Ask any well heeled traveller and they’ll confirm that there are trains, which simply get you from A to B, and then there are luxury trains, those lavish conveyances that whisk aficionados of slow travel through unforgettable landscapes in a homage to the golden era of rail adventure – and, as I’ve learned from personal experience, it’s hard not to fall in love with the latter.
From the towering Andes to the bucolic bliss of the United Kingdom’s Lake District, train travel has enjoyed a distinct renaissance, with travellers increasingly choosing luxury train rides as a chance to truly immerse themselves in a destination, its people, its flavours and its heritage, while embracing the finer things in life in the process.
Combining the glamour and romance of yesteryear with the modern touches of today, including Wi-Fi, panoramic views and world-class dining, the leading luxury trains offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences as well as a unique take on some of the globe’s most iconic destinations.
We take a closer look at the very best luxury train trips in the world, where they go and what indulgent experiences they offer travellers looking to slow down and soak in the sights.
The Britannic Explorer – Gateway to Britain’s Bucolic Beauty
Something that’s getting all train lovers excited, Belmond has launched The Britannic Explorer, the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales. The new train (which joins fellow UK Belmond trains the Royal Scotsman and the British Pullman) offers luxury travellers three captivating itineraries – Cornwall, the Lake District and Wales – that showcase the best of the United Kingdom.
The train boasts 18 elegant cabins across eight carriages crafted by London-based studio Albion Nord in collaboration with Luke Edward Hall, Mel Campion and Olly Fathers – think bold fabrics, earthy hues and hand-selected antiques.
Along the way, appetites will be sated by the cuisine of renowned chef Simon Rogan and executive head chef Sven-Hanson Britt, with indulgent menus designed to reflect the landscapes and flavours of the regions the train travels through.
In addition, the train has partnered with British wellbeing brand Wildsmith to create an exclusive Wellness Suite, where five wellness treatments will be on offer, the perfect respite between off-train experiences that range from coastal sailing and yoga sessions to visits to lavender farms, art classes and clay pigeon shooting.
La Dolce Vita – A New Orient Express for Europe
Europe’s newest luxury train, the creation of Accor’s Orient Express brand alongside hospitality partner Arsenale, La Dolce Vita delivers a distinctly ‘Made in Italy’ experience across its nine captivating itineraries.
Designed to allow travellers to immerse themselves in the spirit of the 1960s while exploring Italy from the comfort of the train’s 12 deluxe cabins and 19 suites (if you’re looking to splurge opt for the La Dolce Vita suite), La Dolce Vita guarantees an unforgettable adventure inspired by the artistic and cultural fervour of Italy in the 1960s.
On routes that visit the likes of Venice, Portofino and Montalcino, guests will be spoiled by a culinary team of passionate Italian chefs, and with an enviable wine list that showcases lesser-known wine belts from across the Apennine Peninsula.
The Ghan – An Immersive, Unforgettable Journey Through Australia’s Red Centre
Australia’s most iconic rail experience, The Ghan (originally known as the Afghan Express for the camel caravans that once crossed the Outback) travels 2,979 kilometres across Australia’s otherworldly Red Centre, between the cities of Adelaide in South Australia and Darwin in the Northern Territory on three-day two-night itineraries.
Along the way, travellers will have the chance to try award-winning wines in the Barossa Valley, dine under the stars and explore the mesmerising burnt orange landscapes of the Flinders Ranges and Uluru. Other activities include exploring Alice Springs’ Standley Chasm Culture Walk and the Nitmiluk Cutta Cutta Caves or taking a scenic flight from Coober Pedy to the remarkable Painted Hills.
You’ll explore the Outback in complete comfort with the recent introduction of Gold Premium service, which sits between the existing Gold and Platinum classes and which offers dedicated cabins with large beds and high-quality linens. You’ll also enjoy access to the Gold Premium Lounge, which serves a range of complimentary beverages, and Gold Premium Dining, home to elegant, multi-course, regionally inspired meals.
Also, look out for new Aurora and Australis Suites in 2026 (available on The Ghan and sister trains the Indian Pacific and Great Southern), which are twice and three times the size of a Platinum Suite, respectively. The creation of design firm Woods Bagot, the suites embody Art Deco decor and feature a separate bedroom with a queen-size bed and en-suite, a lounge, a personal bar, a writing desk and a spacious wardrobe.
