Top 10 Enchanting Train-Friendly Small Towns to Explore Worldwide

There’s something about the soft rocking of the cars, the world inching by, and the low hum of an engine that all come together to make train travel the most romantic mode of transport. However, this allure is not limited to everyday commutes; instead, the ambiance of a train pulling out of a small-town depot creates a whimsical atmosphere. Here are 10 small towns around the world that provide ideal destinations for your next scenic train journey.

Talkeetna, Alaska

The Nagley General store in Talkeetna, Alaska
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Embark on a scenic three-hour train ride from Anchorage with Alaska Railroad to reach Talkeetna, a charming hamlet (population: 1,200) that serves as a base for Denali National Park. Encompassing the highest peak in North America, Denali stands tall at 20,320 feet. The downtown area, featuring structures from the early 1900s, is a designated National Historic Site.

Explore local made-in-Alaska products and enjoy your stay at the renowned Sheldon Chalet, a luxury lodge located within Denali National Park, famed as a prime location for Northern Lights viewing.

Grindelwald, Switzerland

Grindelwald Village By Bernese Oberland Against Sky At Swiss Alps
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Accessible via the Jungfrau Railway, the Grindelwald station is merely a stone’s throw from the picturesque town of the same name. This area is known for the Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest point and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing stunning scenic views in every direction.

To immerse yourself in breathtaking natural beauty, travel 45 minutes from the terminal to Eiger Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, where snow falls year-round. Take in panoramic vistas that span France, Germany, and Italy, courtesy of the Eiger Express tricable gondola. Alternatively, embark on mountain biking or hiking adventures near waterfalls and alpine lakes, with the majestic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains as your backdrop.

Arosa, Switzerland

Aerial view of the Arosa ski resort in the Swiss alps in spring
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As another enticing Swiss destination, travel 3,000 feet in altitude on the Arosa Line, located 16 miles from the valley town of Chur, leading you to Arosa, home to 2,267 residents. The scenic train ride on the Rhaetian Railway offers spectacular views of the Schanfigg mountains and the Langwieser viaduct.

Upon arrival at the Arosa train station, you’ll be centrally located, within walking distance to various hotels. Consider staying at Tschuggen Grand Hotel, featuring an exceptional spa and four acclaimed restaurants, along with exclusive access to the Tschuggen Express, a cable car reserved solely for guests.

Imatra, Finland

Imatra, Finland, People near Center Hotel Imatra
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Travel to Imatra, a welcoming town in Southeastern Finland with a population of 27,000, situated about 160 miles from Helsinki. Experience one of five daily InterCity high-speed trains from Helsinki Central Railway Station to Imatra Central Railway Station, a trip that takes approximately two and a half hours, showcasing the glistening lakes and verdant forests along the way.

Imatra offers an array of adventure opportunities, with hiking trails beginning directly within the town limits. Additionally, visitors can explore cultural sites such as the Culture House Virta and Imatra Modern Art Museum, which features remarkable architectural designs including the famous Church of the Three Crosses.

Kashima City, Saga, Japan

Yutoku Inari Shrine in Kashima city,Saga prefecture,Japan
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With an estimated population of 27,915, Kashima City is known for its celebrated sake breweries and the opening of Hama Bar in 2021, marking Japan’s first sake bar located on a railway platform, launched at Hizenhama Station. The nearest major city is Saga-City, reachable via a 40-minute train ride on the Nagasaki Line.

To delve deeper into local culture, stroll to Hizen Hamashuku, where some of the finest sake breweries are situated. Enjoy a stay at Onyado Fukuchio, an upscale inn run by the renowned sake brewery Nabeshima. As you explore Hizen Hamashuku, rejuvenate with coffee from Glad Coffee or indulge in spirits from Hizen-ya, which offers sake, shochu, and Japanese gin.

Lindau, Germany

Lindau, Lake Constance, Germany
4FR/iBestTravel

Situated in the picturesque Lake Constance Region of southwest Bavaria, the charming town of Lindau boasts a population of less than 3,000 residents, while greater Lindau is home to around 25,000 people. The town’s railway station, Lindau Reutin Station, is accessible by a three-hour journey from either Munich or Zurich.

