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The most luxurious train rides in the U.S.

Comfy seats and champagne service: these luxury train rides will make you feel spoiled!

Photograph: Michelle Park/Alaska Railroad

A luxury train ride makes you feel like you’re in a movie—like any second now, as you recline on velvet upholstery, a spy in evening wear is going to approach you and challenge you to a game of poker in the gaming car. But you’ll decline and keep sipping your champagne as mountains rush past the windows. Maybe it won’t happen exactly that way, but a ride on a train focused on delivering luxury is a special thing indeed. The destination doesn’t matter—you’re just relaxing as you gently sway back and forth with the rhythm of the rails. We’ve gathered up some of the rail journeys we love right here in the U.S. Book your ticket and prepare to be awed.

RECOMMENDED: 13 weird and funky train rides to experience across America

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best luxury train rides in the U.S.

1.  rocky mountaineer | the canadian rockies and beyond.

This is swoon-worthy stuff. The Rocky Mountaineer goes through some of the most spectacular landscape there is, and you can see it all through the glass dome coaches with oversized windows. You’ll be fed locally-inspired cuisine at your seat or go to a gourmet à la carte meal in the dining car, depending on whether you choose gold or silver leaf service. Storytelling hosts narrate the history of the scenery and wildlife you’ll be seeing. All three routes—connecting Vancouver, British Columbia to the mountain towns of Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper in the Canadian Rockies —are only daylight trains to maximize the views, but you can arrange a hotel stay to keep the fun going.

2.  Hickory Creek Car | between New York City and Albany, NY

This is a car, not a full train: the rearmost car on the 20th Century Limited train . It has a “lookout lounge” with big picture windows to look out onto the Hudson River, four bedrooms and four bathrooms, lounge seating for 16 and dinner seating for eight. There’s an onboard kitchen where a chef prepares a four-course meal for you. Staff hovers throughout the trip to serve your every need (or most of them, anyway). This 20th Century Limited is a sleek, silver, mid-Modern from 1948 and traverses the rails originally traveled by the line from 1902 to 1967.

3.  The Bourbon Excursion | Bardstown, KY

Take a 2.5-hour excursion on My Old Kentucky Dinner Train while you go through 32 miles of beautiful Kentucky countryside on a buzzed round trip, fueled by tasting local bourbons—Bardstown itself is home to more than 11 bourbon distilleries. The ride also includes a four-course gourmet meal and some fun souvenirs. Your ride embarks on a restored 1940s dining car pulled by a 1950s diesel locomotive. You must be 21+ to ride (duh), but if you want to try an excursion open to the general public, the train also has lunch and dinner rides, a murder mystery ride, and the seasonal North Pole Express.

4.  Napa Valley Wine Train | Napa, CA

You’ll want to dress up a little for this excursion into Napa's wine country with gourmet meals and tastings on the train. The experiences change, but right now, the Legacy Experience includes a day on the rails winding past the vineyards and enjoying a four-course wine country-inspired meal, three tastings, and spectacular photo ops at each stop. The experience is six hours, three of which are on the train. You’re welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine and a one-hour vineyard tasting of three wines right at the Napa Valley Welcome sign, and train your way towards two hours of tasting at Charles Krug and V. Sattui.

5.  First Class Car on the Strasburg Railroad | Strasburg, PA

Go luxe for 45 minutes in the exquisite President’s Car with wood paneled interior and built-in furnishings (it’s currently off the rails for renovation, but check the website for its glorious return)—or there are four other first-class options to pick from. One is the parlor car, where you lounge on cabernet-colored sofas and order confections and beverages for purchase in the last car in line with a view of the vanishing rails behind you. Or choose two separate lounge cars with plush captain’s chairs that swivel to catch the views, or the club car, which is a private charter experience if you have a group to travel with. Here in Dutch country, the railroad is the oldest continuously operating railroad in North America, dating to 1832.

6.  First Class Caboose on the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad | Yosemite, CA

The  Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad offers a classic steam train excursion through the Sierra National Forest—and if you want to go luxe, you can upgrade your ticket to the First Class Caboose, available on any train. This ride includes a renovated wood-paneled interior with wrought iron seats holding padded upholstery, and if you can climb the narrow, interior stairs to the cupola, the cute aerie has two seats facing each other (the main part of the caboose is ADA accessible). There’s even a personal conductor to describe the gorgeous things you’re seeing, plus a drink and snacks included. Best part? The traditional whistle blow emerging from this Shay steam engine.

7.  GoldStar Service on the Denali Star | Between Anchorage and Fairbanks, AK

The Alaska Railroad seats may not be that fancy, but the views are spectacular. The premium GoldStar Service class includes a chance to glide through Alaska’s incredible scenery viewed through the glass-dome ceilinged car. You can also walk around to visit an upper-level viewing platform or the full-service dining room, but if you choose to just stay seated, your glass will be filled by a dedicated bar attendant. Not all train rides include GoldStar service, so check the website before booking—but we’d argue that the railroad’s Adventure Class is just as fun.

8.  Acela train | between Boston and Washington, D.C.

Although Amtrak is more known for serviceable rides (all the luxury is found in the view out the window!), there is a first-class cabin on the Acela train—and it just received a refreshed menu in May. In collaboration with the STARR Restaurant Group and its James Beard-winning leader, Stephen Starr, Amtrak is offering a rotation of signature dishes as well as an upgraded wine list. The updated Acela fleet, launching in 2024, will feature more environmentally sustainable high-speed trains with a new, modern look.

9.  Luxury Dome on the Grand Canyon Railway | Williams, AZ

In these opulent parlor cars , you’ll see amazing views out of the Observation Dome with its gigantic windows to capture the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. Kids under 15 aren’t allowed, so the ride is engineered to be a little more sophisticated; your sparkling wine toast is included in the ticket price. The two-story train has a downstairs lounge with a full bar, entertainment center and plush furnishings. Besides the luxury dome class, there’s also a luxury parlor class at the same price point, including a private bar and access to the outdoor platform.

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7 Incredible Luxury Train Trips to Take

Slow travel gets a stylish makeover with these luxury train trips..

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The Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express features vintage carriages from the 1920s and 1930s

Photos by David Noton, Helen Cathcart

Lest you think that grim subways and government-run trains are the only form of rail travel, here’s some compelling evidence of the dreamiest transportation that your vacation money can buy—a roundup of essential luxury train travel across the world.

Warning, though: Merely mentioning overnight train trips may elicit blissed-out silence from some travelers as they lose themselves in thoughts of dreamy destinations, romantic sleeping quarters, and great meals served in white-linen dining cars.

1. Train Suite Shiki-Shima, Japan

Book now: From $3,320 for one-night package

Although Japan is best known for bullet trains , the country’s national railway, JR Group, operates a series of specialized trains for tourism collectively called the Joyful Trains. Among the offerings are Pokemon-themed cars and train lines with cars for footbathing, ones dedicated to fine dining , or featuring an astronomy library . The crowning glory of the Joyful Trains is the ultra-modern, ultra-luxe Train Suite Shiki-Shima. The Shiki-Shima (which means “island of the four seasons”) travels through eastern Japan out of Tokyo, visiting sites of Japanese cultural significance (villages, museums, temples, markets, restaurants, and iconic natural sites) along its one- to three-night excursions.

The walls of the observation cars (called terraces) at the front and back of the train are cut away in abstract patterns leaving windows that extend views almost from the hand-loomed carpet to the curved molding of ceiling. The 15 sleeping quarters onboard vary from elegantly simple accommodations with en suite bathrooms all the way up to lacquered wood-paneled and washi-papered two-level suites with cypress-lined soaking tubs, traditional tatami mat floor covering, and a working fireplace.

As expected on such a lavish train, the dining car offers extraordinary seasonal meals prepared by a team of chefs, who travel the whole trip; in addition, guest chefs board the train to prepare special regional dishes visited along the itinerary. This top-of-the-line, sophisticated hospitality features a crew wearing smart uniforms designed by Issey Miyake’s former creative director.

2. Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

Book now: From $4,761 for one-night Venice to London

The legendary Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express hardly needs an introduction to travel lovers: Its gleaming wood-paneled interiors, dining tables set with crisp linens and silver and crystal, and extravagant comforts of sleeping quarters have come to symbolize a time when travel was sophisticated and passengers came first.

The train, made up of vintage carriages from the 1920s and ’30s refitted with modern amenities, runs regular itineraries that visit European destinations. And once a year, a trip makes a deliberately slow five-night transit between Paris and Istanbul. Berths for these classic runs sell out fast, and Belmond has sweetened the ride further by adding six Grand Suites, each named for a legendary city and styled in an art deco tribute to that city.

The Grand Suites feature private bathrooms, double beds, and underfloor heating in the living area. When you factor in a private steward (in a snappy uniform with shiny buttons) and complimentary champagne on demand, honestly, this train wouldn’t even have to leave the platform to qualify as a trip of a lifetime. The other accommodation classes, while less over-the-top, still offer details of design and comfort that elevate a sleeper car to something more like a dream state. This icon of the golden age of travel shows no sign of tarnish.

3. Alaska Railroad, USA

Book now: From $6,409 for the 12-day/11-night Glaciers, Rails and Trails package Not available until 2024 Alaska Railroad offers a way to see the natural beauty of the state—from the orcas breaching in icy bays to the majestic Denali—that doesn’t require roughing it or traveling by cruise ship. One of the railroad line’s summertime offerings, the 11-night Glaciers, Rails and Trails package, passes through spectacular corners of that vast state making several stops a day, and lingering for more than a day in both Denali National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park. Off the train, passengers visit museums and sled dog training facilities, join a float trip down a glacial river, and take guided hikes. Onboard the train, passengers see the sights from a double-decker observation car: a glass-domed level on top (with beverage service) and a full-service dining car on the bottom. At night, the train stops at wilderness and backcountry lodges and hotels so you’ll sleep soundly before the next day’s activities and get a better sense of each place.

4. Maharajas’ Express, India

Book now: From $3,850 for four-day/three-night Treasures of India package

The 23 carriages of these luxury trains travel mostly by night, allowing passengers plenty of time during waking hours to disembark for visits to UNESCO World Heritage landmarks , take game drives, and dine in fine hotels and palaces. The price tag fits the fit-for-a-royal experience, of course, but a shorter journey, like the three-night Treasures of India package, is less expensive and no less glamorous.

The itinerary includes excursions to iconic sites of the Golden Triangle—the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan (tigers!), the Amber Fort in Jaipur—as well as spa treatments and lavish meals. The train includes two restaurants and a bar car, and the modern en suite accommodations range from a deluxe double cabin up to a Presidential Suite.

The Rocky Mountaineer pulls into its stop near Whistler.

Photo by Albert Pego/Shutterstock

5. Rocky Mountaineer, USA

Book now: From $1,599 for two-day, one-night Rockies to Red Rocks package

One of the very few downsides of traveling by train through spectacular scenery is that when the sun sets, you lose all the views. Instead the windows reveal only the reflection of the bright interior of the train. A popular luxury train brand, the Rocky Mountaineer solves this problem by plotting its scenic routes to include overnight stops at fine hotels along the way. Historically, the Rocky Mountaineer only rode the Canadian rails, following mountainous routes that terminated in Vancouver and either Jasper or Banff.

Beginning in August 2021, though, the company launched a journey between Denver and Moab, Utah , stopping overnight at Glenwood Springs, Colorado. The luxury train, purpose-built for landscape viewing, offers unparalleled views of the Rockies (watch for bighorn sheep in the high passes) and the sandblasted canyons and surreal rock formations of the Utah desert. While you look out the panoramic windows, the staff’s focus is on serving you fine wines and freshly prepared food (sorry in advance to fans of Amtrak’s prewrapped tuna sandwiches).

In Glenwood Springs, passengers disembark to spend the night at a choice of three different hotels before reboarding in the morning to finish the trip in Moab. Extend your vacation by adding a couple of days to either end of the journey to spend time exploring Moab and/or Denver.

