The 12 Luxury Train Rides That Travelers Are Sure To Love

Imagine being cocooned in a moving palace, where every turn reveals panoramic views that could grace the pages of any travel magazine. Luxurious train rides whisk you away on a journey where elegance meets adventure. These rolling retreats are not just about getting from point A to B; they are a showcase of unparalleled comfort and style. 

Luxury trains redefine travel with their opulent interiors, featuring plush seating, fine linens, and often, private suites akin to five-star hotel rooms. Onboard gourmet dining is a given, with chefs serving exquisite meals that reflect the regions the train traverses. 

The allure extends beyond mere comfort. These journeys are supplemented with exclusive stops and private tours, allowing passengers to delve into the heart of each destination’s culture and history without the usual hassles of travel. The service is impeccable. Every need is anticipated and catered to by attentive staff, making you feel like royalty.

This mode of travel isn’t just about luxury; it’s about an experience. It’s an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and see the world through a lens of splendor and serenity.

Luxury Train Rides

British Pullman, England

Embark on a timeless journey through the British countryside aboard the iconic British Pullman. Stepping into its vintage carriages is like traveling back in time to the glamorous 1920s.

Each carriage, beautifully restored, tells its own story, having hosted royalty and dignitaries, and even serving on historic routes like the Golden Arrow and Brighton Belle. From the plush seating adorned with intricate marquetry to the gleaming brass fixtures, every detail evokes the opulence of a bygone era.

Your adventure begins at London’s Victoria Station, where a private lounge awaits you before boarding. As the train rolls through stunning landscapes, indulge in silver service dining.

Sumptuous meals, paired with fine wines, are served on tables set with crisp linens and sparkling crystal, ensuring a dining experience as spectacular as the views from your window. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an escape from the mundane, the British Pullman offers a journey steeped in luxury and history.

The Canadian, Canada

Board The Canadian for an unforgettable journey from Toronto to Vancouver. This luxury train ride offers a nostalgic experience with modern comforts. The trip spans 4,466 kilometers, crossing five provinces. You’ll travel through the scenic Canadian Rockies, the vast prairies, and vibrant cities like Winnipeg and Jasper.

Prestige Class offers spacious cabins with large windows, personalized concierge service, and gourmet meals. Enjoy panoramic views from the glass-dome observation cars or relax in the exclusive Prestige Park Car.

Onboard chefs prepare meals using fresh, local ingredients, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Activities include wine tastings and interactive talks on local history.

Maharajas’ Express, India

The Maharajas’ Express redefines luxury rail travel, offering a glimpse into India’s rich cultural tapestry and opulent history through its elaborate journeys. Launched in 2010, this train is famed for its meticulous attention to detail and service that caters comprehensively to the needs of its passengers.

Guests can choose from several itineraries that cover various historic and picturesque regions of India, including Rajasthan and the famous Golden Triangle. Each journey on the Maharajas’ Express is an immersive experience featuring cultural performances, guided tours, and gourmet dining, with meals accompanied by a selection of fine wines, beers, and spirits.

The train’s lavish accommodations range from deluxe cabins to the opulent Presidential Suite, which spans an entire carriage and includes features like a private sitting and dining area, spacious bathrooms with bathtubs, and luxurious interiors that reflect the grandeur of India’s royal past.

Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan

Explore Japan’s picturesque Kyushu island on the luxurious Seven Stars train, renowned for its blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern comfort. The train’s design features woodwork from local artisans and windows perfectly framing the scenic landscapes of Kyushu—from misty mountains to vibrant cities and serene countryside.

The journey on the Seven Stars is an immersive experience that goes beyond mere travel. Guests can indulge in the finest Japanese cuisine, with dishes prepared using fresh local ingredients, reflecting the regions the train travels through.

The attentive service and exquisite onboard accommodations ensure a relaxing and luxurious voyage. Each suite is a private retreat, offering elegant bedding and spacious seating areas, making it an ideal setting to unwind after a day of exploration.

The Seven Stars offers various itineraries that include stops at cultural sites, hot springs, and artisan workshops, providing guests with exclusive insights into the heritage and natural beauty of Kyushu.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

Travel across Europe in the epitome of luxury on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This legendary train, with its restored 1920s carriages, transports you to the golden age of rail travel. The journey offers a unique blend of timeless glamour and contemporary luxury, highlighted by polished wood, sumptuous upholstery, and antique fixtures.

The train’s route covers some of Europe’s most enchanting cities, from Paris to Istanbul, passing through rolling hillsides, quaint villages, and historic landmarks. Onboard, passengers enjoy world-class cuisine prepared by skilled chefs, with meals served in one of the three ornately decorated dining cars, each with its own unique ambiance.

Adding to the experience are the train’s famous bar car and the Champagne bar, where guests can enjoy live piano music and a selection of fine spirits. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is not just a train ride; it’s an unforgettable voyage that offers a glimpse into the romance and adventure of the past.

Royal Scotsman, Scotland

Embark on a majestic journey through the Scottish highlands aboard the Royal Scotsman. This train offers an intimate experience, accommodating just 36 guests, which allows for impeccable service and an atmosphere of exclusive comfort. As you travel through mist-covered lochs and deep green glens, you’ll be treated to the sights of Scotland’s rugged natural beauty from the observation car, designed to offer panoramic views.

