Traveling by air is primarily focused on speed and efficiency, lacking the charm found in train journeys. Rail travel offers a unique experience that beautifully combines the pleasures of both the destination and the voyage.
Particularly during winter, train rides through snowy landscapes like the Canadian Rockies and Swiss Alps provide a cozy atmosphere where you can relax, admire breathtaking views, and enjoy delightful amenities such as snug bunk beds and afternoon tea.
Glacier Express
Route: St. Moritz to Zermatt, Switzerland
The Glacier Express offers a leisurely journey through the Rhône Valley, passing through tunnels, over mountain passes, and numerous bridges.
Travelers can savor the journey on Eurail passes with seat reservations or opt for direct tickets. Planet Rail offers a luxurious seven-night trip that includes stays in five-star hotels and travel in Excellence carriages. Indulge in a five-course lunch and afternoon tea as you admire the late-winter scenery through the train's panoramic windows.
Price: From approximately $230 one way.
Amtrak Empire Builder
Route: Chicago to Seattle
Experience the beauty of the Lewis and Clark Trail as you journey from Chicago to Seattle on Amtrak's Empire Builder. Enjoy the picturesque snow-covered landscape and pass by Glacier National Park in Montana.
Amtrak offers one-way coach or private room tickets, while Vacations By Rail provides a four-night trip package that includes stays in Chicago and Seattle.
Price: From $163 one way (coach seat) or $604 (private room).
VIA Rail’s The Canadian
Route: Toronto to Vancouver, Canada
Witness the stunning winter scenery of the Canadian Rockies aboard VIA Rail's The Canadian. Choose between an economy seat or a room in a sleeper car for the four-night journey.
Vacations By Rail offers a Canadian Rockies Winter Adventure package that includes stays at historic properties and a cozy room on the train.
Price: From approximately US$360 one way.
The Bergen Line
Route: Bergen to Oslo, Norway
The Bergen Line connects Oslo and Bergen on a seven-hour scenic train trip through Norway's wilderness.
Experience the dramatic winter scenery by booking through Fjordtours' Norway in a Nutshell Winter Tour, which includes a detour on the Flåm Railway and a fjord cruise before completing the journey.
Price: From approximately $32 one way.
Alaska Railroad’s Aurora Winter Train
Route: Anchorage to Fairbanks, Alaska
Embark on the Aurora Winter Train journey to witness views of Denali and Alaska’s backcountry. Travel on weekends from mid-September to mid-May for a chance to see the northern lights.
Customize your trip with packages like Aurora Viewing at Bettles Lodge for an extended experience.
Price: From $216 one way.
Tadami Line
Route: Aizu-wakamatsu to Uonuma, Japan
Discover Japan's stunning winter landscapes aboard the Tadami Line, which runs through mountain stations and alongside the Tadami River. Enjoy the snowy scenery and explore hot springs and skiing options.
Access the route via train connections like the Tohoku Shinkansen for a complete winter adventure.
Price: From approximately $200 for a five-day pass.
Belmond British Pullman
Route: Round trip from London’s Victoria Station
Hop aboard Belmond's vintage trains for day trips from London, including themed experiences like the Moving Mystery. Enjoy luxurious journeys through the British countryside in beautifully restored 1920s trains.
Price: From approximately $725 round trip.
