There’s always been an inherent romance, adventure and sense of discovery riding the rails. However, if you’re interested in something luxurious and more memorable than this, these luxury trains take your journey to a world of sophistication, gourmet dining, and pure comfort.
Around the world, luxury trains provide travellers with a form of passage that is not just transportation but an experience of history, culture and stunning landscapes, all of which become part of the adventure. And while the world of luxury travel may change, our mission remains the same: to share these transformative journeys, delivering not just amazing first-person experiences, but tips from experts who guide others through such excursions, whether they arrive on newsstands, are read by our supporters online, or inspire you to write for us travel and share your own unforgettable adventures.
To inspire you, we delve into the world of luxury and detail a selection of the best train journeys that every wanderlust should undertake.
1. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – Europe
There are few trains as iconic as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, which has held its passengers in awe for generations. Few trains are as iconic as this one, which crosses Europe, connecting cities such as London and Venice while still evoking the glamour of the 1920s and 1930s. It has art deco décor, polished wood panelling and soft seating that hark back to a bygone era. Those aboard will have the chance to dine on gourmet meals prepared by top chefs and complemented with fine wines, as well as watch Europe’s stunning landscapes pass by. It’s an ideal trip for those who appreciate a bit of history, luxury and continental charm.
2. The Maharajas’ Express – India
The Maharajas’ Express. Nothing can be more luxurious than India to those who are hungry for a royal journey on wheels! The “palace on wheels,” this train showcases India’s incredibly rich cultural past with its magnificent cabins, stunning lounges and delightful Indian fare. When traveling to places like Jaipur, Agra and Varanasi, tourists are shown stunning palaces, ancient forts and the painted Taj Mahal. It’s more than just a comfortable ride, there are curated excursions and cultural performances on the train so while the journey is undeniably beautiful, it’s also incredibly immersive. So for the traveller with luxury in mind and looking to experience all that India’s past has to offer, look no further than the Maharajas’ Express.
3. The Rocky Mountaineer – Canada
Traveling through the Canadian Rockies is a dream for many outdoor enthusiasts and with the Rocky Mountaineer that dream can be lived. Best known for its glass-domed coaches, the train affords riders with many opportunities to fill their eyes with views of mountains, glaciers and turquoise lakes. Unlike conventional train travel, the Rocky Mountaineer runs during the daytime only so passengers never miss a moment of this awe-inspiring scenery that can’t be seen from cars. Plated gourmet dining and personal service complete the indulgent experience. This journey is great for the adventurous nature lover.
4. Belmond Andean Explorer – Peru
South America boasts some of the world’s most thrilling vistas, and the Belmond Andean Explorer provides a luxurious way to see them. As South America’s most opulent sleeper train, it traverses the Andes linking Cusco, Puno and Arequipa. Skirting snowcapped mountains, the Hours-like almighty-arm-days limbs of vast altiplanos and glittering lakes, passengers can take in all this from their elegant solarium-protected cabins. Fine dining with Peruvian cuisine and cultural entertainment are all part of the journey. This train ride is perfect for passengers who wish to experience something truly luxurious while marvelling at the wonder of the Andes.
5. The Blue Train – South Africa
The South African Blue Train is a byword for elegance and luxury. Connecting Pretoria and Cape Town, it provides travellers with a peek at South Africa’s variety of landscapes: from rolling vineyards to dramatic mountains. The suites on the train are the equivalent of five-star hotel rooms, with comfortable beds, en suite bathrooms and personal attendants. On-board dining focuses on gourmet fare complemented by local wines, and excursions introduce travellers to the wildlife, history, and culture of the country. The Blue Train is ideal for a lavish African experience.
6. Eastern & Oriental Express – Southeast Asia
The Eastern & Oriental Express offers luxury train travel in Southeast Asia, linking Bangkok, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. This is a train that brings together colonial style with modern conveniences and promises an elegant experience. Passengers can also take in the sights of tropical scenery, green jungles and peaceful rivers along the way. Sure to be a feast that mirrors the tastes of Southeast Asia, top-notch chefs onboard prepare regional dishes. Perfect for globe trekkers who love style and have an appetite for the rich cultural traditions and landscapes in this part of India.
7. The Royal Scotsman – Scotland
For a quintessentially British luxury experience, hop on the Royal Scotsman for an intimate way to explore Scotland’s highlands. The train offers a limited number of opulent cabins giving personalised service and privacy. Travellers can tuck into classic Scottish dishes, fine wines and whiskey tastings or take in the rugged countryside, ancient castles and tranquil lochs. And with the option to take guided tours of historic country estates and whisky distilleries, the Royal Scotsman combines breathtaking scenery, culture and luxury in one unmissable trip.
8. The Ghan – Australia
The best way to take in the sweeping panoramas of Australia is from the luxury of a Ghan train journey, which connects Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north. Traversing the desert, the mountains and even a tropical area on its 4,000-mile journey, this train ride provides a view of the country’s varied beauty that few other tours can match. With sumptuous cabins, superb service and excellent cuisine, it’s an exquisite way to travel long haul. Detours along the journey offer passengers the chance to visit famous landmarks, including Alice Springs and Katherine Gorge. Great for those who want to experience an adventure across Australia with a bit of luxury, the Ghan is among the best special experiences in Australia.
9. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – Special European Routes
Though Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is already on the list, please note its seasonal and special routes make it a unique European experience. The routes go through Switzerland, Germany and Italy, where passengers can see snow-covered Alps, charming villages and riverside scenes. The blend of historical legacy, fun dining and dramatic views all add up to make an experience that cannot be beat, whether one is an enthusiast for trains or simply luxury travel.
Why Choose Luxury Train Travel?
Luxury train travel is not transportation; it’s an experience for all the senses. The passengers are treated with unparalleled luxury – sumptuous cabins, attentive service and gourmet food. More than just luxury, such voyages offer an experience of landscapes, buildings and culture in a way that can’t be experienced by air travel. Whether you opt for the snow-dusted Canadian Rockies, the deserts of Australia or the palaces of India, travelling by luxury train provides a slow-paced, contemplative and indulgent experience to see the world.
Tips for Booking Luxury Train Journeys
- Plan for Reservations: The luxurious trains are usually booked several months prior to departure, particularly during peak season.
- Peek at Seasonal Schedules: You can only take some trips in certain seasons to ensure beautiful views.
- Think About Cabin Choices: Select your cabins according to how much space you want, the views and what types of amenities exist.
- Review Excursions: Stops are often milked for guided tours, which can add to the overall enjoyment.
If you plan well, luxury train travel doesn’t have to break the bank.
Conclusion
Travelling by luxury train is a heady blend of adventure, culture and pampering. These itineraries are designed to give IRT travellers all the wonder and romance of Old World travel, while delivering them in contemporary comfort and ease. And every train has its own personality, history and allure that guarantee not just a journey but memories to last a lifetime. For an enthusiastic traveller, a luxury train trip is the one thing for the bucket list and is almost a level of travel on another level.