Read the List of Most Iconic Rail Journeys

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Iconic Rail Journeys

Travelling by train lets you experience a destination in a totally new light.
We’ve put together a list of the most iconic railways in the world, as well as some amazing train journeys you may not have known existed.
All aboard.

THE AMERICAS

Rocky Mountaineer

Beginning in Vancouver, Canada, set off through mountain passes and dramatic canyons to arrive in picturesque Banff and Lake Louise, where you’ll be greeted by stunning scenery and hot springs.

For an alternative, Journey Through the Clouds from Vancouver to the UNESCO World Heritage listed Jasper National Park – Canada’s largest national park and home to the tallest peaks in the Canadian Rockies.

Or take the train through the mountain mecca of Whistler then on to explore the history of the gold rush through the canyons before arriving in Quesnel. Continue through the wilderness and waterfalls to Jasper where you can explore everything this alpine town has to offer.

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Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Experience the pristine backcountry of the San Juan Mountains as you travel from Durango, Colorado to historic Silverton, Colorado aboard one of the last surviving narrow gauge railroads in the USA.

One of the Southwest’s most sought after tourist attractions, the Durango & Silverton Train has been operating since 1882 and is considered one of Colorado’s most scenic excursions. The coal-fired, steam-powered narrow-gauge train takes you 45 miles each way, along the Animas River and past the Cascade Canyons deep in the San Juan National Forest.

Onboard, the historic cars exude luxurious Victorian era touches along with outdoor viewing platforms, while a number of exclusive cars have been completely remodelled in the old-fashioned flair of the 1880s.

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Belmond Hiram Bingham

Combining one of the most iconic destinations in the world with a luxurious and enchanting train journey, the Belmond Hiram Bingham is once-in-a-lifetime Peruvian experience.

A voyage to the heart of the Inca Empire in Peru, travel between Cusco and Machu Picchu aboard this luxury 1920’s inspired train. Featuring delicious fine dining, traditional live music and bespoke artwork, the onboard journey is equally as mystical as the destination, as the ever-changing scenery takes you towards the Lost City of the Incas – Machu Picchu.

On the return trip, enjoy a dinner to remember as you wind through the Andes to the beat of the Peruvian cajón and tambourines.

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AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

The Ghan

A train journey through the middle of Australia, The Ghan is one of the most iconic rail experiences in the country. Travel from Darwin to Adelaide or return, taking in the sights of the Tropical Top End and Red Centre through Katherine and Alice Springs over two nights and three unforgettable days.

From one edge of the continent to the other, The Ghan delivers unsurpassed views of the great southern land, with the perfect mix of comfort and adventure over 2,979 kilometres. Enjoy all-inclusive onboard dining and off train touring.

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TranzAlpine

Witness the South Island’s stunning mountains and the vast Canterbury Plains aboard the TranzAlpine – New Zealand’s most spectacular inland rail journey.

The 5 hour trip over 223 kilometres (139 miles) will take you from Christchurch in the east, across the Canterbury Plains, through the Southern Alps and onto Greymouth on the west coast. Soak up the vistas through miles of native beech forest, along the shores of the ice-fed Waimakariri River and the lush Otira Valley, all with the backdrop of the Southern Alps.

Departing daily from Christchurch, New Zealand’s oldest city, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience the scenic inland and coastal regions of the South Island, all in a day.

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Indian Pacific

An east to west overland journey, the Indian Pacific is one of Australia’s – and the world’s – greatest train journeys. Named for the two oceans that it travels between, the Indian Pacific begins in Sydney on Australia’s East Coast, travelling 4,352 kilometres through Adelaide and onto Perth, taking in the iconic sights of the Blue Mountains and the Nullarbor.

Over three nights and four days, witness mountainous beauty and the vast plains of the Australian Outback while enjoying restaurant-quality dining onboard and off train excursions included as part of the experience.

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ASIA & INDIA

Palace on Wheels

India’s original luxury train, see India like never before from the comfort of the Palace of Wheels. Traverse across the vast desert lands of Rajasthan and Agra over 8 days, exploring the iconic sites of the region including the mesmerising Taj Mahal and The Pink City of Jaipur.

