Luxury Rail Travel

"The route is long, but the view is amazing."

Railroad travel has come a long way. As opposed to the more popular cruise ship option, train rides offer more views of the natural landscape (as opposed to endless ocean), while you still get to stop and see different towns along the way. Also, trains are more energy efficient than flying, cars or cruising. There is a large variety of rail travel today in places all over the world. In this post, I will share some of the best rail travel options I have found through my research.

Orient Express - Europe

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers a luxurious and romantic journey reminiscent of the golden age of travel. This iconic train travels between London, Paris, Venice, and Istanbul, allowing passengers to experience the glamour of 1920s-style luxury train travel.

The Orient Express journey from London to Istanbul is an iconic and luxurious train travel experience that evokes the glamour and elegance of the early 20th century. Originally established in 1883, the Orient Express has become synonymous with luxury travel and adventure.

The modern incarnation of the Orient Express, known as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, operates a variety of routes, including the classic journey from London to Venice and beyond to Istanbul.

The journey typically begins at London's Victoria Station, where passengers board the Belmond British Pullman, the sister train to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. After a sumptuous brunch, passengers transfer to the blue-and-gold carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express at Calais, France.

The train then travels through the picturesque French countryside, passing through cities like Paris and Strasbourg before crossing into Switzerland. Passengers dine on exquisite meals prepared by onboard chefs and enjoy the luxurious accommodations of their private cabins.

As the train continues its journey through the Alps, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and charming villages. The journey through the Alps is often considered one of the highlights of the trip, offering unparalleled beauty and tranquility.

After traversing Austria and Hungary, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express arrives in Budapest, where passengers have the option to disembark and explore the city or continue on to Istanbul.

The final leg of the journey takes passengers through the Hungarian and Romanian countryside, crossing the Danube River and passing through historic cities like Bucharest before arriving in Istanbul, where East meets West in a vibrant cultural melting pot.

Throughout the journey, passengers are immersed in the romance and nostalgia of train travel, with attentive service, elegant furnishings, and exquisite cuisine. The Orient Express journey from London to Istanbul is not just a mode of transportation, but a truly unforgettable travel experience that captures the magic of a bygone era.

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Best time to take this trip: Spring or Fall

Aurora Winter Train - Alaska

The Aurora Alaska, also known simply as the Aurora Train, is a scenic rail journey that operates between Anchorage and Fairbanks in Alaska. The Aurora Train runs along the Alaska Railroad's northern route, spanning approximately 350 miles (560 km) between Anchorage and Fairbanks.

This journey offers passengers stunning views of Alaska's diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, dense forests, expansive tundra, and perhaps glimpses of wildlife such as moose and bears.

Along the route, passengers can see landmarks such as Hurricane Gulch, where the train crosses a high trestle bridge offering breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. The journey also passes through areas like Denali National Park, home to North America's tallest peak, Mount Denali (formerly Mount McKinley).

The Aurora Train offers various classes of service, including standard seats and upgraded GoldStar Dome cars. The GoldStar Dome cars feature glass-domed ceilings for panoramic views, as well as outdoor viewing platforms.

The journey typically takes around 12 hours, making it a full-day adventure through the heart of Alaska.

Passengers can learn about Alaska's history, culture, and natural environment through onboard narration and possibly presentations by local guides.

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Best time to take this journey: May to September

Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland

The Jacobite Steam Train, often referred to simply as the Jacobite, is a popular tourist attraction and a scenic steam train journey in Scotland.

The Jacobite operates on the West Highland Line, running between Fort William and Mallaig in the Scottish Highlands.

The journey is renowned for its stunning scenery, passing through rugged landscapes, lochs (lakes), mountains, and historic sites. Highlights include views of Ben Nevis (the UK's highest peak), Loch Shiel, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and the shores of Loch Eilt.

One of the most famous parts of the journey is crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a beautiful, curved railway viaduct that has been featured in films such as the Harry Potter series.

