5 Luxury Trains Offering the Ultimate in Glamorous Travel

An Icon of Art Deco Elegance

Traveling through the heart of Europe, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a symbol of luxurious travel, offering journeys between cities like London, Venice, and Paris. Its vintage carriages, restored to their original 1920s grandeur, offer an authentic taste of the golden age of travel.

Signature Experience: Indulge in a lavish four-course dinner prepared by skilled French chefs, enjoy afternoon tea in your cabin as you pass through the Swiss Alps, and mingle with fellow travelers in the champagne bar.

Why It's #1: Its legendary status, coupled with impeccable service and timeless elegance, makes the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express the pinnacle of glamorous rail travel.

An Intimate Journey Through the Scottish Highlands

The Belmond Royal Scotsman takes guests on a scenic journey through the heart of the Scottish Highlands. With its private cabins and observation cars, it offers an exclusive and serene experience, accommodating a maximum of just 40 guests.

Signature Experience: Enjoy luxury spa treatments aboard the train, savor exquisite local cuisine, and participate in unique excursions, including private castle visits and golfing opportunities.

Why It's #2: For its intimate scale, extraordinary attention to detail, and immersive Scottish experiences, the Belmond Royal Scotsman is a journey of unparalleled glamour and sophistication.

A Majestic Window to South Africa’s Soul

Linking Pretoria and Cape Town, The Blue Train is a mobile five-star hotel that offers guests panoramic views of South Africa’s diverse landscapes. Its suites redefine luxury on rails, with butler service and en-suite bathrooms.

Signature Experience: Gaze at the dramatic scenery of the Karoo and the Cape Winelands through your suite’s windows, dine on gourmet dishes featuring South African delicacies, and unwind in the elegant lounge car.

Why It's #3: The Blue Train combines the mystique of African landscapes with unmatched luxury, making it a favorite for those seeking both adventure and opulence.

Breathtaking Daylight Journeys Through the Canadian Rockies

The Rocky Mountaineer offers an unparalleled travel experience, revealing the majestic beauty of the Canadian Rockies under the broad daylight. Operating several routes, the most popular being from Vancouver to Banff or Jasper, it ensures that passengers miss none of the awe-inspiring vistas for which this part of the world is famed.

Signature Experience: Travel in glass-domed coaches that afford panoramic views of mountains, lakes, and forests. The journey is complemented by gourmet cuisine that draws on the flavors of the regions the train passes through, served right at your seat so you never miss a moment of the scenery.

Why It's #4: The Rocky Mountaineer’s focus on daylight travel to maximize the scenic experience, combined with its luxury service and exceptional dining, sets it apart as a unique and glamorous way to discover Canada’s natural beauty.

Exotic Elegance on a Journey Through Asia’s Heartland

Traversing the lush landscapes of Southeast Asia, from Singapore through Malaysia and all the way to Bangkok, the Eastern & Oriental Express is where luxury meets adventure. Its elegant carriages, reminiscent of a bygone era, provide the perfect setting for an exotic journey.

Signature Experience: Indulge in an elegant dining experience in one of the ornate restaurant cars, relax in the open-air observation car, and partake in off-train excursions that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Southeast Asia.

Why It's #5: With its combination of luxury accommodations, exquisite dining, and immersive cultural experiences, the Eastern & Oriental Express offers a unique and glamorous journey that captures the essence of Southeast Asia’s enchanting landscapes and rich heritage.