In a world obsessed with fast travel, there’s a growing group of smart travelers embracing a better way: train journeys. Not only do trains offer breathtaking landscapes, comfort, and fewer airport hassles, but they’re also often cheaper than flying—especially when booked smartly.
Here are 7 scenic train routes around the world that provide an unforgettable experience for less than the cost of a flight, making them perfect for budget travelers and slow explorers in 2025.
1. Budapest to Ljubljana (Hungary → Slovenia)
- Scenery: Rolling hills, Danube crossings, Alpine forests
- Duration: ~8 hours
- Train Cost: ~$25 (with regional rail pass)
- Flight Comparison: ~$100 (plus baggage fees)
- Highlight: Arriving directly in the center of two historic capitals
2. Bangkok to Chiang Mai (Thailand)
- Scenery: Rice paddies, jungle, rural Thai villages
- Duration: ~12 hours overnight
- Train Cost: ~$30 (with sleeper cabin)
- Flight Comparison: ~$60–$90
- Highlight: Save on hotel by sleeping onboard + cultural immersion
3. Seattle to Vancouver (USA → Canada)
- Scenery: Pacific Northwest coastline, forests, city skylines
- Duration: ~4.5 hours
- Train Cost: ~$30 (Amtrak Cascades)
- Flight Comparison: ~$150
- Highlight: Relaxed border crossing + scenic waterfront views
4. Barcelona to San Sebastián (Spain)
- Scenery: Vineyards, mountains, and coastal cliffs of Northern Spain
- Duration: ~5.5 hours
- Train Cost: ~$40 (Renfe regional)
- Flight Comparison: ~$120
- Highlight: No airport transfers or baggage fees, just tapas and trains
5. New Delhi to Jaipur (India – The Golden Triangle)
- Scenery: Temples, deserts, and rural landscapes
- Duration: ~4 hours (Shatabdi Express)
- Train Cost: ~$10 (1st class)
- Flight Comparison: ~$60–$80
- Highlight: Authentic Indian rail experience with full onboard meal
6. Zurich to Milan (Switzerland → Italy)
- Scenery: Swiss Alps, lakes, Italian vineyards
- Duration: ~4 hours
- Train Cost: ~$25 (when booked early)
- Flight Comparison: ~$100+ (with luggage)
- Highlight: Panoramic mountain views and station-to-station convenience
7. Tokyo to Kyoto (Japan – Budget Shinkansen Alternative)
- Scenery: Urban skylines, Mt. Fuji (clear days), countryside
- Duration: ~9 hours (Local/rapid trains via Tokaido Line)
- Train Cost: ~$40 (JR Seishun 18 ticket)
- Shinkansen Cost: ~$100–$130
- Highlight: Slow travel at a fraction of the price, with freedom to stop
🚄 Train vs Flight Comparison Table (2025)
| Route | Train Cost | Flight Cost | Time (Train) | Time (Air + Transfers) | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budapest → Ljubljana | $25 | $100 | 8 hrs | ~6 hrs total | $75 |
| Bangkok → Chiang Mai | $30 | $70 | 12 hrs (overnight) | ~5 hrs total | $40 |
| Seattle → Vancouver | $30 | $150 | 4.5 hrs | ~4 hrs total | $120 |
| Barcelona → San Sebastián | $40 | $120 | 5.5 hrs | ~5 hrs total | $80 |
| Delhi → Jaipur | $10 | $60 | 4 hrs | ~3.5 hrs total | $50 |
| Zurich → Milan | $25 | $100 | 4 hrs | ~4 hrs total | $75 |
| Tokyo → Kyoto (slow) | $40 | $130 (bullet) | 9 hrs | ~3.5 hrs total | $90 |
💡 Tips to Save More on Train Travel
- Book in advance: Especially in Europe and Japan—fares rise quickly
- Use rail passes: Like Eurail, JR Pass, or Thai rail bundles
- Travel overnight: Saves on hotel + gives more time at destination
- Download apps: Rome2Rio, Trainline, and local rail apps for deals
- Avoid premium classes: Second class often offers great comfort
📌 Final Thoughts
In 2025, smart travelers are ditching planes and embracing the charm of the journey itself. Trains offer more than savings—they offer stories, landscapes, and comfort that planes just can’t match.
Looking for more affordable travel hacks? Explore our Budget Travel and Trip Planning sections at Smart Trip Traveler.
About Grace Castle
Grace Castle, 29, is a passionate traveler and digital nomad who turned her love for exploring the world into a career. With years of experience traveling across different countries, she has mastered the art of smart travel planning, working remotely while discovering new destinations.
An expert in budget travel, local culture, and remote work, Grace shares valuable tips for those looking to travel more while spending less. Her mission is to help fellow travelers explore the world with ease, safety, and authentic experiences.
When she’s not writing about her adventures, Grace can be found discovering cozy cafés, learning new languages, or planning her next trip.
