Planes get you there quickly, but trains remind you why you’re going. They make every hour better than the last. And if yours is a luxurious rail, the journey gets a thousand times better. These 20 routes turn what could have been ordinary commutes into memory-making adventures. Ready to enjoy the journey? Let’s begin.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
A polished shoe on mosaic tile and the clink of silver cutlery, this isn’t your usual train ride. This is timeless luxury dressed in Art Deco. Running routes between Paris, Venice, and Istanbul, the train captures the golden age of travel without feeling stuck in the past.
The Ghan, Australia
It’s like a five-star hotel hitched a ride through the desert. The Ghan glides from Darwin to Adelaide past rust-colored cliffs and skies so wide they make your phone feel useless. It’s one of the few rides where looking out the window never gets old.
Deccan Odyssey, India
With bold colors and corridors fit for a maharaja, the Deccan Odyssey winds through India’s diverse beauty via six different routes across the country. From Mumbai to Jaipur or Goa, this train includes spa treatments and a culinary journey as rich as the destinations themselves.
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Imagine riding inside a snow globe, only it’s real, and it serves gourmet lunches. As the Rocky Mountaineer rolls through, you’ll get breathtaking views of Canada. Expect huge peaks and maybe a bear doing its thing just off the tracks. There’s just no better window seat.
Maharajas’ Express, India
Luxury and color spill out like marigolds at a wedding. Nicknamed the “Orient Express of the East,” this train knows how to make an entrance. Running four routes between Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur, it’s all royal treatment and enough Bollywood sparkle to make you smile.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
Some trains are fast. This one takes its time. Known as the slowest express train in the world, the Glacier Express makes every alpine mile feel like a cinematic moment. Between Zermatt and St. Moritz, it crosses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels to bring views that belong in art galleries.
Rovos Rail, South Africa
A classic carriage whistles past acacia trees. Inside, it’s all wood paneling and slow sips of South African wine. Rovos Rail revives colonial-era glamour as it sweeps across open savannas. From Pretoria to Cape Town, the journey is stately and softly lit by afternoon sun.
Belmond Royal Scotsman, Scotland
Thistle and the thrum of bagpipes greet passengers like an old friend’s welcome. Onboard, the Royal Scotsman wraps you in comfort as it snakes past lochs and castles. With spa cars and Highland excursions, this is a retreat where the bar cart might know your name.
Eastern & Oriental Express, Asia
Green shutters and tropical cocktails on white linen say one thing: Southeast Asia knows how to charm. Back on track after a pause, this train winds between Singapore and Malaysia in sheer elegance. Think jasmine-scented nights and glimpses of rainforests thick as stories.
Bergen Railway, Norway
This ride feels like flipping through a Nordic photo book; only the pages are moving. The Bergen Railway crosses snowy plateaus and mirrored fjords between Oslo and Bergen. It’s not flashy, but the quiet elegance and moody views make it feel like Scandinavia’s best-kept luxury secret.
Andean Explorer, Peru
Sipping coca tea as llamas wander past snow-capped peaks? That’s just a normal day on the Andean Explorer. This train glides from Cusco to Lake Titicaca to pair soft beds and Andean cuisine with views that are dreamy. It’s like a five-star hotel that fell in love with panpipes.
Seven Stars In Kyushu, Japan
This is a moving ryokan. With only 14 suites, Seven Stars in Kyushu offers a sense of privacy and deep cultural respect. Wooden interiors glow like lantern light. Passengers dine on seasonal dishes while volcanoes and seaside cliffs roll by. A refined and unmistakably Japanese experience!
Hiram Bingham, Peru
It begins with orchids and quiet luxury. The Hiram Bingham moves through the Andes with its gold-finished features and effortless service. Between courses of Peruvian cuisine and cocktails from the bar, you forget the altitude. You just notice the view and how first-class the whole ride feels.
Al Andalus, Spain
Al Andalus is a luxury train that travels through Spain’s Andalusian region, connecting cities such as Seville, Cordoba, and Granada. The train features Belle Epoque–style interiors with velvet seats and elegant dining options. It’s a comfortable way to experience southern Spain’s architecture and scenery without the rush.
Canadian By VIA Rail, Canada
Running between Toronto and Vancouver, the Canadian offers a scenic experience across the region. Its Prestige Class cabins include personal concierge service and leather seating designed for maximum comfort. Outside, dense pine forests and a constantly changing backdrop make it an exciting journey.
Palace On Wheels, India
The Palace on Wheels, originally designed for Indian royalty, offers a luxurious rail experience through Rajasthan. With interiors that feature rich fabrics and formal dining, it complements the royal atmosphere and historic routes. Guests often find the experience too attractive to sleep through.
Blue Train, South Africa
Running between Pretoria and Cape Town, the Blue Train gives you a high-end travel experience with full-service suites and panoramic views of South Africa’s diverse attractions. Its interiors include private bathtubs and lounge cars where guests enjoy drinks and highly attentive service.
Shiki-Shima, Japan
Perks of a five-star spa and a Japanese teahouse! Shiki-Shima, with its glowing wood and peaceful vibes, is operated by the East Japan Railway Company. There are six sleeping cars in this 10-coach train that offers various itineraries across Japan depending on the season.
Costa Verde Express, Spain
This isn’t your typical tourist route through Spain. Costa Verde Express rides along the country’s lush northern coast to blend coastal charm with aristocratic style. Expect grand saloons and the gentle rhythm of a train that values scenery and style in equal measure.
Royal Rajasthan On Wheels, India
In this luxury rail, you journey through India’s most iconic destinations, including Udaipur, Jodhpur, and the Taj Mahal. Inside, guests enjoy sophisticated suites and dedicated, personalized service. It’s a high-end way to explore India’s royal history without sacrificing comfort.
