The five best train trips in the world
Summer airport travel this year has been marked by flight delays, lost luggage and crowded terminals. Smart travelers may choose to bypass all the backlog by choosing a train trip instead. While it may be a cliche to say that the journey is the destination, when it comes to these scenic, luxuriant and expansive railroad lines, the phrase becomes truer than even its metaphorical meaning. Take in scenic vistas, enjoy carefully curated stop-overs and lounge in elegantly refined trappings on some of the world’s best overland adventures.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
With all the luxury of a bygone era, the service on this rail line complements the decor and scenery to give passengers a sense of magic, from suitcases that are carted away only to reappear in-cabin to beds that are remade at any needed interval. Take in some of Europe’s most beautiful vistas, with stops in London, Paris, Florence, Geneva, and even Istanbul.
Trans-Siberia
A two-week journey from Moscow to Vladivostok, this route takes travelers deep into a continent few ever get to explore in such detail. Trip itineraries are dotted with indulgences, from a champagne reception to a barbecue on the shores of Lake Baikal, the world’s oldest and deepest known lake. Its depths are three times deeper than those of Lake Superior.
Kyushu Seven Star, Japan
Designed with the luxury of cruise lines in mind, this railway covers the towns, fields and coastlines of Kyushu, a southwestern outlying island of Japan. Officially debuting in 2013, the journey stops at local villages that offer artisanal pottery, mountain views and relaxing hot springs.
Coast Starlight
From the rainy mists of the Olympic forests to the palm tree-studded streets of Southern California, the Coast Starlight rail line is a picturesque reminder of the majesty of the West Coast. From snow-capped mountains to undulating seas, verdant forests and dramatic cliff sides, the scenery along this route turns every glance towards the outside window into a postcard imprinted in one’s memory.
Denali
Stretching across America’s largest state, this rail line carries passengers from the Southern city of Fairbanks to the centrally located Anchorage with a number of flagstops along the way. Views of the Alaska Range, Healy Canyon and Nenana River gorge provide hours of blissful window-gazing, where animals like bears, moose, sheep and eagles may readily come into view. Passengers also have the opportunity to stop in Denali National Park to explore one of America’s wildest natural destinations.
Hiram Bingham
The navy siding and gold trim defining the train’s profile belie the luxurious trappings inside. Lavishly catered meals from fluffy morning pancakes to savory duck breast ravioli creations are served all day, while a live band offers accompaniment to set the mood. Fields of corn and the roiling rushes of the Urubamba River pave a scenic path as the prized destination of Machu Picchu approaches. Local cultural touches in the form of music and dance and service delivered at the perfect pace, this unforgettable journey brings refined touches to an awe-inspiring setting creating the perfect overland experience.
Andean Explorer
Take to the skies without leaving the ground in this high-elevation explorer. Chugging along at more than 14,000 feet in elevation, the Andean explorer cuts a path through Peru that highlights six different routes from mountains to sea. The picturesque scenery is paired with an audible backdrop crafted by the bar car’s onboard pianist. Every sense is fully catered to, with a masseur, barman and pastry chef along for the ride. Alpaca-wool blankets and handwoven fabrics bring authentic craftsmanship to the elegantly decorated space, creating a perfect setting to observe seaside sunsets on the way to Uros Islands or mountain vistas en route to Cusco.
If you enjoy our perspective on travel and Black culture, please sign up for our newsletter. You should consider joining our travel club, too. Or maybe write a piece for us about your favorite destination. In other words, let’s stay connected!
This story was originally published September 12, 2022 at 9:00 AM.