Forget first-class flights and five-star hotels. The most extraordinary travel experiences are found on rails, where the journey itself is the destination. We've curated the definitive list of the world's seven most luxurious train rides, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of glamour and opulence.
The Epitome of European Elegance: Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Step back into the 1920s aboard this Art Deco masterpiece. Glide through Europe's most stunning landscapes while indulging in gourmet cuisine prepared by world-class chefs. The journey from London to Venice is an unforgettable spectacle of style and sophistication, making it the undisputed king of luxury rail travel.
Highland Flings in Style: The Royal Scotsman
Explore the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands in unparalleled comfort. This rolling country house offers mahogany-clad cabins, an observation car with open-air veranda, and spa treatments. It's the perfect way to discover lochs, castles, and glens without sacrificing an ounce of luxury.
Indian Royalty on Rails: Maharajas' Express
Live like royalty on this Indian extravaganza. Voted the 'World's Leading Luxury Train' multiple times, it offers butler service, lavish suites, and incredible off-train excursions to iconic sites like the Taj Mahal. This is a subcontinental adventure like no other.
Canadian Wilderness in Comfort: Rocky Mountaineer
Witness the raw, untamed beauty of the Canadian Rockies from a glass-domed coach. By travelling exclusively by daylight, you won't miss a single moment of the breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and dramatic canyons.
A South American Spectacle: Belmond Andean Explorer
Journey through the Peruvian Andes on the highest altitude train journey in the world. This stunning route from Cusco to Lake Titicaca offers breathtaking views of alpine plains, ancient ruins, and traditional villages, all from the comfort of your plush cabin.
The Australian Outback Adventure: The Ghan
Embark on an epic expedition straight through the heart of Australia. This legendary three-day journey from Darwin to Adelaide (or vice versa) covers nearly 3,000 kilometres of dramatic outback scenery, from red-earthed deserts to lush tropical north.
Africa's Five-Star Safari: The Blue Train
Travel between Pretoria and Cape Town on a moving five-star hotel. Known for its impeccable service, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking views of the South African landscape, The Blue Train has been synonymous with luxury and elegance for over seven decades.
These seven rail journeys prove that getting there is more than half the fun—it's an unforgettable experience that redefines the very essence of travel.
