Top 10 Winter Train Journeys You Must Check Out

OT Staff

Glacier Express, Switzerland

Known as the "slowest express train in the world," the Glacier Express connects Zermatt and St. Moritz. The journey takes you through 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, and stunning alpine scenery, including the Rhine Gorge and Oberalp Pass blanketed in snow.

A stunning view of the Glacier Express, Switzerland | Shutterstock

Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

The Rocky Mountaineer offers winter routes through the Canadian Rockies, particularly the "First Passage to the West" from Vancouver to Banff. Passengers enjoy views of frozen lakes, icy rivers, and towering snow-capped peaks.

A look at the iconic Rocky Mountaineer, Canada | Shutterstock

West Highland Line, Scotland

This iconic route from Glasgow to Mallaig becomes magical in winter. Passing through the Highlands, the train offers views of Rannoch Moor, Ben Nevis, and Glenfinnan Viaduct, all cloaked in snow.

A view of the West Highland Line, Scotland | Shutterstock

Bergen Line, Norway

The Bergen Line travels from Bergen to Oslo, showcasing Norway's winter wonderland. Highlights include the Hardangervidda Plateau, Europe's highest railway stretch, and frozen fjords, making it one of the most scenic train journeys in the Arctic region.

The Bergen Line in the snowy mountains | Shutterstock

Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

A winter journey on the Trans-Siberian Railway spans 9,289 kilometres from Moscow to Vladivostok. The route features vast snow-covered steppes, Siberian forests, and frozen Lake Baikal, the world's deepest freshwater lake.

The Trans-Siberian Railway at the river Olkha in the Baikal region | Shutterstock

The Ghan, Australia

Though more synonymous with desert landscapes, The Ghan’s winter journeys offer a different charm. Travelling from Darwin to Adelaide, the train provides unique views of frost-covered terrains and dramatic seasonal contrasts across Australia's outback.

A view of The Ghan, Australia | Shutterstock

Belmond Hiram Bingham, Peru

The luxurious train journey to Machu Picchu offers breathtaking views of the snow-dusted Andes during the winter months. It follows the Urubamba River, surrounded by dramatic peaks and lush valleys.

Inside the Belmond Hiram Bingham, Peru | Shutterstock

Semmering Railway, Austria

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Semmering Railway connects Gloggnitz to Semmering through the Austrian Alps. Winter reveals its snow-clad viaducts and tunnels, offering a picturesque journey through historic railway engineering.

The enthralling Semmering Railway, Austria | Shutterstock

The Flam Railway, Norway

The Flam Railway is a short yet spectacular journey from Flam to Myrdal. In winter, the steep climb through the Norwegian fjords becomes even more dramatic, with frozen waterfalls and snow-covered valleys creating a magical setting.

A look at the The Flam Railway, Norway | Shutterstock

Jungfrau Railway, Switzerland

Running from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station, the Jungfrau Railway offers unparalleled views of the Bernese Alps. Winter adds a surreal beauty to the glaciers and peaks, making it a must-experience journey.

A view of the Jungfrau Railway, Switzerland | Shutterstock

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