Additional Suite perks include dedicated butler service, exclusive off-train experiences and access to a premium wine selection and the Platinum Club lounge and dining carriage.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – The World’s Most Iconic Train
Arguably the most famous train in the world (and my very first luxury train experience), the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a Belmond Train, resplendent in navy blue and gold, whisks guests back to the glamour of the 1920s, complete with tuxedos at dinner, stewards in bellhop caps and lobster brunches in Paris.
While the train – a faithful recreation – sacrifices some creature comforts for authenticity (there are no en-suites, for instance), it’s a small price to pay to delve into some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes – think of it like a museum that serves chilled champagne.
Always one to innovate, in addition to its usual lavish staterooms and Pullman compartments, the VSOE has welcomed L’Observatoire, a private and exclusive sleeper carriage designed by leading artist JR alongside Atelier Philippe Allemand.
Me as a young buck on my first ever luxury train trip.
A key milestone in the history of this legendary train, this new sleeper carriage (which was floated down the lagoon of Venice, as the original Étoile du Nord dining car was 43 years ago) is the most spacious accommodation on board and features a bedroom with free-standing bathtub, a lounge, a library, and even a hidden Tea Room.
It’s the perfect spot from which to embrace the best scenery in Europe, either on the VSOE’s mainstay route between Venice and Calais (a very accessible bite-sized itinerary for train newbies, with an extension onto London aboard the British Pullman), or on seasonal jaunts to Istanbul and Portofino.
Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express – Luxury Across Mother Russia
Another of my all-time favourite train journeys, the Trans-Siberian, which runs east to west across Russia, is a must for any intrepid traveller’s bucket list (perhaps not now, but certainly in the future).
However, you don’t have to do this epic journey without creature comforts. The luxurious Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express features 12 en-suite sleeper cars in three categories, the premier or which lets you live like a Tsar in one of the train’s Imperial Suites, home to a double bed, complimentary minibar, large picture windows, and 24-hour butler service.
You’ll sip Dom Pérignon as you depart Moscow’s Kazansky Station (complete with a regal Railways military band playing) bound for Vladivostok, 9,288km to the east, on a 15-day itinerary that winds its way through the cities of Kazan and Novosibirsk, along the banks of Lake Baikal, the world’s largest freshwater lake; through Ulanbaatar in Mongolia, and then back into Russia and across the Siberian steppes.
These landscapes are best enjoyed from the Golden Eagle’s two regal restaurant cars, where authentic Russian cuisine is complemented by international wines and, of course, plenty of locally-sourced vodka (which I found to be the perfect antidote to a bracing early morning dip in Lake Baikal). You’ll also enjoy guided excursions during each stop, visiting rail museums, opera houses, local homes (with time for a traditional banya), and national monuments.
The Eastern & Oriental Express – The Glory of Southeast Asia
Asia’s most beautiful rail journey has to be the glorious Eastern & Oriental Express (also operated by Belmond), which runs between Singapore and Malaysia on two four-day round-trip itineraries that capture the history and beauty of destinations like Ipoh, Penang, and Taman Negara National Park, a protected tiger reserve.
The train, which was lovingly refreshed and relaunched in late 2024, complete with elegantly new handcrafted Malaysian silks, embroidered upholstery, and handmade Thai carpets, includes opportunities to explore some of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant destinations on guided excursions to time-weathered temples, historic railway stations, national parks and vibrant markets.
Back on board, you’ll be able to dress to the nines and delve into the region’s fascinating foodscape thanks to the experienced culinary team and menus curated by Michelin-recognised chef André Chiang.
You’ll also have plenty of time for cocktails around the piano or served on the open-air observation deck, where I have enjoyed many an hour of reflection as the verdant landscapes of the Malay Peninsula race past.
The Rocky Mountaineer – North America’s Grand Dame
An icon of the Canadian Rockies, and one which has spent the past two decades taking travellers into the depths of some of North America’s most stunning scenery, The Rocky Mountaineer is always high on a train lover’s bucket list, and for good reason.
The all-daylight travel of the two-day itinerary means you don’t miss a single snow-capped mountain peak or mirror-like lake, and the train’s Gold Leaf service, which includes domed cabins and gourmet dining, offers a train experience like no other.