The Jacobite is hauled by vintage steam locomotives, adding to the nostalgic and picturesque experience. The round trip from Fort William to Mallaig and back takes about 2 hours each way, with a short stop in Mallaig allowing passengers time to explore the village before returning. Due to its popularity, it's advisable to book tickets well in advance, especially for the steam train experience or if you prefer a specific class of service.

Best time to go on this journey: April to late October

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Bernina Express - Switzerland & Italy

The Bernina Express is a scenic train route that travels through the Swiss Alps, connecting Switzerland and Italy. The Bernina Express runs from Chur (or Davos) in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, crossing the Swiss Engadin Alps and the Bernina Range. The route is part of the Rhaetian Railway network and includes the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bernina Line.

This journey is renowned for its stunning Alpine landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, glaciers, deep valleys, and picturesque alpine villages. Highlights include the Morteratsch Glacier, Lago Bianco, and the iconic circular viaduct of Brusio.

The train journey begins in the canton of Graubünden in Switzerland, passing through regions like the Albula Valley before ascending to higher altitudes in the Engadin Valley.

The train crosses the Bernina Pass, which reaches an altitude of 2,253 meters (7,391 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest railways in the Alps.

Depending on the route, the Bernina Express may pass through or originate from St. Moritz, a famous Swiss resort town known for its luxury and outdoor activities.

The journey ends in Tirano, a town in the Valtellina region of northern Italy. Tirano is known for its charming old town and is a gateway to the Italian Alps.

The Bernina Express offers both standard and panoramic carriages. The panoramic carriages have large windows and sometimes even glass roofs to ensure passengers can fully appreciate the spectacular views.

Best time to take this journey: Winter or Summer

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Dar Es Salaam - South and East Africa

Traveling from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam aboard the Rovos Rail's luxury train is a remarkable journey that spans multiple countries and offers a unique blend of comfort, elegance, and scenic beauty. The Cape Town to Dar es Salaam journey is a transcontinental expedition that covers approximately 3,400 kilometers (2,100 miles) across Southern and Eastern Africa. The train travels through South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania.

Rovos Rail is known for its luxurious train travel experiences, offering vintage-style carriages furnished with exquisite wood paneling, plush seating, and impeccable service reminiscent of the golden age of rail travel.

The journey showcases a diverse range of landscapes, from the vineyards and mountains of the Cape Winelands in South Africa to the savannahs and wildlife of Botswana and Zimbabwe, and the lush greenery of Zambia and Tanzania.

Along the route, the train makes stops at significant locations where passengers can disembark for guided tours or excursions. This may include visits to cultural sites, national parks for safaris, and historical landmarks.

Rovos Rail offers several accommodation options, including luxurious suites with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and elegant furnishings. There are also dining cars serving gourmet meals prepared by onboard chefs.

The train provides personalized service, including butler service in higher-class suites, and amenities such as a lounge car for socializing and observing the passing scenery.

The Cape Town to Dar es Salaam journey typically takes about two weeks to complete, allowing passengers ample time to relax, explore, and enjoy the journey at a leisurely pace.

Best time to take this journey: The journey is scheduled at specific times of the year, usually once or twice annually, and typically operates during the dry season to ensure optimal conditions for travel and sightseeing.

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Belmond Andean - Peru

The Belmond Andean Explorer is a luxury train service in Peru that offers travelers an exceptional way to experience the stunning landscapes and cultural richness of the Andes Mountains.

The Belmond Andean Explorer operates on various routes across southern Peru, including:

Cusco to Puno: This route takes passengers from the historic city of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.

Cusco to Arequipa: This route travels from Cusco to Arequipa, passing through the high Andean plains and the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world.

The journey on the Belmond Andean Explorer offers breathtaking views of the Peruvian Andes, including snow-capped mountains, rugged landscapes, and traditional Andean villages. Passengers can also admire the beauty of Lake Titicaca and the vastness of the Altiplano (high plains).

