🚂 Most Scenic Train Rides Around the World: A Journey Through Nature, Culture, and Cuisine

 There’s something timeless and magical about traveling by train. Unlike air travel, which often rushes you from one place to another, scenic train rides allow you to slow down, take in breathtaking landscapes, and experience local culture in a truly immersive way. From snowy Alpine peaks to lush Asian rainforests, here are the top scenic train journeys around the world — along with where to stay, what to eat, and a few cultural tips to make your adventure even more unforgettable.

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1. The Glacier Express – Switzerland 🇨🇭

Route: Zermatt → St. Moritz
Duration: ~8 hours

The Glacier Express is often called the slowest express train in the world — and that’s exactly why travelers love it. Winding through the Swiss Alps, it passes over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, showcasing snow-capped mountains, charming villages, and crystal-clear lakes.

• Where to Stay:
  Stay in Zermatt, a car-free mountain village at the foot of the Matterhorn. Luxury options include the Mont Cervin Palace, while budget travelers can opt for cozy Alpine lodges.

• Food Tip:
  Try Raclette (melted cheese served with potatoes and pickles) or Rösti, a Swiss potato dish perfect after a long day in the cold.

• Phrase to Learn (Swiss German):

• “Grüezi” – Hello

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2. The Rocky Mountaineer – Canada 🍁

Route: Vancouver → Banff or Jasper
Duration: 2–4 days

The Rocky Mountaineer offers panoramic views of Canada’s wild west, including the Canadian Rockies, turquoise lakes, and lush forests. With its glass-domed carriages, every seat feels like first class.

• Where to Stay:
  In Banff, book a night at the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, often called “Canada’s Castle in the Rockies.”

• Food Tip:
  Don’t miss Alberta beef steak or freshly caught Pacific salmon.

• Phrase to Learn (French Canadian):
  “Merci beaucoup” – Thank you very much

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3. The West Highland Line – Scotland 🏴

Route: Glasgow → Mallaig
Duration: ~5 hours

Famous for crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct (featured in Harry Potter films), this journey offers dramatic coastlines, rolling hills, and rugged lochs.

• Where to Stay:
  In Mallaig, try charming B&Bs or traditional Scottish inns. For a more luxurious stay, head back to Inverlochy Castle Hotel near Fort William.

• Food Tip:
  Warm up with haggis, neeps, and tatties (a traditional Scottish dish). Pair it with a glass of single malt whisky.

• Phrase to Learn (Scottish Gaelic):
  “Ciamar a tha thu?” – How are you?

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4. The Blue Train – South Africa 🇿🇦

Route: Pretoria → Cape Town
Duration: 31 hours

Known as “a five-star hotel on wheels,” The Blue Train combines luxury with stunning scenery — think golden savannahs, vineyards, and the iconic Table Mountain.

• Where to Stay:
  In Cape Town, stay at The Silo Hotel for unmatched luxury or Camps Bay Retreat for a nature-filled escape.

• Food Tip:
  Taste biltong (South African cured meat) and bobotie (a spiced minced meat dish with an egg topping).

• Phrase to Learn (Afrikaans):
  “Dankie” – Thank you

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5. The Maharajas’ Express – India 🇮🇳

Route: Delhi → Agra → Jaipur → Udaipur (Golden Triangle)
Duration: 4–8 days

The Maharajas’ Express is one of the world’s most luxurious trains, offering palatial cabins, fine dining, and views of India’s colorful landscapes. You’ll pass royal cities, ancient forts, and bustling bazaars.

• Where to Stay:
  If you extend your trip, stay at The Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur or Taj Lake Palace for a regal experience.

• Food Tip:
  Try butter chicken, paneer tikka, or masala chai on board.

• Phrase to Learn (Hindi):
  “Dhanyavaad” – Thank you

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6. The TranzAlpine – New Zealand 🇳🇿

Route: Christchurch → Greymouth
Duration: ~5 hours

This route is famous for its diverse scenery — from Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps and lush rainforests of the West Coast.

• Where to Stay:
  In Greymouth, check into boutique hotels or explore the nearby Punakaiki Pancake Rocks with a local stay.

• Food Tip:
  Try green-lipped mussels and hokey pokey ice cream, a New Zealand classic.

• Phrase to Learn (Māori):
  “Kia ora” – Hello / Thank you

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7. The Eastern & Oriental Express – Southeast Asia 🌏

Route: Bangkok → Kuala Lumpur → Singapore
Duration: 3 days

This journey feels like stepping back into colonial-era elegance. You’ll pass rice paddies, tropical forests, and historical towns across Thailand and Malaysia.

• Where to Stay:
  In Singapore, stay at the Raffles Hotel for old-world charm, or in Bangkok at the riverside Mandarin Oriental.

• Food Tip:
  Don’t miss Thai green curry, satay skewers, and Singapore chili crab.

• Phrase to Learn (Thai):
  “Sawasdee kha/krub” – Hello (female/male speaker)

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🌍 Final Thoughts

Scenic train rides are more than just a way to get from point A to point B — they are moving windows into the soul of a country. Each journey offers not only breathtaking views but also insights into local culture, cuisine, and traditions. Whether you’re sipping wine in Switzerland, crossing the Scottish Highlands, or gazing at Table Mountain in South Africa, these train rides promise unforgettable memories