Imagine a world where the journey is as luxurious as the destination. Luxury trains offer an unparalleled travel experience, blending opulence with adventure. From the rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands to the vast plains of Africa, these extraordinary modes of transport promise unforgettable journeys. Join us as we explore the world’s most coveted rail routes and the opulent trains that traverse them.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE), Europe
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) remains one of the most glamorous trains in the world, famous for its restored Art Deco navy-and-gold carriages and old-world elegance. Its six Grand Suites feature unique city-inspired décor, private marble ensuite bathrooms, 24-hour butler service, and free-flowing Champagne. Historic Cabins maintain the vintage luxury feel that made the Orient Express legendary, while newer Suites and Grand Suites add modern comforts without losing the train’s timeless charm.
Rovos Rail Pride of Africa, Africa
Fine teak paneling and 1920s period furnishings adorn this train offering a touch of old-world elegance. Tradition meets modernity with stout writing surfaces and personal safes in all suites, as well as USB ports and ensuite bathrooms with hot showers and hair dryers. Best of all, there are plenty of windows to view the African landscape during your trip.
Golden Eagle, Asia & Central Asia
Experience luxury rail travel inspired by the legendary Trans-Siberian journeys aboard the Golden Eagle. While the company no longer operates routes through Russia, it now focuses on spectacular Silk Road and Central Asian itineraries. Imperial Suites feature king-size beds, heated floors, air conditioning, large picture windows, and ensuite bathrooms with showers. Complimentary drinks, in-cabin dining, and attentive service complete the high-end experience while travelers explore some of the world’s most historic rail routes.
Deccan Odyssey, Asia
The Indian subcontinent’s most luxurious train, The Deccan Odyssey has spacious private cabins, lounges, and what is described as the most incredible food. However, the gem of this train is the spectacular spa car. You can see India’s western and southern coasts or enjoy Rajasthan, depending on which trip you decide to take.
Belmond Royal Scotsman, Europe
The Belmond Royal Scotsman has just added two new Grand Suites and can now only accommodate 36 passengers. This level of exclusivity allows the Belmond Royal Scotsman to offer a Dior Spa car, five-star dining, and superior service in a more intimate luxury setting.
Golden Eagle, Asia, Europe
Experience the trans-Siberian route in complete style on one of the world’s top luxury trains. Imperial suites are 120 sq ft and have a king-size bed, air conditioning, heated floors, and an ensuite bathroom with shower. Complimentary drinks, laundry service, and in-cabin dining are also part of the package along with two large picture windows to enjoy the Russian scenery.
El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, Europe
El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo is a very exclusive train that only allows for 28 passengers to enjoy the trip from Santiago to San Sebastián. Their dining and bar cars have live music and entertainment as well as fine wines and fresh ingredients that make meals special while you enjoy a panoramic view from the lounge car.
Eastern & Oriental Express, Asia
Running through Singapore and Malaysia, the Eastern & Oriental Express (E&O) continues to rank among the world’s most beautiful luxury trains. Its polished wood interiors, elegant cabins, fine dining, and open-air observation car create an unforgettable Southeast Asian rail experience. The train recently returned with refreshed itineraries focused on Malaysia’s jungles, coastal cities, and culinary experiences, including chef-led dining and curated excursions.
Belmond Andean Explorer, South America
The first overnight luxury train in South America is the Belmond Andean Explorer and its services are as high-end and beautiful as the train itself. It takes passengers through the Andes, with its soaring snowy peaks and wild, mountainous landscape. Suite cabins include a small seating area, a king-size bed, and an ensuite bathroom.
Shangri-La Express, Asia
Once known as the China Orient Express, the Shangri-La Express is the best and most modern train to see all China has to offer, even if it technically doesn’t fall into the luxury category. Carrying up to 100 passengers, premiere cabins are 75 sq ft and offer a writing desk, double bed, and ensuite bathroom facilities.
Al-Andalus, Europe
Al-Andalus is known for its Art Deco style, outstanding cuisine, and superb service. It has a bar, two dining cars, a tea room, and is all newly renovated. Passengers consider taking this opulent, luxurious train a once-in-a-lifetime chance to truly enjoy Southern Spain.
