Train Journeys: Why Spain and Beyond Offer More Than Just the Destination

For those seeking a unique travel experience, train journeys provide far more than just a means to get from one place to another. According to Everett Potter, a lifelong fan of rail travel and author of National Geographic’s 100 Train Journeys of a Lifetime, taking the scenic route can turn a simple trip into an adventure in itself. With a career spanning over 30 years of train travel across six continents, Potter’s extensive knowledge offers valuable insight into how rail travel stands apart from other forms of transportation.

Train Travel: A Journey Beyond the Destination

Everett Potter’s love for train journeys began years ago with a Eurail pass. Over the decades, it has evolved into an in-depth exploration of the best train journeys worldwide, from the breathtaking Glacier Express in Switzerland to the historic Orient Express in Europe. As Potter states, the appeal of train travel lies in the experience, not just the destination. Unlike air travel, where the journey often feels like a rush to get to the end, train journeys invite you to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Travel is about more than just reaching a place; it’s about savoring the route. For many expatriates and long-term travelers, train travel has become a way to fully immerse themselves in the culture of the places they visit. From the Machu Picchu route in Peru to the California Zephyr crossing the United States, each journey offers a unique window into the surrounding landscapes, local life, and history.

The Green Benefits of Train Travel

A recent study by Hitachi, a leading rail equipment manufacturer, highlights the growing interest in rail travel. The study revealed that 31% of 11,000 global respondents are looking to rely more heavily on rail in the future. This increase in popularity is driven by various factors, including the environmental benefits of trains, which offer a greener alternative to air and car travel. With the European Union and other governments investing heavily in rail infrastructure, sustainability has never been more accessible to travelers.

Iconic Train Journeys Around the World

From the Ghan in Australia, which traverses the vast Outback, to the Blue Train in South Africa, which offers a luxury safari experience, train journeys allow tourists to experience both the beauty of the landscape and the convenience of comfortable travel. The Bernina Express, running through the Swiss Alps, is another must-see for train enthusiasts, offering panoramic views and luxury service in one package.

For those looking to experience a bit of European glamour, the Orient Express remains the pinnacle of luxury train travel. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, this legendary train offers comfort, history, and a touch of aristocracy on every mile.

U.S. Train Travel: A Step Behind

Despite the allure of international train routes, the United States still lags in terms of high-speed rail infrastructure. Although there has been some movement with the allocation of federal funds to improve Amtrak services, high-speed rail is still a distant dream. The California Zephyr, running from Chicago to San Francisco, and the Empire Builder, heading from Chicago to Seattle, are among the most scenic and historic U.S. train routes. However, Potter notes that for high-speed rail, the current U.S. infrastructure is simply not equipped to handle the demand for efficient, eco-friendly travel on the scale of European or Asian countries.

Despite these challenges, there are still plenty of train experiences in the U.S. worth taking. The Empire Builder, which travels through the northern states, is a beautiful route for both leisure travelers and business professionals seeking a slower, more scenic journey.

Short Train Journeys: Quick Escapes Close to Home

Not everyone has the time for a five-night journey through the Australian Outback. Fortunately, short trips can also offer a rewarding experience. The Mount Washington Cog Railway in New Hampshire, for example, takes visitors on a historic route up the famed mountain, offering breathtaking views of the New England countryside. Similarly, the Durango and Silverton Railroad in Colorado offers a scenic route through the Rocky Mountains, making it an excellent day trip for anyone visiting the area. In California, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers a day trip through the picturesque vineyards, making it a perfect blend of leisure and luxury for wine lovers.

Even in Europe, short regional train trips provide an excellent way to explore areas in depth. For instance, taking a regional train along the French Riviera can turn what is typically a simple transportation route into a scenic and culturally enriching experience. For American travelers, European trains are a fantastic way to explore places they’ve never encountered before in their own country.

Step-by-Step Guide for Train Travel

Plan your route: Check timetables and plan your route in advance. Websites like Renfe (Spain) and Eurail offer easy-to-use schedules and route maps to help with planning.
Book in advance: While many trains allow for flexible booking, purchasing tickets early can often save money and guarantee a seat during peak travel periods.
Check the amenities: Most long-haul trains, such as the Glacier Express or Blue Train, offer sleeper cabins, dining cars, and observation lounges. Be sure to check what’s available on your route.
Pack appropriately: For overnight trips, be sure to bring comfortable clothing, snacks, and entertainment. Many long-distance trains have excellent facilities, but it’s always good to come prepared.
Keep sustainability in mind: Train travel is among the most sustainable forms of transport, so choose it over flying when possible, especially for shorter routes or regions with well-developed rail systems.

Quick Tips for Train Travel

Take advantage of discounts: Many rail companies offer special deals for tourists, seniors, or young travelers. Check their websites for discounts or travel passes.
Pack light: Train compartments can be compact, so try to pack only what you need.
Get comfortable: Bring a neck pillow, blanket, and entertainment for longer trips.
Observe your surroundings: Whether it’s a bustling station or a serene landscape outside your window, be sure to take in the scenery. Train journeys are an experience in themselves.

Key Points for Travelers

Train travel provides scenic views and a more relaxed experience compared to flying or driving.
The Glacier Express and Machu Picchu-Cusco route are among the top train journeys for travelers.
Shorter trips, like those on the Napa Valley Wine Train or Mount Washington Cog Railway, offer quick escapes with beautiful landscapes.
Despite the U.S.’s lagging infrastructure, scenic routes like the Empire Builder and California Zephyr remain popular choices for domestic travel.
For sustainable travel, trains are one of the greenest transportation options available.