6. Rovos Rail, Southern Africa

Book now: From $1,621/person for three-day/two-night Durban Safari package

Bush planes are fine but traveling by air-conditioned luxury train on routes that zigzag the southern third of the vast African continent has a strong slow-travel appeal. The unhurried schedule means time is factored in to stop at sidings for wildlife viewing and at vineyards for winetastings, or in reserves for game drives. Various Rovos itineraries follow the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley or traverse the red deserts of Namibia.

Depending on which you choose (or which you create; the company will also plan custom trips), your trip can include golf courses, stays in luxury lodges or safari camps, or excursions around Victoria Falls. The packages run from 2-night trips to 14-night adventures (including a Copper Trail voyage, that traverses Zimbabwe, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Angola).

Not only are the trips exciting, the train itself is pretty dreamy—its vintage passenger carriages were collected, restored, and upgraded with modern plumbing and air-conditioning (but also working windows). In addition to the private suites, the train’s public spaces include an observation car with sofas and an open balcony platform, lounge and club cars, and a dining car. Polished wood paneling, tufted leather chairs, and picture windows create a visual style that evokes a travel era when people packed formal wear and hats for different occasions. While you won’t really get a sense of the African lives and cultures you’re passing by in this luxury locomotive, you will never forget the ride.

7. Glacier Express, Switzerland

Book now: From $786 for one-day Excellence Class itinerary

Switzerland’s rail system is widely considered one of the best in Europe, so it’s no stretch to call the Glacier Express—dubbed the “window the Swiss Alps”—the best of the best. With cars that are almost entirely glass, the train makes sightseeing easy—and there’s a lot to see. The full eight-hour journey covers 180 miles, 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, remote valleys, idyllic villages, and two UNESCO World Heritage sites . Although there’s no bad seat in the house, spring for one of the 20 seats in Excellence Class, which is bookable from St. Moritz to Zermatt (or vice versa) and has private access to a bar, dedicated concierges, and a five-course menu with wine pairings that’s included with a seat reservation.

This article originally appeared online in 2021; it was most recently updated on August 15, 2023, to include current information.

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The 10 best sleeper-train journeys to take in Europe in 2024

Oct 19, 2023 • 8 min read

After a night on the Caledonian Sleeper, you’ll wake up in the Scottish Highlands © Lucy Knott Photography

A few years ago, competition from low-cost airlines and high-speed railways looked like they would spell the end for sleeper trains, which were increasingly starting to look like relics.

But an increased interest in slow travel and concern about the environmental impact of flying (driven partly by the Swedish concept of  flygskam,  or “flight shame,” movement) have boosted demand for sleeper trains. In a remarkable reversal of fortunes, operators across Europe – including several new entrants – are bringing routes back, in some cases for the first time in generations, and establishing new services, often across borders. 

Overnight trains do more than save on a night’s accommodation. They’re an adventure in themselves, recreating the romance of a bygone era as they transport travelers, families and business people across the continent under the cloak of darkness. 

Most services offer a mixture of sleeper compartments with room for two or four passengers; six-person, dormitory-style couchettes; and cars with standard seats. On some trains, however, private compartments equipped with showers and innovative capsule-style berths are becoming available on trains with new or refurbished carriages. This enhances the sense that the next generation of night trains has arrived.

Munich, Germany to La Spezia, Italy

Frequency: daily except Saturday Approximate duration: 11 hours

Nightjet ’s Munich –to– La Spezia service is one of many night routes that offer the only direct connection between their start and finish points. Passengers can board an early-evening train south from Bavarian city’s vast Hauptbanhof station aiming for Austria , northeast Italy and onward, via Genoa (another great stop-off option), to the Ligurian coast . If everything’s on time – which, it should be noted, is not a given on night services, especially those crossing borders and picking up carriages from other services – then you could beat the crowds to the Cinque Terre ’s walking trails (accessed by a local train from La Spezia). Or you could just settle in to this underrated city for a late breakfast and marvel at the city’s art-nouveau architecture, best explored by strolling the stairways that rise uphill from the waterfront.

Hamburg to Stockholm

Frequency: nightly  Approximate duration: 14 hours

This Swedish Railways (SJ)–operated service, one of the darlings of the new European night scene , has grown in popularity and scope since its launch. 

During the summer of 2023, the SJ Euronight to and from Stockholm extended to start and finish in Berlin  – a change now being made permanent. Still, travelers should not miss the chance to explore the lively maritime city of Hamburg  – plus, starting the journey here makes more sense if you’re connecting from points further south and west. From Hamburg, the night service north heads into Denmark and makes an early hours crossing of the Öresund Bridge to Malmö . 

Beyond the southern tip of Sweden , morning views of Nordic forests and lakes root travelers in their surroundings until the train pulls into Stockholm Central station, located in the middle of the tangle of waterways and islands in the heart of Sweden’s capital.

Private operator Snälltåget also operates seasonal night services on this route. This train is a good alternative if your timings or availability don’t work out on the SJ train, or if you want to try out Snälltåget ’s highly regarded restaurant coach.  

Zurich to Zagreb

Frequency: daily Approximate duration: 15 hours

A convenient route between Switzerland ’s largest city and the compact, beautiful Croatian capital , this Euronight services crosses five countries over approximately 15 hours. It’s worth taking this journey in the summer, as it’s one of Europe’s most scenic routes, passing through Austria and Slovenia  – both countries where you’re hard-pressed to find an unattractive railway line. It also passes (without stopping) through the tiny Alpine principality of Liechtenstein . You can get a taste of this train by riding as far as Ljubljana in Slovenia, though this misses a lovely stretch of track running alongside the Sava River between there and the border.

Berlin to Brussels

Frequency: six nights a week from December 2023 (though with different operators and routes; see below) Approximate duration: 11.5 hours

The much-heralded European Sleeper service from Brussels to Berlin has proved an invaluable addition to the night-train scene, and the company behind it has plans to run the train through to Prague starting in 2024. With stops in Antwerp , Rotterdam and Amsterdam , this thrice-weekly train reinstated a route phased out in 2008. Starting December, it will be joined by a Nightjet service making the same journey on three alternate days, though taking a different route via Liège and heading down the Rhine to Mannheim . (This train runs as part of the existing Brussels-to-Vienna Nightjet.) Brussels makes for a fast journey from London  – and, since there’s no need in Brussels to change stations (as in Paris), it’s an ideal starting point for UK -based travelers looking to snooze their way deeper into Europe.

London to Fort William, Scotland

Frequency: daily except Saturday Approximate duration: 13.5 hours

Great Britain has only two sleeper trains – and both have recently benefited from major upgrades in what many see as a vote of confidence in the country’s overnight services. The Night Riviera runs southwest from London’s Paddington Station and keeps going until it runs out of rails – and land – at Penzance in Cornwall . But it’s the Caledonian Sleeper that gets Britons most excited . This legendary train leaves Euston Station each night and, via a series of carriage shuffles unnoticed by the snoozing passenger, reaches Edinburgh , Inverness , Aberdeen ,  Fort William and points in between. 

The through service to Fort William is the most spectacular leg, offering a night on the rails and a morning crossing wonderful Highland scenery before depositing fresh-faced passengers at the foot of the path up Ben Nevis, the country’s highest peak.

Budapest to Bucharest

Frequency: daily Approximate duration: 17 hours

One of Europe’s most beautiful stations, Budapest ’s Keleti terminal is the starting point for this fantastic overnight adventure. There are in fact three sleepers that ply this route, but the timing of the Ister is arguably the most optimal: it departs shortly after 7pm and arrives at Bucharest ’s Gara de Nord in mid-morning, meaning passport control takes place around midnight. The big benefit of the lazy morning on the train is the chance to enjoy the superb scenery of the section of the Carpathian Mountains before crossing the plains on toward the capital. From Bucharest there’s a direct summer sleeper connection onward to Istanbul , another railway odyssey to the edge of Europe .

Trondheim to Bodo

Frequency: daily Approximate duration: 10 hours

Under normal circumstances, the jaw-dropping views offered by any Norwegian rail journey would make a night train a wasted opportunity. But there are two factors that argue for taking the 10-hour Trondheim -to- Bodø service. First, if you do this journey during the summer you needn’t miss anything – the sun will hardly set. Second, Norwegian trains are very pleasant places to hang out for a while, and a berth on a night train is an excellent deal in a country where bargains are few and far between.

Rome to Venice 

Frequency: daily Approximate duration: 7 hours

A quiet star of Europe’s night train scene, Italy’s InterCityNotte (ICN) services crisscross the country, offering several unmissable routes. While trains heading from Rome to Sicily garner attention thanks to the novelty of the ferry that carries carriages across the Strait of Messina, there are reasons to head from the capital in the opposite direction.

A Trieste -bound sleeper hauls out of Roma Termini each evening and ambles through the romantic regions of Lazio , Umbria and Tuscany . Snoozing travelers may be awakened by some shunting as northbound carriages are moved off at Mestre, before an unforgettable crossing of the lagoon causeway to Venice itself. Any bleary eyes should be swiftly jolted into life by the sunshine of a Venetian dawn, the first sight of the city with pretty much no one else around, and a strong espresso or two.

Paris to Latour de Carol

Frequency: nightly (departure times vary) Approximate duration: 12 hours

Having axed all but a handful of Intercités trains de nuit  in 2016, SNCF (French National Railway Company) has spent the past few years plotting to revive some of the canceled services. One survivor has been the service from Paris to Latour de Carol , deep in the Pyrenees . Four- and six-berth couchettes and a seated carriage make the journey south, passing through Limoges , Toulouse and the foothills of the Pyrenees to arrive at the border station of Latour de Carol.

From here, it’s possible to continue, via a suburban train, to the heart of Barcelona in around three hours, offering an epic alternative to the TGV service from Paris to the Catalan city via Montpellier and the French Mediterranean coast. The scenic, narrow-gauge Petit Train Jaune also leaves from Latour de Carol, offering a dramatic mountain train ride with connections on to Perpignan .

Innsbruck to Cologne 

Frequency: daily Approximate duration: 11.5 hours

There are a multitude of reasons to hop aboard this excellent Nightjet sleeper service, particularly in this direction. First, Innsbruck ’s beautiful location in the Tyrolean Alps makes it a rewarding spot to explore pre-voyage, with hiking trails in summer and ski runs in winter. Second – and excitingly for true train geeks – Nightjet services offer unique double-decker sleeper compartments, with deluxe berths on the upper level. Third, if you can rouse yourself early, these trains travel through the early morning along the beautiful Rhine Valley Line, passing time-worn castles and vast vineyards on their way north to Cologne .

As if all that weren’t enough, Cologne’s cathedral , right next to the railway station, is one of the great icons of Europe. Watching its twin spires grow in stature as you chug towards the city is a fitting finale to this magnificent journey.

Booking information

The resurgence in night trains’ popularity means booking ahead is essential. Depending on where you’re traveling, berths go on sale between 30 and 180 days in advance; it’s best to book as far ahead as possible. Seat61 , Trainline.com and national train operators can guide you through the booking process.

This article was first published Sep 22, 2018 and updated Oct 19, 2023.

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17 Best Sleeper Train Journeys In The World (Luxury & Budget)

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10 Of The World's Most Expensive Sleeper Train Journeys (Better Than A Cruise!)

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17 Of The Best Sleeper Train Journeys In The World (Luxury & Budget)

• Sleeper trains are a cost-effective option that combines accommodation and transportation, making them ideal for budget travelers or those seeking a luxurious experience.
• From the OBB NightJet in Europe to the Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia, there are sleeper train journeys available around the world that cater to all types of travelers.
• Prices for sleeper train tickets vary depending on the route and level of luxury, but there are affordable options starting at $29, making sleeper trains accessible for many.

Sleeper trains are becoming more popular than ever, and it’s easy to see why. Not only do they combine two key costs for travelers (accommodation and transportation), making a journey more affordable, but there are sleeper trains around the world for all types of travelers.

