The first decision to make when planning your trip is what type of scenery you find the most appealing, as this will determine what country and region you would like to visit, which will affect the choice of train line. Some of the most rugged wild terrain can be found in the American West, ranging from the bluffs of the Pacific ocean to the historical adventures of the authentic Yukon trail. If you are fond of wildlife, a route that passes various parks and preserves would give you the chance to glimpse animals in their natural habitats.

Another way to organize a trip is around cities that you have always wanted to visit. For example, a trip through the great southern American cities of New Orleans and Atlanta can be completed by train, allowing you to enjoy a rich cultural mélange with ease.

For people who enjoy certain hobbies with their loved ones, such as rafting, fishing, or cruising, a romantic train getaway can be booked in tandem with excursions and cruise packages. One of the most beloved routes travels the American Pacific Northwest, up to Alaska by train, and is completed by a cruise in Alaskan waters. Popular trips in other countries, such as the British Isles, can also be combined with extended stays in areas of particular interest to allow you and your partner to bond over fun activities and unique stops off the beaten track.

A luxury train trip is especially conducive to romance because it eliminates the hassle and stress of trying to experience wonderfully diverse locations on your own. No need to focus on the road, as will automobile road trips, or constantly go through impersonal airports, when you are taking a sleeper car.

The legendary Orient-Express tops the list of romantic train vacations.  The Alps, sumptuous meals, and the rhythmic rocking seduce couples as the train travels from Venice to Paris.  The Orient-Express actually has many trains that travel all over Europe including London, Budapest and Prague.

Closer to home, the Grand Canyon Railway is a completely restored 1923 steam engine that carries passengers to the South Rim of the National Park.  Along the way, live musicians and free refreshments prep couples for an experience like no other.  Once at the park, couples silently absorb the intensity of the Grand Canyons hand in hand.

Another adventure for romantic train vacations is Mexico’s Copper Canyon.  This is a 14-hour trip from Chihuahua to the Pacific Coast.  Couples are welcome to spend the night at local hotels or haciendas along the way.

Local New Yorkers like to take the Metro North along the Hudson River for a romantic weekend vacation.  The train has stops in quaint little towns with shopping and overnight accommodations that are sure to be just the thing to kindle a little romance.

Amtrak has a number of destinations that are sure to please the romantics among us. There is a route from New York to New Orleans that will not only provide some fantastic scenery but also excellent cuisine and ambiance from beginning to end.

Let us not forget Canadian trains and the great Rocky Mountains.  There are many places in the Rockies that are only accessible by train.  Although many of the travel packages do not include sleeping on the train, the routes pass through plenty of towns that are fully accommodating to romantic travelers.  Often these accommodations can be booked with the train ride.

Almost all train trips can be transformed into romantic train vacations.  Some trains are definitely commuter trains and they tend to be less romantic, although, like New York’s North Metro line, there may be some surprises.  Overnight sleeping cars provide the best possibilities for romance.  They offer privacy and convenience while providing comfortable scenic viewing. Hotel like services such as making the bed and room service adds to the ambiance of overnight train travel. Whether for a day or a few nights, romantic train vacations are just waiting for the opportunity to indulge couples.