The true allure of Lindau Island lies in its serene escape, whether enjoying views from the New Lighthouse overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Constance or spending a leisurely day boating. Oenophiles visiting can indulge in exquisite wines due to the favorable climate for vineyards. Experience a private tasting at Teresa Deufel, or explore small winery bars scattered around the lake. For relaxation, head to Therme Lindau spa, and consider staying at the sumptuous Hotel Bayerischer Hof, a luxurious five-star hotel on the lakeshore.

Yemassee, South Carolina

Old Sheldon Church Ruins, Yemassee, South Carolina
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Yemassee, a town of approximately 1,000 people, features numerous attractions. Reach it via an Amtrak journey from Charleston, exploring unique sites such as the Forrest Gump filming location and the Old Sheldon Church Ruins.

When it’s time to dine, visit Fletcher Finds for local favorites like potato salad and milkshakes or enjoy a refreshing drink and snacks at Carolina Cider Company. For a comfortable stay, consider upscale options like The Inn at Cotton Hall or the elegant Cuthbert House Inn, located in nearby Beaufort.

Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico

Tequila Town in Jalisco State Mexico
Matt Mawson/iBestTravel

Consider indulging in a unique experience aboard the all-you-can-drink Tequila train. Making your way to Tequila, a town with a population of roughly 31,000, can be an unforgettable adventure via the Jose Cuervo Express, which runs every other Saturday, departing at 9 a.m. from Guadalajara and traversing stunning UNESCO World Heritage blue agave fields. For a premium experience, reserve the Jose Cuervo Express’ Elite Wagon, featuring an open bar and expansive windows for breathtaking views.

Your visit includes opportunities to participate in a jimador exhibition, visit Centro Cultural Juan Beckmann Gallardo and Jose Cuervo’s La Rojeña distillery, and indulge in tequila tastings.

For an overnight stay, explore options like Casa Salles, a boutique hotel featuring a pool adjacent to the La Guarreña distillery, or opt for the luxurious Hotel Solar de las Animas, which boasts a sky bar and pool with majestic volcanic views.

Ouchi-juku, Tohoku, Japan

Ouchijuku Historical Japanese Village in Autumn Light Up at Sunset
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Travel to Ouchi-juku via Yunokami Onsen Station. While the journey may be slightly long, your efforts will truly pay off upon arrival at this remarkable destination.

Begin from Tokyo by taking a train to Koriyama Station, then transfer to the Banetsu West Line toward Aizu-Wakamatsu Station, ultimately connecting to the Aizu Railway to Yunokami Onsen Station. Ouchi-juku is a brief taxi or bus ride away. Consider enjoying the Fruitea Fukushima, which is one of Japan Rail East’s Joyful trains, known for serving delightful tea and fruit desserts prepared by local chefs during transit.

Ouchi-juku presents an unspoiled historical narrative as the isolated village’s thatched-roof houses are preserved along the main street. Rich in history, it features a shrine honoring a Heian-era prince, along with events like a snow festival in February, the Hange Mid-Summer Festival in July, and the Townscape Exhibition Hall dedicated to the Edo period. Don’t forget to indulge in the well-known handmade soba noodles available during your visit. For accommodations, consider the Ashinomaki Prince Hotel located about four miles from town, or Kutsurogijuku Chiyotaki, situated approximately 12 miles from the village, both of which feature hot spring baths.

Sandpoint, Idaho

Main street through the picturesque rural town of Sandpoint, Idaho
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Idaho’s sole Amtrak station is located in Sandpoint, which is home to approximately 9,621 residents. The closest urban center is Spokane, Washington, about an hour and five minutes away by train. Upon disembarking, you’ll find yourself in the heart of a vibrant town filled with artistic charm and a variety of excellent eateries, including The Fat Pig, Second Avenue Pizza, and Trinity at City Beach.

This quaint town rests beside Idaho’s largest body of water, the expansive 43-mile Lake Pend Oreille and is flanked by three major mountain ranges—the Selkirk, Cabinet, and Bitterroot ranges—making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, a mountain bike trail begins directly in town, while private yacht charters are perfect for leisurely afternoon cruises with charcuterie delights.

To enhance your stay, consider lodging at the waterfront Lodge at Sandpoint or the newly established boutique Humbird Hotel at nearby Schweitzer Resort, featuring stunning views over Sandpoint. Before concluding your journey, relish a glass of Huckleberry Cream Ale, rich with the flavors of Idaho’s state fruit, at Laughing Dog Brewing.

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