Whether travelers are backpacking on a budget or looking for a luxurious experience in a first-class cabin, the perfect overnight train exists. These are 17 of the best sleeper train journeys around the world, and there’s something for every type of traveler.

UPDATE: 2023/10/03 14:39 EST BY MARIA BOU INK

Sleeper train journeys are limitless, but a few of them are remarkable. Therefore, this list was updated to include additional luxurious and on-budget sleeper train trips around the world, so vacationers can choose the best ones close to them for their next travel.

17 Brussels To Vienna, OBB NightJet

With budget-friendly tickets, OBB NightJet is one of the best sleeper trains in the world, not only in Europe. The outstanding amenities are the highlight of the service. The cost of the ticket includes a modest breakfast with tea and coffee as well as access to an ensuite bathroom and shower. Additionally, a welcome package with beverages, towels, earplugs, and snacks is given to customers. Moreover, air conditioning and lockable compartments are both provided.

• Prices: Starting at €29 ($30.35) per passenger

Bicycles and dogs are allowed on board.

16 New York To Miami, Silver Meteor Or Silver Star

If looking for a train experience that includes magnificent scenery, interesting history, and fascinating culture, passengers can make a reservation on one of Amtrak's Silver Meteor or Silver Star trains, which cruise down America's east coast between New York and Miami. Passengers have the possibility to stop along the route to break up the trip's 29-hour overall duration. Highlights include Charleston, where there are many historical museums and superb restaurants; Tampa, where there are many mesmerizing white sandy beaches; and Orlando, where there are many family-friendly activities.

• Prices: Starting at $130 for a one-way trip

15 Paris To Venice, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Most people have heard of the Orient Express from the famous novel by Agatha Christie entitled “Murder on the Orient Express.” In real life, the train runs across Europe from London to Istanbul. However, the most popular sleeper train route is from Paris to Venice, which takes around 20.5 hours to complete , meaning passengers spend 1 night bunking on the train. Travelers can choose to book a single cabin, a twin cabin, a suite, or a grand suite, depending on their budget.

• Prices: Starting at £3745 (4517.4) per passenger for a twin cabin

Experience the same all-inclusive luxury you'd get onboard a cruise ship while traveling overland on one of these epic train journeys!

14 Hanoi To Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Vietnam is a favorite country to visit among backpackers who are traveling around Southeast Asia. Given how long and narrow the country is, a sleeper train is a great way to get from the northern capital city of Hanoi to the southern city of Ho Chi Minh without riding on a motorbike. This sleeper train route is suitable for the budget traveler, only costing around $40 for the 32 to 37-hour journey .

Depending on how much passengers are willing to spend on a ticket, they can choose from several seat classes. These are 3rd class (hard wooden seats), 2nd class (soft seats with AC), 2nd class (sleeper with 6 beds per compartment, with AC), or 1st class (sleeper with 4 beds per compartment, with AC).

• Prices: Starting at $40 per passenger

13 Zambia To Tanzania, TAZARA Railway

Train travel might not be the first thing that comes to mind when travelers imagine exploring Southern Africa, but spending a night on the TAZARA Railway’s sleeper train is an excellent way to travel between Zambia and Tanzania. TAZARA stands for Tanzania Zambia Railway Authority. The journey takes two nights, running passengers between Kapiri Mposhi and Dar es Salaam. The trains have sleeper cabins and a restaurant car for a comfortable journey across Africa.

• Prices: A 2nd class sleeper cabin ticket costs 84,600 Tanzanian shillings (around $36.29), and a 1st class sleeper cabin costs 104,000 Tanzanian shillings (around $44.62).

Aptly described as a "hotel on rails," the Caledonian Express is an unforgettable journey from London, England to the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

12 London, England To Scotland, Caledonian Sleeper

Travelers exploring the UK can forget flying and opt for a comfortable overnight train journey through the Scottish Highlands instead. The Caledonian Sleeper transports passengers from London to various destinations around Scotland, such as Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Glasgow, and Inverness. The sleeper cabins are designed to be exceptionally comfortable, complete with a Glencraft mattress.

Passengers can book the more basic Classic Room, which has twin bunk beds and an in-room wash basin, or they can go for a more high-end Club Room, which includes breakfast. If they prefer a double bed to bunk beds, book the Caledonian Double Cabin instead. Passengers should book in advance because these spaces fill up quickly.

• Prices: Starting at £225 ($271.4) for a classic room from London to Glasgow

11 Moscow, Russia To Beijing, China, Trans-Siberian Railway

The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the greatest adventures in the world, taking passengers across the vast country of Russia to Mongolia or China. Taking the train from Moscow to Beijing takes 16 days, but there are several stops along the way, including the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar . When riding the Trans-Siberian railway, passengers can choose from a variety of cabin types.

The Standard cabin sleeps 4 people in a bunk bed formation; the Classic and Superior cabins sleep 2 people. Private cabins can also be booked.

• Prices: Starting at €650 ($681.2) per passenger

With tickets selling for under $40, the spectacular Bar-to-Belgrade route is one of Europe’s least-known rail journeys—and arguably its most scenic.

10 Delhi To Mumbai, India, Maharajas’ Express

The Indian Splendour route on the Maharajas’ Express is a grand tour of India from the bustling streets of Delhi to the majestic buildings of Mumbai that takes 6 nights and 7 days. Destinations along the way include Agra, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. This is a luxury travel experience that doesn’t come cheap.

• Prices: Starting at $5820 for a single passenger in a deluxe cabin

9 Pretoria To Capetown, South Africa, The Blue Train

The Blue Train route from Pretoria to Capetown, South Africa, takes two nights and offers spectacular views of the African countryside. Train tickets on The Blue Train include all meals, a sleeper cabin, high tea, drinks, and one excursion in Kimberley. Passengers can choose to book a Deluxe Suite or a Luxury Suite, depending on their budget.

• Prices: Starting at R36 945 ($1,915.8) in low season and at R45 145 ($2,341) in high season

8 Oslo To Bergen, Norway

The train ride from Oslo to Bergen is one of the world's most scenic journeys. The distance between these Norwegian cities isn’t as vast as some other sleeper train journeys around the world, but it’s still possible to book a sleeper cabin for the 7.5-hour trip.

• Prices: Starting at $59 for a sleeper accommodation which a passenger books for themselves (there are no shared cabins with other passengers).

7 Bangkok To Chiang Mai, Thailand

Traveling in Thailand has never been more accessible since the introduction of the sleeper train running between Bangkok, where most international flights land, and Chiang Mai, the digital nomad paradise of the North . There are two options when booking a sleeper journey on this train: passengers can book 2nd class sleeper seats (with air conditioning) or 1st class sleeper seats (with air conditioning). The 2nd class booking includes a lie-flat seat in a shared train car, while the 1st class seat offers a private cabin. The journey takes just over 12 hours to complete when the trains are running on time.

• Prices: Starting at 1,453 THB ($39.20) for a first-class sleeper

6 Cusco To Arequipa, Peru, Belmond Andean Explorer

Explore the Peruvian Andes from the comfort of a luxury train car. The Belmond Andean Explorer offers sleeper accommodation for passengers traveling between Cusco and Arequipa. It’s possible to book bunk bed cabins, twin bed cabins, or suite cabins. The train also has a lounge car, an upscale dining car, an observation car for appreciating the impressive landscapes whizzing past, and an onboard spa. The Peruvian Highlands route takes 3 days and 2 nights to complete , from Cusco to Arequipa via Puno.

• Prices: Single occupancy tickets start at around $3,940

5 Chicago To San Francisco, On The California Zephyr

Embarking on this 2,400-mile (3,900 km) journey takes travelers from the shores of the Great Lakes in Chicago to the Pacific Coast in San Francisco. This route is run by the California Zephyr and takes some of the most incredible terrains the USA has to offer. While travelers relax in their accommodations, the train tackles sheer gorges, hot desert, snowy mountains, and plenty of tunnels and switchbacks. These tracks were the first to cross the Continental Divide to link the Atlantic and Pacific. Now Travelers need to simply arrive at the station in Chicago before 2 pm, and they will be swept away to the West Coast. Book early for the best prices.

• Prices: Starting at $150 per passenger

4 Brisbane To Longreach, Australia

Many of the best overnight trains in Australia are multiple-day rides, such as the Ghan that runs through Australia's "Red Centre" between Darwin and Adelaide and the Indian Pacific that links Perth and Sydney. The Spirit of the Outback running from Brisbane to Longreach is just over a day long, with much of the trip happening at night when travelers are sleeping. The ride itself takes travelers intimately close to and along the coast before it turns inland to the stunning landscape of Australia's outback.

• Prices: Starting at $140 per passenger

3 Amtrak Auto Route - Washington D.C. To Orlando, Florida

Amtrak is the national train carrier of the United States and offers a number of overnight sleeper options on its trains . Of these, the Amtrak Auto Route is arguably the most unique. The Amtrak Auto Route doesn't just have accommodation for the passengers to sleep on board, but also its passenger cars. That's right, on this train; people can bring their car onto the train. The Auto Route runs from Washington D.C. to near Orlando and spares passengers from the hassle of driving down to Florida by themselves.

• Prices: Starting at $95 per passenger

2 Deccan Odyssey: A Palace On Wheels

The Deccan Odyssey is one of the most luxurious train rides in the world . It has been designed as a palace on wheels and explores some of the most iconic attractions in India. Passengers are dotted upon as though they were Maharaja royalty, and the train celebrates the best of the heritage of the Rajasthan region of India. Enjoy impeccable service, rich Indian heritage, and one of the most comfortable train accommodations found anywhere.

• Prices: $8,330 per passenger in a deluxe cabin for single occupancy

1 Royal Scotsman, Scottish Highlands

The Royal Scotsman may be one of the most luxurious and one of the most expensive train rides in the world. There are multiple rides to select from around the Scottish Highlands, the Scottish Lowlands, and even in England. Like the Deccan Odyssey, the Royal Scotsman is a palace on wheels with a range of package tour options. The train cars of the Royal Scotsman combine Edwardian elegance with the comforts of a country house.

• Prices: Starting at $4,675 per passenger

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Luxury European Train Tours & Luxury Train Vacations Europe

Luxury european train holiday destinations & places.

Our range of luxury train tours in Europe lets you explore this fascinating continent in comfort and style. The slow pace of luxury rail travel in Europe gives you time to see the countries you pass through rather than just the tourist sites, and we think there is nothing like European luxury train vacations as a way to travel in Europe. Most luxury European train holidays focus on East and Central Europe, including the Balkans. Spain and Portugal also have luxury trains in Europe. Below you can browse all the destinations visited by our luxury train trips in Europe. Under each destination, you can view the luxury European train tours that visit each destination.

Luxury train holidays in Europe visit the well-known sites but also pass through places that are less visited and can make short stops to visit these places that regular luxury rail tours to Europe might miss. As the luxury sleeper trains in Europe act as a hotel on wheels, there is no need to pack and unpack, and the European luxury train trips allow for short visits to many places. This gives the passenger a more rounded experience of the countries they pass through. Taking a luxury train through Europe is a rewarding and relaxing way to travel with like-minded people.

Luxury Rail Tours In Europe

Just click on any of the tours listed below to open up or download a PDF file with the tour’s full details including dates and pricing.

● Please remember that booking as far ahead as you can in advance is essential for these trains ●

7 Nights from UK £ 14,295 / US$ 17,595 / € 16,195

Contact us for a quote in other currencies

France ● Switzerland ● Austria ● Slovenia ● Serbia ● Bulgaria ● Turkey

Turkey ● Bulgaria ● Serbia ● Slovenia ● Austria ● Switzerland ● France

11 Nights from UK £ 14,795 / US$ 18,495 / € 16,795

Venice ● Trieste ● Ljubljana ● Sarajevo ● Mostar ● Dubrovnik ● Belgrade ● Skopje ● Sofia ● Plovdiv ● Istanbul

Venice ● Trieste ● Ljubljana ● Sarajevo ● Mostar ● Belgrade ● Bar ● Podgorica ● Skopje ● Sofia ● Plovdiv ● Istanbul

6 Nights From UK £ 8,995 / US $ 11,195 / € 10,195

Istanbul ● Veliko Tarnovo ● Sinaia ● Brasov ● Sighisoara ● Sibiu ● Kecskemet ● Lajosmizse ● Budapest

10 Nights From UK £ 13,695 / US $ 17,095 / € 15,495

Budapest ● Vienna ● Lake Achen ● Innsbruck ● Zürich ● Lake Como ● Milan ● Verona ● Trieste ● Lake Bled ● Ljubljana ● Venice

Budapest ● Vienna ● Semmering Pass ● Lake Achen ● Innsbruck ● Zurich ● St Gotthard Pass ● Lake Como ● Verona ● Trieste ● Lake Bled ● Ljubljana ● Postojna ● Venice

7 Nights From UK £ 9,395 / US $ 11,795 / € 10,695

Budapest ● Keszthely ● Tapolca ● Sopron ● Eger ● Lillafured ● Aggtelek ● Hortobagy National Park ● Tokaj ● Opusztaszer ● Szeged ● Budapest

5 Nights from UK £ 6,210 / US$ 7,590 pp

Contact us for quotes in other currencies

Epernay ● Reims ● Beaune ● Annecy ● Avignon ● Les Alpilles ● Arcachon ● Saint-Emilion ● Chenonceau ● Puy Du Fou

7 Nights From UK £ 7,995 / US $ 9,995 / € 9,095

A festive journey westbound across Europe from Budapest to Munich via Vienna & Salzburg

A festive journey eastbound across Europe from Munich to Budapest via Salzburg & Vienna

11 Nights From UK £ 14,795 / US $ 18,495 / € 16,795

Budapest ● Krakow ● Warsaw ● Malbork ● Gdansk ● Berlin ● Dresden ● Prague ● Salzburg ● Vienna

8 Nights From UK £ 11,195 / US $ 13,995 / € 12,695

Budapest ● Keszthely ● Graz ● Vienna ● Cesky Krumlov ● Prague ● Kosice ● Budapest

2 Nights From UK £ 4,400 per person

Travel straight into the heart of the Scottish Highlands, visiting enchanting sites of natural beauty and making the most of the thrilling outdoor activities

3 Nights From UK £ 6,400 per person

Explore the rugged landscapes of the West coast of Scotland

Embark on a captivating journey through Scotland’s untamed beauty.

4 Nights From UK £ 8,300 per person

Discover the wild wonders and picturesque scenery that Scotland has to offer

4 Nights From UK £ 8,900 per person

Dive into Scotland’s finest estates with untold stories and guided tours

Embark on an adventure with the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, our partner for this unique journey through Scotland

5 Nights From UK £11,200 per person

Discover Scotland through the ages with unique sceneries and intriguing experiences

5 Nights From UK £ 10,400 per person

Be spirited away as you retrace part of the famed West Highland Line

A combination of the traditional Highland and scenic Western journeys

7 Nights From UK £ 14,700 per person

Explore the many wonders of the Scottish Highlands at a leisurely pace

Head West and explore the many wonders of the Scottish Highlands at a leisurely pace

9 Nights From UK £ 8,690 / US $ 11,830

Santiago De Compostela ● Ourense ● León ● Ávila ● Toledo ● Córdoba ● Seville

6 Nights From Euro 5,600 per person

Málaga ● Granada ● Úbeda ● Baeza ● Córdoba ● Ronda ● Jerez De La Frontera ● Cádiz ● Seville

Seville ● Cádiz ● Jerez De La Frontera ● Ronda ● Córdoba ● Baeza ● Úbeda ● Granada ● Málaga

6 Nights From Euro 6,000 per person

Granada ● Úbeda ● Baeza ● Córdoba ● Ronda ● Jerez De La Frontera ● Cádiz ● Seville

Seville ● Cádiz ● Jerez De La Frontera ● Ronda ● Córdoba ● Baeza ● Úbeda ● Granada ● Granada

7 Nights From Euro 8,900 Per Person

Santiago De Compostela ● Viveiro ● Ribadeo ● Luarca ● Gijon ● Oviedo ● Llanes ● Santillana Del Mar ● Cabezon De La Sal ● Potes ● Santander ● Carranza ● Bilbao ● San Sebastian

7 Nights From Euro 8,900 per person

San Sebastian ● Bilbao ● Carranza ● Santander ● Potes ● Cabezon De La Sal ● Santillana Del Mar ● Llanes ● Oviedo ● Gijon ● Luarca ● Ribadeo ● Viveiro ● Santiago De Compostela

5 Nights From Euro 4,500 per person

Santiago De Compostela ● Ferrol ● Viveiro ● Ribadeo ● Oviedo ● Gijón ● Llanes ● Picos De Europa ● Llanes ● Cabezón De La Sal ● Santillana Del Mar ● Santander ● Bilbao

Bilbao ● Santander ● Santillana Del Mar ● Cabezón De La Sal ● Llanes ● Picos De Europa ● Llanes ● Gijón ● Oviedo ● Ribadeo ● Viveiro ● Ferrol ● Santiago De Compostela

13 NIGHTS FROM £ 18,295 / US$ 24,695

BASEL ● ST MORITZ ● TIRANO (ITALY) ● ANDERMATT ● ZERMATT ● BERN ● INTERLAKEN (JUNGFRAU REGION) ● LAKE COMO (ITALY) ● PILATUS KULM ● ZURICH

Luxurious Train Rides Europe: Austria

Austria has some of the best mix of scenery and cities in Europe and is a popular destination for European luxury train travel. It has a well-developed and beautifully engineered rail network making luxury rail holidays in Europe reliable and exhilarating with routes through places like the Semmering pass. Vienna and Salzburg are the most popular cities visited in Austria visited on our luxury European train tours. Click on the European luxury train vacations below each Austrian destination for full details.

The Capital of Austria and the former Habsburg Empire is a city with a rich culture and some superb imperial architecture.

The birthplace of Mozart and, of course, setting for the Sound of Music, beautiful Salzburg is a centre of culture in Austria.

Semmering Pass

This rail pass connects Lower Austria and Styria. The Semmering Railway built from 1848–54 was the first mountain railway in the world.

Lake Achen is a beautiful alpine lake with stunning clear turquoise waters and a popular area for water sports and hiking.

Located close to both Germany and Italy Innsbruck is famed as a ski resort but also has many historical buildings in the centre of the city.

New Year in Vienna is a magical time of festivities and often snow. It is also famed for the classical Vienna New Year concert.

European Luxury Train Vacations: Bosnia Herzegovina

Bosnia Herzegovina is a relative newcomer on luxury train rides in Europe itineraries and is a country that would often be overlooked. The beauty of a luxury train across Europe is that it can pass through these less visited places and take in the better-known destinations. Sarajevo and Mostar are the most popular places visited on these luxury European train holidays, and both these destinations have recovered well from the war in the 1990s.

Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and known for its diversity of Christian Roman Catholic, Orthodox and the Muslim Ottoman.

Still shaking off its damage from the war in the 1990s the city is famous for its beautiful stone bridge which was rebuilt in 2004.

Luxury European Train Tours: Bulgaria

Bulgaria is located at a key point geographically between Europe and the near Orient and so features in quite a lot of luxury train vacations in Europe. The country has much to see and a good rail network for the European luxury train to use. Bulgaria has a long history and has been a pivotal country between Turkey and the rest of Europe. The main cities visited on luxury rail holidays in Europe are the coital of Sofia and the culturally rich cities of Veliko Tarnovo and Plovid.

Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in Europe located on a large plain between the Rhodope Mountains and Balkan Range (Old Mountains).

Bulgaria’s capital is a dynamic place to visit with an architectural mix of Communist, Orthodox and European buildings.

Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Turnovo was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire and is culturally rich in museums and historical sites.

Luxury Train Travel Europe: Croatia

Croatia is a Balkan country with a long and beautiful coastline. Its rail network is not as extensive as other Balkan countries. Still, it more than makes up for this with some outstanding destinations, not least Dubrovnik, making it a popular place to visit for luxury rail journeys in Europe. As well as Dubrovnik, other cities visited are Zagreb and Rijeka. Overall, Croatia is a welcome stop for luxury trains in Europe.

Zagreb’s chief attraction is the medieval ‘old city’ with architecture and cobbled streets reminiscent of Vienna, Budapest and Prague.

Rijeka is the main seaport of Croatia, located on Kvarner Bay, an inlet of the Adriatic Sea. It is compact and walkable city.

Once rivalling Venice, beautiful Dubrovnik is an UNESCO World Heritage city on the Adriatic Sea coast in the south of Croatia.

Luxury European Train Holidays: Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has one of Europe’s most famous cities, Prague, which is a must-see and featured on several luxury train journeys in Europe. The country has long been a stalwart for European tourism in the heart of Central and East Europe and has a well-developed train network. As well as the much-visited Prague, the luxury European train holiday also visits Cesky Krumlov, which has just as beautiful architecture as Prague but is far less well known.

CZECH REPUBLIC

Prague is one of the largest cities in Central Europe and has served as the capital of the historic region of Bohemia for centuries.

Cesky Krumlov

Český Krumlov is a beautiful town little changed over centuries full of Baroque buildings and with a castle and old-town square.

Experience Luxury Train Travel: France

Taking a luxury train in France offers an unparalleled travel experience, combining the romance of rail travel with opulent comfort. The journey itself becomes a highlight, not just a means to reach a destination. Luxury trains, like Le Grand Tour, provide sumptuous accommodations and fine dining, allowing travellers to relax in a refined ambiance reminiscent of a bygone era. The scenic routes traverse through France’s breathtaking landscapes, offering views of picturesque villages, vineyards, and historical sites, often inaccessible by other means of transport. It’s an immersive cultural experience, where travellers can enjoy French cuisine and wines while mingling with an international clientele. This mode of travel appeals to those seeking a leisurely pace, luxury, and a unique way to explore France’s rich heritage and stunning geography.

Enchanting lakeside gem with medieval charm, vibrant markets, and stunning Alpine vistas—a serene and picturesque fairy-tale escape.

A captivating seaside retreat boasting pristine beaches, renowned oyster farms, and the majestic Dune du Pilat.

Step into history with its majestic Papal Palace, vibrant cultural scene, and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet

Immerse in Burgundy’s heart, famed for world-class wines, historic Hospices de Beaune, and charming medieval architecture.

The Champagne capital, offering exquisite tastings, grand vineyards, and miles of underground cellars to explore.

A sensory delight with lavender fields, sun-drenched vineyards, ancient villages, and a deeply rich cultural heritage.

A historic city renowned for its magnificent cathedral, Champagne houses, and a rich tapestry of French heritage.

Luxury European Train Tour: Hungary

Hungary is a pivotal country in East Europe with an extensive and well-developed train network providing one of the best luxury train vacations Europe offers, fascinating cities and beautiful scenery. Some of the most luxurious train rides in Europe tour this country extensively to take advantage of this. The capital of Budapest is actually two cities Buda and Pest which are divided by the river. This city has some impressive architecture. The rest of the country has many towns and sights worth visiting on your luxury European train tour, and the nature of luxury train rides in Europe means that short stops can be made throughout your European luxury train trip.

Aggtelek is famous for its karst caves with the highlight being the Giants’ Hall 125 meters long, 55 meters wide and 30 meters high.

The capital of Hungary is a vibrant city noted for its classical music scene and nightlife as well as thermal baths and architecture.

Debrecen is the second largest city in Hungary and a centre for Hungarian Protestantism as well as a large science university.

Eger is known for its castle, thermal baths, baroque buildings, the northernmost Ottoman minaret, cuisine and red wines.

Hollókő is a preserved traditional settlement and a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a good way to understand local culture.

The Hortobagy National Park is in the Hungarian plain in the eastern part of the country known for it’s wildlife and traditional culture.

The city is well known for its secessionist architecture, museums, and for being the birthplace of composer Zoltan Kodály.