The Royal Scotsman is famed not just for its scenery but also for its on-board experiences. Enjoy traditional Scottish cuisine, a variety of whiskies, and the chance to participate in unique activities like clay pigeon shooting or Highland safaris. The train’s cabins are the epitome of classic elegance, with rich wooden paneling and luxurious tartan fabrics, reflecting the spirit of Scotland.

The Presidential Train, Portugal

Step aboard The Presidential Train for a journey through the picturesque Douro Valley in Portugal. This historic train, originally built in the 19th century for Portuguese royalty, has been meticulously restored to offer a luxurious travel experience. The Presidential Train runs from Porto to Quinta do Vesuvio, one of the most famous wine estates in the region.

The journey includes a gourmet lunch prepared by a rotating roster of Michelin-starred chefs, making it a gastronomic delight. Passengers can enjoy the scenic views of the Douro Valley’s terraced vineyards and the tranquil river from the comfort of vintage carriages.

The train’s elegant dining cars and bar provide a sophisticated setting to savor fine wines and exceptional cuisine. With its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, The Presidential Train offers a truly unique luxury travel experience.

Rockies to the Red Rocks, Colorado and Utah

Rockies to the Red Rocks offers a spectacular two-day journey between Denver, Colorado, and Moab, Utah. This train ride showcases the stunning landscapes of the American Southwest, including the towering Rockies and the red rock formations of Utah. The train features large panoramic windows, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking views.

GoldLeaf Service provides an elevated experience with bi-level dome coaches, gourmet meals, and complimentary beverages. Enjoy freshly prepared meals inspired by regional cuisine, served in a spacious dining area. The journey includes overnight stays in luxury hotels, ensuring a restful experience.

Andean Explorer, Peru

Travel through the breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian Andes on the Andean Explorer, South America’s first luxury sleeper train. This train takes you on a voyage through some of Peru’s most enchanting scenery, from Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, to the reflective waters of Lake Titicaca, and down to the volcanic city of Arequipa.

The Andean Explorer is designed to offer comfort and elegance, featuring hand-woven fabrics and soft, alpaca-style textures that echo the Andean culture. The train includes a spa car, an observation car with an open deck, and dining cars that serve local cuisine crafted from regional ingredients.

As you journey through the high Andes, each curve of the track and every meal shared onboard enhances the magic of your Peruvian adventure.

The Ghan, Australia

Embark on an epic journey across Australia aboard The Ghan, one of the world’s greatest rail adventures. This legendary train travels from Adelaide to Darwin, offering a spectacular way to experience the vast and varied landscapes of Australia. The Ghan is named after the Afghan camel drivers who once traversed this route, and the train honors their pioneering spirit.

The Ghan offers various itineraries, including the “Ghan Expedition,” a four-day journey that includes off-train excursions to iconic locations like Alice Springs and Katherine Gorge. Passengers enjoy luxurious accommodations in Platinum and Gold Service cabins, featuring en-suite bathrooms and panoramic windows.

Gourmet meals showcasing regional produce are served in the elegant Queen Adelaide Restaurant, and the Outback Explorer Lounge provides a perfect spot to relax and mingle.

The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, Spain

Experience luxury on rails with The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo in Spain. This elegant train journey takes you through the lush landscapes of northern Spain, from San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela.

The train’s vintage carriages are fitted with modern amenities, providing a blend of old-world charm and contemporary comfort. Passengers enjoy gourmet dining with regional specialties and fine wines.

The journey includes guided tours of historic towns, cathedrals, and picturesque villages. Onboard, relax in your luxurious suite or socialize in the lounge cars. Each suite features en-suite bathrooms, a minibar, and a comfortable seating area.

Rovos Rail, South Africa

Step aboard the Rovos Rail, often referred to as the most luxurious train in the world, for an unparalleled journey through the heart of South Africa. Known for its vintage charm and opulent service, each journey on the Rovos Rail offers a glimpse into the golden age of rail travel.

Whether you choose a short trip or a comprehensive 15-night adventure, you’ll experience diverse landscapes from the comfort of your plush suite. The train’s interiors boast authentic Edwardian elegance, complete with wood-paneling and period decorations, complemented by modern amenities like air conditioning and en suite bathrooms.

Your culinary journey will be just as scenic, with meals that showcase South Africa’s rich gastronomic heritage paired expertly with local wines. The train’s leisurely pace ensures you enjoy every view, whether you’re crossing the arid Karoo or navigating the lush winelands. The hallmark of Rovos Rail is its attention to detail and personalized service, ensuring a memorable luxury travel experience.

Final Thoughts

Luxury train travel offers an exquisite blend of comfort, culture, and scenic splendor, providing a unique vantage point from which to view some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes and historical sites.

Whether you’re crossing the vast expanses of Australia on The Ghan or exploring India’s regal history aboard the Maharajas’ Express, each journey promises more than just travel—it offers a gateway to a richer, deeper understanding of the destinations.