All Aboard! Data Reveals the World’s Best Scenic Train Journeys

Travelling by rail is often ideal for offering up some excellent scenery and photo opportunities due to a combination of inter-connectivity to local cities, and proximity to cultural landmarks.

Earlier this month, a photo of a Japanese couple travelling by train even went viral, as the couple kindly ducked out of the way to allow another passenger to take a picture of the iconic Mt Fuji.

To discover some of the top scenic train journeys across the globe, the experts at JR Pass analysed a selection of the world’s most popular scenic train routes, comparing factors such as ticket price, popularity, traveller reviews, and journey time in order to form their rankings.

*A link to the full data set can be found here. 

1. Bernina Express, Swiss Alps, Switzerland  

Scoring 8.8 out of ten, and earning the coveted title of the world’s best scenic train journey is the Bernina Express route from Chur or St. Moritz in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy.

The route takes passengers through the stunning Swiss Alps, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and pristine alpine lakes. With a journey time of 240 minutes (around four hours),  the Bernina Express takes a leisurely approach, allowing passengers to truly soak in the scenery.

It’s easy to see why this is the most popular route out of all journeys analysed; the panoramic carriages of the Bernina Express are specifically designed to maximize the views for passengers. Large windows and glass roofs provide an unobstructed visual experience, allowing travelers to fully immerse themselves in the surrounding natural beauty.

2. The Flåm Railway, Norway  

In second place, with an overall score of 8.2 out of ten, is the Flåm Railway in Norway. The Flåm Railway is renowned for its awe-inspiring views of Norway’s dramatic landscapes. As the train ascends from Flåm to Myrdal, passengers are treated to breathtaking panoramas of deep fjords, cascading waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and lush valleys.

An inexpensive ticket price of just £38 combined with a high traveller rating score of 8.38 out of ten helps cement this journey as one of the most popular choices for tourists and train buffs alike. The Flåm Railway is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability. The electric train is powered by clean, hydroelectric energy, aligning with Norway’s efforts to promote eco-friendly transportation.

3. Glacier Express, Swiss Alps, Switzerland  

In third place, scoring 8.1 out of ten, is the Glacier Express in Switzerland. Boasting a long journey time of 480 minutes (around 8 hours), the Glacier Express proudly holds the title of the world’s slowest express train, emphasizing its commitment to providing a relaxed and immersive experience.

The Glacier Express travels along iconic routes, including the Albula Line and the Bernina Line, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These routes showcase the Swiss Alps’ natural beauty.

The train offers some unique benefits, namely its luxurious panoramic cars, which feature large windows that extend to the ceiling. These specially designed cars maximize visibility and offer passengers an uninterrupted view of the stunning landscapes throughout the journey.  

4. Kyle Line, Inverness, Scotland  

Chugging its way into fourth place with an overall score of 8 out of ten, is the Kyle Line in Inverness, Scotland.  

The Kyle Line traverses some of the most breathtaking and remote landscapes in the Scottish Highlands. Passengers are treated to panoramic views of mist-covered mountains, serene lochs, picturesque glens, and charming villages.

The journey has the highest traveller review rating on the list, with an average rating of 9.44 out of ten, and it’s easy to see why. Unlike some more touristy routes, the Kyle Line takes travelers through remote and less-explored regions of the Highlands, allowing passengers to experience the untamed beauty of Scotland. The journey offers a real sense of authenticity and solitude that is highly sought after by those looking to escape the crowds.

5. Sagano Romantic Train, Kinki, Japan 

Rounding out the top five, is the Sagano Romantic Train in Kinki, Japan, which earns a total score of 7.9 out of ten. 

The Sagano Romantic Train meanders through the scenic beauty of the Sagano Arashiyama region, renowned for its lush bamboo groves and traditional Japanese landscapes. The train passes through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a natural wonder that captivates passengers with its towering bamboo stalks.

Extremely reasonable ticket prices of around £4.08, combined with a shorter journey time of just 25 minutes make the Sagano Romantic Train an ideal choice for day trips or half-day excursions. Travelers who are exploring other attractions in Kyoto and the surrounding areas can easily incorporate this scenic train ride into their itinerary without dedicating an entire day to the experience.

Haroun Khan at JR Pass comments: “It’s no surprise to see that Japan is home to four out of the top ten scenic train journeys in the world. We may be biased, but we wholeheartedly believe that Japan has some of the most beautiful, relaxing, and breathtaking train journeys in the world.” 

“But no matter the destination, travelling by rail is one of the most efficient, cost-effective and rewarding ways to immerse yourself in a country’s rich cultural heritage and take home memories that will last a lifetime.”