The train features luxurious cabins and suites, each elegantly appointed with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and large windows to enjoy the spectacular views. There are also elegant lounges and observation cars where passengers can relax and socialize.

Dining on the Belmond Andean Explorer is a gourmet experience, with meals prepared by onboard chefs using locally sourced ingredients. The dining cars offer a fine dining setting, allowing passengers to savor Peruvian and international cuisine while enjoying panoramic views.

During stops along the route, passengers have the opportunity to participate in guided excursions to explore archaeological sites, traditional markets, and cultural attractions. Optional activities may include visits to Machu Picchu (on longer itineraries) or the Sumbay Caves near Arequipa.

The Belmond Andean Explorer is known for its attentive service and hospitality, with a dedicated team of staff ensuring that passengers have a memorable and comfortable journey.

Best time to take this journey: May to October

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Rockey Mountaineer - Canada

The Rocky Mountaineer is a renowned luxury train service that operates in the Canadian Rockies, offering passengers spectacular views of the region's majestic landscapes.

The Rocky Mountaineer offers several routes through the Canadian Rockies:

First Passage to the West: Connects Vancouver to Banff or Lake Louise via Kamloops, showcasing dramatic changes in scenery from coastal rainforests to the Canadian Rockies.

Journey through the Clouds: Travels between Vancouver and Jasper, passing through the rugged terrain and glacier-fed lakes of the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia.

Rainforest to Gold Rush: Connects Vancouver to Jasper via Whistler and Quesnel, highlighting the diverse landscapes of British Columbia, from coastal rainforests to historic gold rush towns.

The Rocky Mountaineer journey offers breathtaking views of towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, rushing rivers, and dense forests. Highlights include iconic landmarks such as the Spiral Tunnels, Hell's Gate in Fraser Canyon, and Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.

The train offers different classes of service, including:

GoldLeaf Service: Features bi-level glass-dome coaches with panoramic views on the upper level and an elegant dining area on the lower level.

SilverLeaf Service: Offers single-level glass-dome coaches with oversized windows and gourmet meals served at your seat.

Passengers typically stay overnight in hotels along the route, as the Rocky Mountaineer operates as a daylight-only train. Hotels are selected for their quality and scenic locations, enhancing the overall experience.

Gourmet meals are served onboard, featuring locally inspired cuisine prepared by onboard chefs. Both GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf Service offer delicious breakfasts and lunches, with complimentary snacks and beverages throughout the journey.

Optional excursions are available at select stops, allowing passengers to explore attractions such as national parks, historic towns, and outdoor activities like wildlife tours or helicopter rides.

Known for its exceptional service and hospitality, the Rocky Mountaineer ensures passengers have a comfortable and memorable journey, with attentive onboard hosts providing insightful commentary and assistance throughout the trip.

Best time to take this Journey: June to September

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Ghan - Australia

Traveling on The Ghan in Australia is an iconic rail journey that traverses the heart of the continent, offering passengers a unique perspective on Australia's vast and diverse landscapes. The Ghan travels between Adelaide in South Australia and Darwin in the Northern Territory. The journey covers approximately 2,979 kilometers (1,851 miles) and crosses through the ruggedly beautiful Outback of Australia.

The Ghan journey showcases a variety of landscapes, including the red deserts of the Outback, ancient rock formations, expansive cattle stations, and remote Aboriginal communities. Highlights include the MacDonnell Ranges near Alice Springs and the iconic Katherine Gorge.

The Ghan offers several classes of service to cater to different preferences:

Platinum Service: Offers spacious cabins with large windows, double beds, en-suite bathrooms, and personalized service with included beverages and gourmet meals served in a dedicated dining car.

Gold Service: Includes comfortable sleeper cabins with either upper or lower berths, access to shared shower and toilet facilities, all-inclusive dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant car, and access to the Outback Explorer Lounge.

