Best Train Journeys Around the World in Birmingham, United Kingdom
1. Trans-Siberian Railway
The longest railway in the world, connecting Moscow, Russia to Vladivostok, passing through Siberia and Mongolia. Experience diverse landscapes and rich cultures.
- Longevity: First completed in 1916, it offers a historical journey.
- Diversity: Travels through eight time zones and multiple cultures.
- Length: Spans approximately 9,289 kilometers (5,774 miles) across two continents.
2. Bergen Railway
Travel from Oslo to Bergen in Norway, passing through beautiful fjords and mountains.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of Norwegian fjords.
- Architecture: Passes through traditional wooden towns and modern cityscapes.
- Accessibility: Easy connection from Birmingham via Oslo.
3. Glacier Express
Journey through the Swiss Alps from Zermatt to St. Moritz, showcasing dramatic landscapes and picturesque villages.
- Alpine Landscapes: Travels through 291 bridges and 91 tunnels over the Swiss Alps.
- Luxury Travel: First-class service, panoramic windows, and fine dining on board.
- Adventure: Includes stops for optional activities such as hiking or skiing.
4. Rocky Mountaineer
Cross the Canadian Rockies from Vancouver to Banff in comfort, with panoramic views of glaciers and wildlife.
- Scenic Vistas: Offers exceptional views of the Canadian Rockies.
- Luxury Travel: First-class service, spacious windows, and gourmet meals on board.
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities to see bears, moose, and eagles in their natural habitat.
5. Trans-Mongolian Railway
Journey from Moscow to Beijing via Mongolia, showcasing the diverse cultures of Russia, Mongolia, and China.
- Cultural Immersion: Travels through three different countries and their distinct cultures.
- Length: Covers approximately 8,500 kilometers (5,275 miles).
- Historical Significance: Tracks follow the ancient Silk Road trade route.
6. Japanese Bullet Train (Shinkansen)
Experience high-speed train travel from Tokyo to Kyoto or Hakata, showcasing Japan's modernity and tradition.
- Speed: Achieves speeds of up to 320 km/h (199 mph).
- Efficiency: Reliable, punctual, and convenient service.
- Cultural Experience: Stops at historical cities like Kyoto and Hakata.
7. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Travel in luxury from London to Venice, experiencing art deco carriages and world-class service.
- Luxury Travel: First-class accommodations and fine dining on board.
- Historical Significance: Revives the glamour of travel by train in the early 20th century.
- European Experience: Connects iconic cities like London, Paris, and Venice.
8. Scenic Railways of Switzerland
Explore the Swiss countryside with various scenic train routes, including the Bernina Express and Glacier Express.
- Variety: Offers multiple scenic railway routes to choose from.
- Alpine Landscapes: Travels through breathtaking Swiss mountain scenery.
- Luxury Travel: First-class service, panoramic windows, and fine dining on board.
9. Reykjavik to Akureyri, Iceland
Journey from Reykjavik to Akureyri in Iceland, experiencing the rugged landscapes of this volcanic island.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of Iceland's volcanic landscapes and fjords.
- Adventure: Includes stops for optional activities such as whale watching or exploring geysers.
- Accessibility: Easy connection from Birmingham via Icelandair.
10. West Highland Line, Scotland
Travel from Glasgow to Mallaig in Scotland, showcasing lochs, glens, and the scenic beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Scottish Highlands.
- Cultural Experience: Stops at charming villages and historic sites.
- Accessibility: Easy connection from Birmingham via Glasgow.
11. Torres del Paine to Punta Arenas, Chile
Journey through Patagonia in Chile, showcasing the rugged beauty of glaciers and wildlife.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of Patagonian landscapes.
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities to see pumas, flamingos, and condors in their natural habitat.
- Adventure: Includes stops for optional activities such as hiking or horseback riding.
12. Cape Town to Victoria Falls, South Africa
Travel from Cape Town to Victoria Falls in southern Africa, showcasing the continent's diverse wildlife and landscapes.
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities to see lions, elephants, and rhinos in their natural habitat.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the African savannah, deserts, and waterfalls.
- Cultural Experience: Stops at historical sites like Robben Island and Victoria Falls.
13. Golden Pass Line, Switzerland
Travel from Lac Léman to Lucerne in Switzerland, showcasing the picturesque Swiss countryside and historic towns.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.
- Cultural Experience: Stops at charming towns like Montreux and Interlaken.
- Accessibility: Easy connection from Birmingham via Zurich or Geneva.
14. Flåm Railway, Norway
Journey through the Norwegian fjords from Flåm to Myrdal, showcasing dramatic landscapes and waterfalls.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Norwegian fjords.
- Accessibility: Easy connection from Birmingham via Oslo or Bergen.
- Adventure: Includes stops for optional activities such as hiking or kayaking.
15. Trans-Canada Railway
Travel across Canada from Vancouver to Halifax, showcasing diverse landscapes and cultures.
- Cultural Immersion: Travels through multiple provinces and their distinct cultures.
- Length: Covers approximately 4,860 miles (7,821 kilometers) from coast to coast.
- Historical Significance: Constructed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.