Located at the southern tip of lake Balaton the town is 750 years old. Gothic, baroque and Transylvanian architecture abounds.

Lajosmizse is a town in Bács-Kiskun county. It is located at the end of a railway line from Budapest and has a museum of folk culture.

Lillafüred close to Lake Hamori is a beautiful small town built as a holiday resort and centred around the Place Hotel and gardens.

Opusztaszer

The Ópusztaszer National Heritage Park is an open-air museum of Hungarian history most famous for the Feszty Panorama.

Sopron is a pleasant town very close to the border with Austria with winding streets and history dating back to medieval times.

Szeged is the third-largest city in Hungary known or the cathedral and a wealth of Art Nouveau buildings, and for the fish soup Halászlé.

Tapolca is known for its cave system as well as the beautiful Mill Pond. Due to the limestone karsts of this area the water is very pure.

Tokaj is a famous wine growing region dating back nearly 1,000 years and the main square of the town even has a the Bacchus fountain.

European Luxury Train Vacation: Italy

From a tourism perspective, Italy needs little introduction. The country has been seducing travellers for centuries. It is relatively less well known though, for its trains aside from being the endpoint of the Orient Express, the crème de la crème of luxury train travel in Europe. The rail network in Northern Italy is extensive; this is where the luxury train travel through Europe focuses on. Who wouldn’t want to take a European luxury train trip that visits such stunning places as Venice, Milan and Lake Como. Under each destination, you can explore the European luxury train vacation options for Italy below.

Beautiful lake in Lombardy surrounded by mountains. There are numerous pretty towns and villages around the shore.

Milan is famous for fashion and shopping and has some beautiful architecture as well as the famous La Scala opera house.

Once a very influential and powerful centre of politics, literature, music, art and culture under Austrian-Hungarian dominion.

Venice needs little introduction. Its sheer wealth of architecture and unique cancel system make it one of the world’s most visited cities.

Verona is rich in history with an abundance of Roman roots still evident today along with world class art and architecture – and gelato!

Luxury European Train Tour: Montenegro

Tiny Montenegro only takes a few hours to cross, but this is not a problem for luxury train trips in Europe which can fit this mountainous country in on their schedules before railing on to the following country. Luxury European train tours visit the dramatically located coastal town of Bar and the capital of Podgorica before continuing to explore the rest of the Balkans.

The capital of Montenegro is an interesting mix of old and new, Mediterranean and Balkan and is known for its cafe culture.

Bar has a wonderful setting on the coast backed by steep cliffs and mountains. Close by are the striking ruins of Stari Bar.

European Luxury Train Vacations: North Macedonia

Macedonia is another small Balkan country that most tourists would overlook. However, your “luxury interrailing Europe” trip can fit into their schedules as they do not need to overnight in hotels with the train acting as a hotel on wheels. This allows your European luxury train vacation to offer a short visit to fascinating Skopje, which features son several of Golden Eagle’s Danube Express train tours, including the very popular Venice to Istanbul route – one of the great luxury train rides in Europe.

NORTH MACEDONIA

Skopje is an old city with Ottoman and Byzantine era sights. The Tvrdina Kale Fortress has guarded the city since the 5th century.

Luxury Train Tours Europe: Poland

Most luxury sleeper trains in Europe focus on the southern part of East and Central Europe, but the southern Polish city of Krakow does make it into some of these itineraries, and rightly so. Krakow is one of Europe’s architectural masterpieces and is well worth a visit on any fancy train rides in Europe.

This former capital of Poland has plenty of medieval architecture which combines with a more youthful student population and culture.

Luxury Rail Tours in Southern Europe: Portugal

Opting for a luxury train journey in Portugal offers an unforgettable experience that blends the charm of vintage travel with modern indulgence. As you traverse through Portugal’s stunning landscapes, you’re treated to a visual feast of rolling vineyards, historic towns, and dramatic coastlines. Onboard, experience unparalleled comfort, exquisite dining featuring Portuguese cuisine, and impeccable service. It’s more than just travel; it’s about embracing the slower pace and elegance of a bygone era, while exploring Portugal’s rich cultural tapestry and scenic beauty in a uniquely luxurious setting.

Luxury European Train Holidays: Romania

Like neighbouring Bulgaria and Hungary, Romania is a popular destination for the most luxurious trains in Europe. This enigmatic country has a long history and spectacular scenery to enjoy on your luxury European train holiday. The fantastically named Danube Express train tour “Castles of Transylvania” encompasses a range of places, including Sighişoara and Bran and Râșnov, which are all tied up with the legend of Vlad the Impaler, whose bloodthirsty history inspired Bran Stoker’s Dracula!

A city of gothic spires, Brasov is the base to visit the castles in Bran and Râșnov and listen to stories about Vlad to Impaler!

Cluj Napoca

Recently ‘discovered’ by tourists Cluj has a vigorous mix of galleries, gardens, cafes, Gothic Churches and medieval towers.

Sibiu has a mix of big architecture and bohemian flair and this city has long been a cultural destination in Romania.

The alleged birth place of Vlad Ţepeş (the Impaler), Sighişoara is a beautiful town full of narrow lanes and medieval architecture.

Located in a dramatic valley the town is visited by hikers in summer and skiers in winter and also for the chief attraction of Peleş Castle.

This large city has an attractive layout of squares and gardens as well as a good range of restaurants and museums.

European Luxury Train Travel: Serbia

Offering some of the best luxury train tours Europe offers, Serbia is a pivotal rail junction in the Balkans and a stop for many of the most luxurious trains in Europe. A landlocked country in the Balkans, Serbia came into being out of the former Yugoslavia in the early 1990s.

Located where the Sava and Danube Rivers meet Belgrade is where the old world meets the new in this forward looking city.

Sargan Vitasi

This place is all about trains and the unusual narrow gauge railway that ran from Sarajevo to Belgrade with the section here restored.

Luxury Rail Holidays In Europe: Slovakia

Slovakia is a landlocked and mountainous country in Central Europe with beautiful cities and incredible natural sights. Slovakia can be visited on the Central European Classics and New Year In Vienna luxury train rides in Europe. The old town of Kosicce is a highlight, as well as Poprad, known as the gateway to the High Tatra mountains.

The old town is the attraction of this city with the greatest collection of Gothic towers, medieval bastions and baroque sculpture in Slovakia.

Poprad is a known as the Gateway to the stunning scenery of the High Tatras and this town makes for a good place to base and explore.

Luxury Train Travel Europe: Slovenia

Slovenia lies in South-Central Europe in the Julian Alps at the northern end of the Adriatic Sea, bordered by Austria to the north and Italy to the west. The country is a stalwart of the best luxury rail travel Europe offers. Slovenia can be visited on the Grand Alpine Express, Venice to Istanbul luxury European train holidays.

Picture perfect and very popular Lake Bled is surrounded by the highest peaks of the Julian Alps and attractive churches and castles.

Slovenia’s capital green and liveable with a pedestrianised centre and fine architecture and bridges crossing the Ljubljanica River.

The Postojna Cave system is the thing to see here. Visitors can walk along 5km of the total 24 km of tunnels full of formations.

Luxury Train Holidays Europe: Spain

The Mediterranean country of Spain needs little introduction and is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations for its stunning history, cities and culture. Lesser known is its extensive rail network used by luxury overnight trains in Europe. Spain can be visited on the Al Andalus luxury train tours of Europe, visiting Santiago to Seville and the Portuguese capital of Lisbon to Barcelona. More details can be found below.

The old city walls consist of 8 huge gates, 88 watchtowers and 2500 turrets, is one of the best-preserved medieval in Spain.

Discover timeless beauty in its well-preserved medieval quarter, historic monuments, and a rich blend of cultural influences.

Home to some extraordinary islamic architecture, not least the Mezquita, this city also is quintessential Spain and not to be missed.

Leon’s cathedral is one of Spain’s most impressive and largest and at night this city comes alive with bars and restaurants.

Experience the pulsating heart of Spain with world-renowned museums, lively plazas, and an unrivalled culinary scene.

Ourense is known for its hot springs and thermal waters as well as its 12th-century Cathedral and Roman era bridge, the Ponte Romana.

Santiago de Compostela

The final stop on the famed pilgrimage trail of the same name 300,000 pilgrims still walk here to visit the cathedral each year.

Seville is one of Spains most impressive and pleasant cities with grand architecture and an Andalusian culture of food and drink.

Toledo is dramatically sited atop a gorge overlooking the Río Tajo, it was known as the ‘city of three cultures’ in the Middle Ages.

A harmonious blend of futuristic architecture, lush gardens, vibrant festivals, and a rich, historic Old Town.

Luxury Rail Journeys Europe: Switzerland

Landlocked Switzerland offers unique luxury rail journeys in Europe with stunning mountainous scenery and cities and towns rich in a culture influenced by the surrounding countries, including Italy, France, Germany and Austria. Swiss rail is famous for its punctuality and breathtaking engineering feats over mountain passes. Although there are few luxury night train Europe rail tours, the trip does use luxury rolling stock for day trips with nights spent in hotels. Switzerland can be visited on the Grand Alpine Express and Swiss Rail Spectacular tours, making them great luxury European train holidays to be remembered.

SWITZERLAND

Andermatt is a village in the Ursern Valley in the Swiss Alps. The train station is on the route network of the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn.

Located astride the mighty Rhine river the city is popular for it’s wealth of galleries, museums and iconic buildings.

Switzerland’s capital has a beautiful listed old town of cobbled streets with 6km of covered arcades, cellar shops and bars.

A traditional village overlooking the lake of the same name, this is the quintessential Alpine setting among forests and mountains.

The steep Furka Pass at 2,431m) offers superb views and a memorable train ride during the summer months when the pass is snow free.

The Jungfrau, at 4,158 meters is one of the main summits of the Bernese Alps. From here the views across the Alps are stunning.

Popular with the likes of Goethe, Queen Victoria and Wagner Lucerne is as charming today as in the 19th Century and not to be missed.

Reichenbach Falls

The Reichenbach Falls (of Sherlock Holmes fame) drop over a total height of about 250 metres and are reached by a funicular train.

St Gotthard Pass

The St Gotthard Pass at 2,106 m (6,909 ft) is a mountain pass for road and rail connecting northern with southern Switzerland.

The ultimate Swiss winter resort loved by celebrities and the well-heeled alike. Year round the beautiful lake and scenery can be enjoyed.

Vitznau lies in an idyllic bay of Lake Lucerne at the foot of the Rigi making time well spent to explore the lake and the mountain area.

Zermatt lies at the foot of the famous Matterhorn. The town has preserved its original character and is a car free zone.

The lakeside city of Zürich has the classic Swiss old town (Altstadt) and plenty of bars, art galleries and shopping opportunities.

Luxury Train Journeys Europe: Turkey

Turkey is a country full of wonder and history that straddles Europe and the near Orient and has long been a place of fascination for tourists. Some of the best luxury trains in Europe start of finish in Istanbul, and Turkey can be visited on the Balkan Explorer, Castles of Transylvania, Venice to Istanbul tours.

Istanbul is one of the world’s great cities sitting on the strategic Bosphorus with a skyline that speaks of its long history.

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Our luxury train rides in Europe cover a wide range of destinations from the Iberian Peninsular to the East, Central Europe and the Balkans. Above you will see all the luxury European train holiday destinations covered by our luxury European train tours, and each destination has the tours that visit it below.

How Much Do Luxury Sleeper Trains In Europe Cost?

The luxury train Europe price depends on both the trip chosen and the class of cabin you require. You can find all pricing by clicking on any luxury European train tour above, which will open up the European luxury train trip dossier, which contains pricing, dates, details of the itinerary and cabin classes available for that train. There is a lot of information, so if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us about the European luxury train vacations you are interested in.

What Is The Most Luxurious Train In Europe?

