Two Asian Trains Ranked Among the 9 Must-Experience Railway Journeys of 2025

Recently, Bjorn Bender, CEO of Rail Europe, one of the leading providers of railway services in Europe, revealed the list of the nine most remarkable train journeys to experience in 2025. Among them, two Asian routes stand out: the "Reunification Express" train (Vietnam) and the Sri Lanka railway.

The Reunification Express – A Captivating Journey Across Vietnam

*The Reunification Express train travels along Vietnam’s most scenic routes*

The Reunification Express train (Thong Nhat in Vietnamese) connects Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City over a distance of more than 1,730 km, offering an exceptional panorama of Vietnam’s landscapes, from majestic mountains to lush plains and stunning coastlines. More than just a means of transport, this train journey allows passengers to admire Vietnam's rich diversity through the windows of its carriages.

*Onboard the Thong Nhat train, each stretch of the journey presents breathtaking scenery, from plains to mountains, like a vibrant moving picture*

*Sceneries along the Thong Nhat train route look like paintings, from lush forests to wild beaches*

*The Thong Nhat train provides a unique opportunity to witness the diversity of life in Vietnam from a different perspective*

► Learn more about the Vietnamese train experience: complete guide, itineraries, and tips.

In Vietnam, besides regular trains, travelers can experience luxury trains offering high-end services. For around 8,000 USD, the SJourney, the country’s first luxury train, offers a unique experience blending the charm of 1930s Indochina with modern comfort. It features luxurious cabins, comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and personalized services, ensuring a refined travel experience.

*It features luxurious cabins, comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and personalized services*

*Inside the cabin of the SJourney luxury train*

► Discover Vietnam’s luxury trains: a journey of sophistication

The Sri Lanka Train – A Journey into Unspoiled Nature

One of the most iconic railway routes in Sri Lanka is the Kandy - Ella line, often regarded as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. This route passes through lush tropical forests, endless tea plantations, and century-old bridges, offering travelers an unforgettable experience. Highly popular among adventure seekers, this railway journey captivates visitors with its authenticity and enchanting landscapes.

*The most beautiful route—the famous Nine Arches Bridge in Sri Lanka*

*Green tea hills stretch under the train’s path*

Other Railway Journeys in the Selection

*Glacier Express (Switzerland) – "The slowest express train in the world"*

*Orient Express (France - Turkey) – A legendary luxury travel experience*

*Rocky Mountaineer (Canada) – A spectacular journey through the Rockies*

*Rovos Rail (South Africa) – A railway experience filled with elegance*

*The TranzAlpine (New Zealand) – An adventure through the spectacular landscapes of the South Island, from Christchurch to Greymouth*

*The Ffestiniog Railway (Wales) – A picturesque journey through the mountains and valleys of Snowdonia National Park*

*The Derry/Londonderry - Coleraine Train (Northern Ireland) – A spectacular coastal journey offering breathtaking views of the sea and lush landscapes*

These two Asian trains, ranked among the best in the world, are not just means of transport; they offer a complete immersion into fascinating cultures and landscapes, making each journey an unforgettable experience.