As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, life is about the journey, not the destination. And if seeing new and exciting corners of the world is part of your 2026 bucket list, how you get there can be just as thrilling as where you’re going — particularly if you travel by train.
An underrated form of transportation if you ask us, trains allow passengers to slow down and take note of their (often gorgeous) surroundings, typically with more legroom, freedom to move around, and space for bags than planes. Plus, they’re generally considered a more eco-friendly way to travel, as they produce fewer carbon emissions than planes, buses, and cars.
And while they may be slower than planes, many trains are anything but boring. To help kickstart your journey(s), we rounded up some of the most stunning, fascinating lines around the world — hop aboard to discover your next vacation inspo.
Rocky Mountaineer (North America)
Travel + Leisure readers crowned this line their favorite of 2025 for good reason: Its glass dome windows and outdoor viewing areas provide dramatic views of Rocky Mountain landscapes. The carrier offers several routes across the southwestern U.S., including options that travel through Utah, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Nevada.
Riders can also explore the Canadian Rockies with dream-worthy destinations like Banff, Vancouver, and Jasper. The service offers gourmet meals with locally sourced ingredients, a cocktail bar, and tour guides that share knowledge about the surroundings. While it only operates during the day, Rocky Mountaineer partners with hotels and tour companies so that guests can stay the night at each stop to make the most out of their journeys.
British Pullman (England)
History buffs, this one’s for you. If British Pullman reminds you of something from the late 1800s or early 1900s, that’s because its trains derive from that time period. The company’s first car debuted in 1874, but its luxury trains went out of service in 1972. However, they were revived in 1982 after many of the cars were restored — and if you’re lucky, you may get to ride in one with a unique backstory, like the car that carried the queen and was once damaged in a World War II air raid.
The trains run to many destinations across England and boast vintage decor, including detailed artwork and plush, incredibly comfortable-looking chairs. Even the bathrooms got the luxury treatment, complete with beautiful tilework and vintage toilets. Guests can also choose from onboard experiences like a 1930s-style murder mystery dinner and the Great British Sunday Lunch, which features a four-course meal with wine, champagne, coffee, tea, and more.
Rovos Rail (Africa)
Adventure meets luxury in this railway that travels throughout Africa, offering journeys that range from 48 hours to 16 nights long. Passengers can choose from safaris, such as one in South Africa that takes them wildlife viewing at the Nambiti Conservancy; lines that span multiple countries, including one that stops at an elephant sanctuary; visits to natural wonders like Victoria Falls; and more.
As for accommodations, the trains feature dining cars that serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, and tea, and others that hold gift shops, an open-air balcony, and overnight suites. Guests are encouraged to dress up to match the fancy atmosphere, with some lines offering themed nights.
Mandovi Express (India)
The Mandovi Express may not be as opulent as some of the other trains on this list, but it’s known for one thing in particular: its outstanding food. Nicknamed “The Food Queen of Konkan Railways,” it’s part of the Indian Railways system and runs 460 miles from Mumbai to Mangalore. Along the way, passengers enjoy views of rice fields and coconut palm trees.
The highlight is the pantry car, renowned for being the best of the Railways’, along with the many vendors that stroll up and down the aisles. They offer goodies like chicken biryani, cucumber strips with chili salt, chicken lollipops, fruit platters, pork rolls, and vada pav, a spicy potato fritter sandwiched in a bread bun.
Kyo-Train Garaku (Japan)
This line, which runs between Kyoto and Osaka, is only six cars long — but it’s anything but simple. Called a “moving museum,” the train is dedicated to the “elegance of Kyoto.” Each car features a unique seasonal or botanical theme: One is decked out in spring and cherry blossom decor, while another boasts autumn and maple adornments. The “early autumn” car holds a Japanese garden, while the early spring one has tatami-style box seating.
It only runs on the weekends and holidays, but takes passengers to an array of stops designed for those seeking sake, art, nature, and more. And while tickets for luxury trains can go for thousands of dollars, a trip aboard the Garaku will only set you back (wait for it) a measly $3.
Bernina Express (Europe)
While every train on this list provides striking views, this one just might take the cake. Departing from Chur, the oldest town in Switzerland, and ending in Tirano, Italy, the line climbs through the Swiss Alps on what one Business Insider travel writer called “a gentle roller coaster ride.” The four-hour full route takes passengers through 55 tunnels, over 196 bridges, and past the Rhaetian Railway (a UNESCO World Heritage site), crossing Bernina Pass at over 7,000 feet above sea level.
First class passengers are guaranteed panoramic views, but others can still easily witness wild gorges, snow-covered peaks (weather pending), and picturesque small villages. Chur is also a fun place to explore during the holiday season, as it hosts a charming Christmas market that’s one of the country’s largest.
Looking for more top-tier train travel? Check out other exciting lines around the globe.
RELATED: A Painting in Motion: England’s First Luxury Sleeper Train Boasts a Nature-Inspired Interior
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