It is often said that the most luxurious train in Europe must be the Orient Express which travels from London to Venice. However, this is a short train trip, and we recommend booking that as a means to get to Venice and start another European luxury train tour on a train like the Danube Express operated by Golden Eagle. These luxury train trips in Europe are much more extensive and complement the Orient Express. We mustn’t forget the luxury trains in Portugal and Spain known as the Al Andalus which we like for its old work decor – to some these could be the most luxurious trains in Europe.

Why Book A European Luxury Train Trip With theluxurytraintravelcompany.com?

We have been offering luxury train vacations in Europe for many years. Our experience in dealing with Luxury Train travel companies and operators allows us to point you towards the best luxury train travel Europe offers. Price, cabin class and route are all important decisions, and we have vast experience and good connections with the luxury rail operators to secure the highly sought-after cabins. We are delighted to assist you in booking your European luxury train and experiencing the best possible luxury train vacation in Europe.

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The Best Train Trips in the World: 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards

By Todd Plummer

Ah, the allure of train trips . Adventurers and the eco-conscious are drawn to this glamorous, old-world mode of exploration for the impeccable slow-travel vibes, but there’s also something to be said about the perspective found onboard a train; you’re experiencing the landscape and scenery in a way that you can’t experience in any other mode of travel. A train trip often brings you where everyday roads cannot, whether it’s through untouched Malaysian jungles on the revamped Belmond Eastern & Oriental itineraries relaunching in 2024, or high into the Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer. For our 36th annual Readers’ Choice Awards —which capture the travel experiences our readers love best, from hotels and airlines to cruises , islands , and luggage —we called on all of you to rank the best of the best rail journeys out there. Here, dear readers, is how the dice fell.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

20. Inca Rail, South America

If you’re interested in taking a train to Machu Picchu (and unless you’re a mountain goat, we suggest you do), Inca Rail offers a level of convenience that is difficult to match—and it’s also worth mentioning that the First Class service is priced more accessibly than other luxury operators servicing the same route. While on board, you can expect a tasty menu prepared with organic ingredients grown right in the Sacred Valley, live Peruvian music, ample windows through which you can admire the staggering Andean scenery, and a spacious Observatory Lounge complete with open-air balcony. For fresh and frothy Pisco sours this good, this is one train that’s well worth the price of admission.

19. Transcantabrico Gran Lujo, Spain

Take in all the sights and flavors of Spain ’s iconic northern coastline on this luxurious sleeper train, which over the course of a week makes its way between San Sebastián and Santiago de Compostela. You’ll enjoy on-board cuisine that celebrates each of the distinct regions through which this train passes, from Galicia to Basque Country. A unique aspect of this train is that it remains stationary overnight, allowing for late-night excursions and explorations that are uncommon on other sleeper train experiences.

18. Glacier Express, Switzerland

It’s been said that the Glacier Express is the slowest express in the world–it takes eight hours to traverse the 180-mile journey–but boy, do the views here invite a slow journey. Connecting the resort towns of Zermatt and Saint Moritz, the train provides an up-close perspective of some of this mountainous country’s most iconic natural features, including the Matterhorn, Piz Bernina, and the Rhine Gorge (dubbed Switzerland’s Grand Canyon). Book in Excellence Class and you’ll be served Champagne at your seat, followed by a six-course meal complete with wine pairings.

17. The Canadian, Canada

Take in every mile of the vast Canadian landscape from The Canadian , a special sleeper service offered by VIA Rail, the country’s national rail carrier. Keep in mind that this train is more about sightseeing from the cars than actually getting off and doing anything. But if you’re traveling in the comfort of Prestige Class—with your own private cabin, private washroom and built-in TV screen monitor with video selection—you’ll be perfectly content to take in the journey from the privacy of your very own picture window.

16. The Ghan, Australia

Completed in 1929, The Ghan runs through the heart of the Australian continent , from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north. It may have only started running its current route in 2004, but its history dates to the 19th century, its name harkening to the Afghan camel trainers and riders who first helped chart a course through the country’s interior. The three-day all-inclusive journey sees the train lilting its way through Australia’s Red Centre with diverse landscapes passing by. Travel through the expansive ridges of the MacDonnell Ranges, witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Simpsons Gap, and visit the opal town of Coober Pedy.

15. JR Kyushu 36+3, Japan

This train’s unusual name derives from Kyushu being the 36th-largest island in the world, and there being three key stakeholders on this journey: the passengers, the local community, and the rail company, JR Kyushu. It isn’t a sleeper train, instead offering a series of weeklong roster of one-day itineraries around the perimeter of Kyushu–a do one, do them all, or do as many as you like situation–but the journey is no less enriching for it. The inside feels like a ryokan, featuring immaculate woodwork made from local techniques, comfortable furniture, and a mix of private and communal spaces. It’s a gorgeous way to get off the beaten track on this gorgeous Japanese island, packing in a number of stops and towns into a single day of productive–yet comfortable–sightseeing.

14. Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia

The E&O is the stuff of train enthusiasts’ legends, and in February 2024, this storied train will at long last resume service after its pandemic-era pause–sort of. The train’s journey originally connected Singapore and Bangkok, but as of the new year will offer journeys through the jungles and coastlines of Malaysia, but all originating in and returning to Singapore. It isn’t the classic E&O route, but these new itineraries will offer deeper explorations of Malaysia than ever before, including guided snorkeling on Langkawi and excursions to Taman Negara National Park. Despite the new itineraries, the train still has all the old world touches that people love: Order a Singapore Sling in the Bar Car, take it to the outdoor viewing platform as the Malaysian jungle rolls on by, and you just might forget what year we’re living in.

13. Northern Belle, Europe

It’s all about the food—and the scenery, too, but mostly about the food—onboard this lovingly restored 1930s train , which zig-zags its way across the English, Scottish and Welsh countrysides. Each of the journeys on offer are day trips, so they require less of a time (and money) commitment than other luxury trains. But what the Northern Belle lacks in length she more than makes up for in quality: The meal services are exquisite, offering fine dining crafted mostly from U.K. suppliers, so you can enjoy classic British fare as the heaths, meadows, and dales roll on by.

12. The Maharajas' Express, India

There are luxury sleeper trains, and then there are luxury sleeper trains like the Maharaja’s Express , where a greeting of marigold garlands and rose petals showered at your feet kicks off the journey before your personal butler escorts you to your room. The Junior Suite rooms are surprisingly spacious, especially by train travel standards, and come with full-sized closets, comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and satellite TVs. Both of the on board watering holes–the Safari Bar and the Raja Club–have plenty of chairs, comfy sofas, books and board games. Each day of the itinerary includes special opportunities to experience India through the train’s luxurious and singular perspective: like an early-morning champagne breakfast on a private hillside overlooking the Taj Mahal.

11. Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland

It’s about the journey, not the destination, right? Nowhere is train travel more indulgent—or convenient!—than on Belmond’s Royal Scotsman , which departs from and arrives at Edinburgh’s Waverley Station. With only 40 guests onboard, the train circumnavigates the heart of the Scottish Highlands, passing such landmarks as the Kyle of Lochalsh and Cairngorms National Park. There’s even a dedicated spa carriage, where the specialists are trained to synchronize their motions with the natural lilts and tilts of the train. If that’s not luxury, we’re not sure what is.

10. Belmond Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train, South America

Named after the U.S. explorer who supposedly “discovered” Machu Picchu in 1911, the Belmond Hiram Bingham train line is as grand as the man’s claims. The round-trip journey connects the city of Poroy (just west of Cuzco) to the Lost City and Sacred Valley of Machu Picchu. The Belmond Hiram Bingham turns on the turn-of-the-20th-century charm, from gleaming polished wood and brass surfaces to lavish meals and accommodations, which offer plenty of space to stretch out: the perfect setting for viewing the mountains and rivers zooming past the window.

9. Golden Chariot, India

Experience a mix of Southern India’s greatest hits and lesser-explored destinations on board the iconic purple and gold Golden Chariot , which connects the Indian states of Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry. All itineraries depart from Bengaluru, with options for both three-night and six-night journeys. This train’s strength is its access to off-beat attractions than what you’ll find on the well-worn Golden Triangle, such as the ruins of Hampi. With sparse crowds, and a comfortable train to retreat to at the end of each day, it’s an approach to India that captures all the magic this country has to offer.

8. Golden Eagle Danube Express, Europe

A pioneer in luxury trains for three decades, Golden Eagle is perhaps best known for its Silk Road and Trans-Siberian routes, but the Danube Express unlocks an approach to Southern and Eastern Europe which is no less breathtaking and engaging. The “Castles of Transylvania” route from Istanbul to Budapest is particularly unique–spend all day learning about Vlad the Impaler’s history through guided tours, then spend all night luxuriating in the comfort of the bar car or in the privacy of your room. It’s a combination of Europe’s best cities and most dramatic natural landscapes that is hard to experience in one go any other way.

7. Rocky Mountaineer, North America

Traveling in a coach outfitted with picture windows and glass-dome ceilings means that a Rocky Mountaineer journey leaves no sight unseen as you traverse the dramatic scenery between Vancouver , British Columbia and Banff or Jasper, Alberta. Sample local Canadian beer, wine and snacks as you kick back and enjoy the ride. The staff’s friendly service and animated storytelling help bring the landscape to life. It’s personal touches like those which keep travelers coming away from this trip amply satisfied time and time again. Since it was founded in 1990, Rocky Mountaineer has transported more than two million guests, making it the largest privately-owned premium tourist train in the world.

6. Rovos Rail, Africa

This extravagant railway has been traveling throughout Africa for over thirty years. The experiences start before you even board—when departing from Pretoria, Rovos Rail travelers are granted exclusive access to a private lounge, where Champagne and canapés greet them—and a strict “no cellphone” rule is maintained for your own good. Enjoy the moment(s) provided by this line, which range from cozy digs to formal-attired evenings, as well as full-sized, freestanding clawfoot tubs in the most grand compartments. All Rovos Rail journeys include off-train cultural, historical and safari excursions so guests can experience all the wonders that Southern Africa has to offer. The three-night Cape Town journey is a classic, but if you’re feeling extra adventurous and have a few more nights to spare, opt for the newer fifteen-day “Trail of Two Oceans” itinerary, originating in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, crossing Zambia, traversing a sliver of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and concluding in Lobito, Angola.

5. Belmond Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train, South America

Weaving through the Peruvian Andes at 14,000 feet, the Belmond Andean Explorer transports passengers between Arequipa and Cusco on one- and two-night journeys. There are just thirty-five cabins on board, each outfitted with alpaca wool blankets and handwoven fabrics for an authentic yet luxe feel. Two dining cars and two bar cars serve the whims of every guest with bites like alpaca tortellini and (of course) champagne. The train also makes excursions to Lake Titicaca , where guests can learn about local customs, visit Incan ruins, and take in breath-taking views.

4. British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England

The British Pullman ’s experience is magical no matter where you’re seated. Once you depart London , you’ll embark on a journey through the bucolic British countryside, touring cities and towns like Cambridge, York, and Canterbury along the way. The restored carriages date back to the 1920s and 1930s, so expect Art Deco touches, polished interiors, and classically prepared multi-course meals—this is the same train line that has served British royalty and government officials for years, after all.

3. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

Year after year, the world’s most iconic locomotive continues to be a standard-setter in luxury. Of course, the decadent interiors are a fantasy of 1920’s Art Deco design, but it’s the impeccable service that keeps this train firmly ensconced in a class of its own. Bags are whisked off from the platform and magically reappear in your cabin, no glass ever runs empty, and the beds seem to make themselves anytime you step outside of your cabin. By day you can revel in the scenery of French countrysides and Swiss mountain scenes, and by night, the formal dress code feels anything but stuffy—in fact, playing dress up and making your way to the Champagne bar is, we think, one of the coolest experiences anyone could have on a train. For 2023, this over-the-top train is getting even more luxe updates, including eight new suites, two of which are original 1920s and 30s carriages carefully restored by expert French craftsmen and designers–so there’s no time like the present to book that bucket-list trip.