The Rocky Mountaineer follows three fascinating routes: Kicking Horse, the track for which was laid out over 100 years ago; Yellowhead; and Fraser Discovery, as it journeys from Vancouver to Whistler, Jasper, and Calgary.
Twilight Express Mizukaze – Japan’s Luxury Lady
Operated by Japan’s JR West rail company, the coveted Twilight Express Mizukaze departs Kyoto, Osaka, and Shimonoseki stations to explore unspoiled and rarely visited western Japan, with visits to Matsue, Izumo, and Miyajima along the way. There will also be chances for passengers to disembark and take in the natural beauty of the Sea of Japan, Mt. Daisen, and the Seto Inland Sea islands.
Based on the concept of “superior quality with a touch of nostalgia”, this contemporary luxury train (the tickets for which are so sought after they are awarded via a lottery system) has a “nostalgic modern” design that includes luxurious Art Deco lines as well as plenty of stylistic nods to Japanese culture.
With the amenities of a five-star hotel, the Twilight Express Mizukaze caters to just 30 passengers across 15 en-suite staterooms spread across six sleeper carriages.
In addition to refined accommodation, which includes picture windows, retractable beds and custom-made crafts from the Chugoku region, guests will be spoiled with gourmet meals by acclaimed Japanese chefs Yoshihiro Murata and Hajime Yoneda, who showcase the best of washoku (Japanese cuisine) using ingredients sourced from along the various routes.
Andean Explorer – Modern Luxury in the Andes
Another of my most memorable train adventures was aboard the Andean Explorer, one of the newer luxury trains and South America’s first luxury sleeper train. This sublime train, which is operated by Belmond, has made it even easier to explore the region’s stunning landscapes in style and comfort.
Catering to just 68 guests in sumptuous en-suite cabins (complete with alpaca rugs for those chilly nights and oxygen tanks for the altitude), this thoroughly modern train travels one of the highest rail routes on earth, traversing the Peruvian Andes from Cusco to Lake Titicaca and Arequipa on four one- and two-night journeys.
Along the way, travellers take in breathtaking scenery amidst interiors by Inge Moore of The Gallery HBA that take their inspiration from Peru’s hand-woven textile culture, with touches of alpaca wool and Andean slate in the staterooms (which feature double beds and en-suites) and public spaces.
After daily excursions to Cusco, Lake Titicaca, where you’ll visit the floating villages of the Uros people, and Unesco-listed Arequipa, you’ll be able to spoil your taste buds with seasonal menus created by the chefs at Belmond Hotel Monasterio, served in two elegant dining cars. Be sure to leave time, as I did nightly, for a Pisco Sour, served in the open-air observation carriage – just be sure to wrap up warm!
Train Suite Shiki-Shima – The Hero of Hokkaido
Another highly coveted luxury train in Japan is JR East’s Train Suite Shiki-Shima, which operates from Tokyo’s Ueno station and explores the northeastern region of Tohoku and into Hokkaido.
With an itinerary that includes the Nikko Toshogu Shrine in Tochigi Prefecture and the Shirakami-Sanchi mountains, the chic Shiki-Shima offers guests the chance to leave the train and venture into the surrounding countryside on insightful, guided daily excursions.
A maximum of 34 guests is accommodated in 17 lavish en-suite staterooms dressed in Japanese cypress and custom furniture. Each space combines traditional Japanese patterns and wood with Japanese washi paper, lacquers, and stones for a sophisticated atmosphere that is classical yet also modern.
Traditional crafts and pieces of artwork from eastern Japan are also applied to interior furniture and fittings within staterooms and also the train’s elegant bar car and restaurant, which showcases local produce.
Rovos Rail – The Darling of Southern Africa
If you’ve done the luxury-safari thing but haven’t yet sated your passion for Africa, Rovos Rail’s two beautifully rebuilt trains each cater to a maximum of 72 guests and travel far and wide across Southern Africa.
Treat yourself to one of the wood-paneled Edwardian-style Royal Suites, complete with a king-size bed, en-suite with Victorian bath and separate shower, and complimentary minibar.