The journey on The Ghan typically takes around 54 hours to complete from Adelaide to Darwin (or vice versa). This allows passengers to relax and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace. The Ghan makes several stops along the route where passengers can disembark for guided tours and excursions. Popular stops include Alice Springs, where passengers can explore the rich Aboriginal culture and visit historical sites.

Onboard, passengers enjoy first-class service, including attentive staff, informative commentary about the passing landscapes and history, and access to lounges and viewing areas.

The dining experience on The Ghan is a highlight, featuring regionally inspired cuisine prepared by onboard chefs using fresh local ingredients. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

Best time to take this journey: April to September

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TranzAlpine - New Zealand

The TranzAlpine is a scenic train journey in New Zealand that travels across the South Island, offering passengers breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, rugged landscapes, and picturesque countryside. The TranzAlpine operates between Christchurch on the east coast and Greymouth on the west coast of the South Island. The journey covers approximately 223 kilometers (139 miles) and takes about 4.5 hours each way.

The highlight of the TranzAlpine journey is the stunning scenery of the Southern Alps, which includes snow-capped mountains, deep gorges, pristine rivers, and native beech forests. The train passes through the Arthur's Pass National Park, offering panoramic views of the alpine landscape.

Along the route, the TranzAlpine makes stops at several stations, including Springfield, Arthur's Pass Village, and Moana (Lake Brunner). These stops provide opportunities for passengers to stretch their legs, take photos, and explore the local surroundings.

The TranzAlpine offers two classes of service:

Scenic Class: Comfortable, large windows for enjoying the views, and open-air viewing carriage.

Panorama Class: Upgraded seating with panoramic windows and complimentary tea/coffee and light snacks served at your seat.

The journey from Christchurch to Greymouth (or vice versa) takes approximately 4.5 hours. It is a popular day trip option for tourists staying in either city who want to experience the scenic beauty of the South Island.

Onboard, the TranzAlpine provides comfortable seating, informative commentary about the history and landmarks along the route, and friendly service from the onboard staff.

Passengers can experience local New Zealand culture and history through onboard commentary and optional excursions at Arthur's Pass or Greymouth, where they can explore local attractions or enjoy a meal.

Bes time to take this journey: Winter to Spring and Summer

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Glacier Express - Swizerland

Traveling on the Glacier Express is a spectacular rail journey through the Swiss Alps, renowned for its breathtaking scenery, engineering marvels, and luxurious travel experience.

The Glacier Express runs between Zermatt and St. Moritz (or Davos), crossing through the Swiss Alps. The journey covers approximately 291 kilometers (181 miles) and takes about 7.5 hours to complete.

The highlight of the Glacier Express is its stunning Alpine landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, picturesque villages, and pristine lakes. The train passes through iconic landmarks such as the Matterhorn, Furka Pass, Oberalp Pass, and the Rhine Gorge (Switzerland’s "Grand Canyon").

The Glacier Express offers two classes of service:

Excellence Class: Introduced recently, this is the most luxurious option with spacious seats, private compartments, gourmet dining with full-course meals, and panoramic windows for unobstructed views.

First Class: Offers comfortable seating with panoramic windows and includes meals served at your seat.

The full journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz (or Davos) takes approximately 7.5 hours. This leisurely pace allows passengers to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Swiss Alps.

Dining on the Glacier Express is a highlight, with freshly prepared meals featuring regional specialties and Swiss cuisine. Passengers can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and snacks served directly at their seat, showcasing the flavors of Switzerland.

The Glacier Express provides excellent onboard service, including multilingual staff, informative commentary about the passing landscapes, and amenities to ensure a comfortable journey.

The train makes several stops along the route, allowing passengers to explore charming Swiss villages like Andermatt, Disentis, and Chur. Optional excursions include visits to attractions such as the Matterhorn Museum or the historic town of Chur.

Best time to take this journey: June to September or December to March

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