If you need to arrive quickly – you fly, if you wish to explore the seven seas – you sail, but if you want to truly disconnect from the pace of modern life and reconnect with a slower, more meaningful experience, let the train take the strain. Embarking on a luxury train trip is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about savouring every moment of the ride, immersing yourself in the journey as a memorable adventure.
Since the 19th century, railways have played a major role in long-distance tourism, particularly before commercial air travel became widespread. Today, affluent travellers can take epic journeys across continents in style, where the accommodation and facilities mirror those of the finest luxury hotels. These train rides offer panoramic views of breathtaking landscapes and ever-changing sights, making the journey itself an unforgettable part of the experience. Evoking the golden age of travel, many of these iconic trains blend nostalgia, opulence, and glamour, transporting guests back to a time when the journey was as significant as the destination. First-Class.com looks at some of these great railway expeditions – where the journey itself is often more important than the destination.
Introduction to Luxury Train Travel
Luxury train travel is the epitome of refined adventure, offering discerning travellers a chance to experience the world’s most beautiful scenery from the comfort of a moving five-star hotel. Unlike any other mode of transport, a luxury train journey combines the romance of classic rail travel with modern amenities, impeccable service, and exclusive access to remote destinations. Whether you’re gliding past the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps aboard the Glacier Express, savouring gourmet cuisine on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express as you traverse historic cities in Europe, or marveling at the wild landscapes of South America, each journey is designed to be unforgettable.
Panoramic windows frame ever-changing vistas, from the dramatic Scottish Highlands to the vibrant desert landscapes of Peru. Onboard, passengers enjoy elegant dining cars, private lounges, and attentive staff dedicated to making every moment memorable. Iconic routes such as the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada, the Blue Train in South Africa, and the Bernina Express through the Alps offer a blend of adventure and comfort that appeals to many travellers. For those seeking a truly unique way to explore the world, luxury trains provide not just transportation, but a destination in themselves—where the journey is as extraordinary as the places you visit.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the world’s most famous train service, recreating the golden age of travel with its original Orient-Express carriages dating back to the 1920s. Depending on the itinerary, passengers travel on luxury rail routes across Europe, with Venice remaining one of the service’s most iconic destinations. The experience is defined by white tablecloths in the elegant dining car, where guests enjoy an exceptional culinary experience and faultless personal service. The glamorous bar car offers a luxurious space to relax and socialize, further enhancing the sense of opulence and nostalgia that defines this remarkable journey.
The Andean Explorer, Peru
This unique rail service offers travellers the chance to embark on a luxury train ride through the stunning Peruvian countryside, culminating at the culturally and historically significant Machu Picchu on select routes. inspired by Peru’s acclaimed culinary traditions. As you journey, the train offers panoramic views while passing through some of the most beautiful Peruvian scenery, including the Sacred Valley—a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and spiritual heritage—en route to Machu Picchu. With four different routes available, such as the Peruvian Highlands, Andean Plains and Islands of Discovery, Spirit of the Water, and Spirit of the Andes, you may also experience Cusco, the capital of the ancient Inca Empire, the legendary Lake Titicaca, Puno, or Arequipa. Some routes traverse areas near national parks, further enhancing the scenic and adventurous appeal of this remarkable train ride.
Cruise Train "Seven Stars in Kyushu", Japan
Seven Stars in Kyushu is widely regarded as one of Japan’s most exclusive luxury train experiences. A four-day journey takes passengers around the beautiful island of Kyushu, connecting vibrant city destinations such as Fukuoka and Kagoshima, and offering unparalleled views of its mountains, sea, and other remarkable sights along the route. The elegant interior is defined by a modern Japanese style of classic luxury. With only 14 cabins for a maximum of 30 passengers, flawless service, a dedicated observation car for panoramic viewing, and access to a private lounge before departure, this journey is so popular that you have to demand often exceeds availability, and reservations may involve an application or lottery process. The moment the train pulls out of the station marks the beginning of an immersive experience through Kyushu’s diverse landscapes. The name Seven Stars refers to the number of prefectures in Kyushu, the number of major tourist attractions on the island, and the number of carriages on the train.
Rovos Rail, South Africa
Billed as the most luxurious train in the world, Rovos Rail primarily takes passengers on a fascinating 3-day ride between Pretoria and Cape Town. Affluent railway explorers experience South Africa’s magnificent landscapes, passing through the Highveld grasslands, the Great Karoo desert, and near several national parks, offering opportunities to observe South African wildlife and dramatic landscapes along certain sections of the route. These breathtaking views can be enjoyed in the fresh air from the open-air observation areas at the rear of the train. Numerous other itineraries are also offered throughout southern Africa, with an epic 15-day Cape Town to Dar es Salaam journey (Tanzania) being the longest. Before departure, guests can relax in an exclusive private lounge, enhancing the sense of privacy and comfort that sets Rovos Rail apart. Onboard, travellers enjoy superb cuisine in combination with South Africa’s finest wines—all in a truly remarkable setting.
The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express, Russia
One of the most famous rail journeys in the world, the Trans-Siberian Railway stretches 9,289 kilometres (6,000 miles), running from Moscow in western Russia to Vladivostok on the Pacific coast. The Golden Eagle is the most luxurious way to experience this epic train ride—the world’s longest—which covers eight time zones, two continents, and passes through the breathtaking landscapes of Central Asia. This two-week trip takes travellers from the vibrant city of Moscow, depending on the itinerary, routes may include Mongolia, Central Asia, or the classic Trans-Siberian line to Vladivostok, offering an adventure for those seeking to immerse themselves in diverse cultures and scenery while passing through remote towns and iconic cities along the route. Onboard, passengers enjoy ensuite accommodation, excellent cuisine, and—as you would expect—first-class service. Highlights of the journey include toasting with Champagne at the Euro-Asian border and participating in cooking classes in Russian cuisine, all while taking in the ever-changing landscape visible from the train.
