Riding the Rails: The Timeless Allure of Train Travel.

By Sharon Kurtz

My love of travel began on a train. When I was 12, my dad and I took the train to Expo ’67 in Montreal, and I was hooked—the thrill of watching the world unfold from my window, the gentle sway of the car as we rolled through unfamiliar towns. Later, as a college student, I relied on Amtrak to shuttle me between Ohio and Texas, using the free passes my dad received as a railroad worker. Trains weren’t just a way to get from point A to point B; they were an invitation to adventure, a mode of travel that felt both nostalgic and endlessly full of possibility.

Train travel is making a comeback. I’ve been lucky to experience some incredible routes—the Rocky Mountaineer through Canada’s peaks, historic railways in Colorado, and the journey from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu, sharing a carriage with Indigenous women from the Peruvian highlands, experiencing their first train ride. Yet, legendary rail journeys still call to me. With the Orient Express returning to Europe, one dream feels closer than ever. In this piece, I’ll revisit iconic train journeys—those I’ve taken and those still on my list—while exploring why rail travel remains one of the most enchanting ways to see the world.

The Orient Express Venice to Paris

Step aboard the newly relaunched Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for a journey steeped in 1920s glamour. This legendary train whisks travelers from Venice to Paris, reviving the golden age of rail travel with sumptuous décor, white-glove service, and world-class dining. A moving masterpiece of elegance, the Orient Express promises a voyage unlike any other—where every detail, from the Art Deco carriages to the finest cuisine, echoes an era of mystery, romance, and indulgence.

The Rocky Mountaineer – Canada

Few train journeys compare to the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountaineer, which winds through the Canadian Rockies. With routes connecting Vancouver to Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise, this luxury train provides panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and turquoise rivers. The glass-dome coaches offer an unparalleled sightseeing experience. At the same time, gourmet meals and impeccable service make this a truly unforgettable journey.

The Glacier Express – Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its efficient and scenic rail system, and the Glacier Express is one of its most famous routes. Running between Zermatt and St. Moritz, this train offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, deep gorges, and picturesque villages. While it’s called an “express,” it’s a leisurely eight-hour journey that allows passengers to fully soak in the beauty of the Swiss countryside.

The Blue Train – South Africa

For those seeking the ultimate luxury rail experience, South Africa’s Blue Train is synonymous with elegance. Connecting Pretoria to Cape Town, this journey offers five-star accommodations on rails. Passengers enjoy gourmet cuisine, plush suites, and stunning views of the South African landscape, from rolling vineyards to rugged mountain ranges.

The Ghan – Australia

For an epic journey across the Australian Outback, The Ghan delivers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Running from Adelaide to Darwin, this legendary train covers nearly 1,900 miles, passing through the vast red deserts of central Australia. The all-inclusive experience includes fine dining, comfortable cabins, and off-train excursions in places like Alice Springs and Katherine Gorge.

The Denali Star – Alaska

The Denali Star train operated by the Alaska Railroad is a must for those seeking an Alaskan adventure. Running from Anchorage to Fairbanks, this 356-mile journey showcases the stunning landscapes of America’s last frontier. Passengers can spot wildlife like moose and bears, marvel at the vast wilderness, and, on a clear day, catch a glimpse of Denali, North America’s tallest peak. Gold Star Service offers glass-domed ceilings and outdoor viewing platforms for the ultimate sightseeing experience.

The Manitou and Cog Railway – Colorado

The Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway, located in Manitou Springs, Colorado is the highest cog railway in the world, climbing to a breathtaking 14,115 feet. This 8.9-mile journey to the summit of Pikes Peak offers unparalleled panoramic views, the same vistas that inspired America the Beautiful. Recently renovated, the railway now features modernized trains with expansive windows, ensuring an unforgettable mountaintop sightseeing experience.

PeruRail to Machu Picchu – Peru

A ride on PeruRail from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley. Following the Urubamba River, the train winds past lush jungle and towering Andean peaks. With options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury, each offers a unique way to take in the stunning scenery.

Why Train Travel?

It’s about more than the destination—it’s the experience. Watching landscapes unfold, meeting fellow travelers, and embracing the romance of the rails make train travel truly special. For those who love a relaxed pace and scenic beauty, it’s an adventure worth taking.

Ready to ride? From Colorado’s mountains to Peru’s jungles and the Australian Outback, these trains offer journeys to remember.

Sharon Kurtz is a freelance writer who shares her love for travel and food by exploring unique customs, cultures, and flavors at home and around the globe. At 12 years old, she traveled by train with her father to Montreal for Expo ’67, the exhibits inspiring her wanderlust. She vowed to get to all those countries someday, and she’s methodically working through the list. Enjoy more of Sharon’s writing on her website, or follow her on  Instagram or  Facebook.