In an era where flights promise speed and efficiency, train travel is making a slow but steady comeback. There’s something magical about watching landscapes change outside your window, the rhythmic clatter of wheels on tracks, and the feeling of being in motion yet unhurried. Some train journeys are not just about getting from one place to another—they are experiences in themselves.
From the snow-covered landscapes of Siberia to the red deserts of Australia and the misty mountains of India, these train rides are all about the journey, not just the destination.
1. The Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia)
Route: Moscow → Vladivostok (9,289 km)
Duration: 6-7 days (non-stop), but most travelers take 2-3 weeks
Why It’s Special? The longest railway in the world
The Trans-Siberian Railway is the ultimate train journey for slow travelers. Stretching over 9,000 km, this legendary railway spans eight time zones, covering forests, lakes, and vast open landscapes from Moscow to Russia’s Pacific coast.
What You’ll Experience:
- Lake Baikal – The deepest freshwater lake in the world, frozen in winter and breathtaking in summer.
- Endless Siberian forests – You’ll see untouched wilderness, remote villages, and endless pine forests stretching for miles.
- Traditional Russian hospitality – Locals on board often share stories, tea, and even vodka with fellow travelers.
🔹 Pro Tip: Break the journey into sections—stop at Yekaterinburg, Irkutsk, or Ulan Ude to explore Russia’s diverse cultures and landscapes.
2. The Ghan (Australia)
Route: Adelaide → Alice Springs → Darwin (2,979 km)
Duration: 3-4 days
Why It’s Special? A luxurious journey through the heart of the Australian Outback
Nicknamed after Afghan camel traders who once navigated these lands, The Ghan offers a mesmerizing ride through the red deserts and rugged landscapes of Australia’s interior. It’s one of the most luxurious train experiences in the world.
What You’ll Experience:
- Endless Outback views – Watch the scenery change from fertile lands to dusty desert plains.
- Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park) – A breathtaking canyon you can explore during a stop.
- Indigenous culture – The journey includes insights into Aboriginal history and traditions.
🔹 Pro Tip: Book a Gold Service or Platinum cabin for gourmet meals, private cabins, and top-tier service.
3. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (India)
Route: New Jalpaiguri → Darjeeling (88 km)
Duration: 7 hours
Why It’s Special? A UNESCO World Heritage narrow-gauge railway
This toy train ride is one of India’s most scenic and nostalgic railway experiences. Running since 1881, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway winds its way through lush tea plantations, misty hills, and colonial-era stations.
What You’ll Experience:
- Batasia Loop – A spiral track where the train makes a complete loop, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
- Steam locomotives – Some trains are still powered by vintage steam engines, giving a sense of old-world charm.
- Darjeeling tea plantations – The train passes through world-famous tea estates, making it a paradise for tea lovers.
🔹 Pro Tip: Take the short joy ride from Darjeeling to Ghum, which includes the iconic Batasia Loop and the highest railway station in India.
4. The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
Route: Zermatt → St. Moritz (291 km)
Duration: 8 hours
Why It’s Special? The world’s slowest express train, winding through the Swiss Alps
If you love snow-capped mountains, deep gorges, and charming Alpine villages, then the Glacier Express is the train for you. It’s an eight-hour ride through Switzerland’s most breathtaking landscapes, passing over 291 bridges and 91 tunnels.
What You’ll Experience:
- Matterhorn views – The train starts in Zermatt, home to one of the world’s most famous mountains.
- Landwasser Viaduct – A stunning bridge built into a rock face, one of the most photographed railway spots in the world.
- Panoramic windows – The train is designed for sightseeing, with huge glass windows that make you feel like you’re part of the landscape.
🔹 Pro Tip: Travel in winter for a fairytale-like journey through snow-covered villages and icy mountain peaks.
5. The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
Route: Vancouver → Banff (or other routes)
Duration: 2 days
Why It’s Special? A luxury train through the Canadian Rockies
For travelers who love majestic mountains, emerald lakes, and endless forests, the Rocky Mountaineer is a dream come true. This train runs only during the day, ensuring passengers don’t miss a single scenic moment.
What You’ll Experience:
- Banff National Park – Home to Lake Louise, one of the most photographed lakes in the world.
- Glacier-fed rivers and waterfalls – The train winds through landscapes shaped by glaciers over millions of years.
- Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for bears, elk, and eagles.
🔹 Pro Tip: Upgrade to GoldLeaf Service for a double-deck glass-domed coach, gourmet meals, and open-air viewing platforms.
Why Slow Train Travel is Making a Comeback
In a world obsessed with speed and convenience, slow train travel offers something modern life often lacks—a chance to pause, reflect, and truly connect with the journey.
Why Travelers Love It:
Eco-Friendly: Trains have a smaller carbon footprint compared to flights.
More Scenic: You get unmatched views that flights and highways can’t offer.
Authentic Experience: Interacting with locals and fellow travelers makes the journey more memorable.
Stress-Free: No airport security lines, no turbulence—just pure relaxation.
If you’re looking to rediscover the romance of travel, these iconic train journeys are worth slowing down for.
Final Thoughts
These train rides prove that sometimes, the journey is the destination. Whether you’re crossing the Siberian wilderness, gliding through the Swiss Alps, or traveling back in time on India’s toy trains, these experiences are unforgettable.
🚆 Which train journey excites you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments!
TRAVELZILLA 