Sometimes, a journey is more about the train than the destination. Across the world, there are incredible trains promising everything from ultimate luxury to vintage carriages, and exceptional speed to a leisurely meander through stunning scenery.
Exploring the world’s most famous trains
Here, we look at some of the world’s most famous trains, from the elegant Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to the stunning Rocky Mountaineer in Canada.
1. The Flying Scotsman
Probably the best-known steam engine in the world, ‘The Flying Scotsman’ welcomed its first passengers in 1923.
It went on to become the first UK locomotive to reach 100mph (some feat as it achieved this in 1934), and the records have kept on coming ever since.
The Flying Scotsman’ also holds the world record for the longest non-stop journey by a steam engine, 422 miles, in 1989. The first engine to circumnavigate the globe? Yep, ‘The Flying Scotsman’ bagged that one too.
More than a century after it was built, you can still travel on it, after it was restored by the National Railway Museum.
Ironically, it wasn’t built in Scotland at all. That honour belongs to Doncaster.
2. Japanese Bullet Train
Celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2024, the Japanese Bullet Train can travel at an astonishing 320km/hr (199 miles an hour). Officially called ‘Shinkansen’, the bullet trains carry passengers over nine different lines, including Tokyo to Kyoto.
Symbolising Japanese modernity and innovation, there’s much more to the bullet trains than mere speed. They are spacious, smooth, clean, and comfortable, as well as being utterly reliable too. They also have an impeccable safety record.
You might assume bullet trains get their name from their incredible speed, but the nickname actually comes from their original streamlined shape. In fact, Japanese Bullet Trains aren't the fastest trains in the world - that title belongs to China’s Shanghai Maglev, which reaches a top speed of 431 km/h (268 mph).
3. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
There are numerous means of getting across Europe, but if you want to do it the slow, luxurious, romantic way, then the obvious choice is the ‘Venice Simplon Orient Express’.
The routes this train takes include Budapest to Paris, Verona to Amsterdam, and of course, the iconic Paris to Venice journey.
Passengers get a private cabin, beautifully restored from an original 1920s compartment, which is magically transformed from seating to bed at night.
Meals are included, with lunch and dinner served in one of three opulent restaurant cars (be sure to dress up). You can wear your PJs for breakfast though, as it’s brought to your cabin.
There’s even a piano bar - you don’t get that on the morning commute.
4. Rocky Mountaineer
If you’re travelling through the Rockies, you’ll want to be able to view the scenery from every angle. Get a ticket on the ‘Rocky Mountaineer’ and you’ll find yourself on a train designed to help you do exactly that.
With glass dome windows and outdoor viewing areas, you won’t need to miss a second of the stunning journey. Opt for the Gold Leaf class and you’ll travel in a double-decker carriage, with a special open-air viewing platform.
Your ticket includes meals, drinks, and snacks. Onboard hosts will tell you all about the scenery and wildlife outside the window, just in case you fail to spot that osprey or black bear.
This famous train takes four routes across Canada and the American Southwest, including the ridiculously scenic Vancouver to Banff.
5. TGV Trains
The clue’s in the name for TGV Trains, France’s answer to the bullet trains. These ‘Trains à Grande Vitesse’ (which translates to high-speed trains), zip through the country at up to 320km/hr.
Many trains are double-deckers, which is a real treat if you have never experienced these before. As well as making the journey more fun, they have a practical purpose. Two decks mean they can carry more passengers, reducing congestion.
The TGV network goes all over France, as well as to other countries including Spain and Luxembourg.
If you’re on a budget, you can opt for the lower-priced ‘TGV OUIGO’. Meanwhile, ‘TGV INOUI’ is the premium service with comfortable ergonomic seats, a restaurant car, and a family area.
6. Maharajas Express
The Maharajas, those with prince-like Indian titles, often loved trains with a passion. Some had fully functional model trains and one even built a two-mile track for his son in palace grounds. Many had opulent carriages designed which they would use for state visits and other trips.
The luxurious ‘Maharajas Express’ may only have made its first journey in 2010, but the interior has been designed to reflect the magnificence of these famous trains. You’ll also get 21st-century amenities including TVs and aircon.
Routes include ‘The Treasures of India’, a round trip from Delhi that also visits Agra, Ranthambore and Jaipur.
The journeys are between three and six nights and you’ll sleep on board, which is part of the extraordinary experience. Top-of-the-range is the lavish presidential suite, complete with two bedrooms, a living room, and your own personal valet.
Travel with Avanti West Coast
While we can’t promise you piano bars or grizzly bears, Avanti’s trains are fast, modern and comfortable.
For example, our Pendolino trains have tilting technology for a smooth ride. Recently refurbished, they offer thoughtful touches like wireless charging and extra space for your luggage.
Similarly, Avanti’s brand-new Evero trains are designed to minimise carbon emissions, using electricity as much as possible and switching to diesel only when necessary.
Head with Avanti to destinations like Chester or the Lake District, or bustling cities like London, Glasgow, and Manchester. You can also make savings when travelling with us, using Railcards and Advance Train Tickets.