A train tour, also known as a rail tour, is a special train trip that gives passengers a different view from the one experienced during timetabled passenger services. The unusual aspect of the journey can be the train used, destination, route, certain railway track sections, or occasion.
One of the most common scenic rail tours you can go on is the Canadian Rockies tour. Besides the beautiful landscape you see on your way to the destination, you get to visit the Banff National Park and go around the Banff Gondola.
The Rocky Mountaineer is one of the most known tour trains to the Rockies. Since its foundation in 1990, it has taken over 2 million passengers.
If you are planning a vacation to Alaska but want to get a closer look at the majestic mountains, glaciers, and national parks along the way, a train is the best way to make the journey. You can choose a train that leaves from the United States or Canada, depending on where you are.
You will also see popular destinations like Anchorage, Juneau, Denali National Park, Fairbanks, Talkeetna, and Kenai Fjords National Park.
You can also visit the Smokey Mountains, a journey that starts in Nashville. Throughout the trip, you will hop on different steam trains as you explore destinations like Pigeon Forge, Chattanooga, the Tuckasegee River, the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, and Biltmore Estate.
Before booking a train tour, you must decide whether you want a luxury or low-cost tour. Going on a luxury train is more expensive than traveling on a low-cost train. One of the main reasons is the space you get on both trains. Luxury trains have comfortable seats with enough sitting space and leg room, making the journey more comfortable.
They also have more onboard services and commodities like a bar area and a restaurant. You can have a proper meal and drink on your tour, unlike on a low-cost train where you might only get water and snacks. However, a low-cost train might be the better choice if you want speed. Low-cost trains do not typically make as many scenic stops.
One of the main benefits of taking train tours is that you enjoy every part of the journey and see everything. This is unlike a car trip where you might concentrate on driving or a plane where you can't see anything.
You remain comfortable throughout the journey with temperature-controlled cars, spacious leg room, enough luggage area, and roomy seats. You might also get snacks, complimentary Wi-Fi, and power outlets on some trains.
The comfort also gives you the freedom to do anything else you want, like reading a book, painting, or taking photos. With train tours, you also don't have to worry about delays because of traffic or bad weather.