7 Amazing Luxury Train Journeys to Experience

If you believe that dreary subways and public trains are the only options for rail travel, think again! Here’s a compelling showcase of the most enchanting travel experiences your vacation budget can buy—an essential guide to luxury train adventures around the globe.

Be warned: Just the thought of overnight train journeys may induce a serene silence among some travelers as they drift into daydreams of idyllic destinations, romantic sleeping quarters, and exquisite meals served in elegant dining cars.

1. Train Suite Shiki-Shima, Japan

While Japan is renowned for its bullet trains, the JR Group operates a variety of specialized tourist trains collectively known as Joyful Trains. Among these are Pokemon-themed coaches, footbathing cars, fine dining options, and even a library focused on astronomy. The highlight of the Joyful Trains is the ultra-modern, lavish Train Suite Shiki-Shima. The Shiki-Shima (meaning “island of the four seasons”) journeys through eastern Japan from Tokyo, visiting culturally significant sites (villages, museums, temples, markets, restaurants, and breathtaking natural wonders) during its one- to three-night excursions.

The observation cars (known as terraces) at both ends of the train feature abstractly designed cutouts, creating windows that offer breathtaking views extending from the handwoven carpets to the elegantly curved ceiling. Onboard, the 15 sleeping compartments range from elegantly minimalist rooms with en suite bathrooms to lavish two-level suites adorned with lacquered wood, washi paper, cypress-lined soaking tubs, tatami mat flooring, and a cozy working fireplace.

True to its opulent nature, the dining car serves exquisite seasonal dishes crafted by a dedicated team of chefs who accompany the entire journey; additionally, guest chefs board to create unique regional specialties inspired by the destinations along the route. This high-end hospitality is complemented by a crew dressed in chic uniforms designed by the former creative director of Issey Miyake.

2. Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

The iconic Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express hardly requires an introduction among travel enthusiasts: Its polished wood interiors, dining tables adorned with crisp linens, silverware, and crystal, along with the plush comforts of its sleeping cabins, epitomize a bygone era of refined travel where passengers' comfort was paramount.

This train, composed of vintage carriages from the 1920s and ’30s, has been updated with modern comforts and runs regular routes to various European destinations. Annually, it offers a deliberately leisurely five-night journey from Paris to Istanbul. Berths on these classic trips are highly sought after, and Belmond has enhanced the experience with six Grand Suites, each named after a legendary city and designed in a tribute to that city’s art deco style.

The Grand Suites come with private bathrooms, double beds, and underfloor heating in the living area. With the addition of a dedicated steward (dressed in a stylish uniform with shiny buttons) and complimentary champagne on request, this train could remain stationary and still be considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Other accommodation options, while not as extravagant, still boast design elements and comfort that transform a sleeper car into a dreamy retreat. This emblem of the golden age of travel continues to shine bright.

3. Alaska Railroad, USA

4. Maharajas’ Express, India

The 23 carriages of these luxurious trains primarily operate at night, giving passengers ample opportunity during the day to explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, embark on game drives, and dine in exquisite hotels and palaces. Naturally, the price reflects the royal treatment, but shorter journeys, such as the three-night Treasures of India package, are more affordable while still offering a touch of glamour.

The itinerary features visits to the iconic landmarks of the Golden Triangle—including the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan (home to tigers!), and the Amber Fort in Jaipur—along with indulgent spa treatments and gourmet meals. The train offers two dining options and a bar car, with modern en suite accommodations ranging from deluxe double cabins to a luxurious Presidential Suite.

5. Rocky Mountaineer, USA

One of the few drawbacks of train travel through breathtaking landscapes is that when night falls, all views are lost, leaving only reflections of the train's bright interior in the windows. The Rocky Mountaineer, a renowned luxury train brand, addresses this by scheduling its scenic routes to include overnight stays at elegant hotels along the journey. Historically, the Rocky Mountaineer traversed Canadian rails, following stunning mountainous paths ending in Vancouver and either Jasper or Banff.

Starting in August 2021, the company introduced a journey from Denver to Moab, Utah, with an overnight stop in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. This luxury train, designed specifically for scenic viewing, offers breathtaking vistas of the Rockies (keep an eye out for bighorn sheep in the high passes) as well as the wind-sculpted canyons and striking rock formations of the Utah desert. While you admire the panoramic views, the attentive staff serves you exquisite wines and freshly prepared meals (sorry to disappoint fans of Amtrak’s packaged tuna sandwiches).

In Glenwood Springs, passengers have the option to disembark and choose from three different hotels for an overnight stay before reboarding in the morning to complete the journey to Moab. You can also extend your vacation by adding extra days to either end of the trip to explore Moab and/or Denver.

6. Rovos Rail, Southern Africa

While bush planes are fine, traveling on an air-conditioned luxury train through the southern third of the expansive African continent offers a compelling slow-travel experience. The relaxed schedule allows for stops at sidings for wildlife viewing, vineyards for wine tastings, and reserves for game drives. Rovos itineraries may follow the Great Rift Valley escarpment or traverse Namibia’s striking red deserts.

Depending on your selection (or your customized itinerary; the company also designs tailor-made trips), your journey can include golf courses, stays in luxury lodges or sMytouri camps, and excursions around Victoria Falls. Packages range from 2-night getaways to 14-night adventures, including the Copper Trail voyage that spans Zimbabwe, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Angola.

Not only are the journeys thrilling, but the train itself is also a dream come true—its vintage passenger carriages have been carefully sourced, restored, and modernized with plumbing and air conditioning (and functional windows). Beyond the private suites, public areas include an observation car with sofas and an open balcony, lounge and club cars, and a dining car. The elegant wood paneling, tufted leather seating, and expansive picture windows evoke a bygone travel era when passengers donned formal attire and hats for different occasions. While this luxury train might not offer deep insights into the African lives and cultures outside, the experience is unforgettable.

7. Glacier Express, Switzerland

Switzerland's rail network is renowned as one of the finest in Europe, making it no surprise that the Glacier Express—known as the “window to the Swiss Alps”—is considered the pinnacle of train travel. Featuring nearly all-glass cars, the train makes sightseeing effortless—and there’s so much to behold. The full eight-hour ride spans 180 miles, 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, picturesque valleys, charming villages, and two UNESCO World Heritage sites. While every seat offers a great view, consider booking one of the 20 seats in Excellence Class, available from St. Moritz to Zermatt (or vice versa), which includes private bar access, dedicated concierges, and a five-course meal with wine pairings included with your reservation.

This article was originally published online in 2021; it was last updated on August 15, 2023, to reflect current information.