The Most Astonishing Train Rides In The World
At Newverest, we believe there’s no better way to pass the time than planning your next big adventure. While the safety of our friends, family, and fellow man is, of course, the most important thing at the moment, we know it can be difficult for modern-day explorers to remain confined inside of the four walls they call “home”.
A great way to plan for your next big trip is by utilizing Newverest Scratch-Off Maps, which offer a fun and educational way to plot your course into unknown territory. Another great way is to explore niche vacations that many people overlook. Train trips, for example, prove that one of the most incredible ways to see the world is by riding the rails.
Here is a look at some of the most amazing train rides in the world.
Rocky Mountaineer’s Journey Through The Clouds
There is perhaps no sight in North America that is more breathtaking than the Canadian Rockies. Luckily, Rocky Mountaineer offers a stunning 3-day adventure through the Canadian Countryside that they refer to as the “Journey Through The Clouds". This journey begins in the vibrant city of Vancouver and travels through an almost desert-like landscape before arriving in the charming riverside town of Kamloops. The next day, your train will travel eastward through the Blue River and treat you to exceptional views of Pyramid Falls. As you make your way towards your final destination, you’ll also experience Mount Robison — the highest peak of the Canadian Rockies — towering majestically above you.
ScotRail’s West Highland Line
The West Highland Line is widely regarded as one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys. Your train departs from Glasgow, Scotland, which is one of the country’s largest and most beautiful cities. From there, you’ll be swept away into the western coastal countryside, where you’ll be treated to mountainous landscapes, impossibly steep lochs, and picturesque heather moors. This trip is especially ideal for anyone who is eagerly awaiting their Hogwarts Acceptance Letter — it traverses the Glenfinnan Viaduct (which Harry Potter fans will instantly recognize from the film series) before arriving at its final destination of Mallaig.
The Venice Simplon Orient Express
For a truly luxurious ride, consider booking a ticket on the Orient Express. This decadent Art Deco train will take you from Venice, Italy to London, England. But perhaps more importantly, it will take you all the way back to the glamorous 1920s. The interior of each train car features polished wood, elegant upholstery, and a truly breathtaking design aesthetic that rivals the beautiful scenery passing by your window. This two-day trip begins in the mysterious city of Venice and travels through the French countryside until it reaches its final destination in London. While not cheap, this train ride is definitely an indulgent, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
American history buffs will appreciate riding the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Colorado. On this roundtrip journey, you’ll board an authentic coal-fired steam locomotive and ride a railway that first began operating in 1882. The picturesque 45.4-mile route follows the Animas River before winding through the remote canyons of Colorado’s San Juan National Forest. The captivating, untouched wilderness will allow you to view America from the eyes of a 19th-century settler.
Russia Experience’s Classic Original Trans-Siberian Railroad
A favorite of artists, writers, historians, and jet setters alike, the Trans-Siberian Railroad is an experience that should definitely make your bucket list. First completed in 1916, this 8-day long adventure spans an incredible 5772 miles and will take you from Moscow, Russia to the country’s Pacific port of Vladivostok. As you sip vodka (of course) your spot aboard the train, you’ll be able to take in the entire country of Russia, including sights like the magnificent 3227-foot-long bridge that crosses the River Ob at Novosibirsk.
Indian Railway’s Maharaja Express Indian Panorama
Known as the “World's Leading Luxury Train,” the Maharaja Express Indian Panorama Tour is a luxurious and immersive trip through India’s rich heritage. This 7-day roundtrip journey begins and ends at Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station. Along the way, you’ll view the beautiful scenery and also be invited to explore culturally important stops including the deserted Mughal City of Fatehpur Sikri and the famous Taj Mahal. It’s an excellent way to explore the country of India from aboard a luxury train.
Rovos Rail’s Namibia Safari
If exploring Africa is next on your agenda, the Rovos Rail’s Namibia Safari should be right up your alley. This 9-day train tour departs from Pretoria in South Africa before traversing the rich, varied terrain of Africa’s southern tip. You’ll view the stark beauty of the Kalahari Desert, see wild animals on a drive through Etosha National Park, and visit Big Hole, one of the world’s largest hand-dug diamond mines. By the time you reach your final destination in Walvis Bay, Namibia, you’ll have seen some of the most breathtaking sights that Africa has to offer.
Belmond Hiram Bingham’s Essential Peru Tour
If traveling to the famous ruins of Machu Picchu is already on your bucket list, the Belmond Hiram Bingham’s Essential Peru Tour allows you to combine two once-in-a-lifetime experiences into one comprehensive trip. You’ll begin your journey in the ancient city of Cusco before being swept away through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the ruins of Ollantaytambo. The decadent train you’ll be taking is also inspired by the beautiful 1920s, meaning its interiors are as awe-inspiring as the views outside of your window. Your final destination is none other than Machu Picchu — a UNESCO World Heritage Site set within the lush Andes Mountains.
It doesn’t matter which continent you’re hoping to visit next - there’s an incredible train ride waiting to take you on an unforgettable, old-fashioned journey. Plot your adventure using Newverest’s Scratch Off Map Of The World. Then, grab your backpack (or an old steamer trunk if you’re really feeling authentic) and get ready to ride the rails.
