There’s something irresistible about a train ride. From the slow chug through towering mountains to sweeping coastal views, train travel offers a front-row seat to some of the most incredible landscapes in the world. Unlike flying, where you’re above it all, or driving, where you’re focusing on the road, trains allow you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the scenery. Whether you're an experienced traveler or someone new to slow travel, these 10 train journeys serve up unforgettable views and unique experiences, each with its own charm and highlights. Grab your ticket and settle in as we explore the world’s most breathtaking train rides.

1. The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)

Famous for its luxurious experience, the Rocky Mountaineer showcases the jaw-dropping beauty of the Canadian Rockies. The most celebrated route, "First Passage to the West," runs between Vancouver and Banff, passing landmarks like Hell's Gate Canyon, the historic Spiral Tunnels, and Kicking Horse Pass. Other routes, such as "Journey Through the Clouds," take you to Jasper, passing the dramatic Mount Robson and Pyramid Falls. With glass-domed coaches, you can take in every snow-capped peak and turquoise river in style. Onboard, guests enjoy chef-prepared meals and impeccable service, blending luxury with the adventure of rugged landscapes.

2. Glacier Express (Switzerland)

Known as the "slowest express train in the world," the Glacier Express connects Zermatt and St. Moritz over a mesmerizing eight-hour ride. This train crosses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels, offering passengers views of the snow-covered Alps, the Oberalp Pass, and the famous Landwasser Viaduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Passengers can use onboard infotainment to learn about the marvels of Swiss engineering and the incredible natural beauty surrounding them. The slow pace is perfect for savoring the Swiss Alps in all their glory.

3. California Zephyr (United States)

If you’ve ever dreamt of seeing the best of the United States by train, the California Zephyr is a must. Spanning over 2,400 miles, it travels from Chicago to San Francisco. The route showcases the scenic variety of America, from the soybean fields of the Midwest to the towering peaks of the Rockies, before winding through the Sierra Nevada mountains. One standout stretch is Glenwood Canyon in Colorado, where the train hugs the Colorado River amid steep canyon walls. Ideal for budget-friendly travelers, this Amtrak route delivers big on scenery without skimping on comfort.

4. The Ghan (Australia)

The Ghan is an epic adventure through Australia’s heart. From Darwin to Adelaide, the train spans nearly 2,000 miles, taking you from the tropical north through red Outback deserts, rugged mountain ranges, and lush vineyards further south. Key stops include Katherine Gorge, where you can witness giant cliffs bordered by tranquil waters, and Alice Springs, the gateway to the Northern Territory's vast desert. Onboard dining features local cuisine, and guests can enjoy special excursions like visiting Coober Pedy’s underground opal mines, enhancing the experience.

5. TranzAlpine (New Zealand)

The TranzAlpine offers what many call the best rail experience in New Zealand. Connecting Christchurch to Greymouth, the route spans 140 miles and delivers a stunning mix of scenery. From the patchwork of Canterbury Plains to the rugged peaks of the Southern Alps, the train crosses rivers and deep gorges, including the Waimakariri River. The Otira Tunnel, a marvel of engineering, takes you beneath the Alps before you emerge to views of lush rainforest on the West Coast. Whether traveling in summer or winter, the TranzAlpine promises a visual feast.

6. The Jacobite (Scotland)

The Jacobite takes you on an enchanting 84-mile round trip through the Scottish Highlands, starting in Fort William and ending in Mallaig. This classic steam train inspired the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter movies and features the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct. Along the way, you'll be greeted by breathtaking views of Loch Shiel, Ben Nevis (the tallest mountain in the UK), and charming Highland villages. The vintage charm of the train adds an extra layer of magic to the experience.

7. Coastal Pacific (New Zealand)

This incredible rail line runs between Christchurch and Picton along New Zealand's South Island coastline. On one side, you have the sparkling Pacific Ocean, where passengers often spot dolphins and seals. On the other side, the thickly forested Kaikōura Ranges rise dramatically. Besides the natural beauty, the train also passes through Marlborough, New Zealand’s premier wine-growing region, making it a favorite for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

8. The Blue Train (South Africa)

Luxury meets adventure on South Africa’s Blue Train, running between Cape Town and Pretoria. This “five-star hotel on wheels” features private suites, gourmet dining, and even bathtubs in some compartments. Along the way, passengers enjoy views of rolling vineyards, the dramatic Karoo desert, and a stop at Kimberley, where they can learn about South Africa’s diamond-mining history. Whether you’re indulging in champagne or simply gazing at the passing landscapes from your plush seat, this train guarantees decadence.

9. Copper Canyon Railway (Mexico)

El Chepe, the Copper Canyon Railway, offers a 400-mile route through Mexico’s rugged Sierra Madre mountains. Often compared to the Grand Canyon, the Copper Canyon is actually larger and deeper. The train gives unparalleled cliffside views and crosses countless bridges and tunnels. A highlight is the stop at Divisadero, where passengers can get off to admire panoramic vistas of the vast canyon system. With opportunities to meet the local Tarahumara people and sample regional cuisine, this route combines natural beauty and rich culture.

10. Empire Builder (United States)

The Empire Builder connects Chicago to the Pacific Northwest, covering nearly 2,200 miles. The train crosses the plains of North Dakota, the Rockies, and the Cascade Mountains before finishing in either Seattle or Portland. Along the way, highlights include vistas of Glacier National Park in Montana and the Columbia River Gorge’s dramatic cliffs. The train runs day and night, offering passengers a chance to watch stunning sunrises and sunsets over some of America’s most diverse landscapes.

These train journeys remind us that the magic of travel isn’t always about getting somewhere fast but about slowing down and enjoying the ride. Trains offer a glimpse into landscapes and cultures you might otherwise miss by car or plane. Instead of rushing to your next destination, consider sitting back and enjoying the rhythm of the tracks. The world looks a whole lot different through a train window.