Are these 24 mind-blowing train routes on your travel bucket list for 2024?

Are These 24 Incredible Train Routes on Your Travel Bucket List for 2024?
Train travel has always been a magical experience, offering a unique and immersive way to explore different destinations. Whether it’s the camaraderie and conversations with fellow travelers or the captivating landscapes passing by outside your window, train journeys leave a lasting impression. If you’re a travel enthusiast seeking new adventures for your bucket list, then these 24 mind-blowing train routes should be at the top of your list for 2024.
1. The Reunification Express, Vietnam
Start: Ho Chi Minh City
End: Hanoi
Departs: Daily
Distance: 1072 miles (1726km)
Duration: Two days
The Reunification Express in Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most beloved railways. This epic overnight journey takes you through historic cities and breathtaking coastlines, offering a glimpse into the heart of Vietnam.
2. The California Zephyr, USA
Start: Chicago
End: San Francisco
Departs: Daily
Distance: 2438 miles (3924km)
Duration: 52hrs 40mins
For an awe-inspiring journey across the North American continent, the California Zephyr is the ultimate choice. This three-day ride takes you through prairies, deserts, the Rocky Mountains, and the Sierra Nevada, showcasing the diverse landscapes of the United States.
3. The Lake Titicaca Train, Peru
Start: Puno
End: Cuzco
Departs: Three times a week
Distance: 241 miles (388km)
Duration: 10 hours
Traversing the Altiplano, the Lake Titicaca Train takes you from the shores of Lake Titicaca to the ancient Incan empire in Cuzco. This picturesque route showcases the snow-dusted peaks of the Andes and the beauty of the Peruvian plains.
4. The Beijing-to-Lhasa Express, China
Start: Beijing
End: Lhasa
Departs: Daily
Distance: 2330 miles (3750km)
Duration: 40 hours
The Z21 train from Beijing to Lhasa in China offers a mesmerizing journey from the futuristic capital to the scenic Tibetan plateau. With stunning views of snow-capped mountains and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, this train journey is truly enchanting.
5. The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
Start: Christchurch
End: Greymouth
Departs: Daily
Distance: 139 miles (223km)
Duration: 4hrs 30mins
Considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world, the TranzAlpine in New Zealand takes you through the stunning Southern Alps. From snow-capped mountains to lush rainforests, this four and a half-hour journey is a feast for the eyes.
6. The Bergensbanen, Norway
Start: Oslo
End: Bergen
Departs: Four times a day
Distance: 308 miles (496km)
Duration: 6hrs 30mins
The Bergensbanen in Norway is a breathtaking train ride that showcases the country’s natural splendor. From canyons to mountains and barren icescapes, this train journey is a true feast for nature lovers.
7. Tazara Railway, Tanzania and Zambia
Start: Dar es Salaam
End: Kapiri Mposhi
Departs: Twice a week
Distance: 1160 miles (1860km)
Duration: 46 hours
The Tazara Railway, connecting Tanzania and Zambia, offers a unique chance to spot wildlife from the comfort of your seat. This two-day journey takes you through the African savannah, showcasing the region’s stunning landscapes and everyday life.
8. The Sunset Limited, USA
Start: New Orleans
End: Los Angeles
Departs: Three times per week
Distance: 1995 miles (3211km)
Duration: Two days
For those dreaming of a coast-to-coast journey across the United States, the Sunset Limited is the perfect choice. From the bars of New Orleans to the beaches of Los Angeles, this train ride offers a glimpse into the diverse landscapes and cultures of America.
9. The Caledonian Sleeper, UK
Start: London (Euston)
End: Fort William
Departs: Daily
Distance: 509 miles (819km)
Duration: 13hrs 30mins
Embark on a journey from the bustling streets of London to the tranquil Scottish Highlands aboard the Caledonian Sleeper. Wake up to breathtaking views of towering peaks and explore the picturesque landscapes of Scotland.
10. Mombasa to Nairobi, Kenya
Start: Mombasa
End: Nairobi
Departs: Daily
Distance: 360 miles (579km)
Duration: 5hrs 10mins
The Nairobi-Mombasa railway route is one of Africa’s most legendary train journeys. Passing through the Kenyan savannah and the Great Rift Valley, this journey offers a glimpse into Kenya’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.
11. Tangier to Marrakesh, Morocco
Start: Tangier
End: Marrakesh
Departs: Daily
Distance: 360 miles (580km)
Duration: 5hrs 15mins
The train ride from Tangier to Marrakesh in Morocco transports you to a world of vibrant colors and mesmerizing sights. From the bustling square of Djemaa El Fna to the peaceful Jardin Majorelle, this journey captures the essence of Morocco.
12. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Start: Vancouver
End: Banff
Departs: Twice a week
Distance: 594 miles (957km)
Duration: 37 hours
Experience the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. This train journey takes you through breathtaking mountain landscapes, offering panoramic views of Canada’s natural beauty.
13. Alexandria to Aswan, Egypt
Start: Alexandria
End: Aswan
Departs: Daily
Distance: 670 miles (1100km)
Duration: 16 hours
The train ride from Alexandria to Aswan in Egypt is an odyssey along the Nile River, passing by ancient relics and iconic landmarks. Explore the rich history of Egypt while marveling at the scenic beauty of the Nile Valley.
14. The Serra Verde Express, Brazil
Start: Curitiba
End: Morretes, Paraná
Departs: Daily
Distance: 42 miles (68km)
Duration: 3hrs 30mins
Experience one of Brazil’s most spectacular train journeys aboard the Serra Verde Express. This scenic ride takes you through dramatic mountain passes and lush rainforests, providing breathtaking views of Paraná’s natural beauty.
15. The Darjeeling Toy Train, India
Start: New Jalpaiguri
End: Darjeeling
Departs: Daily
Distance: 55 miles (88.5km)
Duration: 7-8 hours
Embark on a magical journey through the tea plantations and mountainous landscapes of West Bengal aboard the Darjeeling Toy Train. This narrow-gauge steam railway offers a glimpse into the history and beauty of the region.
16. The Hokkaidō Shinkansen, Japan
Start: Tokyo
End: Hakodate
Departs: Daily
Distance: 512 miles (824km)
Duration: 4 hours
Experience the iconic bullet train journey through rural Japan from Tokyo to Hakodate. Zoom past picturesque scenes of the Japanese countryside, including mountains and sea views, while enjoying the renowned hospitality of the Shinkansen.
17. Colombo to Badulla, Sri Lanka
Start: Colombo
End: Badulla
Departs: Daily
Distance: 181 miles (292km)
Duration: 9-10 hours
Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and stunning landscapes of Sri Lanka on the train journey from Colombo to Badulla. This all-day rail adventure takes you through tea plantations, jungle, mountain ranges, and national parks.
18. Bangkok to Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore
Start: Bangkok
End: Singapore
Departs: Weekly
Distance: 1200 miles (1900km)
Duration: Three days
Embark on a cross-country train journey from Bangkok to Singapore, traversing three countries and three capital cities. This adventure allows you to explore tropical islands, tea plantations, and vibrant metropolises at your own pace.
19. The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Start: St Moritz
End: Zermatt
Departs: Daily (in season)
Distance: 180 miles (290km)
Duration: 8 hours
Experience the beauty of Switzerland’s Alpine terrain on board the Glacier Express. This iconic train journey takes you through stunning mountain passes, over bridges, and through tunnels, providing panoramic views of meadows, forests, and waterfalls.
20. The Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy
Start: Chur
End: Tirano
Departs: Daily
Distance: 96 miles (156km)
Duration: 4hrs 30mins
Embark on a breathtaking journey from Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy on the Bernina Express. This narrow-gauge train ride is renowned for its stunning Alpine landscapes, including canyons, mountain peaks, and iconic sites like Lake Bled.
21. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, England, France, Switzerland, and Italy
Start: London
End: Venice
Departs: One to six times per month
Distance: 1300 miles (2090km)
Duration: Two days
Step back in time with a journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Travel in luxury from London to Venice, savoring fine dining and vintage train carriages. This iconic train journey is a nostalgic tribute to the golden age of travel.
22. Nova Gorica to Jesenice, Slovenia
Start: Nova Gorica
End: Jesenice
Departs: Daily
Distance: 55 miles (89km)
Duration: Two hours
Discover the hidden gem of Slovenia with a train journey from Nova Gorica to Jesenice. This scenic route takes you through mountain towns, alongside the Soča River, and past breathtaking landscapes, showcasing the beauty of the Slovenian countryside.
23. The Ghan, Australia
Start: Adelaide
End: Darwin
Departs: Twice a week
Distance: 1851 miles (2979km)
Duration: 54 hours
Explore the heart of Australia on board The Ghan, a legendary train journey that takes you through the Outback from Adelaide to Darwin. Experience the diverse landscapes of Australia, from desolate deserts to tropical creeks.
24. Cannes to Menton, France
Start: Cannes
End: Menton
Departs: Daily
Distance: 34 miles (55km)
Duration: 1hr 20mins
Enjoy the French Riviera in all its glory on the train ride from Cannes to Menton. This picturesque coastal journey takes you along the Mediterranean, passing through glamorous towns and offering glimpses of the sparkling sea and dramatic cliffs.
These 24 mind-blowing train routes offer a range of breathtaking landscapes, cultural experiences, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re seeking picturesque mountain vistas, vibrant cityscapes, or a journey through history, these train journeys should definitely be on your travel bucket list for 2024.