All aboard for panoramic views, white-tablecloth dining, and the rare joy of slowing down. Luxury train travel is having a moment, and it’s more than just elegant cars and scenic routes. It’s travel at its most timeless.
Ready to ride in style? We’ve rounded up 8 of the world’s most unforgettable luxury train vacations—complete with iconic routes, indulgent onboard perks, and views you’ll talk about long after the last stop.
1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express | Europe
Step into the golden age of travel on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a 1920s-era icon with Art Deco interiors, fine dining, and ultra-glam stops across Europe.
- Route: Multiple itineraries including Paris to Istanbul and Vienna to Budapest
- Accommodations: Historic Twins, Suites, or Grand Suites—vintage design meets modern luxury
- Dining: Étoile du Nord, L’Oriental, and Côte d’Azur offer refined menus and white-glove service
- Price: From ~$3,800 per person (one-night journey)
- Why go: For timeless elegance, history-soaked cities, and black-tie glamour
- What to know: A formal dress code is part of the charm—think tuxedos and cocktail attire
2. Rocky Mountaineer | North America
Catch jaw-dropping views of the Canadian Rockies from a glass-domed coach on the Rocky Mountaineer—a North American favorite for nature-loving luxury travelers.
- Route: Vancouver to Banff or Jasper
- Accommodations:
- GoldLeaf: Bi-level dome cars, elevated hotel stays, open-air decks
- SilverLeaf: Single-level domes, comfy recliners, standard hotels
- Dining:
- GoldLeaf: Gourmet meals in a private dining car
- SilverLeaf: Hot entrees served at your seat
- Price: From ~$2,600 per person
- Why go: For breathtaking mountain views, relaxed pace, and exceptional service
3. Rovos Rail Pride of Africa | Africa
Dubbed “the most luxurious train in the world,” the Pride of Africa blends old-world charm with modern comfort, rolling through some of southern Africa’s most epic landscapes.
- Route: 3–13 night journeys, including Cape Town, Windhoek, and Victoria Falls
- Accommodations: Pullman Gold, Deluxe, and Royal Suites—all with en-suite baths and big windows
- Dining: Multi-course meals, South African wines, and vintage ambiance in Victorian dining cars
- Amenities: Lounge and observation cars, open-air balconies, 24-hour service
- Price: From ~$2,500 to $12,000+, depending on length
- Why go: For the ultimate blend of safari adventure and 5-star train luxury
4. Maharajas’ Express | Asia
Part train, part palace, the Maharajas’ Express is India’s answer to royal travel—complete with red carpet welcomes and a private butler.
- Route: Four itineraries through northern and central India—Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and more
- Accommodations: Deluxe Cabins to Presidential Suites with Wi-Fi, TVs, and en-suite bathrooms
- Fun fact: The Presidential Suite is the largest train accommodation in the world and spans an entire train car, offering two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a large seating area. Personal butler also included.
- Dining: Rang Mahal and Mayur Mahal serve gourmet Indian and continental cuisine
- Amenities: Bar, lounge, curated excursions, 24/7 service
- Price: From ~$4,900 (Deluxe Cabin) to $24,000+ (Presidential Suite)
- Why go: For royal treatment with a front-row seat to India’s cultural wonders
5. Belmond Andean Explorer | South America
South America’s first luxury sleeper train, the Belmond Andean Explorer, offers high-altitude adventure with a side of spa treatments.
- Route: Cusco to Arequipa via Puno and Lake Titicaca
- Accommodations: Suites, twin beds, or bunks—all with en-suites and around-the-clock service
- Dining: Menus by Diego Muñoz, one of Peru’s top chefs
- Amenities: Lounge car, full spa, open-air viewing deck
- Price: Around $6,200–$8,700 per person for 2–3 nights
- Why go: For an unforgettable ride through Peru’s landscapes, ruins, and lakeside villages
6. Eastern & Oriental Express | Asia
From city skylines to lush rainforests, the Eastern & Oriental Express delivers Southeast Asia in serious style.
- Route: Choose from two main journeys:
- Essence of Malaysia: Singapore → Langkawi → Penang → Singapore
- Wild Malaysia: Singapore → Taman Negara → Penang → Singapore
- Accommodations: Pullman, State, and Presidential Cabins with A/C and en-suites
- Dining: Three elegant dining cars, with breakfast and tea served in-room
- Amenities: Dior Spa, piano bar, open-air observation deck
- Price: From ~$3,150 per person
- Why go: For tropical landscapes, standout service, and that old-Hollywood train glam
7. Royal Canadian Pacific | North America
The Royal Canadian Pacific is like stepping into a travel time capsule—except with plush beds, gourmet food, and just 30 passengers onboard.
- Route: Three- to four-night journeys from Calgary or Vancouver
- Accommodations: Twin and double cabins in restored 20th-century carriages
- Dining: Gourmet meals served in the Craigellachie dining car; drinks and snacks available all day
- Amenities: Lounge cars, full bar service, and daily off-train excursions
- Price: From ~$6,100 per person
- Why go: For quiet luxury, postcard views, and a truly intimate experience
8. Golden Eagle Danube Express | Europe
The Golden Eagle Danube Express is Europe’s version of a luxury hotel on rails—connecting historic cities with next-level service.
- Route: 7–12 day itineraries through Budapest, Vienna, Sarajevo, Prague, and more
- Accommodations: Deluxe and Superior Deluxe Cabins with en-suites, Wi-Fi, and L’Occitane amenities
- Dining: Two dining cars featuring fresh, locally sourced menus
- Amenities: Piano bar, luxe lounge, and 24-hour service
- Price: From ~$19,000 to $25,000 per person for a 12-day journey
- Why go: For a luxurious, immersive way to explore Eastern and Central Europe
Last stop: peace of mind
Whether you’re crossing continents or just crossing something off your bucket list, luxury train travel is a once-in-a-lifetime way to see the world. Don’t forget the essentials: a cozy travel outfit, your camera for those can’t-miss views, and Faye Travel Insurance—because even first-class adventures deserve first-class protection.