Departing from New Delhi, the majestic journey sets off across Rajasthan to Jaipur, The Pink City with its ancient forts and stunning Hawa Mahal (the Palace of Winds), before a morning jungle safari at the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. Onto the World Heritage Sites of Jaisalmer Fort and the Bhatarpur Bird Sanctuary, the highlight of the journey is a visit to Agra and the Taj Mahal – one of the seven wonders of the modern world.

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Eastern & Oriental Express

Epitomising the elegant age, the Eastern & Oriental Express will take you on a timeless adventure across South East Asia.

Journey overnight between Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, Singapore, and Malaysia’s cosmopolitan capital Kuala Lumpur taking in the ever-changing scenery as it rolls by. Onboard, exotic cuisine is served at white linen-coated tables with sparkling crystal and silverware to highlight the luxurious experience.

A memorable journey onboard is complemented by off-train excursions, including cultural tours at Thailand’s River Kwai and Malaysia’s royal town of Kuala Kangsar, while the colourful sights and
sounds of South East Asia come to life, from the markets of bustling Bangkok to the modern marvels of Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay.

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The Reunification Express

Vietnam’s North-South railway, known as the Reunification Express, traverses 1,726 kilometres along a timeline of the nation’s history, across its religious and cultural divides. The journey takes you through rice paddies, fishing villages, dense jungles and crowded neighbourhoods – providing an eye-opening way to experience Vietnam.

Damaged heavily throughout the Vietnam War, the prevailing Hanoi government underwent a mammoth restoration project, repairing more than 1,334 bridges, 27 tunnels and 158 stations to have the railway operational by the end of 1976. The connection between Hanoi in the north and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in the south became a symbol of a reunified Vietnam and the 30 hour journey is now one of the most popular ways to travel between the two cities.

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UK, EUROPE & AFRICA

Golden Eagle Danube Express

Witness the vibrant cultures, ancient castles and spectacular scenery of Transylvania on this exclusive rail cruise aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Boarding in Istanbul, travel in luxury through Bulgaria and Romania to Budapest, experiencing some of Europe’s most fascinating ancient wonders over 7 days.

Ascend Bulgaria’s Shipka Pass before arriving in the country’s ancient capital of Veliko Tarnovo and onto the scenic landscapes of Romania. Tour Peles Castle and the impressive Bran Castle, with a gala dinner inside the castle walls.

Travel across the Great Hungarian Plain and explore the historic cities of Hungary, including the capital Budapest situated on the banks of the mighty Danube.

STAY WITH: ENDLESS VACATION RENTALS

Madaraka Express: Mombasa to Nairobi

Once a slow-paced overnight trek on a narrow gauge track, travelling by rail in Kenya between Mombasa and Nairobi is now a fast daytime journey, travelling on a standard gauge railway and spotting big game along the way.

Enjoy your journey onboard the Madaraka Express in comfort and style as you pass the beautiful scenery of Kenya's unique landscapes over a four-and-a-half-hour journey. Discover places and people that contribute to the variety and richness of the Kenyan culture and be entertained with off-train excursions – from indulging in seafood at the best restaurant in Mombasa to exploring the wildlife-rich Tsavo National Parks.

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The Settle-Carlisle Railway

An iconic railway through the centre of the Great Britain, the Settle-Carlisle Railway operates daily services between the English cities of Leeds and Carlisle, with further connections that can take travellers from London to Scotland by rail.

Enjoy award-winning service onboard as you travel through the picturesque English countryside, past historic sites and castles dating back to the Middle Ages. Whatever journey you take, be sure to take time to explore the rich heritage of Carlisle, the 2,000-year-old border city between England and Scotland.

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Iconic Rail Journeys

THE AMERICAS

Rocky Mountaineer

Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Belmond Hiram Bingham

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

The Ghan

TranzAlpine

Indian Pacific

ASIA & INDIA

Palace on Wheels

Eastern & Oriental Express

The Reunification Express

UK, EUROPE & AFRICA

Golden Eagle Danube Express

Madaraka Express: Mombasa to Nairobi

The Settle-Carlisle Railway

Find more travel inspiration here!

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