Best Luxury Trains in the World
8 legendary journeys across 5 continents
From the Orient-Express to the Coast Starlight, discover the world's most extraordinary rail journeys.
8 luxury trains
Bernina Express
Chur → Tirano
ScenicDuration
4 hours
Distance
90 mi
From
$80
Countries
🇨🇭 🇮🇹
Highlights
UNESCO World Heritage route, Bernina Pass (7,391 ft), Brusio spiral viaduct
Coast Starlight
Los Angeles → Seattle
ScenicDuration
35 hours
Distance
1,377 mi
From
$100
Countries
🇺🇸
Highlights
Pacific Ocean coastline, Mt. Shasta views, Cascade Range
Glacier Express
Zermatt → St. Moritz
ScenicDuration
8 hours
Distance
180 mi
From
$200
Countries
🇨🇭
Highlights
291 bridges, 91 tunnels, Oberalp Pass (6,670 ft)
Palace on Wheels
Delhi → Delhi
LuxuryDuration
7 days / 6 nights
Distance
1,800 mi
From
$3,500
Countries
🇮🇳
Highlights
Rajasthan palaces and forts, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Ranthambore tiger safari
Rocky Mountaineer
Vancouver → Banff
ScenicDuration
2 days
Distance
600 mi
From
$1,800
Countries
🇨🇦
Highlights
Glass dome cars, Canadian Rockies scenery, Spiral Tunnels
Rovos Rail
Pretoria → Cape Town
Ultra-LuxuryDuration
3 days / 2 nights
Distance
1,000 mi
From
$2,200
Countries
🇿🇦
Highlights
Most luxurious train in the world, All-inclusive fine dining, Victorian-era restored carriages
The Ghan
Adelaide → Darwin
LuxuryDuration
3 days / 2 nights
Distance
1,851 mi
From
$2,500
Countries
🇦🇺
Highlights
North-south Australian crossing, Alice Springs excursion, Katherine Gorge
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
London → Venice
Ultra-LuxuryDuration
2 days / 1 night
Distance
1,056 mi
From
$3,500
Countries
🇬🇧 🇫🇷 🇨🇭 🇮🇹
Highlights
Restored Art Deco carriages, French gastronomy, Alpine crossing
Best Months by Train
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Luxury Train Travel: The World's Most Extraordinary Rail Journeys
Luxury train travel offers a uniquely romantic and immersive way to experience the world's most spectacular landscapes. From the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express crossing the Alps to the Rocky Mountaineer winding through British Columbia, from the Blue Train traversing South Africa to Japan's Seven Stars in Kyushu, these rail journeys combine five-star hospitality with breathtaking scenery that no other mode of travel can match.
North American Luxury Rail
The Rocky Mountaineer is the premier luxury train experience accessible to Americans, offering routes through the Canadian Rockies between Vancouver, Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise. Amtrak's Coast Starlight (Seattle to Los Angeles) provides scenic Pacific Coast views at a fraction of the cost. The Grand Canyon Railway offers a historic experience, while Alaska Railroad's Goldstar Service delivers glacier and mountain views. Private luxury rail cars are also available for charter on Amtrak routes.
The World's Iconic Rail Journeys
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express remains the gold standard of luxury rail, connecting London to Venice through the Alps. Belmond's collection also includes the Andean Explorer (Peru) and the Eastern & Oriental Express (Southeast Asia). Rovos Rail and the Blue Train traverse South Africa in supreme comfort. Japan's luxury trains (Seven Stars, Shiki-shima) combine cutting-edge design with traditional hospitality. The Trans-Siberian Railway offers the world's longest continuous rail journey.
Booking Luxury Trains with Points Strategy
While most luxury trains require cash bookings, smart points strategy can reduce the total trip cost significantly. Use Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Membership Rewards for flights to departure cities (London, Vancouver, Cape Town). Transfer points to hotel programs for pre- and post-rail stays. The Amex Platinum's Fine Hotels + Resorts program covers luxury hotels at many rail journey endpoints.
Planning Tips for Luxury Rail Travel
Book 6-12 months in advance as luxury trains have limited capacity and sell out quickly. Peak season varies by route: summer for European and Canadian trains, spring and fall for African and Asian journeys. Pack smart: cabin space is limited, and dress codes (especially on the Orient-Express) may require formal evening attire.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luxury Train Travel
1How much does a luxury train journey cost?
The Rocky Mountaineer starts at $1,500-$2,500 per person for a two-day journey. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express costs $3,000-$10,000+ depending on cabin class and route. African luxury trains (Rovos Rail, Blue Train) range from $1,500-$5,000 per person. Prices typically include meals, beverages, and in some cases, excursions.
2What is the best luxury train experience for Americans?
The Rocky Mountaineer is the most accessible, departing from Vancouver (easily reached from Seattle or with a short flight). For a European experience, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the gold standard. The Belmond Andean Explorer in Peru combines luxury rail with Machu Picchu visits.
3Can I use points for luxury train tickets?
Luxury train tickets are generally cash-only, but you can strategically use points for flights to departure cities and hotels before and after the journey. The Chase Sapphire Reserve earns 3x on the travel component, and some trains accept credit cards that earn standard rewards. Use points for positioning flights to save significantly on the overall trip cost.
4How far in advance should I book a luxury train?
Book 6-12 months ahead for popular routes. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express summer departures often sell out a year in advance. The Rocky Mountaineer's peak season (June-September) fills quickly. For unique departures like holiday-themed journeys or inaugural routes, book as soon as tickets become available.
5What should I pack for a luxury train journey?
Pack light but include smart casual and formal evening wear if required (check your train's dress code). Bring layers as temperatures vary between the train and station stops. A good camera is essential for the scenic views. Most luxury trains provide amenities (robes, toiletries) in cabins, so you can minimize personal care items.