Winter Train Journeys

THE ULTIMATE WINTER ESCAPE

Travelling the world by train is a one‑of‑a‑kind experience. It’s even more magical in winter, when landscapes outside transform into a breathtaking snowy wonderland. Relax in your warm seat while snow blankets valleys, freezes waterfalls, and dusts forests in glacial beauty.

Each season has its charms, but winter really elevates the journey. In this guide, we unveil the best winter train journeys for 2026 and beyond—and how to secure your spot on our exclusive winter rail tours!

THE BEST WINTER TRAIN JOURNEYS

VENICE SIMPLON‑ORIENT EXPRESS

Board the legendary Venice Simplon‑Orient Express—a symbol of old‑world luxury. Expect polished wood interiors, marble en‑suite bathrooms, 4‑course gourmet meals, 24‑hour butler service, and a piano bar on board. The winter route from Paris to Verona or Venice showcases snow‑capped peaks, festive cityscapes, and charming ski resort vistas.

The world-renowned Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient Express rail journey now operates into December, offering passengers a unique way to see winter landscapes by rail. For tickets and seasonal departures, it’s best to check current schedules and availability.

Inside the Venice Simplon‑Orient Express during winter

THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS, CANADA

The Canadian Rockies become a winter wonderland each year, with snow‑clad mountains, frozen lakes, dense forests, and even the possibility of glimpsing the Northern Lights. The iconic Rocky Mountaineer journey runs from Vancouver to Banff or Jasper, offering oversized panoramic windows, glass‑domed coaches, and gourmet meals for a cozy, scenic ride.

Rocky Mountaineer train passing snowy Canadian landscapes

Get in touch with our travel experts to find out more about our Canadian rail holidays and seasonal routes.

FLÅM RAILWAY, NORWAY

A winter journey aboard the Flåm Railway, from Flåm to Myrdal in Norway, might be only about 20 km long—but what you see making the climb is unforgettable. Pass fjords, rivers, waterfalls, snowy mountains, and remote stone farms along one of the world’s steepest rail lines.

Flåm Railway passing winter landscapes in Norway

Ready to explore? Get in touch with us to book your place on our exclusive Norway rail holidays today.

GLACIER EXPRESS, SWITZERLAND

No winter train journey guide is complete without Switzerland’s Glacier Express rail journey. Travelling from Zermatt to St Moritz, this route glides past frozen glaciers, snow‑covered Alps, and sweeping valleys. For an even more memorable experience, upgrade to Excellence Class—with a seasonal 5‑course meal and full access to the Glacier Bar.

The Glacier Express winter journey through snowy Swiss mountains

Explore more about our Switzerland rail holidays, including scenic routes like the Bernina Express and Jungfraujoch Express, and ask about seasonal offerings.

THE WEST HIGHLAND LINE, SCOTLAND

Closer to home, the West Highland Line in Scotland offers hauntingly beautiful winter scenes—ancient castles, snow‑blanketed moors, frozen lochs, and the iconic Harry Potter bridge over Loch Shiel. On clear days, you might even spot Ben Nevis in the distance.

The Jacobite Steam Train crossing the Harry Potter bridge in winter Scotland

Our 10‑day “Edinburgh, Isle of Skye & West Highland Line Tour,” starting from £1,699 per person, brings you all these wonders and more. Get in touch to secure your Scotland rail holiday this winter.

BOOKING WINTER TRAIN TOURS WITH MARVELLOUS ESCAPES

Our rail experts curate luxurious and memorable journeys year‑round, but winter tours have a unique magic. From securing great deals and upgrades to crafting tailor‑made itineraries, we ensure your winter rail holiday is everything you dream of.

Interior of Rocky Mountaineer train with panoramic windows
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