Best Train Journeys Around the World in Des Moines, Iowa, United States
1. Trans-Siberian Railway
Experience the longest railway in the world, traversing Russia from Moscow to Vladivostok with stunning landscapes and diverse cultures along the way.
- Cultural Immersion: Travel through multiple time zones, showcasing Russia's vast geographical and cultural diversity.
- Scenic Beauty: Witness the untouched natural wonders like the Ural Mountains and Lake Baikal along the journey.
- Historical Significance: Follow in the footsteps of explorers, revolutionaries, and emperors who have made this legendary journey.
2. Glacier Express
Discover the Swiss Alps on this panoramic train ride between Zermatt and St. Moritz, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and valleys.
- Alpine Views: Marvel at the majestic peaks and lush green valleys as you journey through the Swiss Alps.
- Luxurious Experience: Ride in comfort with first-class service, fine dining, and an open-air viewing car.
- Swiss Charm: Experience the traditional Swiss hospitality and charming towns along the route.
3. Rocky Mountaineer
Explore the Canadian Rockies by daylight on this luxurious train journey between Vancouver and Banff, showcasing breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
- Natural Wonders: Behold the awe-inspiring sights of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and vast wildernesses.
- Comfortable Journey: Travel in style with spacious seats, gourmet meals, and glass-domed cars for optimal viewing.
- Cultural Exploration: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Western Canada along the way.
4. Japanese Shinkansen
Travel at high speed on the bullet train through Japan's urban centers and countryside, showcasing modern technology and traditional culture.
- Modern Marvel: Experience cutting-edge technology and exceptional efficiency in Japan's famed bullet train.
- Cultural Connections: Journey through historic cities like Kyoto, Hakone, and Tokyo to immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
- Scenic Diversity: Travel from the bustling cities to serene landscapes, coastal views, and snow-capped mountains.
5. Bergen Railway
Embark on a scenic train ride through Norway's fjords, showcasing breathtaking landscapes and traditional villages.
- Natural Wonders: Witness the dramatic beauty of Norway's fjords, mountains, and waterfalls.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience traditional Norwegian life in small villages along the route.
- Comfortable Journey: Travel in comfort with panoramic views, modern facilities, and attentive service.
6. Indian Palace on Wheels
Explore India's Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur in luxury aboard the Palace on Wheels train.
- Luxurious Journey: Travel in opulent carriages inspired by Indian royal palaces.
- Historical Significance: Visit world-famous monuments like the Taj Mahal and the forts of Jaipur.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience India's rich culture, traditions, and cuisine along the way.
7. Trans-Mongolian Railway
Journey from Moscow to Beijing through Mongolia on this epic train ride showcasing diverse landscapes and cultures.
- Cultural Immersion: Travel through multiple countries, experiencing their unique cultures and traditions.
- Scenic Diversity: Witness the vast steppe landscapes of Russia, Mongolia's Gobi Desert, and China's Great Wall.
- Historical Significance: Follow in the footsteps of ancient explorers, conquerors, and nomads who have traversed these lands.
8. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Step back in time on this luxury train journey through Europe, showcasing opulent carriages and world-class dining.
- Luxurious Experience: Travel in style with elegant Art Deco interiors and exceptional service.
- Historical Significance: Follow in the footsteps of royalty, celebrities, and writers who have traveled on this iconic train.
- Cultural Immersion: Journey through some of Europe's most fascinating cities like Venice, Paris, and Istanbul.
9. Andean Explorer
Discover the Peruvian Andes on this luxurious train journey from Cusco to Lake Titicaca, showcasing breathtaking landscapes and ancient cultures.
- Natural Wonders: Witness the dramatic beauty of the Andes, including snow-capped peaks and pre-Incan ruins.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience traditional Andean life in small villages along the route.
- Comfortable Journey: Travel in comfort with panoramic views, modern facilities, and attentive service.
10. South African Blue Train
Explore the beauty of South Africa on this luxury train journey between Pretoria and Cape Town, showcasing diverse landscapes and cultures.
- Scenic Diversity: Travel through vineyards, game reserves, and along the beautiful Garden Route.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience South Africa's rich history, diverse cultures, and vibrant cities.
- Luxurious Journey: Travel in opulent carriages with world-class dining and exceptional service.
11. Trans-Canada Railway
Traverse Canada's vast landscapes on this epic train journey from Vancouver to Halifax, showcasing diverse cultures and natural wonders.
- Natural Wonders: Witness the awe-inspiring sights of mountains, forests, lakes, and prairies.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Canada's rich history and diverse cultures in its urban centers and remote communities.
- Historical Significance: Follow in the footsteps of pioneers, explorers, and immigrants who have traveled this route.
12. Irish Steam Train Journey
Step back in time on a steam train journey through the Irish countryside, showcasing picturesque villages and breathtaking landscapes.
- Scenic Diversity: Witness the dramatic beauty of Ireland's rugged coastlines, lush green valleys, and charming villages.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience traditional Irish life in picturesque villages along the route.
- Historical Significance: Follow in the footsteps of royalty, revolutionaries, and literary giants who have traveled these lands.
13. Danish Coastal Express
Discover Denmark's scenic coastline on this picturesque train journey showcasing charming villages and beautiful landscapes.
- Scenic Beauty: Witness the breathtaking vistas of Denmark's rugged coastlines, charming villages, and picturesque towns.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Danish culture in its charming coastal towns and vibrant cities.
- Comfortable Journey: Travel in comfort with panoramic views, modern facilities, and attentive service.
14. Swiss Panorama Express
Explore the Swiss countryside on this scenic train journey showcasing picturesque villages and breathtaking landscapes.
- Scenic Beauty: Witness the breathtaking vistas of Switzerland's rugged mountains, lush valleys, and charming villages.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Swiss culture in its picturesque towns and vibrant cities along the route.
- Comfortable Journey: Travel in comfort with panoramic views, modern facilities, and attentive service.
15. Swedish West Coast Express
Discover the stunning landscapes of Sweden's west coast on this scenic train journey showcasing picturesque villages and breathtaking views.
- Scenic Beauty: Witness the breathtaking vistas of Sweden's rugged coastlines, lush forests, and charming villages.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Swedish culture in its picturesque coastal towns and vibrant cities along the route.
- Comfortable Journey: Travel in comfort with panoramic views, modern facilities, and attentive service.