4.  Sydney to Perth Railway: Indian Pacific Distance: 2,704 miles The scenic Blue Mountains contrast with the barren expanse of the Nullarbor on this 65-hour journey, which traverses the width of the (very wide) Australian continent and includes the longest stretch of straight railway track in the world.

3. Shanghai to Lhasa Distance: 2,717 miles Clocking in at just less than two day (47 hours, 40 minutes), this journey takes passengers from the world's largest city and the height of global finance to the geographical heights of the Tibetan Plauteau. The iconic Cuona Lake, Tangula Mountain, and the former imperial capital of Xi-an are just two of the many sights along this rail journey.

2. Toronto to Vancouver Railway: The Canadian Distance: 2,775 miles The three-day trip provides ample opportunity to study the vast wild landscapes that are so prevalent in western Canada; observers can see bears, deer, moose, and other animals in their natural habitats. Another highlight is the tall and often snow-covered Rocky Mountains.