Belmond Hiram Bingham, South America
From the folks who brought you the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, comes the gleaming blue-and-gold Belmond Hiram Bingham that takes high-end clients from Cusco to Machu Picchu. For the discerning traveler, it offers delicious Peruvian specialties, a gorgeous bar/observation car, and an outdoor platform with live music.
The Ghan, Australia & New Zealand
Travel from Adelaide to Darwin aboard The Ghan in luxurious Platinum Class cabins featuring Tasmanian Myrtle wood finishes, ensuite bathrooms, panoramic windows, and lounge seating that converts into sleeping accommodations. Dining showcases regional Australian ingredients through multi-course meals and premium wine selections. The journey through Australia’s dramatic Outback remains one of the world’s most iconic rail adventures.
Indian Pacific, Australia
Travel from Perth to Sydney on Australia’s famous transcontinental Indian Pacific railway. One highlight is the crossing of the Nullarbor Plain, home to the world’s longest stretch of straight railway track at roughly 297 miles. Service mirrors the upscale experience found aboard The Ghan, with gourmet dining, stylish cabins, and memorable off-train excursions across the Australian landscape.
Rocky Mountaineer, North America
One of the few North American trains to make it onto this kind of list, the Rocky Mountaineer, runs routes in the Canadian Rockies. Take in the spectacular views from air-conditioned, bi-level dome coaches with full-length dome windows. `Premium ticket holders have access to large open-air observation decks and gourmet dining services.
The Canadian, North America
Travel between Toronto and Vancouver on VIA Rail Canada’s flagship train, The Canadian. Its shiny silver cars and luxurious service harken back to the golden age of trains in North America, still delighting Canadian riders today. Prestige class offers many amenities including free drinks, concierge service, and turn-down service.
Belmond British Pullman, Europe
Travelers looking for a traditional luxury day experience can ride the Belmond British Pullman for a true vintage train experience. Its trips are usually day trips or weekend excursions with traditional themes like historic houses, gardens, and even Christmas. All of the cars are restored from the early 20th century and feature an elegant cream and burnt umber livery.
Maharajas’ Express, Asia
Custom-built, the Maharajas’ Express is India’s most luxurious train. In every cabin, you can expect LCD TVs, super-sized large windows, temperature controls, and full wifi access. The train also has the largest single suite of any train in the world, The Presidential Suite which takes up an entire train car!
Kyushu Seven Stars, Asia
Kyushu Seven Stars is Japan’s first luxury train and has been so in demand it sells tickets through a lottery system. It has both Japanese and Western elements to provide the world’s most luxurious and state-of-the-art experience. Each of the fourteen guest rooms is unique with some offering an enormous picture window to view the scenery.
GoldenPass Express, Europe
The GoldenPass Express carries travelers through some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking scenery between Montreux and Interlaken. Panoramic windows provide incredible alpine views as the train passes lakes, vineyards, and mountain villages. The route combines modern comfort with one of Europe’s most scenic railway experiences, making it a favorite among luxury rail travelers.
Britannic Explorer, Europe
Launching new luxury sleeper journeys across England and Wales, the Britannic Explorer is one of the newest additions to Europe’s luxury rail scene. Operated by Belmond, the train combines contemporary British design with fine dining, wellness experiences, and scenic countryside routes through Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales. The launch signals a major revival of luxury overnight rail travel in the UK.
Luxury Train Travel Feels So Magical
Luxury train travel offers something modern vacations often struggle to provide: the chance to slow down and fully enjoy the journey itself. From panoramic mountain views and elegant dining cars to private suites and timeless service, these rail experiences transform transportation into an unforgettable part of the adventure. Whether crossing the Scottish Highlands, the Australian Outback, or the Andes, the world’s top luxury trains prove that travel can still feel glamorous, immersive, and deeply memorable.
For more travel tips and hacks, visit our website and explore our resources to enhance your next adventure.
More from Travel Reveal: