterclass in railway engineering and a journey through some of Europe’s most dramatic alpine scenery. In just four hours, this UNESCO World Heritage train crosses 196 bridges
and passes through 55 tunnels. The route climbs to an elevation of 2,253 metres at the Bernina Pass without the help of any rack-and-pinion mechanism, making it one of the steepest rail journeys in the world. Passengers are treated to views of majestic glaciers, deep blue alpine lakes, and the iconic circular viaduct at Brusio. The panoramic carriages are designed to offer unobstructed views, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the transition from Swiss glaciers to Italian palms.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Often cited as one of the world's ultimate train experiences, the Rocky Mountaineer offers several routes through the stunning Canadian Rockies. This is not a commuter train but a luxurious, daylight-only journey designed for sightseeing. Passengers travel in glass-domed coaches that provide panoramic views of towering snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and dense forests. The train doesn't travel at night; instead, guests disembark to sleep in comfortable hotels, ensuring no scenery is missed. With gourmet meals served onboard and outdoor viewing platforms for that perfect photo opportunity, it’s a journey that combines the wild beauty of Western Canada with unparalleled comfort and service. The classic 'First Passage to the West' route from Vancouver to Banff is a two-day trip that immerses you in the region's raw, untamed wilderness.
The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine traverses New Zealand's South Island, connecting Christchurch on the east coast with Greymouth on the west. This 223-kilometre, five-hour journey showcases the incredible diversity of the New Zealand landscape. The trip begins by crossing the fertile Canterbury Plains before climbing into the heart of the majestic Southern Alps. Highlights include the dramatic ascent through the Waimakariri River gorge, stunning alpine vistas at Arthur's Pass, and the lush beech forests on the western side. The train features an open-air viewing carriage, allowing you to breathe in the crisp mountain air and capture incredible photos of a landscape that is often inaccessible by road.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India
Affectionately known as the 'Toy Train', this historic railway is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an icon of Indian ingenuity. Operating on a narrow-gauge track, the train travels 88 kilometres from New Jalpaiguri to the hill station of Darjeeling, climbing over 2,000 metres in altitude. Opened in 1881, it’s a remarkable feat of 19th-century engineering, using a series of loops and switchbacks (Z-reversals) to navigate the steep mountain terrain. The slow journey offers breathtaking views of tea plantations clinging to the hillsides and, on a clear day, the snow-capped peak of Kanchenjunga. The most famous section includes the Batasia Loop, an engineering marvel that provides a 360-degree view of Darjeeling.
The Flåm Railway, Norway
This is one of the steepest railway lines in the world on a normal track, descending 867 metres from the mountain station of Myrdal down to Flåm, nestled at the end of the Aurlandsfjord. The 20-kilometre journey takes about an hour, passing through 20 tunnels and offering a whirlwind tour of Norway’s fjord country. The train moves slowly, allowing passengers to soak in views of cascading waterfalls, deep ravines, and charming mountain farms perched on steep slopes. A highlight is the stop at the powerful Kjosfossen waterfall, where passengers can disembark for a few minutes to feel its spray and witness a surprise performance from a mythical 'Huldra'. It's a short but incredibly dramatic and memorable ride.
The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland
Famously known as the 'Hogwarts Express' from the Harry Potter films, the Jacobite Steam Train offers a journey through the wild and romantic Scottish Highlands. The 84-mile round trip runs from Fort William to the fishing port of Mallaig. The route's most iconic feature is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a magnificent 21-arch structure that curves through the valley, offering spectacular views. Beyond its cinematic fame, the journey is a trip through quintessential Scottish scenery, passing the country's deepest freshwater loch, Loch Morar, and its shortest river, River Morar, before arriving on the beautiful west coast. Riding this vintage steam train is like stepping back in time, with the rhythmic chug of the engine providing the perfect soundtrack to the rugged landscape.
