Evocative of a bygone age, there is something irrefutably romantic about traveling by train. From Siberia to Swaziland, we explore a selection of the world’s most memorable, scenic railway journeys.
1. The Trans-Mongolian Express – Russia to China
Traveling from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to China’s capital, Beijing, the Trans-Mongolian route starts in Moscow, Russia, and features at the top of many railway afficionados’ bucket lists. As the train crosses Siberia’s border with Mongolia, passengers are greeted by parched red flats and grassy dunes sloping into the horizon. Twilight illuminates shimmering lakes and rivers winding their way around the tracks, while morning brings China, and glimpses of the Great Wall meandering into the distance. Here, the train gains elevation, offering breathtaking views across the steep valleys and orchards, down to the riverbanks, where men fish in time-honored fashion, wearing traditional conical hats.
2. The Caledonian Sleeper – United Kingdom
One of Britain’s last sleeper services, the Caledonian Sleeper recently benefited from a $100 million makeover, its 40-year-old carriages phased out and replaced with luxurious new rolling stock incorporating air conditioning, charging panels, WiFi, hotel-style keycards, and adjustable thermostats. Travelling from London to Fort William in the Scottish Highlands, the new trains incorporate en suites, double beds, Aran toiletries, and traditional Highland fare. Known as the Deerstalker, the Highland service is one of Britain’s most impressive railway journeys, travelling past the vast watery expanse of Loch Treig to the foot of Ben Nevis, before passing across the historic Glenfinnan viaduct. From here, the Deerstalker continues on its way through the rugged Scottish mountains, past lush green, rolling foothills, and blazes of purple heather, all the way to the enchanting Isle of Skye.
3. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – Europe
The iconic Orient Express remains the gold standard in railway opulence, combining decadent Art Deco interiors with the impeccable service and luxury. Upon embarkation, luggage is whisked away from the station platform, appearing in the passenger’s cabin as if by magic. On the Orient Express, glasses never run dry, with beds seemingly making themselves the moment the passenger steps outside of their captain. Whether enjoying the picturesque French countryside or the majesty of the Swiss Alps, the Art Deco Champagne Bar is a spectacular location to sit and watch the world go by.
4. Shongololo Express – Southern Africa
Purchased by Rovos Rail in 2016, the Shongololo Express was created for passengers who are prepared to sacrifice luxury for the opportunity to see as much of southern Africa as possible, traveling through South Africa, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe. With three itineraries available ranging from 12 to 15 days in duration, the Shongololo Express accommodates 72 guests in two categories of en suite cabins with twin or double beds. Equipped with observation cars, dining cars, and a bar car, Emerald Class also provides access to a small lounge area. All itineraries include options to visit historic, archaeological, and safari sites, with some also catering to golfers.
5. Denali Star – United States
The Alaska Railroad’s flagship train, the Denali Star links Anchorage and Fairbanks, stopping off at Wasilla, Talkeetna, and Denali Park. En route, passengers can observe the sparkling salmon streams and forests of birch and spruce, with carpets of fireweed coloring the landscape a vivid purple. One of America’s most spectacular national parks, Denali National Park is the star attraction, providing lucky passengers with an opportunity to spot moose, caribou, and bears.
6. Perurail’s Lake Titicaca Railway – Peru
Traversing the shores of Lake Titicaca and journeying to the beating heart of the ancient Inca capital, Lake Titicaca Railway traverses the Altiplano, cutting a picturesque path from Puno to Cuzco, passing the snow-dusted peaks and voluptuous valleys of the Andes. Passengers are invited to enjoy drinks in the bar and fine dining in the restaurant car. Alternatively, the open-air observatory car is the ideal location to enjoy the view as the train rumbles on through the Peruvian planes, where bowler-hatted llama farmers can be seen passing through remote villages and towns.
7. The Riviera Railway – France to Italy
Starting in the glamorous resort of Cannes in the south of France and ending in sprawling Ventimiglia, Italy, this unforgettable journey through the internationally renowned French Riviera takes just 90 minutes to complete. Following the coastline, gazing out across the sparkling Ligurian Sea, passengers on this double-decker train pass through lesser-known coastal hideaways like Antibes, Juan les Pins, and Cagnes-sur-mer, looking out across sun-kissed villages and towns. Here, vivid pink bougainvillea pours down the walls of whitewashed villas and apartment blocks, beneath a blazing blue sky. Pausing at both Nice and Monaco, the train offers glimpses of superyachts moored in the marinas, with teens playing volleyball, and Lamborghinis roaring in the streets. The train rolls on through roughly stacked hillsides, before finally coming to a standstill in Ventimiglia. Located in northern Italy, this low-profile city boasts some of the best fresh seafood in all of Europe, as well as dazzling Mediterranean views.