Glance at 8 breathtakingly opulent train journeys worldwide

Hop aboard for breathtaking scenery and luxury at its finest. Here's our roundup of the world's most unforgettable luxury train journeys, boasting iconic routes, endless perks, and views that'll leave you speechless for days.

1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express 🇪🇺

Step into the golden era of travel with the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This 1920s beauty features Art Deco interiors, gourmet dining, and chic stops across Europe.

Route: Multiple itineraries, including Paris to Istanbul and Vienna to Budapest
Accommodations: Vintage Twins, Suites, or Grand Suites that blend timeless elegance with modern luxury
Dining: Indulge in the Étoile du Nord, L'Oriental, and Côte d'Azur for refined, white-glove service and mouthwatering menus
Price: From approximately $3,800 per person (one-night journey)
Why Go: For a dash of old-school glamour, history-steeped cities, and black-tie sophistication

Pro Tip: Dress to impress, as a formal dress code is part of the experience

2. Rocky Mountaineer 🇨🇦

For nature-lovers with a flair for luxury, the Rocky Mountaineer offers jaw-dropping views of the Canadian Rockies from glass-domed coaches.

Route: Vancouver to Banff or Jasper
Accommodations: Opt for the GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf service, featuring comfortable accommodations and exceptional hospitality
Dining: Sampling delectable meals in a private dining car (GoldLeaf) or hot entrees served at your seat (SilverLeaf)
Price: Starting at about $2,600 per person
Why Go: To unwind amidst breathtaking landscapes and admire the stunning vistas from the comfort of your seat

Pro Tip: Make the most of the open-air viewing platform on GoldLeaf trains

3. Rovos Rail Pride of Africa 🇿🇦

Dubbed the "most luxurious train in the world," the Pride of Africa boasts old-world charm and modern comforts as it rolls through epic southern African landscapes.

Route: Three to 13-night journeys, including Cape Town, Windhoek, and Victoria Falls
Accommodations: Various cabin options, from Pullman Gold to Royal Suites, all enjoying en-suite facilities and stunning views
Dining: Satisfy your taste buds with multi-course meals, South African wines, and vintage ambiance in Victorian dining cars
Amenities: Enjoy the lounge and observation cars, open-air balconies, and 24/7 service
Price: Starting at about $2,500 for economy accommodations, with luxury suites priced at $12,000+
Why Go: For a blend of safari adventure and 5-star train luxury, with unparalleled service

Pro Tip: Don't miss the enchanting Victoria Falls, a highlight of the journey

4. Maharajas' Express 🇮🇳

Experience India's answer to royal travel aboard the Maharajas' Express, offering red-carpet welcomes, private butlers, and an exploration of the country's cultural wonders.

Route: Four itineraries through northern and central India, covering destinations like Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and more
Accommodations: Deluxe Cabins, Suites, or Presidential Suites, each complete with Wi-Fi, TVs, en-suite bathrooms, and around-the-clock service
Dining: Dine like a king with sumptuous Indian and continental offerings at the Rang Mahal and Mayur Mahal
Amenities: Luxurious facilities include a bar, lounge, and curated excursions
Price: From about $4,900 (Deluxe Cabin) to $24,000+ (Presidential Suite)
Why Go: For a truly regal experience and a glimpse into India's rich history and vibrant culture

Pro Tip: Upgrade to a Presidential Suite for a taste of royal luxury

5. Belmond Andean Explorer 🇵🇪

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 equipped with en-suites and around-the-clock service
Dining: Delicious meals crafted by Peruvian chef Diego Muñoz
Amenities: Relax in the lounge car, indulge in a full spa, or bask in the views on the open-air viewing deck
Price: Approximately $6,200-$8,700 per person for 2 to 3 nights
Why Go: For an unforgettable ride through Southern Peru's landscapes, ruins, and lakeside villages

Pro Tip: Book an upgrade to enjoy the comfort of your own ensuite bathroom

6. Eastern & Oriental Express 🇧🇩

Travel in style through Southeast Asia with the Eastern & Oriental Express, showcasing city skylines, lush rainforests, and that old-Hollywood train glamour.

Route: Choose from two main journeys:
Essence of Malaysia: Singapore to Langkawi to Penang to Singapore
Wild Malaysia: Singapore to Taman Negara to Penang to Singapore
Accommodations: Cabins range from Pullman and State to Presidential, each offering modern amenities and 24-hour service
Dining: Savor delightful meals in the lovely dining cars, with breakfast served in-room
Amenities: Unwind in the Dior Spa, enjoy the piano bar, or take in the gorgeous views on the open-air observation deck
Price: Approximately $3,150 per person
Why Go: For tropical landscapes, standout service, and a touch of vintage glamour

Pro Tip: Upgrade to a Presidential Cabin for a spacious suite

7. Royal Canadian Pacific 🇨🇦

Step back in time aboard the Royal Canadian Pacific, featuring cozy accommodations, gourmet meals, and just 30 passengers onboard.

Route: Three to four-night journeys from cities like Calgary or Vancouver
Accommodations: Twin and double cabins in restored 20th-century carriages
Dining: Indulge in gourmet dishes served in the Craigellachie dining car and indulge in drinks and snacks throughout the day
Amenities: Meet new friends in the lounge cars, enjoy a full bar service, and embark on daily off-train excursions
Price: Starting at about $6,100 per person
Why Go: For a quiet, intimate journey through stunning Canadian landscapes

Pro Tip: Upgrade to a deluxe cabin for added comfort and space

8. Golden Eagle Danube Express 🇭🇺

Experience luxury rail travel in Europe's style with the Golden Eagle Danube Express, a luxurious hotel on rails that connects historic cities with exceptional service.

Route: Seven to 12-day itineraries through Budapest, Vienna, Sarajevo, Prague, and more
Accommodations: Deluxe or Superior Deluxe Cabins, each offering Wi-Fi, TVs, L'Occitane amenities, and around-the-clock service
Dining: Savor exquisite meals in the restaurant cars
Amenities: Relax in the vintage piano bar, luxurious lounge, and enjoy 24/7 service
Price: Approximately $19,000 to $25,000 per person for 12-day journeys
Why Go: For a luxurious, immersive exploration of Eastern and Central Europe

Pro Tip: Upgrade to a Superior Deluxe Cabin for added perks and space

To enhance your luxury lifestyle, consider purchasing travel insurance for your upcoming vacation, as these unforgettable train journeys often require significant investment.
On the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, you'll need to pack formal attire to match the black-tie sophistication that's part of the experience.
After your travel adventures, be sure to share your remarkable experiences with friends and family to inspire their own luxury train journeys.

Glance at 8 breathtakingly opulent train journeys worldwide