Inside 8 of the World’s Most Luxurious Train Rides
If you’ve ever taken a train ride, you know that cramped quarters and people blaring music over their phones is the norm. Unless, that is, you’re riding in luxury. Unlike the rush of airports or the monotony of long car rides, luxury train rides allow us to slow down, soak in the scenery, and indulge in upscale travel. Featuring lavish amenities like gourmet cuisine, personalized service, and five-star cabins, here’s a closer look at some of the world’s most exclusive train rides.
1. Rovos Rail (South Africa)
Featuring restored Edwardian-style train cars, the Rovos Rail is akin to a luxury hotel on wheels. Hailed “the Pride of Africa,” all suites are equipped with a shower, bath, toilet, and basin, and some even include additional amenities like a fridge, safe, tea facilities, and air conditioning. Other standouts include gourmet meals paired with local wines and even an onboard observation car. Take a scenic trip through Cape Town or a multi-day safari into the African wilderness.
2. Royal Scotsman (Scotland)
Described as “Scotland in motion,” the Royal Scotsman is a rolling retreat that takes you through the idyllic Scottish Highlands and other picturesque landscapes in the region. Aboard this palace on wheels, guests are treated to mahogany-clad cabins, a fine dining experience featuring seasonal and local ingredients, and even a full spa for the ultimate relaxation package.
3. Maharajas’ Express (India)
If a personal butler is a must-have, then the Maharajas’ Express is right up your alley. Offering a luxurious exploration of India’s rich cultural heritage, this train includes lavish suites complete with personalized service, multi-course meals inspired by royal cuisines, and curated excursions to iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal and other acclaimed cities like Mumbai and New Delhi. The train also has a couple of themed bars, where you can clink glasses with other passengers traveling in style.
4. Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe)
Synonymous with glamour and style, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a legend in luxury train travel. Aboard the train, passengers are treated to Art Deco-inspired cabins, curated meals prepared by gourmet chefs, and all the Champagne their hearts desire. Departing from its home base in Venice, Italy, the train offers a variety of routes across Europe, including journeys to Paris, Vienna, and even Istanbul.
5. Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express (Southeast Asia)
Weaving through lush landscapes in Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, this train combines luxury with cultural exploration. Guests are treated to elegant cabins with teakwood finishes, gourmet meals inspired by local flavors, cooking classes, and an open-air observation car to soak in all the views. Stops along the way include visits to iconic landmarks like the River Kwai Bridge and Georgetown’s Old Quarter in Penang (a UNESCO-protected world heritage site).
6. The Ghan (Australia)
Offering mesmerizing views of the Outback (not the steakhouse), the Ghan takes travelers on a spell-binding journey through Australia’s red center. Boasting spacious platinum cabins, gourmet meals featuring local ingredients, and off-train excursions like camel rides and helicopter rides, the Ghan offers routes through the “heart of Australia” between Adelaide and Darwin.
7. Belmond Andean Explorer (Peru)
South America’s first luxury sleeper train offers a breathtaking journey through the Peruvian Andes (though it could also just be the high-altitude that literally takes your breath away). Think elegant cabins, an open-air observation deck, world-renowned gastronomy and drinks like Ceviche and Pisco Sour, and stops at bucket-list destinations like Lake Titicaca and Cusco.
8. Seven Stars in Kyushu (Japan)
This Japanese “cruise” train, which combines contemporary design with traditional hospitality, is one of the most exclusive trains in the world. Equipped with only seven cars and 14 suites, it features handcrafted interiors, kaiseki meals (a traditional, multi-course Japanese dinner), a tea room, and tailored excursions to explore Kyushu’s rich culture.