Luxury Train Journeys 2025: World's Best Rail Experiences

The Orient Express Renaissance: Luxury Rail's Return

After 15 years, the legendary Orient Express returns to European rails mid-2026, operated by Accor's Orient Express brand. Seventeen original Orient Express carriages dating from the 1920s-1930s (formerly the Nostalgie-Istanbul-Orient-Express) will traverse historic routes including the storied Paris-Istanbul journey—a 3,000-kilometer adventure through Venice, Vienna, and Budapest.

Architect Maxime d'Angeac reimagines the carriages with headboards crafted from wooden embroidery with mother-of-pearl and bronze beads, ensuite bathrooms in marble, and authentic Art Deco elegance restored to its 1920s glory. This isn't nostalgia—it's the vanguard of luxury rail's renaissance.

Beyond Orient Express: The Luxury Rail Boom

The Orient Express relaunch leads a broader luxury rail revival:

• La Dolce Vita Orient Express (launching 2025) offers luxury overnight Italian rail travel through eight itineraries spanning 1-2 nights across Italy
• Britannic Explorer (July 2025) becomes the first luxury sleeper train serving England and Wales, operated by Belmond
• Existing luxury trains see surging demand as travelers seek slow travel combining scenery, service, and sophistication impossible on planes

The appeal is clear: luxury trains offer journey as destination, scenery through panoramic windows, gourmet dining surpassing restaurants, white-glove service, and romance of rail travel's golden age—without modern air travel's indignities.

15 World's Best Luxury Train Journeys

These trains represent the pinnacle of rail luxury across six continents, ranked by combination of service, scenery, heritage, and overall experience:

Detailed Train Profiles: Routes, Costs, and Experiences

1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe's Icon)

Routes: London-Paris-Venice (most famous), Paris-Istanbul (select departures), Venice-Rome, Paris-Vienna, and seasonal routes

Duration: 1-6 nights depending on route

Costs: Twin Historic Cabin from $5,100/person (London-Venice 1 night), Grand Suite from $10,350/person. Multi-night journeys to Istanbul: $8,000-$15,000+

What makes it special: The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express operates authentic restored 1920s-1930s Art Deco carriages—the same vintage elegance that transported aristocrats and literary figures through Europe's golden age. Stepping aboard feels like time travel: polished wood paneling, brass fixtures, intricate marquetry, and crystal chandeliers. Three gourmet restaurants onboard serve French haute cuisine with white-glove service. Evening dress code strictly enforced (jackets/ties for men, cocktail/evening dresses for women). Live piano music in Bar Car creates sophisticated ambiance for after-dinner drinks.

The London-Venice journey departs London Victoria, crosses English Channel via Eurotunnel, continues through French countryside and Swiss Alps, arriving Venice 24 hours later. Wake to Alpine views, lunch in French wine country, dinner as Swiss mountains pass, breakfast approaching Venice.

Cabin categories: Historic Twin Cabins (compact but authentic 1920s elegance, some upper/lower bunks, $5,100+), Historic Cabins Suites (larger with double beds, $7,000+), Grand Suites (spacious with separate lounge, marble bathroom, $10,350+)

Booking: 6-12 months ahead for summer travel, 3-6 months for off-season. Peak season (May-September) and New Year's Eve sell out 12+ months early.

2. Rocky Mountaineer (Canadian Rockies Spectacular)

Routes: Vancouver-Banff, Vancouver-Jasper, Seattle-Canadian Rockies, Denver-Moab (newest route)

Duration: 2 days (daylight travel only—hotels provided at overnight stops)

Costs: SilverLeaf Service (single-level, large windows) from $2,300-$3,000/person, GoldLeaf Service (bi-level glass-dome car) from $3,500-$4,500/person. Package prices include hotels, some meals, transfers. Denver-Moab route: $1,725+

What makes it special: Glass-dome cars provide 360-degree views of Canadian Rockies scenery—snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, deep river canyons, and abundant wildlife (bears, eagles, elk, mountain goats). Entirely daylight travel means you miss nothing to darkness. GoldLeaf service features bi-level dome cars with open-air viewing platforms, gourmet meals served in separate dining car below dome, and complimentary beverages including local BC wines. Onboard hosts provide engaging commentary about history, geology, and wildlife.

The First Passage to the West route (Vancouver-Banff) follows historic railway through Fraser Canyon, climbs through Spiral Tunnels, and traverses Rogers Pass—engineering marvels blasted through solid rock. Expect to spend 90% of journey with camera ready.

Overnight stops: Hotels in Kamloops (or Quesnel depending on route) included in package. Evening and morning in mountain towns allows exploration beyond train.

