21 Luxurious Train Journeys That Rival First-Class Flights
In an age where speed often takes precedence over the journey itself, luxury rail travel stands as a timeless testament to elegance, relaxation, and adventure. These opulent trains, often described as five-star hotels on wheels, offer an experience that goes far beyond simply reaching a destination—they transform the journey into the highlight of the trip. As modern travelers seek unforgettable experiences that blend comfort, nostalgia, and breathtaking scenery, luxury trains have become the pinnacle of refined exploration. From sumptuous suites with vintage charm to gourmet dining against panoramic landscapes, these rail journeys cater to those who believe that travel should be as indulgent as the places it leads to. In this expanded edition, we take you on a journey through 21 of the world's most spectacular luxury train experiences.
1. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: A Journey Through Time
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is perhaps the most iconic name in luxury rail travel, evoking images of 1920s glamour and sophistication. This legendary train, which travels between London and Venice, offers a journey through time, allowing passengers to step back into an era of art deco elegance. Each meticulously restored carriage is a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era, with polished wood, plush fabrics, and intricate marquetry. The journey itself is a feast for the senses, with breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and the Italian countryside. Onboard, gourmet chefs prepare exquisite meals that rival the finest restaurants, while attentive stewards ensure that every need is catered to. For those seeking a travel experience that combines historical charm with modern luxury, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers an unforgettable journey.
2. The Royal Scotsman: A Highland Fling
The Royal Scotsman offers an intimate journey through the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands. With just 36 passengers per journey, this train provides a personalized experience that is both luxurious and immersive. As the train winds its way through heather-clad hills and alongside shimmering lochs, passengers can relax in the elegantly appointed observation car or enjoy a dram of whisky in the bar. The Royal Scotsman’s itineraries include stops at historic castles, distilleries, and private estates, allowing travelers to experience the rich culture and history of Scotland. Onboard, the dining experience is a highlight, with menus featuring locally sourced ingredients and traditional Scottish dishes. For those seeking a journey that combines breathtaking scenery with world-class comfort, the Royal Scotsman offers an unparalleled adventure.
3. The Maharajas' Express: A Regal Indian Odyssey
The Maharajas' Express offers a royal journey through the vibrant landscapes of India, providing a travel experience that is as opulent as it is culturally enriching. This train, often referred to as a "palace on wheels," travels through some of India’s most iconic destinations, including Jaipur, Agra, and Varanasi. Each suite is lavishly decorated, with rich silks, hand-woven carpets, and intricate woodwork, reflecting the grandeur of India’s royal past. The train’s itineraries are designed to offer an immersive experience, with excursions to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, wildlife safaris, and cultural performances. Onboard, guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine that showcases the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine, prepared by master chefs. For those seeking a journey that combines luxury with cultural immersion, the Maharajas' Express offers a regal odyssey through India’s rich heritage.
4. Rovos Rail: The Pride of Africa
Rovos Rail, known as the "Pride of Africa," offers a journey through the diverse landscapes of southern Africa, from the savannahs of the Serengeti to the deserts of Namibia. This train, with its vintage carriages and Edwardian-style interiors, provides a travel experience that is both luxurious and adventurous. Passengers can relax in spacious suites, each with its own private bathroom and elegant furnishings, or enjoy the panoramic views from the observation car. Rovos Rail’s itineraries include stops at some of Africa’s most iconic destinations, including Victoria Falls and the Kruger National Park, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and cultural exploration. Onboard, the dining experience is a highlight, with menus featuring locally sourced ingredients and fine South African wines. For those seeking a journey that combines luxury with adventure, Rovos Rail offers an unforgettable exploration of Africa’s natural wonders.
