Six Scenic Train Journeys For 2024

Six Scenic Train Journeys For 2024

We have selected the routes to make your getaway as much about the journey as the destination. Expect village-hopping in the Italian Riviera, two-day European odysseys, and round-trips through Napa Valley's wineries. Full steam ahead.

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Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

  • Route: London, UK to Venice, Italy
  • Duration: Two days. Leaves London Victoria Sunday at 10 am and reaches Venice Monday at 6.25 pm.
  • Best time to travel: April and May.
  • Good to know: Dress smart; dining aboard these historic, art-deco carriages is a glamorous affair - the three-course bellini brunch is a particular favourite among passengers.

GoldenPass MOB Belle Epoque

GoldenPass MOB Belle Epoque

  • Route: Montreux to Gstaad, Switzerland
  • Duration: 1/4 hours
  • Best time to travel: January to March. For the ultimate Alpine wonderland.
  • Good to know: Stop in picturesque Rougemont for the best raclette and fondue at Café du Cerf, a traditional Swiss Restaurant.

Glacier Express

Glacier Express

  • Route: St Moritz to Zermatt, Switzerland
  • Duration: Eight hours
  • Best time to travel: All winter. For snow-capped mountains.
  • Good to know: The Glacier Express is often referred to as "the slowest express train in the world". Book the Excellence Class to enjoy window seats, a bar area, personal travel guidance, and multi-course lunch.

Cinque Terre Express

Cinque Terre Express

  • Route: Levanto to La Spezia, Italy
  • Duration: 45 minutes
  • Best time to travel: Spring. The Riviera is lovely when tourists are few and temperatures are mild in spring.
  • Good to know: Combine your journey with a day trip to Portofino, less than two hours drive from Levanto.

West Highland Line

West Highland Line

  • Route: Glasgow to Mallaig via Fort William, Scotland
  • Duration: Three hours 50 minutes
  • Best time to travel: Summer.
  • Good to know: The line is considered the world's most scenic, crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Lomond, and the Trossachs National Park.

Napa Valley Wine Train

Napa Valley Wine Train

  • Route: Downtown Napa to St Helena (and back), California, US
  • Duration: Three hours
  • Best time to travel: Spring.
  • Good to know: This 36-mile round-trip gives passengers the inside track of some of Napa's most celebrated winemaking families.