Some journeys change your location, others change how you feel. Luxury trains offer more than butler service; they give your senses room to wander and your mind space to land softly. Onboard, the destination becomes just one part of the pleasure. Let’s explore 10 train travel experiences that make the ride more rewarding than the destination.
Royal Scotsman: Highland Elegance On Rails
Ever dream of sipping whisky with a Highland breeze and a view of ancient castles? The Royal Scotsman includes more than tartan and bagpipes—it’s luxury on wheels. With a dedicated spa cabin and chefs crafting exquisite venison dishes, this train rolls through Scotland in effortless style and sophistication.
Rocky Mountaineer: Canada’s Jewel-Tone Rails
Winding through Western Canada, this glass-domed train offers immersive mountain views and storytelling service. Guests relax in reclining seats while chefs prep locally sourced meals in motion. It’s scenic, yes—but what sets it apart is how effortlessly it balances panoramic drama with absolute ease.
Glacier Express: Slow And Swiss By Design
This picturesque alpine route takes you from Zermatt to St. Moritz, featuring 291 bridges and 91 tunnels along the way. The minimalist design of the train complements the stunning scenery, with each curve unveiling another snow-covered peak. Inside, the atmosphere is calm and peaceful, perfect for a relaxed, scenic ride.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Europe’s Rolling Royalty
Clutch your espresso tighter, those mahogany-lined corridors and blue-and-gold carriages aren’t just charming, they’re part of travel history. Expect white-glove service and the glamour that airports once offered. This train ride is a revival of the Golden Age, stretched between London and Venice.
Palace On Wheels: Royal India In Transit
Before you even step on board, the live music sets a royal tone. This heritage train takes you through Jaipur, Udaipur, and Agra with coaches that reflect India’s regal history. Gold-trimmed furnishings and attentive service make you feel less like a tourist and more like a guest of honor.
The Ghan: Crossing Australia’s Artery
The Ghan is a 1,850-mile train journey from Darwin to Adelaide, crossing through Australia’s diverse landscapes. It provides passengers with a unique view of desert biomes and geological features. The trip includes meals like barramundi and offers comfortable Platinum cabins designed to help maintain your circadian rhythm.
Belmond Andean Explorer: Peru’s Sky-High Stunner
At over 14,000 feet, breath and time both seem to slow. You’re not just ascending; you’re entering a suspended world. Inside, alpaca-wrapped lounges and live piano drift between Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Arequipa. This ride is a unique way to experience the breathtaking altitude.
Maharajas’ Express: Opulence On Overdrive
Luxury isn’t about excess. It’s about knowing someone else made your bed and remembered your chai preference. The Maharajas’ Express gives you all that and more—while tiger reserves and temples pass your window. Here, indulgence stops being an event and starts feeling natural.
Blue Train: South Africa’s Glamorous Ride
Ever taken a nap so good it felt like therapy? Now imagine that nap happening in a bed softer than your future, rolling past diamond towns and desert plains. Blending comfort with stunning views, the Blue Train also features a thoughtfully curated wine list to complement your journey.
Eastern & Oriental Express: Tropical Poise In Motion
This colonial-era train smoothly glides through Singapore and Malaysia, blending style with the region’s tropical climate. Featuring open-air observation decks and curry that rivals the best homemade recipes, it offers a one-of-a-kind, scenic adventure through the heart of Southeast Asia.
