Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, located on the North Island. Known as the "City of Sails," it's famous for its beautiful harbors, beaches, volcanic cones, and multicultural vibe. Auckland is a major economic and cultural hub with a mix of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure.
Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand, located at the southern tip of the North Island. It’s known for its vibrant arts scene, political importance, and scenic harbor. With charming neighborhoods, museums like Te Papa, and a strong café culture, Wellington is often called the “coolest little capital in the world.”
The Northern Exploreris New Zealand’s premier scenic long-distance train, connecting Aucklandand Wellingtonvia the North Island Main Trunk Line.This journey spans approximately 681 km (423 miles)and takes around 10 hours and 35 minutes southbound, or 10 hours and 55 minutes northbound, offering a captivating experience through diverse landscapes .
Traveling through five distinct geographical regions, the Northern Explorer showcases:
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The Northern Explorer is a premier scenic train operated by Great Journeys New Zealand, traversing the North Island from Auckland to Wellington. Covering approximately 681 kilometers (423 miles), the journey offers passengers a unique opportunity to experience diverse landscapes, including rolling farmlands, volcanic plateaus, and coastal vistas.
The train departs from The Strand Station in Auckland and concludes at Wellington Railway Station, with several notable stops along the way:
The Northern Explorer operates three times weekly in each direction:
Scenic Highlights
Onboard Experience
Booking & Reservations
For more information and to make reservations, visit the Great Journeys New Zealand official website.
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The Czech Republic and Austria, two stunning Central European nations, are traversed on the route from Prague to Vienna. The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague, is renowned for its magnificent medieval architecture, the ancient Prague Castle, and the Charles Bridge. Austria's capital, Vienna, is well-known for its classical music legacy, imperial palaces, and thriving coffeehouse scene. Train travel between the two historic European capitals of Prague (Czech Republic) and Vienna (Austria) is a pleasant and picturesque experience. Beautiful views of the countryside can be seen during the approximately 4-hour direct train travel. Trains are contemporary, frequent, and furnished with food options and Wi-Fi. For tourists visiting Central Europe, this cross-border path is a well-liked and environmentally responsible option.
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Traveling from Milan to London by train is a scenic and comfortable journey, but it requires at least one change, usually in Paris. Here’s a breakdown of the trip: Route Overview: 1. Milan to Paris (TGV INOUI or Frecciarossa) 1. Duration: ~7 hours 2. Departure: Milan Centrale 3. Arrival: Paris Gare de Lyon 4. Booking: SNCF or Trenitalia 2. Paris to London (Eurostar) 1. Duration: ~2 hours 20 minutes 2. Departure: Paris Gare du Nord 3. Arrival: London St Pancras International 4. Booking: Eurostar The average travel duration is about 14 hours and 36 minutes, although the fastest services may finish the trip in about 10 hours and 35 minutes. London to Paris: Begin with the Eurostar service from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord. Paris to Milan: From Paris, transfer to a high-speed train such as the TGV or Frecciarossa, departing from Paris Gare de Lyon to Milano Centrale. Advance-purchase tickets can start from approximately £102.46 (€118) . When traveling by train from London to Milan, you will typically pass through several key destinations, depending on the route and transfers. 1. London St Pancras International (UK) 2. Lille (France) - Some Eurostar trains stop here 3. Paris Gare du Nord (France) 4. Paris Gare de Lyon (France) - Transfer station 5. Lyon Part-Dieu (France) 6. Chambéry (France) - Optional stop 7. Modane (France-Italy border) 8. Turin Porta Susa (Italy) 9. Milan Centrale (Italy) - Final destination
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Picton to Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most scenic routes, especially if you take the Coastal Pacific Train. The journey follows the rugged eastern coastline of the South Island, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Kaikōura Ranges on the other. Along the way, you might spot seals lounging on the rocks and enjoy glimpses of vineyards in the Marlborough region. It’s a peaceful and picturesque way to travel between the ferry port town of Picton and the South Island’s largest city, Christchurch. Picton – South Island (Top/North of the Island) About: A small, scenic port town. It’s the gateway between the North and South Islands, connected by ferry from Wellington. It’s surrounded by beautiful water and green hills—perfect for chilling or outdoor adventures. Top Things to Do: Marlborough Sounds– Take a cruise or kayak in this stunning network of sea-drowned valleys. Queen Charlotte Track– One of New Zealand’s most beautiful hiking and biking trails. Edwin Fox Maritime Museum– See one of the world’s oldest ships. Eco tours & dolphin watching– Plenty of marine wildlife around. Christchurch – South Island (East Coast) About: The largest city on the South Island. Known as the “Garden City”, with English heritage and a creative, resilient vibe (especially after the earthquakes). It’s also a major base for exploring the Canterbury region and Southern Alps. Top Things to Do: Christchurch Botanic Gardens– Gorgeous gardens perfect for a relaxing walk. Tram City Tour– Ride in vintage trams around the central city. Quake City Museum– Learn about the 2010/2011 earthquakes. Punting on the Avon River– Think Venice meets New Zealand. New Regent Street– Colorful street with boutique shops and cafés. Day trips to Akaroa, Kaikoura (whale watching), or Arthur's Pass.
