Discover 10 Underrated Scenic Train Journeys Around the World
Iconic railways like America’s California Zephyr and Switzerland’s Glacier Express are celebrated in travel lore for good reason. However, their fame often brings crowds and higher prices. Delve deeper into global rail travel to find exceptional, affordable journeys that offer breathtaking scenery and unique experiences.
Explore our selection of 10 lesser-known rail routes that captivate rail enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Nova Gorica to Jesenice, Slovenia
This under-the-radar rail adventure traces a historic line from the Austro-Hungarian era, linking Nova Gorica—near Italy’s Gorizia—to Jesenice. The Transalpina route showcases Slovenia’s upland gems: mountain villages along the Soča River, Alpine vistas near Lake Bohinj, and Lake Bled’s iconic castle.
Summer steam specials add charm, while regional trains operate year-round. Some services extend to Sežana for a tram connection to Trieste.
Make it happen
Access via Trieste or Ljubljana; ideal for linking northeast Italy, Slovenia, the Balkans, or central Europe.
Picton to Christchurch, New Zealand
The Coastal Pacific rivals the famed TranzAlpine, starting in Picton amid Marlborough Sounds’ fjord-like inlets. Savor Sauvignon Blanc before coastal views of rocky coves, seals, and wildlife en route to whale-watching haven Kaikoura. The journey ends across Canterbury Plains in rebuilding Christchurch.
Make it happen
Combine with rail passes and InterIslander ferry; details at kiwirailscenic.co.nz.
Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi, Tanzania/Zambia
This 1,160-mile (1,860km), 36-hour (or longer) TAZARA route traverses Africa’s vast landscapes, offering rare chances to spot wildlife from your seat in Mikumi National Park and Selous Game Reserve. Watch daily life unfold amid stunning scenery.
Make it happen
Two trains weekly each way; info at tazarasite.com.
Havana – Hershey – Matanzas, Cuba
The 57-mile Hershey Electric Railway, built in 1917, connects Havana’s Casablanca Station (ferry from Habana Vieja) to rural towns and Matanzas. This vintage railcar offers authentic encounters with Cuban life, though expect delays and cancellations.
Make it happen
Verify schedules on arrival; suits broader Cuban rail explorations.
Kandy to Badulla, Sri Lanka
From cultural hub Kandy, this hill country route winds through tea plantations, rolling hills, and welcoming locals. The Haputale-Ella stretch is among the world’s most scenic.
Make it happen
Options include luxury carriages, observation cars, and classes; bookings via seat61.com/SriLanka.
Belgrade to Bar, Serbia/Montenegro
This 10-hour Balkan epic crosses mountains, rivers, and a Bosnia stretch, featuring the former world’s highest rail bridge, Mala Rijeka Viaduct. Break in Podgorica near Skadar Lake.
Make it happen
Three daily trains; flights via skyscanner.net.
Dombås to Åndalsnes, Norway
The Rauma Line delivers drama: Kylling Bridge, horseshoe curves, Trollveggen cliff. Summer trains slow for views; ends in climbing mecca Åndalsnes.
Make it happen
Advance Minipris tickets at nsb.no for discounts.
Normanton to Croydon, Queensland, Australia
The “Tin Hare” Gulflander navigates Gulf Savannah’s outback on unique steel-sleeper track, sharing gold rush tales via expert crew.
Make it happen
Weekly service; Cairns-Normanton bus access.
Cologne to Mainz, Germany
Follow the Rhine’s premier stretch: castles, vineyards, medieval towns like Koblenz, Bingen, Bacharach. Frequent trains; hop off freely, cross by ferry.
Make it happen
Stay at Bacharach’s Stahleck Castle youth hostel (hihostels.com/hostels/bacharach).
