Why Luxury Train Travel is Back in Vogue

In a world of red-eye flights and crowded terminals, luxury train journeys offer something truly rare: unhurried elegance.

Luxury train travel isn't just about the destination—it's about the experience in between. Think handcrafted cabins, white-gloved service, multi-course dining, and ever-changing landscapes outside your window. It's romance, nostalgia, and opulence in motion.

If you're seeking an unforgettable way to see the world in style, these are the top rail journeys that deliver on every front.

The Best Luxury Train Journeys in 2025

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – Best Overall Experience

The legend. The icon. The gold standard. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is pure 1920s glamour brought to life.

Route: Venice to Paris (and extended journeys to Istanbul, Prague, and beyond)

Duration: 1–6 nights

Highlights:

• Restored Art Deco carriages

• Michelin-quality dining onboard

• Personal stewards and cocktail bar with baby grand piano

Pros:

• Ultimate elegance and historical charm

• Exceptional service and interiors

• Famous routes with stunning views

Cons:

• Premium pricing

• Limited availability due to high demand

Rating: Comfort: 5/5 – Service: 5/5 – Dining: 5/5 – Value: 4/5

Belmond Royal Scotsman – Best Scenic Journey Through the Highlands

Intimate and majestic, this is one of the most beautiful ways to experience Scotland.

Route: Edinburgh through the Highlands

Duration: 2–7 nights

Highlights:

• Off-train excursions to castles and whisky distilleries

• Outdoor spa carriage overlooking rugged scenery

• Kilted hosts and traditional Scottish fare

Pros:

• Wild, dramatic views of the Highlands

• Immersive cultural experiences

• Smaller number of passengers = personalized service

Cons:

• Weather can be unpredictable

• Fewer journey options than larger operators

Rating: Scenery: 5/5 – Comfort: 4.5/5 – Dining: 4.5/5 – Value: 4/5

Maharajas' Express – Best for Regal Indian Splendour

Live like a maharaja as you journey through India in extraordinary opulence.

Route: Delhi to Mumbai (via Jaipur, Agra, Varanasi)

Duration: 4–7 nights

Highlights:

• Lavish decor inspired by royal palaces

• Private guided tours of the Taj Mahal and other landmarks

• Fine Indian and international cuisine onboard

Pros:

• Exceptional cultural immersion

• Royal treatment and rich interiors

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites en route

Cons:

• Hot season can be intense

• Long journey times can be tiring for some

Rating: Culture: 5/5 – Comfort: 4.5/5 – Dining: 4/5 – Value: 4/5

The Ghan – Best Outback Experience in Australia

Cross Australia’s wild heart with The Ghan—a legendary journey through red desert and endless skies.

Route: Darwin to Adelaide

Duration: 2–3 nights

Highlights:

• Remote landscapes and Aboriginal experiences

• Off-train excursions in Katherine and Alice Springs

• Gold and Platinum service with gourmet meals

Pros:

• Once-in-a-lifetime views

• Seamless logistics and comfort

• Iconic Australian experience

Cons:

• Remote itinerary not suited to all

• Wi-Fi and connectivity are limited

Rating: Adventure: 5/5 – Comfort: 4/5 – Dining: 4/5 – Value: 4/5

Rocky Mountaineer – Best Panoramic Views in Canada

All-glass dome coaches and snow-capped peaks? Welcome to Canada's most scenic rail ride.

Route: Vancouver to Banff or Jasper

Duration: 2–4 nights

Highlights:

• Daytime-only travel for optimal sightseeing

• Open-air viewing platforms

• Gourmet meals served at your seat

Pros:

• Incredible photo ops

• Comfortable, slow-paced travel

• No overnight rides means better rest

Cons:

• No sleeping cars (hotels provided instead)

• Seasonal schedule only (spring to autumn)

Rating: Scenery: 5/5 – Comfort: 4/5 – Dining: 4/5 – Value: 4.5/5

Rovos Rail – Best African Safari by Rail

A time capsule on tracks, Rovos Rail blends Edwardian elegance with big game views.

Route: Pretoria to Victoria Falls or Cape Town

Duration: 3–14 nights

Highlights:

• Game drives in private reserves

• Vintage wood-paneled carriages

• Open lounge and observation decks

Pros:

• Luxury meets adventure

• Authentic African experience

• Larger suites than most rail journeys

Cons:

• Journeys can be long and slow

• Not all suites have air conditioning

Rating: Adventure: 5/5 – Comfort: 4/5 – Dining: 4.5/5 – Value: 4.5/5

Seven Stars in Kyushu – Most Exclusive Journey in Japan

Japan’s most elite train, combining art, craftsmanship, and Zen-level tranquility.

Route: Fukuoka around Kyushu Island

Duration: 2–4 nights

Highlights:

• Only 7 luxurious cabins

• Seasonal gourmet Japanese menus

• Onboard music performances and tea ceremonies

Pros:

• Design marvel

• Michelin-worthy dining

• Serene, culturally rich experience

Cons:

• Extremely limited availability

• High price tag

Rating: Design: 5/5 – Service: 5/5 – Dining: 5/5 – Value: 3.5/5

Ready to Board?

Luxury rail travel is about more than the journey, it’s about stepping into another world.

Whether you're sipping champagne as Swiss Alps glide by or dining by candlelight in the Australian Outback, these trains promise memories that last a lifetime.

For bespoke itineraries and exclusive perks, Velloy Private Travel Club members can book many of these journeys with special privileges.

Join Velloy today and elevate how you explore the world.