Some journeys aren’t measured in kilometers, but in landscapes. Tourist trains routes offer a unique way to discover the world at a different pace—crossing mountains, deserts, and coastlines from the comfort of a coach. They are true moving capsules that combine tradition, innovation, and an undeniable spirit of adventure.
Hop on board with us to explore some of the most iconic train routes on the planet.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe)
A train turned legend. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express evokes the golden age of railway travel, with restored coaches from the 1920s and 30s. Inside, carved wood, velvet upholstery, and Art Deco details transport passengers to another era.
Its classic route connects London and Venice via Paris, but it also operates itineraries through Istanbul, Prague, and Vienna. Here, luxury is not just visual: the onboard service, fine dining, and novel-like atmosphere make it an unforgettable experience.
Shinkansen (Japan)
It may not be a tourist train in the traditional sense, but Japan’s bullet train is an attraction in its own right. Since entering service in 1964, the Shinkansen has redefined modern transportation: near-perfect punctuality, silent comfort, and speeds reaching up to 320 km/h.
It connects Tokyo and Osaka in under three hours, passing through regions such as Chubu, where—if the skies allow—Mount Fuji’s iconic silhouette joins the journey. A clear example of how technology can harmoniously coexist with the landscape.
The Ghan (Australia)
A 3,000-kilometre journey through the heart of the Australian continent, from Adelaide to Darwin. The Ghan is more than a train—it’s an expedition. Four days across the red desert, with stops to explore remote landscapes, Aboriginal communities, and breathtaking sites like Katherine Gorge.
Its name honours the Afghan cameleers who helped explore Australia’s interior. The train offers every imaginable comfort: private suites, gourmet dining, and curated off-train experiences.
Bernina Express (Switzerland and Italy)
Running from Chur to Tirano (Italy), this alpine railway crosses 196 bridges and 55 tunnels in a single trip. It’s one of the most spectacular mountain railways in the world and, unlike many tourist trains, it’s part of the public transport network.
Riding the Bernina Express means enjoying glaciers, forests, alpine lakes, and engineering marvels like the famous Landwasser Viaduct. Its panoramic windows let the landscape step inside and accompany you the entire way.
Chepe Express (Mexico)
The Chepe (Chihuahua-Pacific Railway) is Mexico’s only passenger train and crosses one of the country’s most stunning regions: the Sierra Tarahumara. It runs from Chihuahua to Los Mochis, covering over 650 kilometres of canyons, tunnels, and bridges through the Copper Canyon.
Along the way, the train passes through areas inhabited by Indigenous communities such as the Rarámuri and offers the chance to explore intermediate stations like Divisadero and Creel. With modern coaches, a panoramic bar, and onboard service, it’s a unique blend of nature and culture.
Iconic Train Routes: Technology, Safety, and Comfort. The Engineering Behind the Scenery
Rail travel can be an emotional experience, but it’s also a high-precision operation. Each of these routes—though different in style and location—shares a core requirement: to ensure safety, efficiency, and passenger comfort.
In this regard, Triple E delivers advanced technological solutions in protection, control, and electronic safety systems for international railway environments. From projects across Europe to collaborations in Asia and Latin America, Triple E’s engineering is part of the invisible framework behind modern mobility.
Because in railway tourism, as important as the view… is making sure everything runs flawlessly.
