The most scenic train rides in the world to add to your bucket list

Picture this: you wake up to a sea of rolling hills right outside your window and a soft duvet encapsulating your body in peak comfort. Next thing you know, you’ve got a book in one hand and a coffee in the other. You watch as the greenery passes you by at a leisurely pace with the sound of the carriage’s wheels running over the tracks in the background. The sunlight pours in through the large window, signalling the start of another peaceful day of savouring the joy of train travel. 

Train trips offer a one-of-a-kind perspective on the world around us as the carriages traverse through some of the most beautiful landscapes. Coupled with a boom in the sustainable travel industry, we’ve seen an uptick in the appreciation and recognition of railway travel. Not only have railway routes expanded in recent years, they have also seen an increase in luxurious train services that provide a lavish alternative to air and road travel. If you’re in for the ride of a lifetime, keep reading to find out which routes you should put on your bucket list. 

THE EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS, A BELMOND TRAIN, SINGAPORE AND MALAYSIA

The iconic Eastern & Oriental Express train is back on the tracks with upgrades and revamps ready to impress. There are two journeys to choose from: Essence of Malaysia and Wild Malaysia, both of which depart from Singapore and take you through the sights and sounds of Peninsular Malaysia. In between the rice paddies and jungles, you can hop off the train for little excursions such as a boat ride to Langkawi’s Pulau Payar Marine Park or a wildlife photography course in Taman Negara, depending on your chosen route. 

Its carriages are nothing short of opulent, boasting a cream and green exterior and polished-wood panelled interiors donned with silken furnishings and glimmering finishes. Its Observation Car—located at the rear of the train—offers exquisite views of the world passing you by, whereas the Bar Car, Dining Car, and Piano Bar present a delicious retreat during your ride. On the dining menus are dishes created by celebrated chef André Chiang, who champions rich Southeast Asian flavours with elegant modern touches. 

Find out more about the train journey here. 

SEVEN STARS, JAPAN

See the best of Japan’s southern and westernmost island of Kyushu on the luxury sleeper Seven Stars. This seven-cabin, 10-suite train has a maximum capacity of just 20 people, so you’re guaranteed tons of personal space and serenity as you slowly cross through some of Japan’s most beautiful landscapes. As its name suggests, the train’s journey is centered around the number seven as it takes you through seven major attractions in all seven prefectures of the island—including food, hot springs, and healing “power” spots—on its seven carriages…do you see where we’re going with this? 

Each car is made out of maple, walnut, or teak wood, adding to the classy energy it exudes. The first and seventh cars offer incredible views with its panoramic windows, so you just might catch yourself staring at the mountains and trees for hours at a time. Dining on the train is also an experience in itself as its restaurant is run by master chefs from Kyushu island who create a menu that elegantly blends French, Japanese, and Italian cuisines. Though, be prepared to fork out some big bucks for a ticket as they start at JP¥650,000, which translates to about RM20,636 for a two-day trip, while the four-day itineraries can go for RM39,685 (or JP¥1,250,000). 

To get more information and view applications, visit the official Seven Stars website. 

THE ORIENT EXPRESS, EUROPE

Made popular by way of book and movie references, The Orient Express was established over 140 years ago and eventually halted its services in the 1990s after bouts of financial difficulties. However, the legendary train journey is chugging back to life in the form of the already-running The Orient Express La Dolce Vita train and the original The Orient Express, which is set to begin next year. 

The Orient Express La Dolce Vita will have you sitting in the lap of modern luxury with its sophisticated train cars designed by Dimorestudio. There are six itineraries to choose from that vary between one- and two-night excursions. During your time on board, you’ll be well-fed with exquisite seasonal Italian fare in its dining car, Ristorante. Meanwhile, the Orient Express promises a journey of modern opulence inspired by the 1920s. 

Learn more about the Orient Express La Dolce Vita here and The Orient Express here. 

GLACIER EXPRESS, SWITZERLAND

When talking about scenic trains, you can’t miss out on the Glacier Express. The eight-hour, 299-kilometre route takes you through the mountainous terrain of Switzerland, commencing the journey by the Matterhorn in Zermatt and ending in St. Moritz. The train chugs through some of Switzerland’s most stunning mountains and valleys, crossing 291 bridges and 91 tunnels. Equally as beautiful during all seasons, you’ll get a first-hand view of iconic sights including the Rhine Gorge, Oberalp Pass, and the Rhine River. 

A seat in its Excellence Class will get you a whole window to yourself with panoramic views and white-glove dining service during the trip. A five-course menu will be prepared, including champagne and a wine pairing. You can also head to the Glacier Bar to mingle with other travelers or simply to grab your aperitif. 

For more information, visit the official Glacier Express website. 

THE JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN, SCOTLAND

All Harry Potter fans should have The Jacobite Steam Train on their bucket lists. Its journey takes you through the picturesque Glenfinnan Viaduct, which might look familiar to some as it was the same bridge that the Hogwarts Express rides over. Spanning over 135 kilometres, the train trip takes you from Fort William—near Britain’s highest peak of Ben Nevis—to Mallaig in Scotland and lasts only about two hours. The entire journey looks straight out of a story book as you’ll catch sights of valleys, lochs, monuments, villages, and more through the Scottish Highlands.

