Are you looking for a unique and exciting way to explore popular tourist attractions around the world? Why not consider traveling by train? Train travel offers an incredible opportunity to experience stunning landscapes, cities, and cultures while enjoying the convenience and comfort of train travel. In this article, we will explore some of the best tourist attractions you can visit by train.
Benefits of Train Travel
Train travel offers many advantages over other modes of transportation. First and foremost, train travel is often more scenic, allowing travelers to enjoy breathtaking views of landscapes and attractions from the comfort of their seats. Additionally, train travel is often more affordable than air travel, and it can be more convenient, as trains often depart and arrive in the center of major cities, eliminating the need for additional transportation to and from airports.
Another benefit of train travel is that it is more eco-friendly than driving or flying. Trains emit fewer greenhouse gases than cars or planes, making them a more sustainable choice for environmentally-conscious travelers.
The Best Tourist Attractions by Train
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express is a scenic train route that winds through the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and quaint villages. The route runs from Zermatt to St. Moritz, and it takes around eight hours to complete the journey.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer is one of the world’s most famous train journeys, taking passengers through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. The train travels through stunning landscapes, including glaciers, canyons, and forests, with stops in popular tourist destinations such as Banff, Jasper, and Vancouver.
The Blue Train, South Africa
The Blue Train is a luxurious train journey that takes passengers through the stunning landscapes of South Africa. The train travels from Pretoria to Cape Town, with stops at popular attractions such as Kimberley’s Big Hole and the Cape Winelands.
The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
The Trans-Siberian Railway is the world’s longest train journey, spanning over 9,000 kilometers across Russia. The route takes passengers through diverse landscapes, including forests, deserts, and the stunning Lake Baikal.
The Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru
The Belmond Andean Explorer is a luxury train that takes passengers through the stunning landscapes of Peru, including the Andes mountains and the Sacred Valley. The train offers various itineraries, including stops at popular attractions such as Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a luxurious train journey that takes passengers through some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes. The train travels through cities such as Paris, Venice, and Istanbul, offering passengers a chance to experience the best of European culture and history.
The Palace on Wheels, India
The Palace on Wheels is a luxury train that takes passengers through the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of Rajasthan, India. The train offers various itineraries, including stops at popular attractions such as the Taj Mahal and the Amber Fort.
The Ghan, Australia
The Ghan is a famous train journey that takes passengers through the heart of Australia, from Darwin to Adelaide. The route takes passengers through some of Australia’s most stunning landscapes, including the Outback and the Flinders Ranges.
The Golden Eagle Danube Express, Europe
The Golden Eagle Danube Express is a luxury train journey that takes passengers through some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes. The train travels through cities such as Budapest, Vienna, and Prague, offering passengers a chance to experience the best of European culture and history.
The TranzAlpine, New Zealand
The TranzAlpine is a train journey that takes passengers through the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island, from Christchurch to Greymouth. The route takes passengers through the Southern Alps, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and forests.
The Royal Scotsman, Scotland
The Royal Scotsman is a luxury train journey that takes passengers through the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of Scotland. The train offers various itineraries, including stops at popular attractions such as Edinburgh Castle and the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
The Coastal Pacific, New Zealand
The Coastal Pacific is a train journey that takes passengers along New Zealand’s stunning East Coast, from Christchurch to Picton. The route takes passengers through some of New Zealand’s most stunning coastal landscapes, including vineyards, beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries.
The Maharajas’ Express, India
The Maharajas’ Express is a luxury train journey that takes passengers through the cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of India. The train offers various itineraries, including stops at popular attractions such as the Taj Mahal and the Amber Fort.
The Eastern and Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
The Eastern and Oriental Express is a luxury train journey that takes passengers through some of Southeast Asia’s most stunning landscapes. The train travels through cities such as Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur, offering passengers a chance to experience the best of Southeast Asian culture and history.
Tips for Planning Your Train Travel
When planning your train travel, consider the following tips:
- Research your route and itinerary beforehand, so you know what to expect and can plan your stops accordingly.
- Book your tickets in advance to ensure the best deals and availability.
- Pack light, as train cabins can be small and cramped.
- Bring entertainment, such as books or music, as train journeys can be long and uneventful.
- Consider upgrading to a luxury cabin for a more comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Conclusion
Train travel offers an incredible opportunity to explore some of the world’s most stunning landscapes, cities, and cultures. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious journey or an affordable adventure, there’s a train journey out there for everyone. So why not consider traveling by train for your next vacation?
FAQs
What are the benefits of traveling by train?
Train travel offers many advantages, including stunning scenery, affordability, convenience, and eco-friendliness.
How do I book train travel?
Train travel can be booked through various online travel agencies or directly through the train company’s website. It’s important to book in advance to ensure availability and to get the best deals.
Can I travel by train with the kids?
Yes, train travel is a great option for families with kids. Many train companies offer family-friendly cabins and amenities, and kids can enjoy the excitement of traveling by train.
What should I pack for train travel?
It’s important to pack light for train travel, as cabins can be small and cramped. Bring only essential items and consider bringing entertainment, such as books or music, to keep you occupied during long journeys.
What are some of the best train routes for scenery?
There are many stunning train routes worldwide, including the Glacier Express in Switzerland, the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada, the TranzAlpine in New Zealand, and the Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia. Research your options to find the best route for your interests and travel style.