Best season: April-October operation. September offers fall colors and fewer crowds. July-August peak season for weather but busiest.

3. The Ghan (Australian Outback Epic)

Route: Adelaide-Darwin (3,000 km north-south crossing of Australia)

Duration: 3 days (The Ghan) or 4 days (The Ghan Expedition with extended stops)

Costs: Gold Twin from $2,370/person (off-peak), Platinum Service from $7,000+/person, Chairman's Carriage (ultra-luxury) $10,000+/person

What makes it special: One of the world's great train journeys, The Ghan crosses Australian Outback from south to north—Adelaide's Mediterranean coast through red center desert to Darwin's tropical north. Named after Afghan camel drivers who traversed route before railway, the journey showcases Australia's vast, empty heart. Off-train excursions include Alice Springs (Red Centre, Aboriginal culture), Katherine Gorge (boat cruises, Nitmiluk National Park), and Coober Pedy (underground opal mining town on Expedition version).

Platinum Service passengers enjoy all-inclusive fine dining, premium beverages, larger cabins with double beds and ensuite bathrooms, and exclusive lounge car. Outback scenery—endless red earth, sparse vegetation, occasional wildlife, remote cattle stations—provides meditative, vast perspective impossible to grasp from air.

Best season: April-October (dry season). Avoid November-March wet season (extreme heat, flooding can close tracks).

4. Blue Train (South African Luxury)

Route: Pretoria-Cape Town (1,600 km)

Duration: 27 hours (departs Pretoria 8am, arrives Cape Town 11am next day)

Costs: Luxury Double from $1,600/person, De Luxe Double from $2,000/person, Luxury Suite from $2,800+/person

What makes it special: South Africa's legendary Blue Train offers refined luxury at more accessible price point than Asian/European counterparts. All cabins feature ensuite bathrooms, fine dining includes Cape Winelands wines, and service maintains colonial elegance standards. The journey traverses dramatic scenery: Highveld plateau, Karoo semi-desert, and Cape Winelands arriving in Cape Town beneath Table Mountain.

Butler service, observation car, and lounge car provide spaces beyond cabin. Dress code for dinner (smart elegant) maintains sophisticated atmosphere. Wildlife viewing possible in early sections, with springbok and other game visible from windows.

Best season: September-April (Southern Hemisphere summer). Cape Town stunningly beautiful in summer months.

5 & 6. Japanese Luxury Trains: Seven Stars & Shiki-Shima

Seven Stars in Kyushu

Route: Kyushu Island circuit from Fukuoka

Duration: 2-day or 4-day journeys

Costs: $4,000-$9,000/person depending on cabin and journey

Booking: Lottery system—apply 12+ months ahead; only select few chosen

Train Suite Shiki-Shima

Route: Various routes from Tokyo through Tohoku region

Duration: 2-day ($4,100+) or 4-day ($10,500+) journeys

Booking: Lottery system via JR East website, 12+ months ahead

What makes them special: Japan's luxury trains epitomize minimalist elegance, impeccable service, and kaiseki dining perfection. Shiki-Shima, designed by Ken Okuyama (Ferrari, Maserati designer), carries only 34 passengers in exquisite wood-paneled suites. Seven Stars features Kyushu's finest craftsmanship—hand-finished wood, local textiles, subtle Japanese aesthetics.

Included excursions showcase Japanese culture: private temple visits, onsen (hot spring) access, traditional craft workshops, kaiseki dining at renowned restaurants. Service anticipates needs before guests realize them—hallmark of Japanese hospitality (omotenashi). Meals feature seasonal, regional ingredients presented as edible art. These trains don't just transport—they immerse in Japanese aesthetics, nature, and culture at contemplative pace.

Cultural note: Japanese luxury trains emphasize experience over opulence—understated rather than ostentatious, harmony with nature, and cultural authenticity.

Booking Luxury Trains: Timelines, Tips, and Strategies

How Far Ahead to Book

Ultra-exclusive (12-18 months):

• Japanese luxury trains (Seven Stars, Shiki-Shima) use lottery systems—apply 12+ months before desired dates
• Trans-Siberian Golden Eagle—limited annual departures, books 12-18 months ahead
• Orient Express relaunch—book immediately when reservations open for 2026

Standard luxury trains (6-12 months):

• Venice Simplon-Orient-Express—6-12 months for summer routes, especially May-September
• Rocky Mountaineer—6-12 months for peak season (July-September), earlier for September peak foliage
• The Ghan—6-18 months for dry season peak (April-October)
• Royal Scotsman, Rovos Rail, Eastern & Oriental Express—6-12 months for preferred dates

More flexible (3-6 months):

• Blue Train, Maharajas' Express, Palace on Wheels often available 3-6 months out
• Shoulder season travel on most trains has better last-minute availability

Why Book So Far Ahead?