2. Palace on Wheels, India

India’s best-known train, the Palace on Wheels , offers a number of trips that range from a couple days to week-long excursions. Embarking from New Delhi through the Land of Kings, trips take you through the famed Pink City of Jaipur, in Rajasthan, where guests are greeted by majestic UNESCO sites like the Amer Fort as well as 16th century palaces. You can also visit Agra, home to the Taj Mahal and the perfect stop for a tour of some of the country's most iconic sites. Along the way, enjoy regional cuisine in well-appointed, colorful carriages decked out in Indian textiles.

1. Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan

Train lovers consider this opulent Japanese locomotive among the most spacious and comfortable of them all. Every inch of Seven Stars' Kyushu train—from the beds, to the bathroom sinks, to the woodwork, to the porcelain dinner plates—is handmade by Japanese artisans, and the service is simply exquisite, with each journey limited to a positively intimate twenty passengers; but it’s not just about the onboard experience with Seven Stars. These four-day, three-night trips travel a circuit around the island of Kyushu, making stops at the region’s best shrines, onsens, porcelain studios, and more, so you truly feel like you’re exploring an authentic side of Japan , far away from the more obvious tourist tracks.

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The Fanciest Sleeper Car Trains Around the World

Travel the world in style.

Train travel comes with one very important life lesson: Letting the world pass you by can indeed be a good thing.

Riding the rails is as romantic as travel gets. Peaceful and slow, it can show you the world outside your window. Plus, it makes the trip about the journey, not just the destination. But, like all travel, there are still ways to level up an already stellar experience. And with train travel , that means booking an epic sleeper car so you can see the world in style.

Luxury train companies can be found all over the world, just waiting to take guests on a dream vacation. All travelers need to do is grab a ticket and make their way to the station before the conductor calls, "All aboard!" Need a little inspiration to get you there? Here are nine luxury sleeper car trains with routes crisscrossing the globe.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: London to Venice

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is one of the most well-known luxury train companies in the world — and for good reason. Its train cars are opulent, with plush velvet furnishings in rich jewel tones, dark wood walls, and top-notch service that can't be beat. Though all of its journeys look epic, the London-to-Venice route may be the best for first-time train travelers. Guests will board the company's British Pullman train, where they can enjoy a cocktail in the bar car, snag a bite in the dining car, or take in the picturesque countryside views from their room.

Belmond Andean Explorer: Cusco to Arequipa

Meander through Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa, in total luxury aboard the region's first luxury sleeper train, the Belmond Andean Explorer . Inside, guests will be delighted by the bright furnishings, including crisp, white bedding and supple leather seating with just the right pops of color, thanks to the Peruvian textiles. On board, passengers will dine on locally sourced cuisine and can even book a spa appointment, so they can rest and recharge before arriving at the final destination.

Maharajas' Express: Delhi to Mumbai

Maharajas' Express is a vintage train travel dream come true. The train takes guests on a seven-day trip from Delhi to Mumbai , stopping at different countryside locations, including Udaipur, where passengers can take a quick boat ride on Lake Pichola, and Jodhpur, where they can roam through the Bishnoi Village. Though all accommodations are spectacular, if you can, try and book the presidential suite, which comes with 448 square feet of living space and two bedrooms for those looking to spread out.

The Blue Train: Pretoria to Cape Town

Sometimes, all you need is 36 hours to have the ideal vacation, and that's exactly what you'll get on The Blue Train from Pretoria to Cape Town. On board, guests will find moody suites and common spaces, all decked out in deep brown leather and emerald green accents. And perhaps best of all, each suite comes with a soaking tub for ultimate relaxation. Passengers can also partake in high tea before settling in for a world-class dinner experience and a nightcap.

Belmond Royal Scotsman: Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands

Belmond's Royal Scotsman Edinburgh train is ideal for those looking to spend a few extra days on the rails. The famed trip offers guests the chance to spend four nights on a round-trip journey, where they'll be pampered by a 24-hour steward. All meals, including a Scottish breakfast and four-course dinner, as well as experiences at each stop are also included. After a day exploring places like Ballindalloch Castle and the Rothiemurchus Estate, guests can retire to their suite, outfitted with an ultra-cozy bed that's also covered in Scottish tartans for extra warmth.

Danube Express: Transylvania

The Danube Express is ready to take you to the home of Count Dracula with a seven-day trip through Transylvania . Along the way, passengers can disembark for a walking tour through the town of Sighisoara, visit Sibiu's Evangelical Cathedral, and explore the famed Bran Castle. After a day of sightseeing, guests can head back to the train, the Golden Eagle Danube Express , which is just as impressive as the historic sites they visited. On board, the well-appointed cabins feature king-sized beds, as well as common spaces such as the bar lounge, which offers entertainment like music performances and more.

The Canadian: Toronto to Vancouver

If you're on the hunt for a train trip that offers the most spectacular scenery, look no further than The Canadian . The four-day, four-night Toronto-to-Vancouver journey includes stops in Sudbury, Sioux Lookout, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Jasper, and Kamloops. Throughout the trip, guests can look out onto the changing landscape, which includes city and forest views, rivers and mountain peaks, and everything in between. Passengers on board for the overnight journeys can find cabins for up to four guests, which come with private bathrooms and are converted into lounge spaces during the day. Though guests never need to leave their rooms, they may want to head to the train's dining room for a delicious meal and a toast to a well-deserved adventure.

The Ghan: Adelaide to Darwin

The Australian outback is calling your name, and The Ghan Expedition from Adelaide to Darwin will help get you there. The four-day, three-night trip will take guests on a cross-continental adventure, with off-train excursions in towns like Alice Springs and Coober Pedy, as well as plenty of activities on board, too. While riding across Australia, guests will dine on a regionally inspired menu and sip on locally sourced wines as they watch some of the most remote landscapes on the planet pass by outside. To make this trip as spectacular as possible, book at the platinum level, which comes with the largest suite and personalized service.

Eastern & Oriental Express: Singapore to Bangkok

Come spend three perfect days aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express as it makes its way from Singapore to Bangkok . The luxury train comes decked out in antique-style furnishings, including floral upholstery and polished wood paneling on every wall. On board, guests can mingle in the bar car, which harkens back to a time when jazz reigned supreme, and where stewards serve Champagne like it's going out of style. For a more subdued moment, head to the observation car to admire the scenery. The rooms and suites, meanwhile, come with more gorgeous furnishings and slippers, so you can kick back and relax. Suites are converted into private lounges during the day, and feature a sofa and rattan chairs, along with a window-side desk, just in case inspiration strikes to write the next great romance novel while aboard.

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Discover Luxurious Rail Travel Designed For The Mega-Rich

Posted: June 25, 2024 | Last updated: June 25, 2024

The mega-wealthy's new obsession with luxury rail

Forget flying by private jet or cruising the world on a superyacht: luxury rail travel is fast becoming the most desirable mode of transport for the richest 1%. Enticed by its eco credentials, not to mention the promise of romance, opulence, and the adventure that traveling by train offers, the mega-moneyed are going all out for going all aboard.

From splurging on trips on the  Venice Simplon-Orient-Express  to chartering whole trains,  read on to explore the most wildly expensive rail experiences, charters, and private trains  –  including the jaw-dropping "palace on rails" that's worth $350 million (£275m). 

We've ranked these rail experiences by cost per night per person based on double occupancy where data is available. All dollar amounts in US dollars.

Rovos Rail Royal Suite: $1,686 (£1,327)

South Africa offers two luxury train experiences: the Blue Train and Rovos Rail, with the latter the more expensive of the pair.

Rovos Rail boasts seven locomotives, each with a series of plush Edwardian-era accommodation carriages. The trains feature dining cars, lounge cars, observation cars, and open-air balconies.

Rovos Rail's most expensive trip actually takes place outside South Africa. A breathtaking 15-day, 14-night odyssey, the Copper Trail crosses Zimbabwe, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Angola, taking in Victoria Falls and other natural wonders. A three-day safari is also included.

Guests opting for the top-end Royal Suite package can expect to pay $23,600 (£18,570) for the trip, which works out at $1,686 (£1,327) per night.

The fare includes all meals and drinks – gourmet dishes such as prized game are served alongside the finest South African wines – as well as access to an onboard hair stylist, doctor, and historian.

Remarkably spacious at 172 square feet (16 square meters), each Royal Suite occupies half a carriage and features a private lounge area and ensuite bathroom, complete with a Victorian clawfoot bath.

The Ghan Platinum Service: $1,760 (£1,385)

Australia's swankiest rail experience started out in 1929 as The Afghan Express . Now considered one of the world's greatest train journeys, the renamed  The Ghan trundles 1,851 miles (2,979km) through the Aussie outback on a route that takes it from Adelaide to Darwin via Alice Springs.

The epic Ghan Expedition package, which stretches over four days and three nights, is only matched by its epic fare prices. The most expensive option, the Platinum Service, comes in at $5,280 (£4,155), which works out at $1,760 (£1,385) per person per night.

Platinum passengers get dibs on the train's best ensuite cabins and have access to the Platinum Club, an exclusive bar carriage. There, they can sip on Bollinger champagne to their hearts' content and enjoy gourmet meals in the Art Deco-style Queen Adelaide Restaurant.

The Platinum fare includes several excursions, including a "spectacular dinner under the stars" in Alice Springs and a tour of the subterranean opal mining town of Coober Pedy.

Danube Express Superior Deluxe Class: $2,349 (£1,882)

Founded in 1989 by businessman Tim Littler, the UK's Golden Eagle describes itself as an operator of "the world's leading luxury private trains."

The firm has indefinitely suspended its best-known service, the Trans-Siberian Express , due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, it has managed to pivot its business to its Central and Southern Asian and European offerings. These include the Danube Express , which the company acquired in 2015.

The upscale Danube Express 's most expensive trip is its seven-day, six-night Castles of Transylvania package.

The trip includes one night at the five-star Pera Palace Hotel in Istanbul, the departure destination, and one night at the Four Seasons Gresham Palace in Budapest at the end of the line.

Aboard the train, passengers can enjoy a champagne reception and dine on regional specialties. Based on double occupancy, a Superior Deluxe Class cabin, which comes with all mod cons and a private ensuite bathroom, costs $14,095 (£11,295) per person or $2,349 (£1,882) per night. The single option is priced at $23,395 (£18,895), translating to $3,933 (£3,149) per night.

Royal Canadian Pacific Stateroom: $2,600 (£2,045)

Royal Canadian Pacific's historic fleet of impeccably restored train carriages date from the early 20th century and have hosted a number of eminent travelers over the decades, including Queen Elizabeth II, Sir Winston Churchill, and Franklin D Roosevelt.

The venerable operator's flagship trip is the awe-inspiring Rockies Experience, a five-day, four-night tour of the mountain range that departs from Calgary.

It costs from $10,400 (£8,184) per passenger, so $2,600 (£2,045) per night. Even if you have the cash, tickets can be hard to come by. Seats are so in demand there's reportedly a very long waiting list.

Guests aboard this "five-star hotel on wheels" are treated like royalty and can dine from a locally and ethically sourced menu that boasts specialties such as caviar and Alberta venison, not to mention the most prized Canadian wines.

The staterooms are every bit as luxurious as you'd expect. Each features its own indulgent amenities, including a three-piece ensuite bathroom.

The Vietage: $2,750 (£2,164)

Described as Vietnam's premier rail experience, The Vietage offers one of the world's most extravagant rail excursions.

Its two elegant train carriages seat 12 guests apiece and are each available to hire in their entirety from a hefty $2,750 (£2,164) for a six-hour one-way trip, according to Luxury Train Club.

Launched in 2020 by hotel group Anantara, the superlative service runs from historic Hoi An to the coastal resort of Quy Nhon (198 miles/319km to the south). It's recently added beach destination Nha Trang to its destination list.

In addition to a sit-up bar, each carriage has six stylish booths with two window seats, through which lucky guests can marvel at the gorgeous scenery of central Vietnam.

With cocktails and wine flowing, ticket holders can enjoy a lavish three-course meal that fuses Vietnamese and French cuisine. Delicacies like wagyu beef and foie gras are on the menu, with champagne and caviar on the side.

