20 Bucket List Train Rides Around the World
Ever dream of traveling through snowy mountains, lush forests, or sweeping deserts without moving from your cozy window seat? Train journeys offer a front-row ticket to some of the most breathtaking views in the world.
But it’s not just the scenery that makes rail travel special—it’s the moments in between. Whether you’re chatting with friendly strangers, dozing to the steady rhythm of the tracks, or marveling at the train itself, each ride becomes an adventure packed with stories waiting to unfold.
This article rounds up 20 train rides that belong on every travel lover’s bucket list. These trips aren’t just about getting from one place to another—they’re about discovering the soul of a destination.
From zigzagging through iconic landmarks to gliding through remote wilderness, these railway journeys promise unforgettable memories and epic pictures, making them the kind of adventures you’ll want to relive again and again.
The Reunification Express, Vietnam
Riding the Reunification Express is like watching a movie about Vietnam, but the screen is your train window.
This legendary railway connects Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, taking you through bustling towns, rice paddies, and lush tropical scenery.
The train winds along the coastline, giving you incredible views of the sea, fishing villages, and rocky cliffs. It’s the kind of ride where every turn brings something new to look at.
But the magic doesn’t stop outside the train. Inside, the Reunification Express feels like a mini adventure itself. It’s an overnight trip, so you can settle into your seat or cozy sleeper compartment as the train gently rocks you to sleep.
Sharing stories with other passengers or hearing the hum of the train on the tracks makes it an unforgettable way to experience Vietnam from a whole new perspective.
The California Zephyr, USA
The California Zephyr isn’t just a train; it’s a rolling adventure across some of the most stunning parts of America.
Over the course of three days, this iconic ride takes passengers from Chicago to San Francisco, traveling through endless prairies, vast deserts, and the towering Rocky Mountains.
The views keep changing, from golden fields to snowy peaks, making it feel like you’re flipping through the pages of a live storybook.
Inside, the train is all about comfort and discovery. You can relax in a seat by the big windows or head to the observation car, where the glass roof gives you the best view of the Sierra Nevada’s rugged beauty.
Whether you’re gazing at the sun setting over the Colorado River or chatting with fellow travelers, the California Zephyr transforms a long-distance trip into a fascinating and unforgettable experience.
The Lake Titicaca Train, Peru
The Lake Titicaca Train is like a slow-motion adventure through the heart of Peru. This ride takes passengers from the shimmering shores of Lake Titicaca to the historic city of Cusco, weaving through snow-capped mountains and the rolling plains of the Andes.
Along the way, you’ll see farmers tending to their livestock, tiny villages with colorful markets, and some of the most beautiful scenery in South America right outside your window.
What makes this train ride special is the blend of culture and views. Onboard, you can enjoy traditional Peruvian music, tasty local dishes, and the chance to meet friendly travelers.
The open-air observation car is the perfect spot to snap photos of the passing hills and valleys, while the cozy compartments make it easy to relax on this all-day trip.
Each moment on the Lake Titicaca Train brings new places to see and memories to treasure.
The Beijing-to-Lhasa Express, China
The Beijing-to-Lhasa Express is an unforgettable railway adventure that takes you from China’s bustling capital to the serene beauty of Tibet.
As the train rolls out of Beijing’s modern skyline, it transitions into breathtaking views of the Tibetan plateau.
Along the way, you’ll see yaks grazing in peaceful meadows, villages adorned with fluttering prayer flags, and endless stretches of snow-covered peaks meeting deep blue skies.
What makes this train ride so fascinating is the connection it creates with Tibetan culture. Onboard, the atmosphere feels relaxed, with passengers sharing stories over cups of tea while admiring the views through large windows.
The route passes through some of the highest rail tracks in the world, crossing places so remote they feel like they belong to another era.
By the time you reach Lhasa, the vibrant monasteries and welcoming monks make the destination just as magical as the journey.