The Most Luxurious Train Journeys in the World

Why luxury rail is the new high-end “slow travel”

If you’re craving a holiday that feels unhurried but still impeccably polished, luxury train journeys hit a sweet spot that first-class flights and even the best road trips can’t match. You unpack once, settle into a beautifully designed cabin, and watch landscapes unfurl like cinema—while dinner is plated, wine is poured, and the world feels reassuringly far away.

There’s also a shift happening. The most sought-after trains are expanding routes and elevating suites as demand grows, with some journeys becoming “book-ahead” experiences rather than spontaneous splurges. That makes planning smarter—not harder—especially when you want the right cabin category, the right season, and the right hotel pairing at either end. Rail travel’s renaissance has also been recognised globally, with publications like Condé Nast Traveller highlighting luxury train journeys as one of the most desirable ways to travel slowly and stylishly.

So, which of the world’s most celebrated trains truly deliver on luxury—and which one fits your travel style? Let’s take you inside five standout luxury train journeys, each with a “why it’s special” angle and hand-picked stays to complete the trip.

If this guide makes you daydream, share it with the friend who always chooses the suite and never the standard.

And tell me—which sounds more like you: black-tie glamour, wild landscapes, or food-led adventure?

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Paris–Venice and beyond): the iconic grand tour feeling

Why it’s one of the defining luxury train journeys

Some trains are famous. This one is mythic. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) trades in the golden-age mood—polished details, ceremony at dinner, and that delicious sense that you’ve stepped into a different era. It’s frequently referenced as the poster child for modern luxury train journeys, and for good reason: it’s designed to make the journey feel like the destination.

On the most classic route, you glide from Paris towards Venice, swapping bustling stations for an atmosphere that feels closer to a private members’ club. And at the top end, the Grand Suites have become a headline-making indulgence, with prices reflecting just how exclusive the experience can be. For travellers drawn to the elegance of slow, scenic travel, our guide to why the Swiss Alps offer the ultimate luxury winter escape explores another refined way to experience Europe at an unhurried pace.

What to book (if you want it to feel truly special)

• If you want “the” storybook experience: aim for the highest suite category you’re comfortable with, then plan your trip around the cabin, not the dates. Availability is often the real hurdle.
• If you want the most atmospheric moments: choose a departure that lets you enjoy dinner service and the lounge ambience at its best—this is where the magic lives.

Pair it with: Paris + Venice hotels that keep the mood going

Hôtel Plaza Athénée, Paris (Avenue Montaigne glamour)

If you want your trip to begin in full “occasion mode”, this is the kind of Paris address that makes even a simple coffee feel like an event. Expect polished service, a fashion-world location, and rooms that feel made for pre-departure photos.

Explore more Paris + rail pairings with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel — we’ll match your VSOE dates with the right room category, transfers, and little extras that make it feel seamless. Where every journey begins with you.

The Gritti Palace, Venice (canal-side classic with serious romance)

Venice is at its best when you lean into the theatre of it—arriving by boat, checking into somewhere storied, and letting the city slow you down. The Gritti is made for that. It keeps you in the centre of the action without feeling chaotic, and it’s the sort of place that suits a celebratory post-train stay.

Explore more Venice stays with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel — we can build your itinerary around the train and tailor everything after, from lagoon experiences to private guides. Where every journey begins with you.

Belmond Royal Scotsman (Scottish Highlands): a country-house hotel on wheels

Why it’s a standout for luxury train journeys close to home

If you love the idea of a high-end adventure but don’t want a long-haul flight, the Royal Scotsman is an elegant answer. This sleeper train is built around the romance of the Highlands—mountains, lochs, and that dramatic Scotland-light that makes even a simple moment feel cinematic.

Belmond’s own journeys range across multi-night itineraries, with all the detail that matters baked in: polished onboard hosting, fine dining, and the feeling of being looked after properly.

The onboard detail that changes the experience

One reason it’s so loved is that it doesn’t feel like “transport”. It feels like a moving retreat—particularly when you build in downtime and treat the train itself as your luxury base. The brand positions it as an experience in Scotland “in motion”, and that’s exactly the point: you’re not racing the Highlands, you’re absorbing them.

Pair it with: Edinburgh hotels that make the start (or finish) feel special

The Balmoral, Edinburgh (grand, central, and celebratory)

This is the kind of hotel that sets the tone the second you arrive—classic architecture, a proper sense of place, and a location that makes pre-train exploring easy. It’s ideal if you want your trip to feel “big” from the first night.

Explore more Scotland luxury rail itineraries with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel — we’ll align hotel, transfers, and the right Royal Scotsman journey length for your pace. Where every journey begins with you.

Gleneagles (if you want to extend into countryside luxury)

If you’d rather end with fresh air, spa time, and a rural retreat, a Gleneagles add-on is the perfect “afterglow” move. It gives you that decompression space after the train—especially if you’ve been celebrating.

