Looking out at an endless expanse of ocean blue while the foaming tide rolls in is enough to put anyone in a vacation state of mind. Add to that the soothing rhythm of a cozy train rocking along its tracks, and everyday stresses start to melt away.
Suffice to say, the world’s best coastal train trips make for an enviable summer vacation—whether you’re heading to a secluded beach for a relaxing day of lounging in the sand, exploring seaside towns along the Italian Riviera, or traveling up the Pacific Northwest‘s rugged coastline.
Here’s a look at five of the best coastal train journeys around the world—from ultra-luxe sleeper journeys to short sightseeing routes—that are worth planning your next summer trip around.
Italian Riviera on the Cinque Terre Express
One of Europe’s most iconic coastal destinations has its very own sightseeing train line, the Cinque Terre Express. The affordable passenger train travels between all five mountainous villages in Italy’s Cinque Terre region, running from spring until late fall. It departs every 20 minutes, making quick five-minute stops in Levanto, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, and La Spezia. It’s one of the best ways to travel along the area’s vertiginous cliffs, ferrying passengers between rocky outcroppings, through mountainside tunnels, and to the center of Cinque Terre’s charming seaside towns. From the train windows, expect to spot the aquamarine waves of Ligurian Sea crashing against the stony coast, candy-colored houses huddled together on the hillsides, tiny wooden boats gliding through village harbors, and flecks of golden-sand beaches. Spend a summer day hopping on and off the train and enjoying the ocean displays while visiting all five of the towns, from the winsome fishing village of Vernazza to Manarola’s trattoria-lined piazza.
