Around the world, some of the most scenic adventures happen on everyday public transport. These routes aren’t just practical—they’re portals into jaw-dropping landscapes, local rhythms, and cultural immersion.
From alpine trains that snake through snow-capped peaks to city ferries that glide past iconic skylines, here’s your passport to the most beautiful commutes on Earth.
Glacier Express – Switzerland
Alison Pang/Unsplash
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
This legendary rail journey crosses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels as it winds through the Swiss Alps. With panoramic windows and a leisurely pace, the Glacier Express turns every mountain and valley into a moving postcard.
Tram 28 – Lisbon, Portugal
Portuguese Gravity/Unsplash
Route: Martim Moniz to Campo de Ourique
Hop on this vintage yellow tram to snake through Lisbon’s steep hills and narrow alleys. The ride passes tiled facades, fado-blaring taverns, and baroque landmarks—a true slice of local life.
Sydney Ferry – Australia
Dominic Kurniawan Suryaputra/Unsplash
Route: Circular Quay to Manly
The Sydney ferry is an affordable and iconic way to cruise the harbour. From the water, riders take in sweeping views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and golden beaches that frame the coastline.
Nariz del Diablo Train – Ecuador
Picture/Imagine Ecuador
Route: Alausí to Sibambe
Nicknamed “The Devil’s Nose,” this engineering marvel zigzags down the Andes, hugging cliffs and offering panoramic views of Ecuador’s dramatic mountainscape.
Rhaetian Railway – Switzerland to Italy
Andri S/Unsplash
Route: St. Moritz to Tirano (Bernina Express)
Recognised by UNESCO, this transalpine route glides from glaciers to palms, with highlights including the spiral Brusio Viaduct and the brilliant turquoise of Lake Poschiavo.
ALSO READ: Lodges where nature comes right to your door
Vaporetto – Venice, Italy
Henri Picot/Unsplash
Route: Along the Grand Canal
Venice’s public waterbus isn’t just transport — it’s theatre. Glide past Gothic palaces, Renaissance churches, and bustling market boats as gondoliers sing nearby.
Yurikamome Line – Tokyo, Japan
EJ Loro/Unsplash
Route: Shimbashi to Toyosu
This driverless train offers front-row seats to Tokyo’s futuristic skyline. It crosses Rainbow Bridge and loops through the artificial island of Odaiba with dazzling city and bay views.
Valdresekspressen Bus – Norway
Picture/Nor-Way
Route: Oslo to Fagernes
This scenic coach route cuts through pine forests, past shimmering lakes, and up into the mountainous heart of Norway. It’s a quiet, meditative ride with changing light and snow-dusted landscapes depending on the season.
Geelong to Apollo Bay – Australia
Geelong/Carl Beech/Unsplash
Route: Via the Great Ocean Road
Take the V/Line bus from Geelong to Apollo Bay and watch the wild southern coast unfold. With cliffs plunging into the sea and lush rainforest along the way, this ride captures Australia’s coastal drama without needing a car.
Scenic public rides in Africa
Picture/Getaway Gallery
The Blue Train – South Africa
Route: Pretoria to Cape Town (or Victoria Falls)
More opulent than your average commute, these luxury trains offer a front-row view of South Africa’s changing landscapes — from highveld plateaus to wine country — in slow, elegant style.
Zanzibar Ferry – Tanzania
Nichika Sakurai/Unsplash
Route: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar
This Indian Ocean route starts with city buzz and ends in tropical bliss. The ferry glides past dhow sails and turquoise waters before docking in historic Stone Town — a ride as scenic as the destination.
Franschhoek Wine Tram – South Africa
Linken Van Zyl/Pexels
Route: Various lines through the Franschhoek Valley
Part heritage railway, part wine tasting adventure, this tram trundles through South Africa’s most picturesque winelands. Vineyards, mountain ranges, and Cape Dutch architecture roll by as you hop off at curated estates.
City Sightseeing Bus – Cape Town
Diana Krotova/Unsplash
Route: Hop-on, hop-off loop covering city landmarks
This open-top red bus offers unobstructed views of Table Mountain, Camps Bay, and the colourful Bo-Kaap. It’s a leisurely way to tour Cape Town’s best vistas — with the flexibility to stop for lunch, museums, or markets.
Tips for scenic public transport travel
- Sit smart: On many routes, one side of the bus or train offers the better view. Ask locals or do a quick search before boarding.
- Book ahead: Routes like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express often sell out.
- Go off-peak: Fewer crowds mean better seats and more relaxed photo ops.
- Download offline maps or audio guides: Enhance the journey with stories behind the landscapes you’re passing.
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