The Twelve Most Amazing Train Rides in the World

Since the first steam-powered locomotive was displayed in 1804, trains have shaped the lives of humanity. By allowing people and freight to be carried along known routes in high speeds, trains made the world smaller, trade goods more available and travel more comfortable and swifter. Thanks to the transcontinental railroad that connected America’s east & west, the United States became an economic superpower.

Besides their cultural and historical significance, trains also allow you to travel in comfort, while experiencing incredible vistas. These 12 train-rides are some of the world’s most scenic and luxuriant rides in the world, and should be experienced by everyone.

1. Hiram Bingham

If you want to travel the jungles of Peru in style, then the Hiram Bingham is for you! This deluxe train travels to Machu Pichu, while providing its passengers with high-end accommodation and dining.

2. The Ghan

Australia's Great Southern Rail from Adelaide to Darwin is a 54-hour, 2,979km (1,851mi) train ride that crosses Australia from north to south. The name "Ghan" is actually an abbreviation of its original name - "The Afghan Express".

3. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Also known as “The Toy Train”, this train uses t vintage British B Class steam locomotive for its daily tourist trips. The train climbs the Himalayas up to heights of over 2,200m (7,200ft), on a route that is 78km (48mi) long. Considering it’s using such old locomotives, it’s astounding that it is still functioning so efficiently!

4. The Adirondack

This train runs between New York and Montreal, through the magnificent Hudson valley and the Adirondack mountains which gives it its name. While the train often suffers from delays, the 11-hour trip is so beautiful, most people agree that it's worth it.

5. The West Highland Line

Voted as the most scenic train ride in the world, for several consecutive years, the West Highland Line travels between Mallaig and Glasgow in Scotland. The locals refer to it as 'Rathad Iarainn nan Eilean' ("Iron Road to the Isles").

6. Brocken railway

The highest mountain in Germany is called Brocken, and lends its name to this train. The Brocken train provides the most comfortable way to get to Brocken mountain's nature reserve.

7. First Passage to the West

This track is famous in Canada for uniting the east and west of the country over a hundred years ago. Nowadays, this historic track offers a luxury 2-day ride along some of Canada's most gorgeous views.

8. Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express

The world's longest train ride, the Trans-Siberian Express is a 9,288km (5,771mi) long ride, crossing Russia from Vladivostok in the east to Moscow in the west. The Golden Eagle is the most luxurious ride along this line. Offering spacious sleeping cars, gourmet dining and the most scenic views in Asia.

9. The Maharaja Express

The most expensive luxury train in the world, the Maharaja Express enjoys a reputation of having the best services in the world. Mind you, the cheapest fare for an adult is nearly $7,000...

10. El Tren Crucero

Travel along Ecuador's Andes in luxury. This train chugs along the avenue of volcanoes, passing by dormant and even active volcanoes along its route. You can also experience the locals way of life along the route at various stops.

11. The Eastern & Orient Express

The Eastern & Oriental Express has been awarded a place on the "World's Top 25 Trains" list by The Society of International Railway Travelers for its beauty, service, dining, and off-train experiences. It runs between Singapore's Woodlands Train Checkpoint and Hua Lamphong, Bangkok, stopping at Kuala Lumpur, Butterworth and Kanchanaburi.

12. Bergen Railway

Travelling Norway from Bergen to Oslo, this train crosses Europe’s highest plateau on its 495km (308mi) long trip. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful rides in the world and won high praise in the Lonely Planet travel guide.