Explore more Scottish Highlands escapes with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel — we can tailor a rail-and-retreat combination that feels effortless, indulgent, and completely you. Where every journey begins with you.

Maharajas’ Express (India): palace-on-wheels opulence across royal India

Why it redefines luxury train journeys

If your idea of luxury is scale, colour, ceremony, and storytelling, few luxury train journeys rival the Maharajas’ Express. This is not subtle elegance; it’s unapologetic grandeur. From the moment you step onboard, the experience is designed to mirror India’s royal heritage—where guests are treated less like passengers and more like visiting dignitaries.

The train travels through some of India’s most culturally rich regions, linking historic cities, UNESCO-listed landmarks, and immersive excursions that would be exhausting to plan independently. Onboard, however, everything feels calm and controlled. Cabins are richly decorated, service is constant but discreet, and days unfold at a pace that allows you to absorb rather than rush.

This is one of those luxury train journeys that appeals strongly to travellers who want maximum experience with minimal friction.

What makes the experience exceptional

• All-inclusive by design: meals, drinks, guided excursions, entrance fees, and entertainment are built in, so there’s no mental accounting as you go.
• Cultural access without chaos: India can be overwhelming when self-guided. Here, the country is revealed in layers—comfortably, safely, and beautifully.
• Suite categories that genuinely matter: higher cabin classes aren’t just larger; they deliver noticeably enhanced service and space, which makes long days feel indulgent rather than tiring.

This journey suits travellers who want to see India in depth but value comfort as much as curiosity.

Pair it with: pre- and post-journey hotels that elevate the story

The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra (for a Taj Mahal moment done properly)

Waking up to a Taj Mahal view isn’t just memorable—it reframes the entire experience. This hotel is designed around that single, powerful perspective, with calm interiors that offset the intensity of Agra itself.

Explore more India rail and luxury hotel combinations with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel — we’ll help you decide where to pause before or after the train so the journey never feels rushed. Where every journey begins with you.

The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur (heritage atmosphere without compromise)

If you want your Indian stay to feel rooted in place but unmistakably luxurious, this former royal estate outside Jaipur delivers. Think lantern-lit paths, private villas, and a sense of retreat that balances the colour and energy of the train journey.

Explore more tailor-made India itineraries with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel — we specialise in pairing iconic journeys with hotels that deepen, rather than dilute, the experience. Where every journey begins with you.

The Blue Train (South Africa): refined indulgence between cities and wild landscapes

Why it’s one of the world’s most elegant luxury train journeys

The Blue Train is all about poise. Where some luxury train journeys rely on nostalgia or theatrical flair, this one leans into timeless refinement. Travelling between Pretoria and Cape Town, it offers a serene way to see South Africa’s shifting landscapes—vineyards, plains, and wide skies—without sacrificing comfort.

Suites are generous, service is polished, and the atmosphere feels quietly confident rather than showy. It’s especially appealing to travellers who value space, privacy, and a sense of calm luxury that never tries too hard.

The details that matter onboard

• Butler service in every suite: from afternoon tea to evening drinks, everything happens on your terms.
• A strong culinary focus: menus often showcase South African produce and wines, adding a subtle sense of place.
• Unhurried rhythm: long lunches, slow mornings, and time to simply watch the landscape roll by.

This is one of those luxury train journeys that suits couples celebrating something meaningful—or travellers who want elegance without excess.

Pair it with: South African stays that complete the journey

One&Only Cape Town (urban sophistication with mountain views)

Ending your rail journey in Cape Town deserves a hotel that feels contemporary yet indulgent. This waterfront property balances city access with resort-style comfort, making it ideal after days on the rails.

Explore more South Africa rail and city combinations with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel — we’ll time your arrival perfectly and add experiences that suit your pace. Where every journey begins with you.

Singita Ebony Lodge (for safari as a natural extension)

If you want to contrast the refinement of the train with the drama of the wild, pairing The Blue Train with a private safari lodge is unforgettable. This kind of transition—from polished interiors to open savannah—adds depth to the journey rather than distraction.

Explore more rail-and-safari itineraries with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel — we’ll design a flow that feels seamless, not stitched together. Where every journey begins with you.

Seven Stars in Kyushu (Japan): intimate, design-led luxury on rails

Why it’s one of the most exclusive luxury train journeys in the world

Among global luxury train journeys, Seven Stars in Kyushu occupies a category of its own. This isn’t about scale or spectacle—it’s about precision. With space for fewer than 30 guests, this Japanese masterpiece feels closer to a private members’ club than a traditional train.

Every detail has been considered, from handcrafted wood interiors to the calm, deliberate flow of each day. Routes explore Kyushu’s countryside, hot springs, coastal towns, and volcanic landscapes, revealing a Japan that many visitors never see.



Demand far exceeds supply, and booking often requires flexibility. But for travellers who value craftsmanship, subtlety, and cultural depth, this is rail travel at its most refined. For travellers drawn to the calm, ritual-led pace of Seven Stars in Kyushu, our guide to luxury wellness travel explores journeys where mindfulness, balance, and restoration are woven into every detail.