Best of all is the wellbeing cabin, where pampered passengers can enjoy a blissful head and shoulder massage as they watch the world go by.

Eastern & Oriental Express Presidential Suite: $2,867 (£2,256)

Owned by LVMH, Belmond has an enviable portfolio that includes some of the world's most renowned hotels and restaurants, as well as four of the most prestigious rail experiences: the fabled Venice Simplon-Orient-Express , Royal Scotsman , Andean Explorer , and Eastern & Oriental Express .

The latter, launched in 1972, travels between Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. It recently underwent a stunning refurbishment and will return to service in 2024 following a four-year hiatus.

The Eastern & Oriental Express offers two four-day, three-night trips departing from Singapore that explore Malaysia. Guests will get to relish gourmet local dishes, while artisans, musicians, and storytellers will be on board to provide immersive cultural experiences.

The 125-square-foot (12 square meter) Presidential Suite is the most expensive option. Supremely comfortable, it features a large ensuite bathroom, top-class amenities, and superlative service, with caviar on arrival and champagne on tap.

Both trips start from $8,600 (£6,767) per person based on double occupancy or $17,200 (£13,533) for a single, which works out to $2,867 (£2,256) and $5,733 (£4,511) per night respectively.

Andean Explorer Suite Cabin: $3,500 (£2,754)

South America's most elegant train, Belmond's  Andean Explorer connects the ancient Peruvian cities of Cusco and Arequipa, offering astonishing vistas of the Andes Mountains.

Decorated with furnishings that marry traditional Peruvian style with Art Deco elements, the 16-carriage midnight blue train is a real gem.

Guests are taken on culinary adventures exploring local cuisine in the train's two dining cars. They can also relax with a cocktail in the lounge car or boost their well-being in the spa carriage.

According to Luxury Train Club, the most expensive option is a 141-square-foot (13 square meter) double ensuite cabin on the one-night Spirit of the Andes Trip.

It costs $3,500 (£2,754) per person based on double occupancy or $6,125 (£4,819) for a solo passenger.

Le Grand Tour Adjoining Suite: $3,563 (£1,865)

Amid surging demand among the super-rich for luxury train experiences, Le Grand Tour launched last summer to great fanfare.

The brainchild of French theme park company Puy du Fou, it's a six-day, five-night immersive tour of France aboard a beautiful Belle Époque-style train.

Billed as "a theatre in motion" by Puy du Fou, the unique experience takes guests on a 2,485-mile (4,000km) cultural and gastronomic journey like no other. The adventure begins in Paris, and there are curated stops in Carcassonne, Avignon, and Arcachon, with excursions to the chateaux of the Loire Valley and Avignon's Palace of the Popes.

The train comprises 18 cabins named after French historical figures, along with a sumptuous bar and restaurant cars, where guests can indulge in fine champagne and exquisite cuisine designed by three Michelin-starred chef Alexandre Couillon, who's featured on the hit Netflix show Chef's Table .

The Adjoining Suites are Le Grand Tour's more extravagant cabins. They each span an extra-generous 269 square feet (25 square meters) and include a double bedroom, lounge, and private bathroom. A dedicated butler caters to guests every whim. Prices start from $17,816 (£14,018) per person, which works out at $3,563 (£1,865) per night.

Royal Scotsman Grand Suite: $3,813 (£3,000)

Another jewel in Belmond's crown, the Royal Scotsman has been traversing Caledonia's glorious Highlands and Lowlands since 1985. It now offers 12 services that depart from and return to Edinburgh.

Richly decorated with mahogany paneling and fine tweed and tartan furnishings, the train's carriages include two dining cars where the onboard chefs work magic with the finest Scottish ingredients, such as Aberdeen Angus beef and wild salmon.

Passengers can kick back in the bar with a dram or live it up by taking part in a traditional ceilidh, with entertainment provided every evening. They can then soothe their tired muscles with a treatment in the Dior Spa, where therapists are reportedly trained to synchronize massages with the movements of the train.

New for 2024 are the Royal Scotsman 's Grand Suites, which have no doubt been introduced to meet the demand for ever more luxurious rail experiences. Larger than the standard cabins, they're more plushly outfitted too, with each featuring a double bed, lounge area, and spacious ensuite.

Each Grand Suite also comes with a butler service. Unsurprisingly, the Grand Suite option isn't cheap, starting from $7,625 (£6,000) per person for a two-night Highland journey, so $3,813 (£3,000) per night.

Orient Express La Dolce Vita Suite: $4,020 (£3,167)

The Orient Express brand belongs to French rail operator SNCF and AccorHotels, each controlling 50%. Accor snapped up its share in 2017 and is launching its first Orient Express-branded rail service this year.

The train pays homage to Italy's fabulous Dolce Vita period of the late 1950s and early 1960s, and its slick midcentury-modern interior design harks back to that era.

Eight one-night and two-night trips are on offer, from a wine-themed tour of Tuscany to a journey along the coast of Sicily.

Guests can expect a unique immersive experience that even includes onboard ballet and can dine on refined Italian classics and delicacies such as sea urchins and truffles. And of course, meals are paired with the finest Italian wine.

Prices for the fanciest accommodation on board, the achingly stylish 118-square-foot (11 square meter) La Dolce Vita Suite, start from $4,020 (£3,167) per person per night. The suite features a master bedroom, lounge, and private bathroom.

Golden Eagle Imperial Suite: $4,038 (£3,177)

Now that its Trans-Siberian route is a no-no, Golden Eagle's eponymous train operates in Central Asia, tracing the ancient Silk Road.

The Bar Lounge car is the heart of the train and the setting for an array of activities and entertainment. It even boasts a resident pianist. Two restaurant cars offer high-end international and local specialities, including caviar and sturgeon.

The 14-day, 13-night Republic of the Silk Road tour, which travels through the "Five Stans" (Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan), is the train's most expensive trip.

For this journey, the Imperial Suite option – which offers passengers 120 square feet (11 square meters) of floor space, a king-sized bed, a lounge area, and a bathroom – is priced at $52,495 (£41,305) per person based on two sharing, or $103,895 (£81,749) for single occupancy. That's $4,038 (£3,177) and $7,992 (£6,288) respectively per night.

Maharajahs' Express Presidential Suite: $7,467 (£5,928)

Officially India's most luxurious train, the Maharajahs' Express draws inspiration from the wonderfully ornate private rail carriages of the nation's bygone royalty ("maharajah" is Sanskrit for "great king").

Launched in 2010 by the tourism arm of the state-owned Indian Railways, the regal train operates four captivating itineraries departing from Mumbai or Delhi, including Agra for the Taj Mahal, Jaipur, Mumbai, and various other must-see destinations.

Guests are spoiled with exemplary service, with each cabin allotted a personal butler. Two fine-dining restaurants showcase the finest regional Indian cuisine and international dishes, together with a chic bar and lounge.

The majestic Presidential Suite is the most expensive of all the cabins. The largest suite in our round-up at an incredible 448 square feet (41 square meters), it wows with two double bedrooms, a capacious living area, and two ensuite bathrooms, including one with a full-sized bathtub.

Naturally, it doesn't come cheap: the suite will set you back $52,269 (£41,499) for a seven-day, six-night trip, the equivalent of $7,467 (£5,928) a night.

Seven Stars in Kyushu Deluxe Suite: $10,150 (£8,059)

As well as being one of the priciest luxury train experiences in the world, Japan's Seven Stars in Kyushu has got to be the most exclusive.

Simply being super-rich isn't enough to secure a seat on the highly desirable train: with each journey restricted to just 20 guests, potential passengers sometimes have to apply for their tickets, with winners selected lottery-style.

The seven-carriage "cruise train" debuted in 2013 and has been a hit from the beginning.

A ravishing fusion of Japanese and Western design, the wood-paneled carriages include a dining car serving epicurean delights from the region, a piano lounge, and a traditional Japanese tea room.

The train's two Deluxe Suites are the most expensive, so naturally the hardest to secure. The larger of the pair is 226 square feet (21 square meters) and features a lounge area, sleeping area, and ensuite bathroom. But the pièce de résistance is most definitely that sensational rear window (shown here). 

A Deluxe Suite costs 1.5 million yen per person for a two-day, one-night trip, which equates to a whopping $10,150 (£8,059).

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Grand Suite: $12,906 (£10,165)

The world's most iconic train, Belmond's Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is simply the crème de la crème of travelling by rail. 

The Art Deco beauty, which travels between London and Venice, as well as a number of other destinations around the continent, exudes timeless glamour and offers unbridled luxury.

Made up of 17 impeccably restored 1920s and 1930s carriages, the train transports its well-heeled passengers back to the golden age of European rail travel.

Highlights include the Art Nouveau Bar Car and three opulent restaurant cars, where guests can feast on haute cuisine accompanied by premium wines.

The six magnificent Grand Suites are the largest and most decadent booking options for guests looking to travel in serious style. They each feature their own distinctive décor, a double bed, lounge area, and private bathroom. Each Grand Suite is subject to a 24-hour butler service, and guests can enjoy unlimited champagne. 

Of course, this doesn't come cheap. A Grand Suite for the classic London to Venice journey costs from $12,906 (£10,165) per person based on double occupancy – a jaw-dropping price when you consider that passengers spend just one night on the train.

But for travellers with a limitless budget, there are even more spectacular options to consider...

Railbookers' Around the World by Luxury Train package

A once-in-a-lifetime adventure for the mega-wealthy rail enthusiast with time to spare, the Around the World by Luxury Train package from US travel operator Railbookers is an 80-day extravaganza.

It includes journeys on seven of the world's most splendid trains: Canada's Rocky Mountaineer , Rovos Rail ,  Danube Express , Eastern & Orient Express , Royal Scotsman , Maharajahs' Express , and Venice Simplon-Orient-Express .

Needless to say, the mind-blowing package, which covers 13 countries, is mind-blowingly expensive. Tickets start from $113,559 (£89,462) per person, based on two sharing.

Hiring a luxury rail carriage

Mega-wealthy passengers who want to travel in privacy are hiring entire railcars, paying through the nose to do so directly or via brokers such as the Luxury Train Club, Train Chartering, and Luxury Train Tickets.

In fact, just about every luxury train experience, from Rovos Rail to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, allows passengers to lease carriages.

Prices are available on application only. The most luxurious carriages are likely to cost tens of thousands of dollars to hire on a daily basis.

Chartering an entire luxury train

For high-net-worth individuals who want to take their love of rail travel to the next level, there's an even more tempting option: chartering an entire luxury train.

Again, most high-end trains can be chartered, with prices typically starting from around $47,000 (£33,316k) per day, according to the Luxury Train Club and Train Chartering. But that's the bare minimum, and the cost of chartering the very best trains likely reaches hundreds of thousands of dollars daily.

Buying a luxury railcar

The ridiculously rich – think cent millionaires and billionaires – are going even further by buying their own railcars and giving them luxe makeovers. In fact, private railcar sales are positively booming in the USA. 

For example, John Paul DeJoria, the billionaire founder of Patrón Spirits Co, snapped up a disused 1927 railcar and spent around $2 million (£1.6m) restoring the vintage beauty.

Buying an entire luxury train

The extremely wealthy even have the option of purchasing an entire luxury train.

Usually the preserve of dictators and royalty, a private luxury train comes at a price even the wealthiest billionaire would balk at. We're talking hundreds of millions of dollars – just look at the showstopping $350 million (£275m) G Train by way of example...

The world's first commercially available private luxury train, this "palace on rails" spans 1,312ft (400m) and comprises 14 cars, with space for 18 passengers.

It rocks an incredible glass casing that switches from transparent to opaque, as well as a series of unbelievable spaces including a garden and an art gallery. There are even wings that fold down to create alfresco terraces.

The handiwork of Steve Jobs' yacht designer Thierry Gaugain, the G Train is envisaged as a green alternative to a private jet or superyacht. It could become the ultimate status symbol for the eco-conscious billionaire.

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