Imagine gliding through stunning landscapes, sipping champagne in an opulent dining car, and retiring to a plush cabin as the world rolls by outside your window. Luxury train travel offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern comfort, allowing travelers to explore breathtaking destinations while enjoying five-star amenities. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world’s most luxurious train rides, each promising the trip of a lifetime.
From the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps to the sun-baked plains of Africa, these train journeys showcase the best of rail travel. They combine stunning scenery, gourmet dining, and top-notch service to create unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or simply seeking a new way to explore the world, these luxurious train journeys are sure to inspire your next adventure.
Let’s embark on a virtual tour of the ten most luxurious train journeys that will make your travel dreams come true.
1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: London to Venice
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is perhaps the most famous luxury train in the world. This iconic journey takes passengers from London to Venice, passing through some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes.
Key Features:
- Route: London – Paris – Verona – Venice
- Duration: 2 days and 1 night
- Highlights: Stunning Alpine scenery, art deco interiors, gourmet dining
The journey begins at London’s Victoria Station, where passengers board the British Pullman for a luxurious trip to Folkestone. From there, they cross the Channel and board the continental train bound for Venice. The train’s carriages date back to the 1920s and 1930s, meticulously restored to their original Art Deco splendor.
Guests can enjoy sumptuous meals prepared by skilled chefs, using fresh ingredients picked up along the route. The train’s bar car offers a selection of fine wines and cocktails, perfect for sipping while watching the European countryside roll by.
As night falls, passengers retire to their private cabins, which are converted into cozy sleeping quarters by attentive stewards. The journey culminates with a spectacular arrival in Venice, where travelers disembark at Santa Lucia station, ready to explore the floating city.
2. The Royal Scotsman: Scottish Highlands
For those seeking to explore the rugged beauty of Scotland in style, the Royal Scotsman offers an unparalleled experience. This luxury train, operated by Belmond, takes guests on a grand tour of the Scottish Highlands.
Key Features:
- Route: Circular route from Edinburgh, exploring the Scottish Highlands
- Duration: Various itineraries from 2 to 7 nights
- Highlights: Stunning Highland scenery, whisky tastings, outdoor activities
The Royal Scotsman is often described as a country house on wheels. With a maximum of 40 guests, it offers an intimate and exclusive experience. The train features luxurious en-suite cabins, two dining cars, and an observation car with an open-air veranda.
The journey typically begins in Edinburgh, winding its way through the heart of the Highlands. Guests can enjoy off-train excursions to historic castles, famous whisky distilleries, and picturesque lochs. The train often stops in quiet sidings overnight, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep.
One of the unique features of the Royal Scotsman is its onboard spa car. Passengers can indulge in relaxing treatments while taking in the breathtaking Scottish scenery. The dining experience is equally impressive, with menus featuring the best of Scottish produce, from Aberdeen Angus beef to fresh seafood from the west coast.
3. The Golden Eagle: Trans-Siberian Express
For those seeking the ultimate rail adventure, the Trans-Siberian Express aboard the Golden Eagle is hard to beat. This epic journey spans two continents, eight time zones, and covers a distance of 6,850 miles.
Key Features:
- Route: Moscow to Vladivostok (or vice versa)
- Duration: 15 days
- Highlights: Crossing the Ural Mountains, Lake Baikal, Mongolian steppes
The Golden Eagle is a luxury hotel on wheels, offering a level of comfort that contrasts sharply with the rugged landscapes it traverses. The train features three categories of cabins, all with private en-suite facilities, air conditioning, and large picture windows.
The journey begins in Moscow, where guests have time to explore the Russian capital before boarding the train. As the Golden Eagle heads east, it stops at various points of interest along the way. Highlights include:
- Kazan: The capital of Tatarstan, known for its beautiful Kremlin
- Yekaterinburg: Where passengers can stand with one foot in Europe and one in Asia
- Lake Baikal: The world’s oldest and deepest freshwater lake
- Ulaanbaatar: The capital of Mongolia, where guests can experience nomadic culture
Throughout the journey, passengers enjoy gourmet meals in the restaurant cars, featuring local specialties from the regions traversed. The bar car is a popular spot for socializing and enjoying live piano music in the evenings.
4. Maharajas’ Express: India
Experience the opulence of India’s royal past aboard the Maharajas’ Express. This luxurious train offers several routes across northern and central India, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.
