The Most Beautiful Train Journeys Ever Taken

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE

Article Published on: 03RD DEC 2025 | www.demodemagazine.com

Train travel evokes a sense of nostalgia and wonder unlike any other mode of transportation. It allows us to slow down, enjoy the journey, and witness breathtaking landscapes unfold outside the window. Across the world, there are train routes celebrated not only for their destinations but for the unforgettable beauty along the way, creating experiences that remain etched in the hearts of travelers.

One of the most iconic journeys is the Glacier Express in Switzerland, often called the “slowest express train in the world.” This route winds through the Swiss Alps, crossing towering viaducts, deep valleys, charming villages, and snow-capped peaks. Panoramic glass windows offer views that feel straight out of a postcard, making every moment magical. Similarly, the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada takes passengers through untouched wilderness, crystal blue lakes, and forests where wildlife often appears just beyond the tracks. Watching the sunrise paint the rugged mountains is an unforgettable sight.

In Japan, the Sagano Scenic Railway in Kyoto offers a serene journey through lush forests and along the Hozugawa River, especially stunning during cherry blossom season and autumn. Meanwhile, India’s Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage route, chugs through tea gardens and mist-covered hills, capturing the charm of a bygone era.

For those who dream of old-world elegance, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express remains a symbol of luxury and romance. With its art-deco interiors, fine dining, and routes through the European countryside, it turns travel into a glamorous adventure. In contrast, Norway’s Flåm Railway offers raw natural beauty, descending steep mountains past waterfalls and fjords—one of the steepest train lines in the world.

Each of these journeys proves that the true beauty of train travel lies not only in reaching a destination but in experiencing the world slowly, thoughtfully, and deeply. They remind us that sometimes the most memorable stories are written between two stations.