Booking ahead is more than essential as tickets get snapped up quickly. Morning service trains are available from late March to late October, whereas afternoon service trains run between early May to late September. First class ticket holders will get extra leg room, private tables for two or four, upholstered seats, and complimentary tea or coffee. Those on the morning trips can also opt for the more unique Compartment Class tickets, which entails a seat in a vintage compartment carrier that seats up to six passengers. 

More information can be found on the West Coast Railways website. 

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER, CANADA AND USA

Running through the diverse landscapes of Canada and the United States are the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer’s trains, which offer a range of scenic routes to choose from. Through the waterfalls, canyons, mountains, rivers, and more, Rocky Mountaineers’ trains will keep you comfortable with host services and meals on top of obstructed views of nature. Notable routes include its Vancouver to Banff journey in addition to the State-side Moab, Utah to Denver, Colorado track. 

Those in GoldLeaf cars are treated to double-storey carriages with seats and glass dome viewing windows on the upper level and a dining area on the lower level. They will also have access to an exclusive outdoor viewing platform. SilverLeaf passengers will enjoy table service during mealtimes in addition to full glass dome windows and outdoor viewing areas.  Unlike other multi-day journeys, Rocky Mountaineer doesn’t offer sleeping accommodations on board. Instead, you can choose from a selection of luxury hotel stays that are included in your packages along with your transfer to properties. 

Get the full list of routes and more information at the official Rocky Mountaineer website.

AURORA WINTER TRAIN, USA

Prepare for an adventure of a lifetime with the Aurora Winter Train, which offers a front-row seat to the most spectacular natural lightshow in the world. The Aurora Winter Train leaves from Alaska’s largest city of Anchorage bound for Fairbanks some 564 kilometres away. From departure to arrival, the entire journey takes about 12 hours and brings you through the snowy vistas of Alaska, giving you a glimpse of its wildlife and backcountry.

The highlight of the train ride is without a doubt your chance at catching the elusive northern lights. Lucky passengers will also be able to spot Denali, North America’s tallest mountain, during your stopover at Denali National Park & Preserve. During your journey, you’ll be able to disembark at a number of stops to take part in off-train activities such as snowmobiling. This train service is only available on the weekends between mid-September to mid-May. 

Find out more about the Aurora Winter Train on its official website. 

THE BELMOND ANDEAN EXPLORER, PERU

The Belmond Andean Explorer will have you seeing Peru through the one-of-a-kind lens of its carriages. Riding through some of the highest tracks in the world, this luxurious sleeper train is the first of its kind in South America, making it even more of an experience true adventurers shouldn’t miss. There are four routes available—all either one- or two-night journeys—that will bring you to some of Peru’s most iconic sights, including the marvellous Lake Titicaca, La Raya mountain range, and Collata Beach. 

As for cabins, take your pick between bunk beds, twin beds, or a double bed in its suites. All cabins come with en suite bathrooms to ensure peak privacy and luxury. Head to one of its two dining cars—Llama and Muña—for a bespoke culinary adventure, which will give you a delicious glance at Peruvian cuisine. Fans of tipples can venture to its Lounge Car or Observation Bar Car to unwind, mingle, or take in the views with a cocktail in hand. 

Learn more about The Belmond Andean Explorer here. 

THE VIETAGE BY ANANTARA, VIETNAM

Take a ride through history and heritage with The Vietage by Anantara as it cruises through the sights and sounds of the Vietnamese vistas. Operating daily on two distinct routes, The Vietage aims to bring a taste of luxury to your vacations with its designer carriages. A single booth in each carriage seats two, making this journey an intimate experience like no other as each ride only carries twelve passengers in total. Make the trip extra special by purchasing a package that includes a stay at one of Anantara’s beautiful resorts wherever your destination may be. 

Depending on the route you’re travelling, you’ll also be able to savour a curated dining experience while on-board. Those on the Da Nang and Quy Nhon route will enjoy a curated Vietnamese-French menu, while passengers going from Nha Trang to Quy Nhon will feast on a luxurious afternoon tea. For drinks, free-flow champagne, wines, teas, beers, and more will be available to quench your thirst. To top it all off, there is also a designated head and shoulder massage area to make the entire The Vietage experience the most relaxing it can be. 

Get more information on The Vietage by Anantara on its website. 

TRANZALPINE TRAIN, NEW ZEALAND

No hiking needed here as the Tranzalpine Train will do all the hard work of showing you around the best that New Zealand’s landscape has to offer. This journey takes you from Christchurch to Greymouth through the mountains—known as the Great Divide—that separate the coasts of the South Island. One round-trip ride will take about 11 hours and cover over 440 kilometres, snaking through New Zealand’s Southern Alps. 

On the coast-to-coast route, you’ll pass some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landmarks and towns such as Waimakariri River gorge, Staircase Viaduct, and Canterbury Plains. Opting for the Scenic Plus packages will get you a meal that showcases regional alpine flavours and produce, table service, access to an open-air viewing carriage, and a seat on a dedicated carriage with panoramic windows. 

More information about the Tranzalpine Train can be found on its official website. 

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