World's great train journeys

Railway vacations bring to mind the romance and sense of adventure of a bygone era, whether you travel on a luxury line or opt for a less expensive route. If you're considering a tour via rail, here are 10 classic train journeys to take in some of the world's most historic and beautiful scenery.

Trans-Siberian Railroad: Russia

The fabled Trans-Siberian Railway, once hailed as the "fairest jewel in the crown of the Tsars", is one of the world's most famous train journeys. You can select from various routes, including the Trans-Manchurian or Trans-Mongolian, both of which take you from Moscow to Beijing. Or you can travel from Moscow to the stunning Pacific port of Vladivostok, an epic journey that crosses seven time zones and spans about a third of the globe. All routes take you through some of Russia's most spectacular scenery including soaring mountains, picturesque villages and, of course, the Siberian tundra.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Europe

Often considered the epitome of luxurious travel, the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train is famous for its ornate cabins, elegant cuisine and gracious personal service. Lucky passengers visit some of the world's most alluring cities, including journeys from London to Venice to Rome, or, if you'd prefer, Paris to Budapest to Bucharest to Istanbul. Travellers can chose from six signature journeys as well as other shorter departures and destinations across Europe.

The Rocky Mountaineer: Canada

Listed as one of the top "Journeys of a Lifetime" by National Geographic, Rocky Mountaineer Vacations offers spectacular train trips through British Columbia, Alberta and the Canadian Rockies. Best known for the world-acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer train -- a two-day, all daylight rail journey through the snow-capped Canadian Rockies -- the company also offers trips onboard the Whistler Mountaineer train, including a three-hour journey between North Vancouver and Whistler, BC. The popular eight-day journey aboard the Western Explorer includes all of the must-see attractions of the Canadian Rockies.