There’s something magical about a great train journey — watching the world unfold through panoramic windows as you glide through breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to rolling deserts.
As we look ahead to 2025, train travel will continue to captivate adventurers and luxury seekers alike; while the world celebrates a remarkable milestone: 200 years since the advent of the modern railway.
Over the past two centuries, travelling by train has offered more than just a means of transport — it has provided an extraordinary journey through landscapes, cultures, and history. From the early days of steam-powered locomotives to today’s high-speed marvels that zip across continents, railways have not only driven industrial growth but have also created unique travel experiences that connect people, cities, and cultures in ways that few other modes of transportation can.
To celebrate the announcement of our 2025 programme, Rail Revolution: 200 Years on Track, we’re exploring the most awe-inspiring, scenic, and iconic train trips around the world for the year ahead, where the journey itself is just as extraordinary as the destination.
The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
Glide through the breathtaking Canadian Rockies aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. This luxury train experience offers stunning views of towering peaks, glacial rivers, and lush forests. The journey isn’t just about the scenery — expect gourmet meals and impeccable service as you travel between Vancouver and Banff, with the opportunity to spot wildlife such as bears and elk. Each route is designed to maximise your connection with nature, offering panoramic glass-dome coaches to make the most of the stunning landscape.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe)
Step back into the golden age of travel aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This iconic luxury train links major European cities like Paris and Venice, offering a nostalgic trip filled with vintage carriages, fine dining, and old-world elegance. Beyond the glamour, it’s a journey through Europe’s rich history and scenic countryside, making every moment aboard feel like a step into a classic novel, from the Art Deco interiors to the black-tie dinners.
The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
Known as the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express meanders through the Swiss Alps, offering jaw-dropping views of snow-covered mountains, deep gorges, and alpine villages. Connecting Zermatt and St. Moritz, this 8-hour journey takes you across 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels. Along the way, you’ll pass iconic sights like the Matterhorn and Rhine Gorge, all while enjoying the comfort of spacious cabins and on-board dining.
The Ghan (Australia)
Cross the Australian continent from south to north on The Ghan, one of the world’s most iconic long-distance trains. This epic journey takes you through vast outback landscapes, from Adelaide to Darwin, passing by red desert plains, ancient rock formations, and tropical savannas. The journey also offers immersive off-train excursions, including visits to remote towns and national parks, making it more than just a train ride but a comprehensive exploration of Australia’s diverse environments.
The Belmond Royal Scotsman (Scotland)
Experience the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands aboard the luxurious Belmond Royal Scotsman. With just 40 guests, this intimate journey offers five-star service, whisky tastings, and excursions to some of Scotland’s most historic castles and distilleries. As the train weaves through the Highlands, guests can relax in the elegant Edwardian-style cabins or enjoy a scenic open-air observation deck, all while soaking in views of lochs, glens, and mountains.
(Image credit: Instagram @nadia.viajes)
The Maharajas’ Express (India)
One of the most opulent trains in the world, the Maharajas’ Express promises a royal experience. Travel through India’s most iconic destinations, including Jaipur and Agra, while enjoying lavish suites, exquisite cuisine, and a service fit for kings. The train’s decor echoes the grandeur of India’s royal past, and the carefully curated itineraries offer a unique glimpse into the country’s rich heritage, with stops at UNESCO World Heritage Sites and opportunities to witness cultural performances.
Image: Maharajas’ Express. The Junior Suite.
Travellers vote for their most loved train trips
From Conde Nast Traveller’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards, these were the top-rated train trips around the world:
- Belmond British Pullman (UK)
- Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe)
- The Ghan (Australia)
- Rovos Rail (South Africa)
- The Royal Scotsman (UK)
- Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
- Eastern & Oriental Express (Southeast Asia)
Explore our upcoming programme: Rail Revolution: 200 Years on Track
Advanced rail technologies: AI and IoT for smarter operations, autonomous trains, predictive maintenance, and next-gen signalling for increased capacity and reduced delays.
- Sustainable rail innovations: New, greener trains powered by hydrogen and electricity, to meet net-zero targets, as well as climate-resilient infrastructure;
