Amazing Train Experiences for Every Traveler (Without the Ultra-Luxury Price Tag)
Not everyone has $10,000 to spend on a week aboard a rolling five-star hotel. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a fortune to enjoy the magic of train travel. Around the world, there are incredible train journeys that offer comfort, scenery, and a taste of adventure at a fraction of the cost of the luxury icons. These rides may not include champagne-filled grand suites, but they still deliver breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
Train Experiences Worth Adding to Your Travel List
Amtrak’s California Zephyr (U.S.)
- Route: Chicago to San Francisco.
- Cost: From ~$200 coach; sleeper rooms from ~$700.
- Best Time: Late spring–early fall.
- Known For: One of the most scenic long-hauls in the U.S., passing the Rockies, Sierra Nevada, and Colorado River.
- Roomette Experience: Private sleeper “roomettes” include two seats that convert into bunks, plus meals in the dining car—like a rolling hotel room.
The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
- Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz.
- Cost: $180–$350 depending on class.
- Best Time: Winter for snow scenes, summer for green valleys.
- Known For: Panoramic windows that make the Alps feel close enough to touch.
- Extras: Upgrade to Excellence Class for a 5-course meal, champagne welcome, and private concierge service (without luxury-train pricing).
The Jacobite Steam Train (Scotland)
- Route: Fort William to Mallaig.
- Cost: $70–$100.
- Best Time: Summer (daily departures).
- Known For: The Hogwarts Express route, with the Glenfinnan Viaduct photo moment.
- Excursions: Stops in Mallaig, where you can explore a fishing village and grab fresh seafood before the return journey.
Via Rail’s The Ocean (Canada)
- Route: Montreal to Halifax.
- Cost: $150 economy; sleepers from ~$500.
- Best Time: Fall foliage or summer coastal season.
- Known For: Eastern Canadian coastline, maritime towns, and a relaxed pace.
- Roomette/Sleeper: Options range from reclining economy to private sleepers with beds and washrooms.
Renfe AVE High-Speed Trains (Spain)
- Route: Madrid to Barcelona (and beyond).
- Cost: $40–$120.
- Best Time: Year-round.
- Known For: High speeds (up to 190 mph), comfy seats, and crossing the country in just 3 hours.
- Extras: Business class includes larger seats, lounge access, and meals, making it feel surprisingly premium for the price.
TranzAlpine (New Zealand)
- Route: Christchurch to Greymouth.
- Cost: $120–$170.
- Best Time: Summer for blue skies, winter for snowy peaks.
- Known For: Crossing the Southern Alps—rainforests, rivers, and dramatic gorges.
- Extras: An open-air viewing carriage lets you capture photos without window glare, a rare feature for a modern train.
West Highland Line (Scotland)
- Route: Glasgow to Mallaig/Oban.
- Cost: ~$40 one way.
- Best Time: Late spring–early autumn.
- Known For: Wild moors, remote lochs, and mountain scenery—often voted one of the most beautiful “regular” rail lines in the world.
- Extras: This is a standard ScotRail service, but the casual nature makes it easy to hop off at villages along the route.
Tips for Booking a Budget-Friendly Train Experience
- Book Early: Popular scenic trains (like Glacier Express or the Jacobite) sell out months in advance.
- Choose Your Class Wisely: Roomettes and premium cars add comfort without jumping to “luxury train” price levels.
- Add Excursions: Some routes include stopovers or town visits—factor in time to explore off the train.
Luxury trains may grab the headlines, but you don’t need a Grand Suite to enjoy the experience of rail. These routes prove that scenic views, cultural connections, and even a bit of old-world charm can be enjoyed at a fraction of the cost. These journeys show that sometimes the best souvenirs are the memories made between stations. Just go solo…or social!
**Prices and availability change and vary so please check each website for the most up-to-date information! This is meant as a directional guide for inspiration and ideas.
