Train Rides With Kids Around the World

A child’s dream, the Swiss Chocolate Train features singular first-class style. Modern panorama or vintage 1915 Belle Epoche Pullman coaches provide visitors with exceptional views of the varied Swiss countryside.

This nine-hour train ride leaves from Montreux and travels to the Cailler-Nestle chocolate factory in Broc to indulge on Swiss chocolate, Switzerland’s most famous specialty. Kids obsessed with trains and chocolate will love every aspect of this journey, and the scenic mountain, lake, and valley views are just the icing on the cake. During the ride guests will enjoy coffee/soda and croissants followed by cheese fondue before deboarding at the chocolate factory. Where to Find it

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the 1881 Darjeeling Himalayan Railway climbs the Eastern Himalayas to Ghoom, the highest railroad station in Asia. Passengers pass by spectacular scenery as the miniature steam train loops to the highest point and begins its descent to Darjeeling.

Kids will love the interesting landscape with its streams, tea gardens, and enchanting valley views; and the brightly colored costumes of friendly Lepcha and Bhutia women and their children. The looping railway means there are no tunnels to contend with, and the miniature size of the train means it travels at a slow pace – roughly 7 mph. The mesmerizing trip takes about eight hours to complete. Where to Find it

Families can cross the Alps on a train ride from Chur to St. Moritz-Valposchiavo to Tirano, Italy. The Bernina Express train ride is sure to impress the kids as they watch the scenery change from glaciers to palm trees. Alpine landscapes along the way include 196 bridges and 55 tunnels.

Panoramic cars are modern and allow for the best unobstructed views of the Alps. The second leg of the trip from Valposchiavo to Tirano is a UNESCO World Heritage route. During summer, riders can take advantage of open carriages for a completely natural experience. Kids can snap pictures of the landscape without the problems of reflected light from windows for lasting memories. Where to Find it

Cass Scenic Railway offers passengers rides on a 1901 historic steam engine. The open-air passenger cars are refurbished flat cars previously used for logging. The trip up Cheat Mountain to Bald Knob takes passengers to the highest point for a geared locomotive east of the Mississippi. The 22-mile trip up and back takes about 4.5 hours. At the top, families are rewarded with spectacular views. Kids will appreciate the ‘hobo’ lunch aptly named King of the Road that is served on a 30-minute stopover at Whittaker Station. Adventurous families can book an overnight in a caboose atop Bald Knob. Small children may need noise canceling headphones, and everyone should bring a sweater or jacket.

PeruRail Titicaca runs from Cusco, across the Andes Mountains to Puno, Peru. There is an open-air observation car where families can take in the panoramic views of the Andean landscape. This breathtaking journey is 10.5 hours and climbs in elevation from 11,152 feet to 12,500 feet. Gourmet food is served in two Pullman cars with 1920s décor. In Puno, the big draw is Lake Titicaca, the largest lake in South America, and the world’s highest navigable lake. Tours of the Uros Islands (floating islands) are inexpensive and provide travelers a one-of-a-kind experience. Family members can bring carry-on bags with them; all other bags are stowed on the train. Where to Find it