Luxury train travel offers a timeless way to experience the world. At Awake & Wander Luxury Travel, we believe it’s one of the most memorable and personal ways to see stunning landscapes, savour fine dining, and relax in style. Whether you’re gliding through the Highlands, crossing the Alps, or exploring Asia’s heartlands, luxury train travel combines elegance and adventure beautifully.
This guide explores why your next journey deserves to be on rails, the destinations to consider, and how booking through Awake & Wander gives you extra peace of mind.
The Allure of Luxury Train Travel
Imagine watching breathtaking scenery pass by while you recline in a plush armchair, drink in hand. Luxury train travel delivers a slower, richer experience than air travel. It allows you to savour the journey itself. You’re not just getting from A to B — you’re making memories at every turn.
Why does this matter? For many of our clients, life moves quickly. A luxury train journey offers the perfect antidote — unhurried, graceful, and deeply immersive. You wake up to new vistas, enjoy exquisite meals in elegant dining cars, and spend nights in beautifully appointed private cabins.
It’s also ideal if you want to experience more than one destination without constantly repacking or enduring stressful transfers. Could anything feel more effortless?
Destinations That Shine on Rails
Luxury trains operate across the world, each offering unique scenery and cultural touches. Below are some of our favourite journeys you can book through us — with tailored options and exclusive offers waiting for you when you’re ready.
Scotland’s Royal Highland Experience
Travel aboard the famous
Belmond Royal Scotsman and soak up the wild beauty of the Highlands. This intimate train has just ten carriages, creating a personal, club-like atmosphere. Picture heather-covered hills, ancient castles, and tranquil lochs outside your window.
Onboard, you’ll enjoy traditional Scottish fare, a selection of fine whiskies, and even a spa carriage. After a day exploring, retreat to your private en-suite cabin — wood-panelled, cosy, and luxurious.
We have a variety of offers on Royal Scotsman journeys. Speak to us to find the right one for your dates and preferences.
Europe in Style
For a truly iconic journey, step aboard the
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This Art Deco masterpiece takes you through some of Europe’s most picturesque landscapes. Popular routes include London to Venice, Paris to Istanbul, or Prague to Paris.
Each carriage is lovingly restored to its 1920s grandeur. Dine on gourmet cuisine, sip champagne in the bar car, and relax in your elegant private cabin as mountain passes and rolling valleys unfold before you.
We can help you discover current offers and packages for the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to suit your travel plans.
South Africa’s Pride
For something more exotic, try
Rovos Rail through South Africa. Known as the “Pride of Africa,” it’s perfect for combining safari adventures with sophisticated travel. You’ll see everything from vast plains to bustling cities, all while enjoying fine South African wines and impeccable service.
We have a range of options and offers on Rovos Rail departures. Just let us know what you’re looking for.
A Taste of India
India’s
Maharajas’ Express takes luxury train travel to another level. Explore royal palaces, ancient forts, and bustling bazaars in unmatched style. Each cabin comes with its own butler, and itineraries cover highlights such as Jaipur, Udaipur, and Varanasi.
Contact us to find out about special offers we have available for journeys on the Maharajas’ Express.
Why Choose Luxury Train Travel Over Flying?
Flying might get you there faster, but it misses what many travellers now value most: the experience. Luxury train journeys are about the here and now. You have time to appreciate the landscapes, meet fellow travellers, and feel present.
It’s also less stressful. No security queues, no long waits in airports, no cramped seats. Instead, you enjoy spacious lounges, attentive service, and the pleasure of watching the world unfold outside your window.
And unlike cruises, which can feel too large or impersonal, luxury trains have a more intimate feel. With only a handful of passengers on board, you can enjoy privacy yet also meet like-minded travellers.
The Personal Touch With Awake & Wander
Booking your luxury train travel through Awake & Wander means more than just a ticket. We offer a tailored, personal service to ensure your holiday is exactly what you envision. We understand that no two clients are alike, so we take the time to learn what matters most to you.
We have access to an extensive network of suppliers and tour operators. This means we can build the perfect journey, combining luxury train travel with pre- and post-journey hotel stays, excursions, and transfers.
Your Protections When You Book With Us
We know peace of mind is essential when planning such a unique adventure. When you book with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel, you’re protected every step of the way. As a member of Protected Trust Services and holder of an ATOL licence, your money is completely secure.
All tailor-made holidays include Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance. Should anything unexpected happen with your airline or accommodation supplier, your booking — and your investment — remains protected.
Booking independently can leave you exposed. Booking with us guarantees support, security, and the confidence to relax and enjoy your journey.
A Day On Board: What to Expect
Your journey begins the moment you step on board. Attendants greet you by name and escort you to your private cabin. Once settled, you’ll enjoy afternoon tea as the train rolls into motion.
Each day blends sightseeing excursions with leisure time. You might spend a morning exploring a historic town, then return for lunch and an afternoon watching landscapes glide past from the observation car.
Evenings are special. Dinner is usually a formal affair, with passengers dressing for the occasion and enjoying multi-course meals paired with fine wines.
It’s a rhythm that encourages relaxation. You can truly switch off and soak it all in.
The Social Side
Luxury train travel also fosters meaningful connections. With only a select number of passengers, there’s room to meet others over drinks or shared experiences. Many travellers tell us the people they meet become as memorable as the places they visit.
It’s easy to find your own quiet space too. Observation lounges and your private cabin ensure you can retreat when you wish.
Hotels Worth Combining With Your Journey
For many travellers, combining a luxury train trip with a luxury hotel stay at either end makes the experience even more special. Here are a few we recommend:
Hotel Cipriani, Venice
Perfect for those arriving on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This legendary hotel sits on the edge of the lagoon and offers beautiful views, impeccable service, and serene gardens. Spacious rooms and Michelin-starred dining make it unforgettable.
We have exclusive rates and offers for stays at the Cipriani. Just ask when booking your journey.
Gleneagles, Scotland
A wonderful pairing with the Royal Scotsman. This iconic hotel offers championship golf, a luxurious spa, and fine dining. Set amidst the stunning Perthshire countryside, it’s a destination in itself.
Speak to us about offers we can secure for Gleneagles to complement your Highland adventure.
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
Ideal for guests of the Maharajas’ Express. Floating in the middle of Lake Pichola, this palace hotel combines opulence with breathtaking views and unmatched service.
We have access to special rates and packages at the Taj Lake Palace — enquire when you plan your journey.