Key Features:
- Route: Various itineraries covering destinations like Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, and Mumbai
- Duration: 3 to 7 nights
- Highlights: Taj Mahal, tiger safaris, royal palaces, cultural performances
The Maharajas’ Express is often described as the most luxurious train in India. It features deluxe cabins and suites, two fine dining restaurants, a lounge bar, and a dedicated spa car. The train’s decor reflects the grandeur of India’s princely states, with rich fabrics, intricate woodwork, and gleaming brass fixtures.
A typical journey might include:
- A sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal in Agra
- A tiger safari in Ranthambore National Park
- Exploring the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, with its stunning palaces and forts
- A boat ride on Lake Pichola in Udaipur, the ‘City of Lakes’
Onboard, guests are treated to gourmet Indian and international cuisine, complemented by fine wines and spirits. The train also hosts cultural performances, giving passengers a taste of India’s rich artistic traditions.
What sets the Maharajas’ Express apart is its attention to detail and personalized service. Each cabin has a personal valet, and the staff-to-guest ratio is nearly 1:1, ensuring that every need is catered to.
5. The Blue Train: South Africa
The Blue Train is a window to the soul of South Africa, offering a journey that combines luxury with breathtaking landscapes and rich history.
Key Features:
- Route: Pretoria to Cape Town (or vice versa)
- Duration: 2 nights
- Highlights: Kimberley Diamond Mine, Karoo desert, Cape Winelands
Known as a “five-star hotel on wheels,” The Blue Train lives up to its reputation with impeccable service and luxurious amenities. The train features deluxe and luxury suites, all with private bathrooms, some even with full-size bathtubs.
The journey begins in Pretoria, heading southwest towards Cape Town. Along the way, the train makes a stop in Kimberley, where guests can visit the famous diamond mine and learn about South Africa’s mining history.
As the train traverses the vast Karoo desert, passengers can enjoy panoramic views from the observation car or relax in their suites. The onboard dining is a highlight, featuring a mix of local and international cuisine paired with award-winning South African wines.
The Blue Train arrives in Cape Town in the afternoon, giving passengers time to admire the iconic Table Mountain as they approach the city. This journey offers a perfect blend of relaxation, luxury, and cultural exploration.
6. Rocky Mountaineer: Canadian Rockies
The Rocky Mountaineer offers a unique daytime journey through the stunning landscapes of Western Canada, combining luxury with breathtaking natural beauty.
Key Features:
- Route: Various routes through British Columbia and Alberta
- Duration: 2 to 5 days
- Highlights: Canadian Rockies, Fraser Canyon, Lake Louise
Unlike many luxury trains, the Rocky Mountaineer travels only during daylight hours to ensure passengers don’t miss any of the spectacular scenery. The train offers two levels of service: SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf, both providing excellent views and comfort.
One of the most popular routes is the “First Passage to the West,” which travels between Vancouver and Banff. This historic route passes through the legendary Spiral Tunnels and crosses the Continental Divide.
Highlights of the journey include:
- The Fraser Canyon and its rushing waters
- The Thompson River and its desert-like landscapes
- The snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies
- The turquoise waters of Lake Louise
Gourmet meals are served onboard, featuring local ingredients and inspired by the regions the train passes through. In the GoldLeaf service, meals are served in a separate dining car with full-dome windows.
While passengers don’t sleep on the train, overnight stays are arranged in high-quality hotels along the route, allowing for a comfortable and varied experience.
7. Eastern & Oriental Express: Southeast Asia
Experience the exotic charm of Southeast Asia aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express, a journey that takes you through lush landscapes and vibrant cities.
Key Features:
- Route: Singapore – Kuala Lumpur – Bangkok (or vice versa)
- Duration: 2 to 3 nights
- Highlights: Rural Malaysian countryside, River Kwai Bridge, Thai temples
The Eastern & Oriental Express exudes colonial-era elegance, with its polished wood-paneled corridors and silk furnishings. The train offers three types of cabins: Pullman, State, and Presidential, all featuring en-suite bathrooms and large windows.
The journey typically begins in Singapore, traveling north through Malaysia and into Thailand. Along the way, passengers can enjoy off-train excursions, including:
- A guided tour of Kuala Lumpur
- A visit to a rural Malaysian village
- Exploring the River Kwai Bridge and war museum in Thailand
Onboard, guests can indulge in gourmet Asian and European cuisine in the restaurant cars. The observation car at the rear of the train is a popular spot for enjoying the passing scenery or sipping cocktails in the evening.
The journey culminates in Bangkok, where passengers can extend their stay to explore the vibrant Thai capital.
