A breathtaking British train journey is named among the most beautiful routes in the world

Rail journeys are not only a comfortable and eco-friendly way to travel, but also a great opportunity to spot some incredible views.

New research revealed the captivating train journeys in the world, analysing which landscapes hold travellers’ attention the longest, with part of the UK making the top five.

Topping the global ranking is Japan’s Sagano Romantic Train, followed closely by Europe’s iconic alpine routes, according to InsureandGo.

Scenic routes across the world made the rankings, with a standout UK journey also making the top five.

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The world’s most beautiful train journeys

1. Sagano Romantic Train (Japan)
2. Bernina Express (Switzerland/Italy)
3. Glacier Express (Switzerland)
4. West Highland Line (Scotland, UK)
5. Alishan Forest Railway (Taiwan)
6. Serra Verde Express (Brazil)
7. Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
8. Semmering Railway (Austria)
9. Coast Starlight (USA)
10. White Pass and Yukon Route (USA/Canada)
11. Central Andean Railway (Peru)
12. Kuranda Scenic Railway (Australia)
13. TranzAlpin (New Zealand)
14. Blue Train (South Africa)
15. The Ghan (Australia)

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The Sagano Romantic Train claims first place, thanks to sweeping views of the Hozugawa River valley and the forested slopes of Arashiyama. Designed purely for sightseeing, the train has an open-air carriage with uninterrupted views.

European routes perform particularly strongly, with Switzerland’s Bernina Express and Glacier Express taking second and third place.

Both routes are famed for their dramatic Alpine scenery, viaducts and panoramic carriages, going through some of the continent’s most striking landscapes.

Britons looking for something closer to home can enjoy the West Highland Line in fourth place. Stretching across Scotland’s rugged west coast, the route passes lochs, mountains and remote moorland.

Beyond Europe, rail-lovers can discover Taiwan’s forested mountains aboard the Alishan Forest Railway, or board Canada’s luxury Rocky Mountaineer.

Head of communications at InsureandGo, Letitia Smith, said: “Travelling by train is a huge draw for many holidaymakers, but specifically those looking for slower and more sustainable ways to explore. With so many beautiful routes around the world, we wanted to reveal once and for all which journeys are the most visually appealing. We hope the research provides lots of inspiration for your 2026 travels.

“Of course, as scenic as any trip can be, unexpected events can happen, so it’s always a smart idea to sort your travel insurance as soon as you’ve booked so your trip is protected and you can simply focus on enjoying it.”

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