• Limited capacity: Luxury trains carry 30-100 passengers maximum (versus 400+ on planes)
• Fixed departures: Many trains run weekly or seasonally, not daily
• Cabin category competition: Premium suites and best cabins book first
• Complex international planning: Booking train far ahead allows time to arrange flights, hotels, visas
• Early booking discounts: Some trains offer 10-20% discounts for booking 12+ months ahead

Booking Strategies

• Use specialized agents: Luxury train specialists (Luxury Train Club, Railbookers, Golden Eagle) have allocation access and expertise regular agents lack
• Join waiting lists: Cancellations happen—joining waitlist can yield last-minute opportunities
• Consider shoulder season: April-May and September-October offer better availability, lower prices, fewer crowds than peak summer
• Be flexible on dates: Flexibility increases options dramatically
• Book connecting travel after train: Don't book international flights until train confirmed—schedule changes happen

What's Included and What Costs Extra

Typically Included in Luxury Train Prices

• All meals onboard: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner—expect gourmet multi-course dining
• Beverages: Premium wines, spirits, champagne, soft drinks, coffee/tea throughout journey
• Cabin accommodation: Daily housekeeping and evening turndown service
• 24-hour steward service: Personal cabin attendant for requests
• Off-train excursions: Guided tours at stops (included on most trains)
• Onboard entertainment: Live music, lectures, observation lounges
• Amenities: Toiletries, robes, slippers in premium cabins
• Gratuities: Staff tips included on most trains
• Luggage handling: Porter service at stations

What Typically Costs Extra

• Premium champagnes/wines: Beyond standard selection ($50-$200/bottle)
• Spa treatments: If spa car available ($100-$300 per treatment)
• Private cabin dining: Some trains charge for in-cabin meals ($50-$200)
• Laundry service: $20-$50 per load on multi-day journeys
• Photographs and souvenirs: Professional photos, branded merchandise
• Travel insurance: Purchase separately ($200-$500 for international trips)
• Pre/post train hotels: Accommodations before departure and after arrival
• Transport to/from stations: Getting to departure city and from arrival city

Cabin Categories: Understanding the Tiers

Entry-Level Cabins ($2,000-$5,000)

Size: 50-80 sq ft—compact but functional
Configuration: Twin beds (sometimes converts to double), occasionally upper/lower bunks
Facilities: Small private bathroom with shower (older trains may have shared facilities), compact seating area, limited storage
Access: Same dining, lounges, excursions as premium cabins

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, 1-2 night journeys, those spending most time in public spaces

Mid-Tier Cabins ($5,000-$10,000)

Size: 80-120 sq ft—comfortable for multi-night stays
Configuration: Double bed or spacious twins, proper seating/work area
Facilities: Private ensuite with shower, better storage, enhanced amenities
Perks: Larger windows, may include small balcony or private outdoor space (select trains)

Best for: Most travelers—balances comfort with value, 3-7 night journeys, couples wanting private space

Premium Suites ($10,000-$30,000+)

Size: 150-300+ sq ft—spacious multi-room suites
Configuration: Separate bedroom and lounge, king bed, sofa seating, dining area
Facilities: Large bathroom with tub (some with spa tubs) + separate shower, dressing area, premium toiletries
Special perks: Priority dining reservations, in-cabin dining options, enhanced butler service, champagne on arrival, private observation platform (select trains)

Best for: Special occasions, 7+ night journeys, travelers prioritizing luxury and space, those who can afford it

Dress Code and Packing Essentials

Dress Code Standards

Daytime (breakfast, lunch, observation): Smart casual—slacks/skirts, collared shirts, blouses, casual dresses, layers for temperature. Avoid: athletic wear, flip-flops, tank tops.

Evening dinner (formal dress code on most luxury trains): Women: cocktail dresses, elegant evening wear, jewelry. Men: suit and tie (jacket minimum), dress shoes. Some trains (Royal Scotsman) require black tie on select evenings.

Enforcement: High-end trains (Venice Simplon, Royal Scotsman) strictly enforce dress codes. Passengers not meeting standards may dine in cabin. Rocky Mountaineer is more relaxed (smart casual acceptable).

