We often talk about destinations as if they’re the whole point, but sometimes, it’s the journey that’s the best part.
Whether it’s a tram gliding through South African vineyards or a ferry crossing continents in Istanbul, certain rides turn everyday transit into something unforgettable.
With services like HandleVisa making travel easier than ever, there’s no excuse not to explore the world. In this article, we’re taking a look at seven scenic journeys where the ride itself steals the show — and proving that the best part of travel might just be the trip.
Gondolas in Venice, Italy
Let’s start with the obvious, timeless, classic: the gondola. Venice’s elegant hand-carved boats with their high-curved bows have become as iconic as the canals they glide through.
Once a staple of daily life for Venetians (there were over 10,000 gondolas in the 17th century!), they now number around 400 and are reserved almost entirely for tourists who want to experience the city from its best vantage point: the water.
As you move through the narrow canals, typical Venetian scenes reveal themselves in detail: faded facades of Renaissance palazzos, wrought-iron balconies spilling over with geraniums, laundry fluttering from clotheslines, and the occasional cat watching from a sun-drenched ledge.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
If the gondola is romantic, then the Glacier Express is majestic. Widely considered one of the most beautiful train rides in the world, this iconic journey links the alpine towns of Zermatt and St. Moritz via a 186-mile route through some of Switzerland’s most fantastic scenery.
Unlike regular trains, the Glacier Express chugs along at a leisurely 25 mph so that passengers can enjoy the breathtaking views. Through huge panoramic windows, you’ll see snow-capped mountains, pastoral meadows, glaciers, terraced vineyards, and cute tiny villages.
The train crosses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels, including the famous Landwasser Viaduct, a six-arch stone bridge that ends dramatically in a cliffside tunnel 65 meters above the valley floor.
Inside, the ride is equally impressive. Spacious seats, quiet cabins, and attentive staff make the journey feel more like a luxury lounge on rails. You can enjoy Swiss wines, taste multi-course meals, and watch the alpine wonderland roll by.
If trains had a “bucket list,” this would definitely be on it.
Ferries in Istanbul, Turkey
In a city split between two continents, it only makes sense that one of the most scenic ways to get around is by boat.
In fact, Istanbul’s ferries aren’t just a pleasant surprise — they’re one of the most used forms of public transport! Locals use them every day to cross between Europe and Asia, and for travelers, it’s one of the easiest ways to enjoy incredible skyline views without taking an expensive tour.
One of the best routes is from Eminönü to Üsküdar. After departing from the historic peninsula, the ferry offers some of Istanbul’s most iconic views: the domes of Sultanahmet, the towering Galata Tower, the walls of Topkapı Palace, and the classic silhouette of the Maiden’s Tower in the middle of the Bosphorus.
Onboard, you can expect real Turkish vibes: tea vendors weaving through the crowd, seagulls eyeing your simit (a type of bread ring), and a mixed crowd of commuters and tourists watching the skyline float by.
It’s affordable, peaceful, and oddly grounding… not bad for a regular old ferry, right?
Franschhoek Wine Tram in South Africa
What’s better than wine tasting? Wine tasting on a vintage tram rolling through sun-drenched vineyards!
South Africa’s Franschhoek Wine Tram is an idyllic way to explore the Cape Winelands, especially if you want to ditch the car keys and sip without worries.
Each tram route stops at a handful of world-class wineries around the valley, giving you the freedom to hop off, meet local winemakers, and sample everything from Chenin Blancs to bold Pinotages. Along the way, you’ll learn stories about the traditions and processes that were passed down from generation to generation.
Toboggans in Madeira, Portugal
On the lush Portuguese island of Madeira, there’s an old-school way to get downhill that’s anything but ordinary: toboggans. These wooden sleds, fitted with runners and rubber soles, date back to the 19th century when locals needed a fast way to descend from the hills of Funchal to the port below.
The drivers, dressed in their signature white uniforms and straw hats, still steer with the same care and skill passed down through generations. Two men control each sled from behind, guiding it down steep cobblestone streets with a mix of foot-braking and precision leaning.
For those who want to combine historical flavor, light adventure, and a local twist, toboggans are the perfect choice.
Shinkansen Train in Japan
Fast, sleek, and unbelievably punctual, the Shinkansen is more than a high-speed train — it’s a symbol of Japan’s engineering excellence. Launched in 1964 ahead of the Tokyo Olympics, the Shinkansen was the world’s first bullet train and revolutionized rail travel.
These trains reach an impressive speed of 200 mph, yet the ride remains surprisingly quiet and smooth. Inside, the carriages are clean and given thought to the smallest detail: comfortable seats with adjustable backrests, electrical outlets for gadgets, free Wi-Fi, and more.
On clear days, passengers on the Tokyo–Osaka route are treated to views of Mount Fuji, which rises amongst the rolling hills and rural towns.
Whether you’re commuting or sightseeing, the Shinkansen is an experience in its own right and a masterclass in how travel should feel.
Top Photo Credit: f11photo / Shutterstock.com
