If you've ever watched the world roll by from a train window, you know the joy of traveling without rushing.

Trains let us settle in—watching mountain peaks, rivers, towns, and forests appear like scenes from a movie. And some routes around the world take this to the next level.

So if you're dreaming of a trip that's more about the journey than the destination, here are three of the best scenic train routes in the world—with tips, prices, and what makes each one so unforgettable.

1. The Glacier Express (Switzerland)

Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz

Distance: ~180 miles (~290 km)

Duration: 7.5–8 hours

This is not a fast train—it's called the slowest express train in the world, and that's the point. The Glacier Express winds its way through the heart of the Swiss Alps, passing 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, and scenery that looks like a postcard come to life.

Highlights:

• Oberalp Pass at 6,706 feet (2,044 m)

• The Landwasser Viaduct—an architectural marvel

• Panoramic glass windows for uninterrupted mountain views

Cost:

• Standard seat: from ~$160 USD

• Reservation fee (required): ~$35 USD

• 1st class panoramic car: from ~$270 USD

Best time to go:

• Winter (December to March): for snowy fairytale landscapes

• Summer (June to September): for green valleys and blue skies

Tip:

Bring your own snacks to save money—onboard meals are elegant but pricey. Also, book early for summer and winter holidays.

2. The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)

Route: Vancouver to Banff or Jasper

Distance: ~300–350 miles (depending on route)

Duration: 2 days (with overnight in Kamloops or another mid-point hotel)

The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train designed for sightseeing. You'll glide through canyons, alongside turquoise rivers, and past glacier-fed lakes, with domed windows and gourmet food served at your seat.

Highlights:

• The Spiral Tunnels of Kicking Horse Pass

• Fraser Canyon and Hell's Gate

• Views of the Canadian Rockies

Cost:

• SilverLeaf Service (1-level dome): from ~$1,700 USD

• GoldLeaf Service (2-level dome with gourmet meals): from ~$2,400 USD

Best time to go:

• April to October (train doesn't run in winter)

• September offers cooler weather and fall colors

Tip:

This is a daylight-only train—no sleeper cars. The train stops in the evening so you can rest in a hotel (included in the package).

3. The West Highland Line (Scotland)

Route: Glasgow to Mallaig

Distance: ~164 miles (264 km)

Duration: ~5.5 hours

If you're after wild landscapes and old-world charm on a budget, this is your ride. The West Highland Line runs through lochs, moors, and misty glens. Part of the route was made famous by the Harry Potter films—yes, you'll cross the same Glenfinnan Viaduct as the Hogwarts Express.

Highlights:

• Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

• Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain

• Glenfinnan Viaduct

Cost:

• Standard ticket: from ~$35 USD (Advance fare)

• Jacobite Steam Train (summer only): ~$65–$100 USD

Best time to go:

• Late spring to early autumn (May–September) for better weather

• Steam trains usually run April to October

Tip:

Try to sit on the left side of the train when heading north—better views of the viaduct and lochs. Pack layers, as Scottish weather changes fast.

Other Notable Mentions

If you're still craving more rail adventures, check these out:

• TranzAlpine (New Zealand): From Christchurch to Greymouth—Southern Alps in full view.

• Nariz del Diablo (Ecuador): A zigzag railway ride through dramatic cliffs and switchbacks.

• Flåm Railway (Norway): 12 miles through fjords, waterfalls, and tunnels—short but unforgettable.

Which Track Is Calling You?

Scenic train journeys give us something planes never will: time to breathe, see, and feel the world roll by. Whether it's the icy Swiss Alps, the vast Canadian wilderness, or the misty Highlands of Scotland, the journey becomes the destination.

Have you ever taken a scenic train ride? Which one would you love to try in 2025? Let us know, Lykkers—we'd love to hear what's on your travel wishlist!