Train journeys have an undeniable allure that captivates a wide range of travelers, from the intrepid adventurer seeking new experiences to the environmentally conscious explorer embracing the beauty of slow travel. There’s a timeless appeal to this classic mode of transportation, one that evokes memories of a bygone era, where travel was as much about the journey as the destination. Beyond its romantic, old-world charm, what makes train travel truly special is the unique perspective it offers.
Unlike planes that soar above the clouds or cars that are confined to bustling highways, trains weave their way through the heart of the landscape, revealing vistas and hidden treasures that would otherwise remain unseen.
Aboard a train, you’re not just getting from point A to point B—you’re immersed in the scenery, often traveling through untouched natural wonders and remote areas inaccessible by road. Picture gliding through dense Malaysian jungles aboard the Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express, which is making its much-anticipated return with new itineraries in 2024. This luxurious journey offers an intimate look at the rich biodiversity and lush green wilderness of Southeast Asia in a way that few other forms of travel can match. Or imagine climbing higher and higher into the majestic Canadian Rockies with the Rocky Mountaineer, where every twist and turn reveals breathtaking views of towering peaks, pristine lakes, and dense forests.
These train journeys transport you to places where everyday life feels worlds away, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of nature in its purest form.
As part of our 36th annual Readers’ Choice Awards—where we invite our readers to celebrate their most cherished travel experiences, from hotels and airlines to cruises, islands, and luggage—we asked you to rank your favorite rail journeys from around the globe. These awards are a testament to the enduring magic of train travel, capturing the journeys that have left a lasting impression on those who’ve experienced them.
Whether it’s the nostalgia of a historic train route, the luxurious comfort of modern carriages, or the sense of adventure that comes with traversing new landscapes, these journeys represent the very best of what train travel has to offer. And now, after tallying the votes, we present to you the rail journeys that stood out as the most extraordinary, as chosen by you, our dear readers. Here’s how your top picks unfolded.
The Glacier Express has earned its reputation as the “slowest express train in the world,” taking a leisurely eight hours to cover the 180-mile journey through some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking landscapes. But far from being a drawback, this unhurried pace is part of the charm. The Glacier Express invites you to embrace the slow travel ethos, giving you ample time to soak in the unparalleled beauty of the Swiss Alps, as the train connects two of the country’s most famous resort towns—Zermatt and St. Moritz. This journey isn’t just about getting from one point to another; it’s a chance to experience the heart of the Swiss Alps in a way that few other modes of travel can offer.
As the train winds its way through the towering mountains and lush valleys, it brings you face-to-face with some of Switzerland’s most iconic natural wonders. One of the most famous sights along the route is the Matterhorn, a majestic peak that towers over Zermatt and is one of the most recognizable mountains in the world. The journey also takes you past Piz Bernina, the highest peak in the Eastern Alps, offering awe-inspiring views of snow-capped summits and pristine glaciers. Then, there’s the Rhine Gorge, often called Switzerland’s Grand Canyon, a dramatic, rocky landscape carved by the Rhine River over thousands of years.
The Canadian, a renowned sleeper service by VIA Rail, offers an extraordinary way to experience the vast and diverse Canadian landscape. This iconic train journey covers thousands of miles, traveling from Toronto to Vancouver, crossing through some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. From the rolling prairies and dense forests to the majestic Rocky Mountains, The Canadian allows you to witness the changing landscapes in a way that’s not possible by plane or car. It’s not a trip where you’ll be hopping off to explore at every stop; rather, it’s about the joy of sightseeing from the comfort of the train as the wilderness unfolds before your eyes.
For those looking for the ultimate experience aboard The Canadian, Prestige Class is the way to go. This top-tier option offers a level of comfort and luxury that transforms the journey into something truly special. Prestige Class travelers enjoy a private cabin that serves as a cozy retreat, complete with its own large picture window, giving you a front-row seat to the ever-changing scenery. There’s no need to rush or even leave your seat—the landscape comes to you.
The uniquely named “36+3” train, operated by JR Kyushu, gets its title from the fact that Kyushu is the 36th-largest island in the world, and the journey itself is shaped by three key elements: the passengers, the local community, and the rail company. Unlike traditional long-distance trains, this is not a sleeper train. Instead, it offers a series of weeklong itineraries, each consisting of one-day journeys that encircle the stunning island of Kyushu. The flexibility of the service allows travelers to choose how many itineraries they want to complete—whether it’s just one, all of them, or a few scattered across the week. Even without the overnight element, the trip is richly rewarding, combining cultural immersion with leisurely exploration.
The design of the train’s interior is deeply influenced by traditional Japanese aesthetics. Stepping inside feels like entering a luxurious ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, where the emphasis is on craftsmanship and comfort. Immaculately crafted woodwork, made using local techniques, enhances the feeling of authenticity, and the attention to detail in the design is unmistakable. The train features a blend of private and communal spaces, offering opportunities to either retreat to a cozy corner for some solitude or engage with fellow travelers in shared areas.
The Belmond Hiram Bingham train, named after the American explorer who is credited with “discovering” Machu Picchu in 1911, lives up to its namesake’s grandeur and adventurous spirit. This luxurious train service offers a round-trip journey that connects the historic city of Poroy, located just outside of Cusco, to the awe-inspiring Lost City and Sacred Valley of Machu Picchu. It’s not just a ride—it’s an experience that transports passengers back to the elegance of the early 20th century, blending impeccable style and service with stunning Andean landscapes.
From the moment you step onboard, you’re enveloped in the train’s vintage charm. The interiors are adorned with gleaming polished wood, rich brass fixtures, and plush furnishings that evoke the opulence of a bygone era. Every detail, from the upholstery to the table settings, has been carefully curated to create an atmosphere of refined luxury. Whether you’re dining on gourmet meals in the elegant dining car or relaxing in one of the spacious seating areas, the journey itself feels like a step back in time, offering a rare combination of comfort and nostalgia.
Rovos Rail, a symbol of extravagance and adventure, has been offering travelers an unparalleled way to explore Africa for over three decades. The experience begins even before stepping aboard the train. For those departing from Pretoria, guests are granted exclusive access to a private lounge, where they are welcomed with glasses of Champagne and a selection of canapés, setting the tone for the luxurious journey ahead. To help passengers fully disconnect and embrace the experience, a strict “no cellphone” policy is enforced, encouraging guests to savor every moment without the distractions of modern life.
Once on board, Rovos Rail offers a blend of indulgent comfort and timeless elegance. The atmosphere of the train is designed to transport you back to a golden age of travel, where details like polished wood, vintage décor, and attentive service create a sense of refined luxury. During the journey, guests can expect a variety of experiences that range from intimate, cozy moments in their private compartments to elegant evenings in formal attire, where dinner is served in style. For those traveling in the most lavish suites, the accommodations include full-sized, freestanding clawfoot tubs, adding an extra layer of grandeur and relaxation.