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London, the capital of the UK, is a global hub for finance, culture, and history. It’s known for iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the London Eye. The city blends historic charm with modern skyscrapers, world-class museums (British Museum, Tate Modern), and a vibrant theatre scene in the West End. Shopping hotspots include Oxford Street, Harrods, and Bond Street, while traditional afternoon tea and fish & chips are must-tries. Paris, the capital of France, is the city of love, art, and fashion. It’s home to world-famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum (Mona Lisa), Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Champs-Élysées. The city is a paradise for luxury shopping (Chanel, Louis Vuitton) and fine dining, with iconic dishes like croissants, escargots, and coq au vin. The Seine River, Montmartre, and the Palace of Versailles add to its romantic charm.
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Spain's capital, Madrid, is a bustling, sophisticated metropolis in the center of the nation. Madrid, which combines traditional Spanish culture with a vibrant, contemporary lifestyle, is well-known for its wide boulevards, regal architecture, and top-notch museums. The city is home to vibrant areas including Malasaña and Chueca, the Royal Palace, and the well-known Prado Museum. With its lively plazas, late-night tapas bars, and enthusiastic residents that liven up the city, Madrid has a historic yet vibrant vibe. Barcelona, which is situated on the Mediterranean coast in northeastern Spain, has an entirely distinct atmosphere. It is well-known for its distinctive fusion of Gothic charm and modernist art. The city displays Antoni Gaudí's magnificent architectural creations, particularly the famous Sagrada Família and Park Güell. Barcelona is renowned for its lively street life along La Rambla and in the Gothic Quarter, as well as its laid-back beach culture and inventive culinary scene. Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, offers tourists a rich and varied experience by proudly expressing its unique identity, language, and cultural heritage.
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Embark on a luxurious 2-night, 3-day journey aboard Rovos Rail from Pretoria to Durban, blending opulent train travel with rich South African experiences. Highlights of the Journey: Nambiti Conservancy:A private, malaria-free reserve spanning 20,000 acres, offering a chance to spot the Big Five amidst diverse landscapes of savannah, grasslands, and thornveld. Spionkop Battlefield:Engage in a historical tour led by a world-class historian, delving into the events of the Anglo-Boer War. Ardmore Ceramics Gallery:Explore unique African ceramics in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, showcasing the region's artistic heritage. Itinerary Overview: Day 1:Depart from Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria, journeying towards Elandslaagte. Day 2:Morning game drive in Nambiti Conservancy; afternoon tour of Spionkop Battlefield. Day 3:Visit Ardmore Ceramics Gallery; traverse the Valley of a Thousand Hills en route to Durban. Onboard Experience: Rovos Rail offers restored Rhodesia Railways coaches, featuring lounges, restaurant cars, and private sleeping compartments with en-suite facilities. Accommodations range from Pullman suites (76 sq ft) to Royal Suites (172 sq ft), each equipped with en-suite shower, sink, and toilet. Departure Details: This journey operates during the summer months. Specific departure dates and pricing can be obtained directly from Rovos Rail or authorized travel agents.
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