Some train rides are great for the scenery. Others provide unique services and experiences. There are also those that are simply efficient. With so many choices, it is hard to settle down on just a few trips to take once in your life. I believe that we should strive to test out as many different railways as possible, but, for now, let’s focus on 5 train trips you should put on your bucket list.
The Trans-Siberian Railway
Those who are regular readers of my blog already know that I can’t help but mention the Trans-Siberian railway quite often. In my defense, it is pretty epic. 7 days to travel from Moscow to Vladivostok is a great way to get to know the country.
If you want to read more about this trip, check out my blog post about it.
Qinghai-Tibet Railway
From Xining, China, to Lhasa, Tibet in 21 hours, the Qinghai-Tibet Railway will take you higher than you’re used to being. The train runs from China to Tibet and through the Himalayas, often exceeding the altitude of 15,000 feet. If you want to make the most of the trip, you should go between April and November, as the weather is much more accommodating.
Orient Express
Not to be confused with its modern successor Venice Simplon Orient Express, the Orient Express I’m talking about is long retired. Its route, however, is not. You can still take a trip from Paris to Istanbul following the original route from the late 1800s, though you will not find the train of this name on it. Still, there’s something to be said about taking a trip like many exotic historic and fictional figures.
The Jacobite
If you are like me, you like trains and traveling. If you are a fan of Scotland and all its glory, then riding on West Coast Railways is a must, especially if you take the Jacobite. This is an old-fashioned train that makes a round trip circling the Highlands for only $50. You get to see many movie locations and impressive sites, like Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain. The trip lasts about 7 hours, so it is a great way to spend your day.
White Pass & Yukon Railroad
Do you want to go from the US to Canada and vice versa on a steam-powered locomotive? Because you can and should.
The trip starts in Alaska and ends in Yukon. There are valleys, mountains, waterfalls and so much more on this track built during one of the gold rushes. If your visa is up-to-date, you can even explore Canada when you’re done.