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
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) has signature vintage Art Deco navy and gold cars and a stunning snowy white roof. There are six grand suites with unique theme decor, guaranteed dining time, and free-flowing Champagne. Even regular suites on this train come with an ensuite bathroom and shower, a kimono, slippers, and bath amenities.
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 Danube Express, Europe
If you are looking for the best sleeping accommodations offered on rails, look no further than the Golden Eagle Danube Express. There are seven sleeping cars, all with air conditioning, upgraded amenities, and attendants to make the beds and bring you a morning coffee or tea upon request.
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 Lujois 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 between Singapore, Malaysia, and Bangkok for more than 30 years, the Eastern & Oriental Express (E&O) is considered one of the most beautiful trains in the world. Exquisite dining and unique off-train excursions enhance this exceptional experience.
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 in The Ghan’s 82.5 sq ft platinum class cabins. They feature a Tasmanian Myrtle wood finish, ensuite bathrooms with shower, a daytime lounge area, and an oversized panoramic window. Dining includes local, seasonal ingredients in a two-course lunch and a three-course dinner.
Indian Pacific, Australia & New Zealand
Travel from Perth to Sydney on Australia’s transcontinental Indian Pacific. The nearly 300 miles across the Nullarbor Plain make up the longest straight rail track in the world. Its service is quite similar to the elite service that you expect on The Ghan and it also includes off-train excursions.
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.
Golden Pass Panoramic Express, Europe
The Golden Pass Panoramic Express connects the Montreux–Oberland Bernois (one of Switzerland’s oldest electric railways) to the Bern Lötschberg-Simplon railway. It carries passengers in first and second class through spectacular views from oversized windows through the most scenic railway journey to the shores of Lake Lucerne.
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