5. The Eastern & Oriental Express: A Southeast Asian Sojourn
The Eastern & Oriental Express offers a journey through the lush landscapes and vibrant cultures of Southeast Asia, traveling between Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. This train, with its colonial-style interiors and elegant furnishings, provides a travel experience that is both luxurious and exotic. As the train winds its way through rice paddies, tropical forests, and bustling cities, passengers can relax in their private cabins or enjoy the views from the observation car. The Eastern & Oriental Express’s itineraries include stops at some of the region’s most iconic destinations, such as the River Kwai and Penang, offering opportunities for cultural exploration and adventure. Onboard, the dining experience is a highlight, with menus featuring a fusion of Asian and Western cuisine, prepared by expert chefs. For those seeking a journey that combines luxury with cultural immersion, the Eastern & Oriental Express offers a captivating exploration of Southeast Asia.
6. The Canadian: A Transcontinental Expedition
The Canadian offers a transcontinental journey across the vast landscapes of Canada, from the bustling metropolis of Toronto to the scenic beauty of Vancouver. This train, with its vintage carriages and art deco interiors, provides a travel experience that is both luxurious and scenic. As the train traverses the Rocky Mountains, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and dense forests from the observation car. The Canadian’s itineraries include stops at some of Canada’s most iconic destinations, such as Jasper National Park and Lake Louise, offering opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration. Onboard, the dining experience is a highlight, with menus featuring locally sourced ingredients and regional specialties. For those seeking a journey that combines luxury with natural beauty, the Canadian offers an unforgettable expedition across Canada’s diverse landscapes.
7. The Belmond Andean Explorer: A Peruvian Adventure
The Belmond Andean Explorer offers a journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Peru, traveling from Cusco to Arequipa. This train, with its elegant interiors and luxurious amenities, provides a travel experience that is both opulent and adventurous. As the train winds its way through the Andes, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, ancient ruins, and vibrant villages from the observation car. The Belmond Andean Explorer’s itineraries include stops at some of Peru’s most iconic destinations, such as Lake Titicaca and the Colca Canyon, offering opportunities for cultural exploration and adventure. Onboard, the dining experience is a highlight, with menus featuring Peruvian cuisine, prepared by expert chefs. For those seeking a journey that combines luxury with cultural immersion, the Belmond Andean Explorer offers a captivating exploration of Peru’s rich heritage.
8. The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express: A Journey Across Russia
The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express offers a journey across the vast landscapes of Russia, traveling from Moscow to Vladivostok. This train, with its luxurious interiors and modern amenities, provides a travel experience that is both opulent and adventurous. As the train traverses the Siberian wilderness, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of snow-covered forests, remote villages, and majestic mountains from the observation car. The Golden Eagle’s itineraries include stops at some of Russia’s most iconic destinations, such as Lake Baikal and the Ural Mountains, offering opportunities for cultural exploration and adventure. Onboard, the dining experience is a highlight, with menus featuring Russian cuisine, prepared by expert chefs. For those seeking a journey that combines luxury with cultural immersion, the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express offers a captivating exploration of Russia’s diverse landscapes.
9. The Rocky Mountaineer: A Scenic Canadian Journey
The Rocky Mountaineer offers a scenic journey through the stunning landscapes of western Canada, traveling from Vancouver to Banff. This train, with its glass-domed coaches and luxurious amenities, provides a travel experience that is both opulent and scenic. As the train winds its way through the Rocky Mountains, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests from the observation car. The Rocky Mountaineer’s itineraries include stops at some of Canada’s most iconic destinations, such as Jasper National Park and Lake Louise, offering opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration. Onboard, the dining experience is a highlight, with menus featuring locally sourced ingredients and regional specialties. For those seeking a journey that combines luxury with natural beauty, the Rocky Mountaineer offers an unforgettable exploration of Canada’s diverse landscapes.
10. The Ghan: An Australian Outback Adventure
The Ghan offers a journey through the heart of Australia, traveling from Adelaide to Darwin. This train, with its luxurious interiors and modern amenities, provides a travel experience that is both opulent and adventurous. As the train traverses the vast landscapes of the Australian outback, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of red deserts, rugged mountains, and remote towns from the observation car. The Ghan’s itineraries include stops at some of Australia’s most iconic destinations, such as Alice Springs and Katherine Gorge, offering opportunities for cultural exploration and adventure. Onboard, the dining experience is a highlight, with menus featuring Australian cuisine, prepared by expert chefs. For those seeking a journey that combines luxury with adventure, the Ghan offers a captivating exploration of Australia’s diverse landscapes.
11. The Blue Train: A South African Luxury Journey
The Blue Train offers a luxurious journey through the diverse landscapes of South Africa, traveling from Pretoria to Cape Town. This train, with its elegant interiors and modern amenities, provides a travel experience that is both opulent and scenic. As the train winds its way through the South African countryside, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of rolling hills, vineyards, and rugged mountains from the observation car. The Blue Train’s itineraries include stops at some of South Africa’s most iconic destinations, such as Kimberley and the Cape Winelands, offering opportunities for cultural exploration and adventure. Onboard, the dining experience is a highlight, with menus featuring South African cuisine, prepared by expert chefs. For those seeking a journey that combines luxury with cultural immersion, the Blue Train offers a captivating exploration of South Africa’s diverse landscapes.
12. The Deccan Odyssey – India’s Rolling Palace
Often compared to a five-star hotel on wheels, the Deccan Odyssey offers an extravagant journey through the heart of Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, taking passengers through India’s royal past. Modeled after the luxurious private carriages of Indian maharajas, this train features sumptuous interiors, spa services, and gourmet dining inspired by India’s diverse culinary heritage. With six unique itineraries, the Deccan Odyssey covers destinations like Mumbai, Jaipur, Udaipur, Agra (Taj Mahal), and Ellora Caves—some of India’s most breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage sites. Onboard, guests are treated to traditional music performances, cultural lectures, and personalized service that ensures a truly regal experience.
13. The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo – Spain’s Northern Gem
Winding its way through the dramatic landscapes of northern Spain, the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo is a boutique luxury train that feels more like an intimate cruise on rails. With only 14 suites, this train offers an exclusive, all-inclusive experience as it travels from San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela, following the stunning Bay of Biscay coastline. Onboard, the train’s Belle Époque décor, combined with modern comfort, creates an atmosphere of vintage glamour. The train stops daily for guided excursions, including visits to Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Picos de Europa National Park, and ancient Roman ruins. The dining car showcases the finest Basque and Galician cuisine, paired with some of Spain’s best wines.
14. The Shongololo Express – An African Safari on Rails
Named after a giant millipede found in Africa, the Shongololo Express offers a truly immersive Southern African adventure, covering destinations across South Africa, Namibia, Swaziland, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. Unlike most luxury trains that focus on opulence, the Shongololo Express prioritizes exploration, with extended off-train excursions like wildlife safaris, historic battlefield tours, and visits to local villages. This train blends classic charm with adventure, featuring comfortable en-suite cabins, panoramic viewing decks, and top-tier cuisine infused with African flavors. One of its most thrilling highlights is stopping at Victoria Falls, where guests can witness one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls.
15. Seven Stars in Kyushu – Japan’s Most Exclusive Train
The Seven Stars in Kyushu is not just a luxury train; it’s an exclusive work of art on rails. Limited to only 30 passengers per journey, this handcrafted train is designed with intricate woodwork, gold-leaf accents, and shoji-style windows, blending Japanese tradition with modern elegance. Traveling through Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost island, the Seven Stars passes through volcanic landscapes, hot spring resorts, and the lush forests of Kagoshima and Kumamoto. The journey includes exclusive access to onsen (hot springs), traditional ryokans, and tea ceremonies, making it a true immersion in Japanese culture and hospitality.
16. The Ghan Expedition – Australia’s Outback Odyssey
While the Ghan is already a well-known train, the Ghan Expedition takes the journey a step further by offering a four-day immersive adventure deep into the Australian Outback. Departing from Darwin and heading south to Adelaide, this version of the trip includes longer stops, allowing passengers to explore remote landscapes, Aboriginal rock art, and the underground town of Coober Pedy. Onboard, guests enjoy all-inclusive fine dining, spacious Platinum Service suites, and uninterrupted views of the Red Centre’s stunning scenery. With its blend of adventure, history, and comfort, the Ghan Expedition is the ultimate way to experience Australia’s vast wilderness.
17. The Tren Crucero – Ecuador’s Andes to Coast Journey
For those looking to explore South America’s most diverse landscapes, the Tren Crucero offers a breathtaking journey from Quito in the Andes to Guayaquil on the Pacific Coast. This luxury train crosses towering volcanoes, deep gorges, cloud forests, and traditional Ecuadorian villages, making it one of the most scenic rail trips in the world. Unlike other luxury trains, Tren Crucero combines rail and road travel, stopping for guided tours of indigenous markets, haciendas, and Incan ruins. One of its most thrilling highlights is the Devil’s Nose, a dramatic railway switchback that descends nearly 1,000 feet in less than 8 miles.
18. The Al Andalus – A Journey Through Moorish Spain
If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling through Andalusia in royal style, the Al Andalus luxury train is the perfect experience. Modeled after the luxurious 1920s train cars used by the British monarchy, this train takes guests through the sun-soaked landscapes of Seville, Córdoba, Granada, and Cádiz. What makes this journey unique is its focus on Andalusian culture, with flamenco performances, exclusive vineyard visits, and private palace tours included in the itinerary. Guests enjoy lavish suites, gourmet meals inspired by Spanish cuisine, and personalized excursions to iconic sites like Alhambra and the Mezquita of Córdoba.
19. The Palace on Wheels – Rajasthan’s Royal Train
One of India’s most famous luxury trains, the Palace on Wheels takes passengers on a royal journey through Rajasthan, the land of maharajas, grand palaces, and desert forts. The train’s opulent interiors, carved wooden furniture, and royal hospitality recreate the experience of India’s historic rulers. Stopping at iconic destinations like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and the Taj Mahal, the journey is filled with elephant rides, private palace dinners, and guided tours of majestic forts. The dining car serves authentic Rajasthani cuisine, while onboard butlers ensure every guest is treated like royalty.
20. The Glacier Express – Switzerland’s Panoramic Wonder
Known as the "Slowest Express Train in the World," the Glacier Express is one of the most spectacular train journeys in Europe. Connecting Zermatt and St. Moritz, this luxury train winds through the Swiss Alps, passing deep gorges, ancient bridges, and picturesque alpine villages. While not as opulent as some trains, the Glacier Express’ Excellence Class offers a fine dining experience with panoramic windows, allowing passengers to enjoy Michelin-quality meals while taking in breathtaking mountain views. The train’s high-altitude journey across the Oberalp Pass (the highest point at 2,033 meters) makes it a once-in-a-lifetime rail adventure.
21. The Douro Historical Train – Portugal’s Vintage Wine Country Ride
For wine lovers, the Douro Historical Train offers a luxurious journey through Portugal’s Douro Valley, one of the oldest wine regions in the world. This vintage steam train, featuring wooden carriages from the 1920s, follows the Douro River, passing terraced vineyards, charming villages, and historic wine estates. The experience is made even more special by onboard wine tastings, where passengers can sample Port wines from local vineyards. The train stops at historic stations where guests can visit quintas (wine estates), enjoy gourmet Portuguese cuisine, and witness traditional fado performances.
The Timeless Appeal of Luxury Rail Journeys
In a world where the journey is often overshadowed by the destination, luxury rail travel offers a unique opportunity to savor the experience of travel itself. These 21 exquisite rail adventures, each offering a blend of opulence, comfort, and cultural immersion, provide a travel experience that rivals the finest first-class flights. Whether it’s the historical charm of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, the rugged beauty of the Royal Scotsman, or the vibrant cultures of the Eastern & Oriental Express, each journey promises an unforgettable adventure. As travelers seek experiences that combine luxury with a sense of discovery, luxury rail journeys continue to captivate and inspire, offering a timeless appeal that transcends the ordinary.