8. The Ghan: Australia
Traverse the heart of Australia on The Ghan, a legendary train journey that takes you from the lush tropics of the Top End to the red deserts of the Outback.
Key Features:
- Route: Darwin to Adelaide (or vice versa)
- Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
- Highlights: Katherine Gorge, Alice Springs, Coober Pedy
Named after the Afghan cameleers who once traversed this route, The Ghan offers a unique perspective on Australia’s vast and varied interior. The train features comfortable private cabins and offers two levels of service: Gold and Platinum.
The journey begins in Darwin, heading south through the tropical Northern Territory. Key stops and experiences include:
- A cruise through Nitmiluk Gorge (Katherine Gorge)
- Exploring the Outback town of Alice Springs
- An optional scenic flight over Uluru (Ayers Rock)
- A visit to the opal mining town of Coober Pedy
Onboard dining showcases local ingredients and native Australian flavors. The Outback Explorer Lounge is the social hub of the train, where passengers can enjoy drinks and swap stories with fellow travelers.
The Ghan offers a perfect blend of comfort and adventure, allowing passengers to explore remote parts of Australia while enjoying top-notch amenities.
9. Seven Stars in Kyushu: Japan
Experience the epitome of Japanese hospitality and craftsmanship aboard the Seven Stars in Kyushu, a luxury sleeper train that explores the southernmost of Japan’s main islands.
Key Features:
- Route: Circular route around Kyushu Island
- Duration: 2 or 4 days
- Highlights: Hot springs, traditional crafts, scenic coastlines
The Seven Stars in Kyushu is a showcase of Japanese artisanship, with each car beautifully crafted using the finest materials. The train accommodates only 30 passengers in 14 suites, ensuring an intimate and exclusive experience.
The journey typically starts and ends in Fukuoka, taking passengers on a circular route around Kyushu. Stops along the way might include:
- Nagasaki, with its poignant history and beautiful harbor
- Aso, home to one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas
- Beppu, famous for its hot springs and “hells” (colorful thermal pools)
Onboard, passengers can enjoy exquisite kaiseki meals featuring local Kyushu ingredients. The lounge car, with its large windows and piano bar, is perfect for taking in the passing scenery.
What sets the Seven Stars apart is its deep integration with local culture. The train makes frequent stops for off-train experiences, allowing passengers to interact with local artisans and experience traditional Japanese hospitality.
10. Belmond Andean Explorer: Peru
Journey through the Peruvian Andes on South America’s first luxury sleeper train, the Belmond Andean Explorer.
Key Features:
- Route: Cusco to Arequipa (or vice versa)
- Duration: 1 or 2 nights
- Highlights: Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon, UNESCO World Heritage sites
The Belmond Andean Explorer takes passengers on a breathtaking journey through the Peruvian Andes, reaching altitudes of up to 4,800 meters (15,750 feet). The train features elegantly appointed cabins, two dining cars, a lounge car, and an observation car with an open-air deck.
Key experiences on this journey include:
- Exploring the ancient Inca capital of Cusco
- Visiting the floating islands of Lake Titicaca
- Witnessing the spectacular scenery of Colca Canyon
- Discovering the “White City” of Arequipa
Onboard dining is a highlight, featuring contemporary Peruvian cuisine created by top chefs. The bar car serves pisco sours and other cocktails, perfect for sipping while watching the Andean landscape roll by.
This journey offers a unique way to explore Peru’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, combining adventure with luxury.
Conclusion
Luxury train journeys offer a unique way to explore the world, combining the romance of rail travel with the comfort of five-star accommodations. From the historic glamour of the Orient Express to the modern luxury of Japan’s Seven Stars, these trains showcase the best of their respective regions.
Whether you’re drawn to the rugged landscapes of Canada’s Rocky Mountains, the cultural richness of India, or the vast expanses of Australia’s Outback, there’s a luxury train journey to suit your interests. These experiences offer more than just transportation; they’re a chance to slow down, appreciate stunning scenery, and immerse yourself in local cultures.
As we’ve seen, each of these train journeys has its own unique character and charm. They all share a commitment to exceptional service, gourmet dining, and unforgettable experiences both on and off the train.
In an age of fast travel and budget airlines, these luxury train journeys remind us that sometimes the journey itself can be the destination. They offer a chance to rediscover the joy of slow travel, to make new friends, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.
So, whether you’re a train enthusiast, a luxury traveler, or simply someone looking for a unique way to see the world, consider embarking on one of these extraordinary rail journeys. It might just be the trip of a lifetime you’ve been dreaming of.
