Luxury train travel is experiencing a remarkable revival. In an age where speed often takes priority, these extraordinary rail journeys invite travellers to slow down and savour every mile. Elegant cabins, impeccable service, gourmet dining and ever-changing landscapes transform the journey itself into the destination. From crossing the Canadian Rockies and Australia’s vast Outback to gliding through the Scottish Highlands and the Peruvian Andes, these iconic trains offer some of the world’s most unforgettable travel experiences.
1. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest scenic rail journeys, the Rocky Mountaineer showcases the breathtaking landscapes of Western Canada. Panoramic glass-domed coaches reveal towering mountains, emerald forests, rushing rivers and turquoise lakes as the train travels between Vancouver, Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise. Exceptional onboard dining featuring regional cuisine and attentive GoldLeaf Service elevate the experience into one of North America’s finest luxury adventures.
Rocky Mountaineer’s crossing through the Canadian Rockies.
2. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
Few names evoke luxury quite like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Since the late nineteenth century, this legendary train has become synonymous with glamour, romance and timeless elegance. Lovingly restored Art Deco carriages, white-glove service, exquisite fine dining and beautifully appointed suites transport guests back to the golden age of travel as the train journeys between Europe’s most iconic cities, including Paris, Venice and Istanbul.
Elegant Art Deco dining carriage aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
3. The Ghan, Australia
Stretching nearly 3,000 kilometres from Adelaide to Darwin, The Ghan traverses the heart of Australia through landscapes unlike anywhere else on Earth. Guests experience dramatic red deserts, rugged mountain ranges and remote Outback towns while enjoying luxurious cabins, locally inspired cuisine and exclusive off-train excursions. It is one of Australia’s defining travel experiences and a remarkable way to appreciate the country’s immense scale.
The Ghan travelling through Australia’s red desert.
4. Rovos Rail, Southern Africa
Often described as Africa’s most luxurious train, Rovos Rail combines Edwardian elegance with spectacular scenery. Vintage wood-panelled carriages, refined dining and attentive butler service accompany journeys through South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and beyond. Routes pass vineyards, wildlife reserves and dramatic landscapes, offering travellers an unforgettable blend of safari adventure and classic luxury.
Rovos Rail travelling through the South African countryside.
5. Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan
With only a limited number of departures each year, Seven Stars in Kyushu is among the world’s most exclusive train journeys. Combining handcrafted Japanese design, personalised hospitality and exceptional regional cuisine, the train explores the volcanic landscapes, hot spring towns and coastal scenery of Japan’s southern island. Demand consistently exceeds availability, making a reservation an achievement in itself.
Luxurious Seven Stars train travelling through Kyushu’s countryside.
6. Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
Travelling through Singapore and Malaysia, the Eastern & Oriental Express captures the romance of Southeast Asia. Elegant green-and-cream carriages evoke the golden age of rail travel, while panoramic windows reveal lush rainforests, rice paddies and charming colonial towns. Gourmet dining, evening cocktails in the piano bar and attentive service create an experience that is both sophisticated and deeply immersive.
Eastern & Oriental Express surrounded by tropical rainforest.
7. Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru
South America’s first luxury sleeper train journeys through the spectacular Peruvian Andes, linking Cusco, Lake Titicaca and Arequipa. Along the way, travellers enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery, traditional Andean culture and elegant interiors inspired by Peru’s rich artistic heritage. Spacious suites, fine dining and an open-air observation carriage ensure every moment is as memorable as the landscapes beyond the windows.
Belmond Andean Explorer crossing the Peruvian Andes.
8. The Blue Train, South Africa
Known for decades as one of the world’s most prestigious rail experiences, The Blue Train combines five-star accommodation with exceptional service as it journeys between Pretoria and Cape Town. Marble bathrooms, butler service, gourmet cuisine and panoramic views of South Africa’s ever-changing landscapes have made it a favourite among discerning travellers seeking timeless elegance.
The Blue Train travelling across South Africa’s open landscapes.
Why Luxury Train Travel Is Making a Comeback
Luxury trains offer something increasingly rare in modern travel: the opportunity to slow down. Rather than rushing between destinations, guests enjoy ever-changing scenery, exceptional hospitality and meaningful moments along the journey. Many itineraries also include exclusive off-train experiences, transforming a rail holiday into a fully immersive exploration of a destination. For travellers seeking elegance, authenticity and unforgettable memories, luxury rail travel remains one of the world’s most rewarding ways to explore.
Whether crossing the Canadian Rockies, traversing Australia’s vast Outback or winding through Europe’s historic landscapes, the world’s finest luxury trains prove that the journey can be every bit as remarkable as the destination. Matthew Rian Travel Concierge can curate bespoke rail holidays featuring luxury accommodation before and after your journey, private transfers, exclusive excursions and tailor-made itineraries designed around the world’s most iconic rail experiences. Contact our team to begin planning your next unforgettable luxury adventure.