Packing List

• Luggage: 2 bags per person maximum (soft-sided preferred), small daypack for excursions
• Clothing: 2 daytime outfits + 2 formal per 2 nights, comfortable walking shoes, dressy evening shoes, layers for temperature, weather-appropriate outer layer
• Accessories: Camera, binoculars, modest jewelry, sunglasses, books/e-reader
• Essentials: Medications, toiletries (though provided), travel adapters, small bills for tips (if not included)

Photography and Videography Tips

• Observation cars: Best vantage points—arrive early for prime spots
• Golden hour: Dawn and dusk provide best light—set alarm for sunrise shots
• Clean windows: Shoot close to glass to minimize reflections, use polarizing filter
• Fast shutter speed: Train motion requires 1/500s+ to avoid blur
• Respect others: Don't block views excessively, be mindful of flash during meals
• Interior shots: Capture Art Deco details, dining cars, but ask permission before photographing other passengers

Budget-Friendly Scenic Train Alternatives

Luxury trains offer unparalleled service and pampering, but several scenic routes provide stunning views at fraction of cost:

European Scenic Trains

• Glacier Express (Switzerland): $150-$300 for 8-hour Alpine journey. Panoramic windows, meal service, connects Zermatt-St. Moritz.
• Bernina Express (Switzerland-Italy): $50-$150 for UNESCO World Heritage Alpine crossing. Day trip.
• West Highland Line (Scotland): $30-$80 for Glasgow-Mallaig (Harry Potter route). Stunning Highlands scenery on regular ScotRail service.
• Flam Railway (Norway): $90-$150 for one of world's steepest railways through Norwegian mountains.

North American Scenic Trains

• Amtrak California Zephyr: $150-$400 coach (Chicago-San Francisco). Crosses Rockies and Sierra Nevada with observation car. Roomettes $600-$1,200 (includes meals).
• VIA Rail Canadian: $500-$1,500 sleeper class for transcontinental Toronto-Vancouver. Compare to Rocky Mountaineer $3,000-$5,000. Includes meals, dome car, 4 days/3 nights.
• Amtrak Coast Starlight: $150-$400 coach (LA-Seattle 35 hours). Pacific coast views, observation car.

Other Budget Scenic Routes

• TranzAlpine (New Zealand): $120-$200 for Christchurch-Greymouth crossing Southern Alps with open-air viewing car.
• Indian Railways AC First Class: $50-$150 overnight journeys with private cabin—dramatically cheaper than luxury trains.
• European sleeper trains: $100-$300 overnight with couchettes/sleepers (Austrian Nightjet, European Sleeper network).

Conclusion: The Golden Age Returns

The Orient Express's mid-2026 return symbolizes more than one train's relaunch—it marks luxury rail travel's renaissance. In an era of budget airlines treating passengers as cargo and air travel reduced to endurance test, luxury trains offer antithesis: journey celebrated as destination, scenery through panoramic windows, gourmet dining, white-glove service, and deliberate pace allowing appreciation of landscapes impossible from 35,000 feet.

From Venice Simplon's Art Deco elegance crossing Europe ($5,100-$10,350) to Rocky Mountaineer's glass domes through Canadian Rockies ($1,725-$4,000), from The Ghan's Australian Outback crossing ($2,370-$10,000+) to Japanese trains' kaiseki perfection ($4,100-$10,500), to Trans-Siberian's epic 6,000-mile journey ($15,000-$30,000)—luxury trains span price points and continents, united by commitment to elevated experience.

These journeys aren't cheap. Entry cabins start $2,000-$5,000 for short trips, premium suites reach $10,000-$30,000 for extended journeys. But the all-inclusive nature (meals, beverages, excursions, service) means the sticker price reflects comprehensive experience. Compare to $5,000 business class flight (cramped seat, mediocre meals, 12 miserable hours) versus $5,000 luxury train cabin (private accommodation, gourmet dining, stunning scenery, memorable experience)—the value proposition shifts.

Booking 6-18 months ahead is essential: ultra-exclusive Japanese trains use lottery systems 12+ months out, standard luxury trains book 6-12 months for peak season, and premium suites disappear first. Work with specialized agents, join waiting lists, consider shoulder season, and be flexible on dates.

But luxury trains aren't only option for scenic rail travel. Budget alternatives like Swiss panoramic routes ($50-$300), Amtrak scenic lines ($150-$1,200 with roomettes), and VIA Rail Canadian ($500-$1,500 sleeper) provide 70-90% of scenery at 10-30% of cost—ideal for travelers prioritizing destinations over service.

The question isn't whether luxury trains are worth it—that's personal based on budget and values. The question is which journey calls to you: Alpine elegance, Rocky Mountain grandeur, Australian Outback vastness, Japanese minimalist perfection, or Trans-Siberian epic crossing. The trains are ready. The tracks await. The golden age of luxury rail has returned.

Frequently Asked Questions