The World’s Top 5 Train Journeys for 2023

There’s something about a train ride that captures the imagination. No matter what your destination, the moment a train pulls out of the station, the promise of an incredible rail adventure begins. No need to deal with the hassle of overbooked flights, missing baggage or expensive taxis. All that a train passenger is required to do is to sit back, relax and enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery that comes into view.

When it’s time to turn your wish list into an actual train vacation, turn to Railbookers, the leading rail experts, to take the hassle out of planning. From majestic glaciers of the Canadian Rockies to the historic splendor of Europe and beyond, Railbookers can curate the perfect rail journey to suit any travel style. Below are five train vacations Railbookers recommends to satisfy your lingering wanderlust. 

1. The Glacier Express 

Operating since 1930, the famous Glacier Express is one of Switzerland's most iconic train excursions. For 5 days, this must-book rail journey winds through the majestic beauty of a UNESCO-protected Alpine route that crosses 291 bridges, passes through 91 tunnels and scales the Oberalp Pass (6,670 ft. above sea level).

The train’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer mesmerizing panoramic views of the passing snow-capped mountains, alpine glaciers and quaint Swiss villages as you travel from Zurich to St. Moritz. The scenery from the Glacier Express, combined with its decadent menus and outstanding service, makes for a rail journey that all should experience. 

2. Canadian Rockies Express with Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver

If you hear the call of the Canadian Rockies, this rail journey on the Rocky Mountaineer will help you answer. The Rocky Mountaineer is known for its luxurious amenities and dining experiences; however, the breath-taking vistas of Vancouver, Kamloops, Banff and Calgary are the main highlights on this trip. While aboard the Canadian Rockies Express for this 5-day journey, passengers can experience the snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes and pristine forests from both luxurious glass-domed train cars and up close when the train stops at various scenic locations along the way. 

3. Essential Belmond Royal Scotsman Western Scenic Wonders

Embark on a weeklong grand Highland fling on the Belmond Royal Scotsman. Ranking among the most luxurious trains in the world, the Belmond Royal Scotsman offers passengers a unique way to explore the Scottish Highlands and its scenic beauty, including rolling hills, sparkling lochs and rugged coastlines. The train features stylishly appointed cabins and gourmet dining, as well as off-train excursions to Scotland’s most iconic sites: Loch Lomond, Ben Nevis, The Isle of Bute and Mount Stuart. It’s a unique blend of comfort, elegance and adventure.

4. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to Venice and Lake Como 

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is one of the most famous and iconic trains in the world, evoking the glamour and sophistication of the golden age of rail travel. Opulently restored, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express provides a unique travel experience with its Art Deco interiors, gourmet cuisine, personal butler service and live musical performances.

Beginning in London, this 9-night rail adventure winds through stunning scenery and picturesque towns, stopping to let passengers experience Venice and Lake Como for their unique history, culture and natural beauty.

5. Highlights of Alaska with Alaska Railroad

Experience the grandeur of the true Alaska on this 7-day Alaska Railroad rail journey to Anchorage, Seward and Denali National Park. Best known for its vaulted-glass cars, an outdoor upper-level viewing platform–the only one of its kind in the world–and extraordinary service, Alaska Railroad believes the journey should be as spectacular as the destination. This rail adventure takes you through pristine landscapes and expansive wilderness of the Last Frontier that are inaccessible by car, with nothing but adventure and exploration in sight.