While the train is best known for its most regular route, from Cape Town to Pretoria, each year it departs on a few special itineraries, including the epic 15-day journey between Cape Town and Dar es Salaam, which traverses South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania, with time along the way for Big Five viewing at the Madikwe Game Reserve, nights at the storied Victoria Falls Hotel, and hikes through the Great Rift Valley.
In between stops, drink in Africa’s ancient vistas from a leather wing-back chair in the train’s lavish lounge, dine on locally sourced produce in the elegant dining car, or sip sundowners in the open-air Observation Car.
Maharajas’ Express – Plying the Historic Rails of India
Regularly awarded the best train in the world, and one of my favourite trips of all time, the Maharajas’ Express is the most regal and refined of India’s many luxury train journeys (others include the Palace on Wheels and the Deccan Odyssey).
With insightful itineraries between Delhi and Mumbai and round-trip from Delhi through Rajasthan (my favourite), the 19-car train captures the beauty and color of India, with daily guided excursions and behind-the-scenes encounters at timeless temples, ancient forts, and sumptuous palaces.
The seven-day Panorama Journey is a captivating week-long epic through some of Northern India’s most beautiful landscapes and most historic trading and religious cities and includes a private dinner hosted in the grandeur of the Gwalior Palace, an evening cruise on the Ganges, and opportunities to buy gems from local artisans.
Return to a royal welcome, complete with white-gloved service, insightful regional cuisine by acclaimed chef John Stone, 24-hour butler service, and breathtaking vistas from the lavishly-appointed dining and lounge cars. Delve deeper into Rajasthan’s heritage with private guided tours and stay at some of the region’s acclaimed palace hotels after your train “epic.”
Seven Stars in Kyushu – Heritage Rides the Rails
Of course, you can’t talk about high-end rail travel in Japan without mentioning the sumptuous US$34 million Seven Stars, the train that put luxury rail travel in Japan on the map. A self-styled “cruise train”, the Seven Stars in Kyushu, operated by JR Kyushu, offers a distinctly luxurious if still rather speedy approach to exploring the island of Kyushu, famed for its volcanic peaks and hot spring traditions.
Catering to just 30 guests in 14 beautifully-appointed suites lined with indigenous wood, the Seven Stars is the original Japanese Orient Express, showcasing the very best in local craftsmanship and gastronomy, as well as the less-visited volcanic landscapes of the nation’s third-largest island.
With departures from Fukuoka, spend your days in search of rice terraces, natural hot-spring ryokans, ornamental tea houses, and volcanic peaks, or soak in the beauty of the island landscapes from the intimacy of the Blue Moon lounge or the Jupiter Dining Car, home to delicate Kyushu cuisine. Like other JR Rail trains, reservations are upon application.
El Transcantabrico – Showcasing the Best of Spain
Traversing the Atlantic coast of Spain, a fertile region known as España Verde, the El Transcantabrico offers a unique and luxurious take on ‘Green Spain’ and its vibrant hinterland using beautifully preserved railway carriages, some dating from 1923.
All cabins feature high-quality linens, hardwood paneling, picture windows, and spacious bathrooms; for a real indulgence, opt for space and luxury with a Gran Lujo Deluxe suite, which boasts a private lounge, steam shower, and hydro-sauna.
Traveling from Galicia to the Bay of Biscay via San Sebastián, the El Transcantabrico opens up one of Spain’s most important centers of gastronomy, with opportunities for guests to visit local restaurants, wineries, and artisanal producers along the way.
The Royal Scotsman – Luxury in the Highlands
If there was any train adventure that should be on your travel radar, it should be Belmond’s Royal Scotsman, which is as intimate a luxury train journey as you can find, catering to just 36 lucky souls.
Between daily excursions to castles, distilleries, and hamlets during multi-day forays into the Scottish Highlands and coastal corners, guests can view the passing lochs and towering peaks from the comfort of their private cabin or from the popular Edwardian observation car.
Each night, gourmet meals are served in a candle-lit dining room, followed by whisky tastings and storytelling.
Alternate formal nights are a chance to dress up and celebrate and with the train stabled at night, guests are guaranteed a good night’s rest. Also, be sure to leave time for a spot of pampering in the train’s Dior Spa carriage.
The train offers a range of itineraries to Scotland’s west, north, and highlands, including a seven-night Grand Tour – also look out for one-off specialist itineraries that focus on history, food or whisky.