What makes it different from other luxury train journeys

• Extreme exclusivity: limited departures and cabins mean this journey is genuinely rare.
• Design as philosophy: Japanese aesthetics—balance, texture, restraint—define every space.
• Immersive off-train experiences: curated stops include artisan visits, cultural performances, and regional cuisine.

This journey suits travellers who prefer quiet luxury, meaningful encounters, and experiences that feel earned rather than staged.

Pair it with: Japanese hotels that extend the sense of calm

Aman Tokyo (urban serenity at its finest)

Starting or ending in Tokyo can feel overwhelming—unless you stay somewhere designed as a sanctuary. Aman Tokyo rises above the city both physically and emotionally, offering space, light, and a sense of stillness that prepares you beautifully for the journey ahead.

Explore more Japan luxury rail journeys with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel — we’ll manage availability, pacing, and hotel choices so everything flows naturally. Where every journey begins with you.

Gora Kadan, Hakone (traditional ryokan luxury)

For a post-train decompression, nothing compares to a high-end ryokan. Gora Kadan blends traditional Japanese hospitality with refined modern comfort, offering private onsen baths and multi-course kaiseki dining.

Explore more bespoke Japan itineraries with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel — we design journeys that respect tradition while delivering effortless luxury. Where every journey begins with you.

La Dolce Vita Orient Express (Italy): a modern revival of European rail glamour

Why it’s redefining luxury train journeys in Europe

Italy’s answer to classic rail romance, La Dolce Vita Orient Express is one of the newest names in luxury train journeys—and one of the most talked about. Rather than replicating the past, it reimagines it: mid-century Italian design, contemporary comfort, and routes that celebrate Italy’s regional diversity.

From the vineyards of Tuscany to the sun-drenched south, itineraries are designed to feel indulgent but relaxed, stylish without being formal. This is luxury rail for travellers who love beauty, food, and atmosphere—but don’t want stiffness or ceremony.

The onboard experience

• Italian-led design: warm woods, clean lines, and cinematic flair.
• Food as a focal point: menus celebrate regional ingredients and culinary heritage.
• Shorter, flexible routes: ideal if you want a rail experience without committing to multiple nights.

This is one of those luxury train journeys that pairs beautifully with city breaks, coastlines, or villa stays.

Pair it with: Italian hotels that complete the narrative

Hotel de Russie, Rome (timeless elegance with a garden heart)

Rome demands a hotel that feels calm amid the energy. This historic property offers exactly that, with a hidden garden that feels worlds away from the streets outside.

Explore more Italy rail and city itineraries with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel — we’ll connect train journeys with hotels that reflect your travel style. Where every journey begins with you.

Borgo Santandrea, Amalfi Coast (post-journey indulgence)

If your version of “dolce vita” includes sea views and slow mornings, the Amalfi Coast is a natural extension. Borgo Santandrea delivers modern luxury with dramatic scenery—perfect after days spent on the rails.

Explore more Italian luxury escapes with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel — from rail to coast, we’ll curate a journey that feels effortless and personal. Where every journey begins with you.

Our Take:

"The finest journeys don’t rush you. They remind you what it feels like to savour the middle of the story—not just the start and finish."

Booking with confidence: protection, reassurance, and peace of mind

Choosing one of the world’s great luxury train journeys is a significant investment—not just financially, but emotionally. These are once-in-a-lifetime experiences, often booked well in advance and carefully anticipated. That’s why how you book matters just as much as what you book.

When you book through Awake & Wander Luxury Travel, your journey is protected from start to finish. As a UK-based independent travel agency, we provide:



• ATOL protection, safeguarding your holiday arrangements when flights are included
• Supplier Failure Insurance, protecting you even when flights are not part of your itinerary
• Clear documentation, transparent pricing, and expert support throughout the planning process

This means that if the unexpected happens, your investment is protected—and you’re never left navigating complex arrangements alone.

For complex itineraries involving multiple countries, premium rail journeys, and high-end hotels, that reassurance isn’t a luxury. It’s essential.

Why book luxury train journeys with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel

The finest luxury train journeys are not off-the-shelf experiences. They require timing, insight, and an understanding of how each element fits together. That’s where we come in.

At Awake & Wander Luxury Travel, we don’t just book the train. We design the entire journey around it.

We’ll help you:

• Choose the right train for your travel style—not just the most famous one
• Secure the best available cabin or suite category for your dates
• Pair your rail journey with exceptional hotels before and after
• Build in breathing space, private transfers, and meaningful experiences
• Create a holiday that flows naturally, without feeling overplanned

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, travelling slowly by choice, or simply ready to experience something extraordinary, we take the time to understand what matters to you.

You can call us on 01495 400011, use our online enquiry form, or explore options using our website’s search tool to begin shaping a bespoke holiday as unique as you are.

Because at Awake & Wander Luxury Travel, where every journey begins with you is more than a tagline—it’s how we work.

Frequently Asked Questions