5 Classic Rail Journeys That Still Deliver
Some train journeys are so legendary they’ve become icons of travel. While trends shift and new high-speed lines emerge, a few classic rail routes continue to enchant travelers with their timeless charm.
In this guide, we revisit five classic rail journeys that still deliver on scenery, experience, and cultural value. These aren’t just rides—they’re rituals, rich with history and unmatched views.
5 Classic Rail Journeys That Still Deliver
1. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe)
Arguably the most famous luxury train in the world, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express evokes the elegance of 1920s travel. With its polished wood carriages, liveried staff, and gourmet dining, it’s a rolling museum of rail refinement.
Though it no longer runs the original Paris–Istanbul route, its current itineraries across Venice, Paris, and London still offer high-end nostalgia.
| Route | Venice to Paris to London |
| Duration | ~24–30 hours (itineraries vary) |
| Scenery | Alps, vineyards, countryside |
| Highlight | Art Deco carriages and formal dining |
| Travel Tip | Pack formalwear for dinner |
| Best Time | Spring or autumn |
| Booking | Belmond (Luxury train company) |
| Price | 3,900 USD / 3,600 EUR |
2. The Bernina Express (Switzerland–Italy)
A UNESCO-listed route that has become a staple of scenic travel, the Bernina Express still stuns with its dramatic climbs and sweeping views. It runs year-round and is especially magical when snow blankets the Alps.
Travelers sit in panoramic cars that traverse high mountain passes, icy lakes, and corkscrew bridges—without ever switching trains.
| Route | Chur to Tirano |
| Duration | ~4 hours |
| Scenery | Glaciers, viaducts, alpine towns |
| Highlight | Crossing the Bernina Pass |
| Travel Tip | Sit on the right side going south |
| Best Time | Any season |
| Booking | Rhaetian Railway |
| Price | 75 USD / 69 EUR |
3. The Caledonian Sleeper (UK)
This overnight train between London and Scotland offers a unique way to fall asleep in one country and wake up in another. The route has undergone a modern revamp with new carriages and improved comfort.
What hasn’t changed is the romance: quiet lounges, whisky on board, and scenic Highland views at dawn.
| Route | London to Inverness/Fort William |
| Duration | ~11–13 hours |
| Scenery | Scottish Highlands, lochs |
| Highlight | Sunrise across Rannoch Moor |
| Travel Tip | Book a Club Room for private shower |
| Best Time | Summer for early sunrise |
| Booking | Caledonian Sleeper |
| Price | 220 USD / 200 EUR |
4. The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
One of Europe’s most iconic trains, the Glacier Express connects Zermatt and St. Moritz via an eight-hour journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Despite the name, it’s known for its slow speed and scenic indulgence.
It remains a top choice for travelers who want to see Switzerland’s most famous landscapes in one luxurious sweep.
| Route | Zermatt to St. Moritz |
| Duration | ~8 hours |
| Scenery | Mountains, valleys, bridges |
| Highlight | Oberalp Pass and spiral tunnels |
| Travel Tip | Reserve seats early in summer |
| Best Time | Winter for snow views |
| Booking | Glacier Express site |
| Price | 160 USD / 148 EUR |
5. The Douro Line (Portugal)
Winding through the terraced vineyards of northern Portugal, the Linha do Douro is a heritage rail line that’s as picturesque as it is peaceful. It follows the Douro River through wine country, with views of quintas and hills.
Still used by locals, it offers an affordable and beautiful alternative to tourist buses or boat cruises.
| Route | Porto to Pocinho |
| Duration | ~3.5 hours |
| Scenery | Riverbanks, vineyards, hills |
| Highlight | Autumn colors and river bends |
| Travel Tip | Sit on the right side leaving Porto |
| Best Time | September–October |
| Booking | Comboios de Portugal |
| Price | 14 USD / 13 EUR |
Why Travel by Train on Classic Routes
Classic rail journeys bring back a sense of wonder and ritual to travel. Unlike flights or car rides, they offer time to slow down, savor a view, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
These routes have stood the test of time because they deliver real value: cultural insight, natural beauty, and meaningful pacing. Riding them is like stepping into a travel tradition.
Real-Life Tip
Even the best-loved classic trains can come with quirks—limited food, no Wi-Fi, or long booking lead times. Don’t assume comfort equals luxury unless you’re on a top-tier route like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
Read up ahead of time, pack for flexibility, and remember: the ride is the experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common pitfalls that can take the shine off a classic train ride:
- Expecting modern speed – these routes are scenic, not fast.
- Skipping reservations – most classics require them, even with rail passes.
- Ignoring seating advice – one side often has much better views.
- Underestimating seasonal demand – book months ahead for summer and holidays.
Takeaway
Some journeys never lose their magic. These five classic train rides still offer incredible experiences—whether you’re sipping wine in Portugal or crossing alpine peaks in Switzerland.
When you’re ready to embrace the beauty of rail travel with timeless style, these routes won’t disappoint.