RAIL travel is one of the most distinctive forms of transport, serving not only as a functional mode of travel, but also, at its best, a link to a bygone age. The humorist A. P. Herbert once declared that slow travel by Train is “almost the only restful experience left to us”. Given that Herbert passed away in 1971, his wisdom was not just sentimental but prophetic. For those who like to get away from it all by combining the romance of the railroad with five-star accommodation and culinary and refreshment standards, the answer—albeit with a premium price tag—is choosing a vacation from the world’s best train journeys.

Along the routes of the the world’s best Train Journeys, it’s still possible in the 21st century for passengers to enjoy an ultra distinctive perspective on anything from lush Irish greenery and waterways to austere Siberian iciness; from majestic mountains to breathtaking valleys… all to the hypnotic rattling rhythm of the railroad.

Below, we have looked at some of the special delights available for anyone who chooses to take a trip on 7 of the world’s best train journeys. All aboard!

1. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canadian Rockies

SINCE its first journey back in 1990, the Rocky Mountaineer has grown into the world’s largest privately owned luxury tourist train company. If you want pure luxury, you will need to acquire the Gold Leaf Service deal, which includes cooked-to-order breakfast and lunch in the dining car as well as unlimited cocktails and snacks. The food and refreshment is the icing on the cake. You will also get to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, as the Mountaineer travels along icy rivers and stoney mountains in the famous Canadian Rockies. The Rocky Mountaineer costs $3,059 for 7 days and 6 nights of pure luxury.

2. The Glacier Express, Swiss Alps

THE Glacier Express is probably one of the best ways to spend seven hours of your life. You will experience snow-capped gorges, lush valleys, travel through almost 100 tunnels, and across 291 bridges. The breathtaking rail line was opened in 1920 to enable wealthy people to experience the Swiss Alps in all their glory. In 1930, the train made its first full trip between St Moritz and Zermatt. For a day trip on the world’s slowest fast train, as it’s known, prices start at $320.

3. Belmond Royal Scotsman, Scottish Highlands

THE Royal Scotsman takes you on a memorable journey across some of the most breathtaking scenery in the United Kingdom, and you will have all the comforts and conveniences of a top class hotel to enhance your trip. The train’s capacity is limited to just you and a mere 35 other passengers. You will be treated to outstanding cuisine, including some of Scotland’s specialty dishes, as you enjoy astounding views of the majestic Scottish Highlands. Five days and four nights on The Royal Scotsman costs $7,113.60.

4. Jacobite Steam Train, Fort William to Mallaig

THIS Jacobite train route narrowly survived a railway cull in the 1960s, and has since become one of the most loved railroads in Britain and the world. The 42-mile journey, through magnificent mountains and spectacular glens, passes close to Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and Europe’s deepest and most famous seawater loch, Loch Ness. Many tourists hop on to see the amazing 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, which was made famous by its appearance in the multi-million dollar Harry Potter movie franchise..

5. Tsar’s Gold Train, Trans-Siberian/Mongolian Railway

THE Trans-Siberian Railway is a must-see on the bucket-lists of most rail enthusiasts, for its comforts, heritage and amazing scenery to which passengers are treated. The railway itself extends for some 5,600 miles, and offers a number of possibilities and destinations. The Tsar’s Gold Train can take you to Beijing’s Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China, the Gobi Desert, Siberia’s Lake Baikal, and into Mongolian nomad settlements. It could also take you to Vladivostok on a massive journey that takes in Moscow, St Petersburg, Kazan,Yekaterinburg, and more. The 15-day trip prices on the Tsar’s Gold Train start from $760.

6. Belmond Grand Hibernian, Grand Tour of Ireland

7. Golden Eagle Luxury Trains, The Danube Express

THE Golden Eagle’s Danube Express is the epitome of luxury rail travel and the distinctive delights of world’s best train journeys. The Danube Express gives you an opportunity to experience the charms of middle Europe. On board this amazing private hotel train, you and just 65 other passengers will enjoy comfortable carriages, private suites and unbeatable cuisine. Just some of the incredible destinations include Prague, Vienna, Berlin, Belgrade, and Sarajevo. Prices for a 12-day tour start at £6,595.

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