In an age when air travel is the usual way to see the world, visiting a new, beautiful place can often feel chaotic before even setting off. However, alternative means of travel, such as luxury train travel, can offer a more enchanting way to explore the world and its most breathtaking landscapes at a slower pace.
Far from being just a mode of transport, these luxury train journeys are a destination in themselves. On board, you will be treated to incredible dining experiences and opulent interiors while the scenic surroundings pass by just outside the window.
Read on to discover some of the most iconic luxury train journeys across the world...
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
![Kitchen staff on The Orient Express luxury train at a Bucharest train station]()
Kitchen staff on The Orient Express at a Train Station
Route: Multiple routes around Europe are available
The
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the epitome of elegance and old-world charm and may be the most iconic train journey in the world. With its restored 1920s carriages, this icon connects myriad European cities.
Passengers aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express are treated to breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and the picturesque Italian countryside. As the train winds through dramatic alpine landscapes and charming villages, the ever-changing scenery adds to the magic of the journey.
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The Route of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Laurence and Jessica Norah, travel bloggers at
Finding The Universe, share their experience on this journey: "The full day travelling across Europe on the Orient Express is one of the real highlights of the voyage. The train journeys through some of the most spectacular scenery, particularly as it passes through the Alps, and we were excited to watch it roll by as we enjoyed the luxury of the train."
Dining onboard is a gourmet experience, with expert French chefs crafting exquisite multi-course meals. Using the finest ingredients, the menus reflect the regions through which the train travels, offering a culinary journey as refined as the surroundings.
The Royal Scotsman, Scotland
![An ariel view of The Royal Scotsman train]()
The Royal Scotsman Train
Route: Multiple routes around Scotland are available
The Royal Scotsman offers an intimate journey through the wild beauty of Scotland, with just 40 passengers aboard at any given time. This exclusive train experience feels more like a travelling country house, complete with tartan décor and mahogany-panelled cabins. The train travels through the rugged landscapes of the
Scottish Highlands, past misty lochs, ancient castles and rolling hills.
The journey of The Royal Scotsman also includes scenic tours of iconic Scottish landmarks, such as Glamis Castle and the stunning Isle of Skye. These tours offer a glimpse into Scotland's rich history and dramatic landscapes, providing a deeper connection to the country's heritage.
![The Route of The Royal Scotsman]()
The Route of The Royal Scotsman
For those seeking relaxation, the onboard Bamford Haybarn spa offers a range of indulgent treatments. Passengers can enjoy massages and other therapies while gazing out at the ever-changing Scottish countryside, creating a truly serene experience.
Gourmet dining onboard showcases the best of Scottish cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients such as venison, salmon, and haggis. Each meal is thoughtfully prepared, allowing passengers to savour authentic Scottish flavours in a luxurious setting.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
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The Rocky Mountaineer
Route: Multiple routes across the Canadian Rockies available
The
Rocky Mountaineer offers a luxurious way to explore the rugged beauty of the Canadian Rockies. This daylight-only train ensures that passengers never miss a moment of the breathtaking scenery, including snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, and emerald lakes. The glass-domed carriages provide unparalleled panoramic views, and guests are treated to gourmet meals inspired by the local cuisine.
One of the standout features of the Rocky Mountaineer journey is the chance to witness iconic landmarks, including the Spiral Tunnels and Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. These natural wonders, framed by breathtaking mountain scenery, provide unforgettable moments as the train winds through some of Canada's most awe-inspiring landscapes.
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The Routes of the Rocky Mountaineer
The train's observation decks allow for open-air views of the stunning landscape. As the Rocky Mountaineer traverses valleys, rivers and towering mountains, guests can step outside to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the Canadian wilderness.
Passengers are treated to delicious meals onboard, with menus that highlight the flavours of the region. Dishes such as Pacific salmon and Alberta beef are crafted using locally sourced ingredients, offering a dining experience that reflects the culinary richness of western
Canada. This is one of the best options for seeing this beautiful part of the world when looking for
luxury Canada holidays.
Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
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The Eastern Oriental Express
Route: Multiple routes across Malaysia and Thailand available
The
Eastern & Oriental Express offers a glamorous journey through the heart of Southeast Asia. The train travels from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the modern skyline of
Singapore, passing through lush rainforests, emerald-green rice paddies and picturesque villages along the way. The journey is infused with the charm and elegance of a bygone era while offering all the modern comforts one would expect from a luxury experience.
