One of Switzerland’s most scenic rail journeys, the Glacier Express connects Zermatt, nestled peacefully in the shadow of the Matterhorn, and resort-town-extraordinaire St Moritz. The train gives you ample time to soak up the magnificent views from the panoramic windows.
Sustainable Travel
Taking the train is not only the most scenic way to discover destinations but also one of the most environmentally friendly ways of traveling! When compared to cars and airplanes, trains emit between 66 and 75 percent less carbon. Trains are far more sustainable - in terms of energy consumption, use of space, and noise levels.
What is a Carbon Footprint?
A carbon footprint is a measure of the effect you have on the climate in terms of the number of greenhouse gases you produce (measured in units of carbon dioxide). Many of your daily activities generate carbon emissions which have an impact on the health of the environment. Rail is your greenest choice!
European Trains
European trains are highly sustainable.
Thanks to the prevalence of railways throughout the continent, European trains are highly sustainable. Trains are the primary form of intercity and international travel in Europe, and many of the things that make rail so popular also make it environmentally friendly. For one, many of the European lines are slower, regional trains that make frequent stops. Though high-speed rail is certainly faster, it requires far more fuel and ends up being less energy efficient than the older models. Train stations are also generally centrally located within a city, meaning that a traveler will not need a second form of transportation to get to their final destination, as is the case with airports.
Famous Trains
A journey aboard the famed navy blue and gold carriages of the Rocky Mountaineer is synonymous with true luxury, breathtaking adventures, delicious food, inspiring landscapes, and unparalleled service.
Experience pure comfort, opulent interiors, fine dining, and convivial company along the tracks as you relive the 'golden age of rail travel'. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is synonymous with glamour, sophistication, impeccable service and iconic journeys.
The Bernina Express is one of the most picturesque train journeys in the whole world. With huge, panoramic windows, you won’t have to miss one scenic second.
The Alaska Railroad travels through or near amazing scenery, including national parks, fjords, and ancient geology. You may even get to experience the Aurora Borealis.
VIA Rail is the national rail operator of Canada and operates many trains coast-to-coast between Toronto and Vancouver.
South America's first luxury sleeper train, offers a contemporary aesthetic and awe-inspiring views on its Cusco to Puno route.
The Caledonian Sleeper provides comfortable overnight travel between London and Scotland. It is actually two separate trains; the Highland sleeper, which serves Inverness, Fort William, and Aberdeen, and the Lowland sleeper for Edinburgh and Glasgow. The Caledonian has Double rooms - one of the few types of train accommodation to offer a double bed.
Travel on a luxurious journey through the heart of Australia on The Ghan. Enjoy gourmet cuisine, elegant private cabins, and off-board excursions within Australia’s outback.
Travel in time to the 1920s, when the historic Pullman cars that today are used for its lounges first operated. Together with the suites, they create an authentic five-star hotel on rails, with amenities that meet the most demanding of expectations.
The spectacular Flåm Railway runs between Myrdal and Flåm in Norway and is one of the world's most beautiful train journeys. It is one of the most popular rail journeys in the world due to the combination of its steep gradient and wonderful scenery. A highlight of our Norway in a Nutshell tour.
The Golden Eagle Danube Express is a spectacular luxury train that runs on several journeys, including between Venice and Budapest and between Venice and Istanbul.
The Gornergrat Railway also nick-named the "Cog Railway to the Sky", was the world’s first fully electrified cog railway and remains Europe’s highest open-air cog railway. The Gornergrat brings passengers direct from the Zermatt station to the summit of the Gornergrat, 365 days a year.
Maximum comfort, top-level service and this unique destination combine to make any journey onboard the Maharajas' Express both the trip of a lifetime and the perfect way to explore India.
Travelling between Sydney, Adelaide, and Perth, the Indian Pacific traverses mountain ranges, arid deserts and goldfields, rocky valleys, and desert savannahs on its transcontinental crossings.
The Jungfraujoch is the highest railway station in Europe, at 3,463 metres (11,362 feet) above sea level. Travel to this unique destination is achieved not by one train, but rather a series of short connecting services on the Jungfrau railway.
A visit to Mount Pilatus is a must-do day-trip while in and around the Lucerne area. The journey itself is fascinating and a real adventure; as it is comprised of several different forms of transport.
The Gotthard Panorama Express offers a unique combination of a scenic train journey and travel by paddle steamer. All seating on the panorama train is exclusively first-class.
Travel through landscapes of pine-clad mountains and reflected in mirror-still lochs in the Scottish Highlands aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman. Life onboard is relaxed yet indulgent.
The GoldenPass Line, an extraordinary journey in 3 different trains, with a panoramic view of breathtaking scenery. A never-ending spectacle of three mountain passes, the famous 4000-meter Alpine peaks, 8 lakes, and unforgettable excursions.
Embark on the scenic Northern Explorer from Auckland to Wellington, traversing New Zealand's North Island with diverse landscapes, historic marvels, and elevated onboard experiences.
The Al Andalus Train is a luxurious tourist train that travels through the Andalusia region of Spain, offering passengers a unique and exclusive experience. The train is known for its elegant decor, gourmet cuisine, and stops at some of the most beautiful destinations in southern Spain.
Explore the "Queen of the Mountains" - Mount Rigi, surrounded by three Swiss lakes. Take a scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne, then ride the Rigi Bahn cogwheel train, or cable car from Weggis, to reach the top for stunning alpine views.
Be hosted in unrivalled style on a timeless adventure with exotic cuisine at white-linen coated tables in the ornamental dining cars.
Echoing the grace and romance of African exploration, Rovos Rail provides a nostalgic journey that encapsulates the timeless allure of travel.
A trip on the Jacobite Steam Train is a must-do journey whilst in Scotland. A chance to take in the beauty of the West Highland line in style on a day trip from Fort William to the fishing village of Mallaig. The scenery is some of the most beautiful in the world.
Get Your Free Resources
From trip planning guides to maps and brochures — view and download everything you need to plan a great trip!