Historic railway journeys: The world’s most spectacular train adventures

The legendary Orient Express remains one of the most celebrated train journeys in history. Today, the Belmond-operated Venice Simplon-Orient-Express maintains the golden age of rail travel’s sophistication and elegance. The journey from London to Venice takes passengers through some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery, including the Swiss Alps and the Italian Dolomites.

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The restored 1920s and 1930s carriages feature original Art Deco details, polished wood panelling, and sumptuous upholstery. The journey includes overnight accommodation in luxurious cabins, exceptional fine dining prepared by skilled chefs, and impeccable service that reflects the train’s illustrious heritage.

The Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond luxury train, carries passengers through some of Southeast Asia’s most breathtaking landscapes, offering a journey steeped in history and natural beauty. The three-night Wild Malaysia itinerary departs from (and ends in) the lush garden city of Singapore, gliding past emerald rice paddies and dense tropical jungles before making stops at the ancient Taman Negara National Park and the historic cities of Penang and Ipoh.

Onboard, guests are immersed in the refined elegance that defines the Eastern & Oriental Express, from meticulously crafted interiors that echo colonial charm to gourmet dining experiences that celebrate Malaysia’s culinary heritage. Thoughtfully curated entertainment and convivial lounge spaces enhance the journey, while the Observation Car offers unparalleled three-window views of the passing scenery as the brass railings, rich dark wood panels, and vintage detailing transport passengers to a bygone era of romantic rail travel.

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The journey is punctuated by immersive excursions, inviting travellers to delve deeper into Malaysia’s cultural and natural wonders. A highlight is the visit to Taman Negara National Park, one of the world’s oldest rainforests, where guided treks lead through a pristine ecosystem of towering trees and exotic wildlife. Another captivating stop is Penang, celebrated for its rich heritage and renowned culinary scene. Throughout the itinerary, the Eastern & Oriental Express remains an oasis of tranquillity and sophistication, ensuring that every guest experiences the magic of Malaysia in unparalleled comfort and style.

The Rocky Mountaineer offers one of North America’s most spectacular rail experiences, winding through the Canadian Rockies between Vancouver and Banff. This daylight-only journey ensures passengers don’t miss any of the stunning scenery, including dramatic mountain passes, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests.

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The train’s glass-dome coaches provide panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, while the onboard hosts share stories about local history, wildlife, and natural landmarks. The two-day journey includes an overnight stay in Kamloops, allowing travellers to experience the changing landscape from coastal rainforest to semi-arid desert and mountain terrain.

The world’s longest railway line, the Trans-Siberian Railway, spans almost 9,300 kilometres across Russia. This extraordinary journey typically takes seven days to complete and crosses eight time zones, offering passengers a comprehensive view of Russia’s vast and varied landscape.

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The route passes through the Ural Mountains, skirts the world’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Baikal, and traverses the Siberian wilderness. While various service levels are available, the Golden Eagle luxury train offers the most comfortable way to experience this iconic journey, with well-appointed cabins, Russian cuisine, and expert lectures on local history and culture.

Australia’s legendary Ghan railway provides an epic north-south crossing of the continent, covering nearly 3,000 kilometres between Adelaide and Darwin. This historic route, named after the Afghan cameleers who helped explore Central Australia, takes passengers through the heart of the outback over three days and two nights.

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The journey showcases Australia’s diverse landscapes, from the fertile plains surrounding Adelaide to the rusty red deserts of the Northern Territory and the tropical Top End. Modern comfortable cabins, regional cuisine, and off-train excursions in locations like Alice Springs and Katherine make this journey particularly memorable.

Norway’s Bergen Railway, completed in 1909, remains Northern Europe’s highest mainline railway connection. The journey between Oslo and Bergen takes passengers through some of Scandinavia’s most dramatic landscapes, including the Hardangervidda plateau, Europe’s largest high mountain plateau.

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The seven-hour journey includes views of deep fjords, snow-capped peaks, and pristine wilderness. During winter months, the scene transforms into a spectacular winter wonderland, while summer offers the chance to experience the midnight sun and verdant Norwegian countryside.

Often celebrated as one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys, Scotland’s West Highland Line takes passengers through some of Britain’s most dramatic landscapes. The journey from Glasgow to Mallaig passes through remote wilderness areas, along lochs, and past Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis.

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The line’s most spectacular section crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films. The five-hour journey offers views of heather-covered moors, misty mountains, and the wild coastline of the Scottish Highlands.

Mexico’s Copper Canyon Railway, known locally as El Chepe, traverses some of North America’s most dramatic landscapes. The railway climbs from sea level to over 2,400 metres, crossing 37 bridges and passing through 86 tunnels along its 653-kilometre route.

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The journey takes passengers through the Sierra Madre mountains and the spectacular Copper Canyon system, which has six distinct canyons combined. The full journey takes approximately 15 hours, with opportunities to stop at various points to explore the region’s natural wonders and indigenous culture.

Switzerland’s Glacier Express, often called the world’s slowest express train, takes eight hours to cover 291 kilometres between the prestigious alpine resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz. The train’s panoramic windows and skylights offer unobstructed views of the Swiss Alps’ magnificent scenery.

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The journey includes crossing 291 bridges and passing through 91 tunnels while climbing the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres. The route showcases Switzerland’s most spectacular mountain landscapes, including the Matterhorn and the Rhine Gorge, often called Switzerland’s Grand Canyon.

Remember to book well in advance, as many of these journeys are highly sought-after, particularly during peak seasons.

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