One of the highlights of the Eastern & Oriental Express journey is the stop at the iconic River Kwai, where passengers can embark on guided tours of historic sites. These excursions provide a deeper understanding of the region's rich history, blending cultural exploration with the luxury of train travel.
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The Routes of the Eastern & Oriental Express
The train's stylish cabins are designed with elegance in mind and feature silk-panelled walls and intricate woodwork. These thoughtfully crafted interiors evoke a sense of timeless luxury, ensuring passengers travel in comfort and sophistication.
For those seeking a closer connection to the landscape, the observation car provides unobstructed views of Southeast Asia's lush tropical scenery. From rice paddies to rainforests, the panoramic vistas create a truly immersive experience as the train glides through the heart of the region.
Onboard, guests can indulge in sumptuous Southeast Asian cuisine, with expertly prepared dishes like fragrant Thai curries and savoury Malaysian satays. The gourmet dining experience showcases the vibrant flavours of the region, offering a culinary journey to complement the scenic one.
Rovos Rail, South Africa
![Sunrise on Train Tracks in Cape Town]()
Sunrise on Train Tracks in Cape Town
Route: Multiple routes across South Africa are available
Often referred to as "The Pride of Africa",
Rovos Rail offers one of the most luxurious train experiences in the world. Known for its vintage carriages and impeccable service, Rovos Rail traverses some of Africa's most breathtaking landscapes, from the scenic vineyards of
South Africa to the majestic Victoria Falls.
Passengers are treated to a refined, old-world ambience with wood-panelled coaches, spacious suites, and gourmet dining. The journeys offer a unique blend of adventure and luxury, making Rovos Rail a top choice for those seeking to explore Africa in style.
![The Route of the Rovos Rail]()
The Route of the Rovos Rail
Rovos Rail takes passengers on an incredible journey through Africa's diverse landscapes, from vast savannahs teeming with wildlife to dramatic mountain ranges. The changing scenery, with its raw beauty and untamed wilderness, makes every moment of the journey a visual spectacle.
Kiki, a travel blogger at
The Blonde Abroad, shares her thoughts on the service onboard the Rovos Rail: "The charming 'Victorian chic' atmosphere is everywhere. Every meal feels like an event- from breakfast to lunch, the food was incredible.Rovos Rail is all about keeping things local and fresh, so the meals were all traditional African cuisine with seasonal ingredients."
The train stops at historic landmarks such as Kimberley's Big Hole, a famed diamond mine, and the majestic Victoria Falls, offering passengers the chance to explore these iconic sites up close, adding depth and historical context to their adventure, the perfect way to enjoy your
luxury South Africa holidays.
British Pullman, United Kingdom
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A British Pullman Carriage
Route: Multiple routes across Southeast England departing London are available
The
British Pullman, part of the iconic Belmond collection, offers a taste of vintage British luxury on rail journeys across the United Kingdom. Departing from London, this historic train features beautifully restored 1920s and 1930s carriages, each uniquely designed with exquisite craftsmanship, polished wood panels, and Art Deco elegance. While the British Pullman is known for its day excursions, passengers also line up to enjoy gourmet meals and exceptional service, making it a glamorous and immersive travel experience reminiscent of the golden age of British railways.
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The Route of the British Pullman
The British Pullman offers a variety of day trips to iconic destinations such as Bath, Canterbury, or the Cotswolds, allowing travellers to explore England's most picturesque and historic locales before returning to the luxury of the train.
For a more immersive experience, the British Pullman also offers themed journeys, including murder mystery dinners and historical tours, combining entertainment and exploration in a truly unforgettable rail experience.
Passengers are treated to gourmet dining experiences, with menus crafted by top British chefs. These exquisite meals highlight seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, providing a fine dining experience that complements the train's opulent surroundings.
Luxury Train Journeys Across the World
- Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe)
- The Royal Scotsman (Scotland)
- The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
- Eastern & Oriental Express (Southeast Asia)
- Rovos Rail (South Africa)
- British Pullman (United Kingdom)
Luxury train journeys offer a unique blend of elegance, adventure, and cultural immersion, transforming travel into an unforgettable experience. Whether gliding through the Scottish Highlands or crossing Africa's vast landscapes, these trains provide more than just transportation.
Each journey combines world-class service, opulent surroundings, and breathtaking scenery, making the voyage as memorable as the destinations themselves. For those seeking to explore the world in unparalleled comfort and style, these luxury rail journeys offer a timeless and truly enchanting way to travel. Be sure to browse our range of
luxury train journeys across the world.
Are you looking for more travel inspiration? Filled with first-hand travel tales, expert destination guides and more, our
luxury online travel blog can help.