While flying’s lost its glamour, and driving never had it anyway, the good old-fashioned train trip still carries a thrill of romance and possibility. Below, we list the 5 most spectacular rail rides you can take around the world, guaranteed to make you travel for the journey, nuts to the destination…
Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
The ultimate dream for many rail-lovers, Russia’s century-old Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest rail track in the world. It runs from Moscow to Vladivostock and takes up to 14 days to travel.
Qingzang Railway, China
The journey from Xining to Lhasa on China’s Qingzang Railway traverses the Tanggula Pass at over 16000 ft in the air – making this the highest-elevated railway in the world.
Img: Wikimedia
Lima–Huancayo, Peru
You know the train track’s high when carriages have extra oxygen supplies available. This journey over the Peruvian Andes takes you up to 15,688ft.
Img: Max Opp
The Orient Express, London to Venice
Relive the golden age of rail travel on the Orient Express route from London to Venice. Vintage Pullman and Continental trains used to transport passengers bring home the Agatha Christie feel.
Img: Jay cross
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India
Travel on this World Heritage Site railway between New Jalpaiguri–Darjeeling for eye-popping views of the world’s third highest peak, Kanchenjunga.
Img: timabbott
Lived in England since 1998 and travelled the world since 2005, visiting over 100 countries on 5 continents. Writer, blogger, photographer with a passion for adventure and travel, discovering those off beat places not yet on the tourist trail. Marco contributes the very best in independent travel tips and lifestyle articles.
Train travel is my favorite way to see a country. One of my favorite places to travel by train is Thailand. They still have the clicking train cars that sway you to sleep. The most outrageous train experience was in Burma. At one point our train car almost swayed off the track. Great article!
Great article! I’m planning on taking the Trans-Siberian soon. I’m teetering between giving myself 3 or 4 weeks. Any suggestions?
Absolutely beautiful pics. Thanks for this article and I cannot wait until I’m in Burma.