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These 2 awe-inspiring Canadian train trips were ranked among the world's best

And you can get on board both of them here in Vancouver!
Elana Shepert
Elana Shepert

Two Canadian train trips have been included on a list of the world's top rail experiences. 

Readers of Condé Nast Traveler voted on everything from their favourite places to stay to airports to travel through, top cities to spas, and their preferred cruise lines to sail.

Two popular Canadian rail companies were included in the reader's selection of the world's best train trips, and both can be accessed from Vancouver

The Rocky Mountaineer is considered one of the world's leading luxury scenic rail operators, with multiple tours through the Rockies featuring panoramic views, gourmet food, and knowledgeable guides. It is praised for its massive picture windows and glass-dome ceilings and awe-inspiring trips through the Rocky Mountains, connecting Vancouver to Banff and Jasper in Alberta. 

The Canadian rail tour company has transported over two million guests since 1990, "making it the largest privately-owned premium tourist train in the world."

The Canadian by Via Rail Canada is a bucket-list train ride for people from across the globe, showcasing spellbinding perspectives of the snow-capped Rocky Mountains to the rolling wheat fields of the prairies and everything in between. 

The journey takes passengers from Pacific Central Station in Vancouver to Toronto Union Station and takes about four days. The train may pick up some passengers at select stops but people do not need to disembark at any time if they've booked the trip across the country. 

Top 20 Train Trips in the World 

Condé Nast readers voted The Palace on Wheels in India the world's top rail experience. The report's authors praise the company's tailor-made itineraries that embark from New Delhi and visit popular spots including the Land of Kings, the Pink City of Jaipur in Rajasthan, and Agra, home of the iconic Taj Mahal. 

Travellers on the Indian trail will also enjoy accommodation in "well-appointed, colourful carriages decked out in Indian textiles."

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a "Readers’ Choice Awards favourite," appearing on the list each year. With decadent, 1920s Art Deco-inspired interiors, and impeccable services, the rail experience is considered "in a class of its own." 

  1. Palace on Wheels, India

  2. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

  3. Rovos Rail, Africa 

  4. Transcantabrico Gran Lujo, Spain

  5. JR Kyushu 36+3, Japan

  6. Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train, South America

  7. British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England

  8. Glacier Express, Switzerland 

  9. Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland

  10. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

  11. Golden Chariot, India

  12. Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train, South America

  13. The Maharajas' Express, India

  14. Golden Eagle Danube Express, Europe

  15. Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia

  16. Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan

  17. The Canadian

  18. Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy

  19. The Ghan, Australia

  20. Jungfrau Railway, Switzerland

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