Travelling by train has always carried a sense of romance, adventure, and nostalgia. While most modern rail travel is designed for efficiency, a select few luxury trains around the world still offer an opulent and leisurely experience. These trains blend old-world charm with modern luxury, allowing passengers to enjoy world-class service while taking in breathtaking landscapes. Over the course of 59 days, the ultimate luxury train adventure takes you around the world to visit 12 countries and over 20 iconic cities. The getaway features travel on seven of the most prestigious luxury trains in the world: the Rocky Mountaineer, the Belmond Royal Scotsman, La Dolce Vita Orient Express, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Rovos Rail, the Maharajas’ Express, and the Eastern & Oriental Express. Here’s a little bit of information about each of them.
Rocky Mountaineer: The Pinnacle of Canadian Rail Travel
Canada’s vast landscapes are best experienced aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, a luxury train that offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, pristine lakes, and untamed wilderness. Since its launch in 1990, this train has become synonymous with high-end rail travel in North America.
The Rocky Mountaineer operates on four routes: First Passage to the West, Journey Through the Clouds, Rainforest to Gold Rush, and Rockies to the Red Rocks. For the ultimate luxury train around the world getaway you will ride from Vancouver to Kamloops, and from Kamloops to Jasper. These trips are designed for daylight travel, ensuring you don’t miss any scenic highlights as you travel through the Rocky Mountains in a bi-level glass-dome coach. This helps immerse you in the incredible landscapes that surrounds you. The train boasts GoldLeaf Service, which includes gourmet cuisine prepared by talented chefs, and unparalleled hospitality by hosts who provide commentary about the scenery as you pass it by. It’s an all-inclusive experience that combines luxury with the raw beauty of the Canadian landscape.
Belmond Royal Scotsman: A Regal Scottish Experience
For travellers seeking a quintessentially British experience, the Belmond Royal Scotsman offers a journey through the heart of the Scottish Highlands. This luxury train, which departs from Edinburgh, combines classic elegance with modern comfort.
Passengers can indulge in mahogany-clad carriages, fine dining featuring Scottish delicacies, and an onboard spa carriage for relaxation. The train’s routes range from two-night Highland tours to seven-night grand tours of Scotland. For the around the world luxury train adventure, you will spend 3 nights onboard The Belmond Royal Scotsman, as you travel through Falkirk to Craigendoran, then continue west through Fort William while on your way to Kilmarnock. You’ll have a hard time finding a better journey through the Scottish countryside than by the Belmond Royal Scotsman.
La Dolce Vita Orient Express: A New Era of Italian Luxury
The newest of the train routes featured on this tour began operations in 2023. La Dolce Vita Orient Express revives the golden age of train travel in Italy. This train, managed by the Accor Group, traverses Italy’s most scenic routes, covering cities like Rome, Venice, and Portofino, while extending into neighbouring European destinations. On this getaway, you will spend two nights onboard as you make your way from Rome to Venice to Portofino and eventually back to Rome.
The train’s interior is inspired by 1960s Italian glamour, featuring mid-century modern design, fine Italian fabrics, and artisanal craftsmanship. The La Dolce Vita experience also has Michelin-starred dining, curated excursions, and luxurious suites, offering a sophisticated way to explore Italy’s landscapes, history, and culture.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: The Icon of Elegance
Perhaps the most famous luxury train in the world, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) embodies the romance of rail travel. Since the 1980s, this meticulously restored train has been carrying passengers across Europe, linking cities like Paris, Venice, London, and Istanbul.
The VSOE’s Art Deco carriages date back to the 1920s and 1930s, offering a step back in time with vintage luxury, handcrafted marquetry, and plush upholstery. Guests enjoy white-glove service, gourmet meals, and elegant bar cars with live piano music. It’s a journey that combines historical charm with the finest modern comforts.
For this part of your journey you will head from Verona to Paris, then from Paris to Istanbul, from Istanbul to Budapest, Budapest to Bucharest, and finally back to Istanbul. You will make stops in each city to enjoy the local sites.
Rovos Rail: The Pride of Africa
Dubbed “The Most Luxurious Train in Africa,” Rovos Rail takes travellers through South Africa, Namibia, Tanzania, and beyond. Since its inception in 1989, Rovos Rail has been known for its timeless elegance and impeccable service. From this trip you will go from Pretoria, pass through Zimbabwe as you head to Mpopoma, and skirt through the eastern edge of Hwange National Park, and eventually reach Thomson Junction.
The train’s wood-panelled suites evoke a bygone era, featuring private bathrooms, period furnishings, and 24-hour room service. Dining on Rovos Rail is a highlight, offering five-star cuisine and South African wines in a refined setting.
Maharajas’ Express: The Jewel of India
For those who dream of experiencing India’s royal heritage in grand style, the Maharajas’ Express is the ultimate choice. Launched in 2010, it is often compared to a palace on wheels and is considered one of the most luxurious trains in the world.
Your trip aboard this magnificent train will cover India’s most iconic destinations, such as Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, and Varanasi. The Presidential Suite, spanning an entire carriage, is among the most lavish train accommodations globally. Guests enjoy personal butler service, curated cultural experiences, and exquisite Indian cuisine. From exploring ancient forts to witnessing the Taj Mahal at sunrise, the Maharajas’ Express delivers an unforgettable Indian adventure.
Eastern & Oriental Express: An Exotic Asian Voyage
Asia’s most luxurious train, the Eastern & Oriental Express, takes passengers on an enchanting journey through Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. Operated by Belmond, this train offers a blend of colonial charm and contemporary luxury. For the ultimate luxury train vacation you will board the train in Singapore, travel through Malaysia’s lush landscapes, visit Tamam Negra National Park, journey to Penang Island and head back to Singapore.
The train’s sumptuously designed cabins, panoramic observation car, and fine dining make it a truly exceptional experience. Guests can explore historic sites, vibrant markets, and lush tropical landscapes while indulging in gourmet meals and impeccable service.
The Timeless Appeal of Luxury Train Travel
Luxury train journeys are about more than just travel; they are about the experience of unhurried elegance, unparalleled service, and breathtaking scenery. Each train on this list offers a unique perspective on the world’s most stunning landscapes and cultures. Whether crossing the Canadian Rockies, journeying through the Scottish Highlands, or experiencing the opulence of India’s royal heritage, these luxury trains redefine the meaning of travel.
To book your adventure on the Ultimate Luxury Train Adventure, contact Henry at Talk of the Town Travel today at 416-960-1393 or info@talkofthetowntravel.com. He’ll help you prepare yourself for a once-in-a-lifetime journey around the world. One question we are asked a lot is “what if I don’t have enough time to enjoy the entire 59 day journey?” Simple, ask Henry how you can explore parts of the journey instead. More information can also be found on our The Ultimate World-Wide Luxury Train Adventure page.
Luxury train travel is an unparalleled way to explore the world in grandeur and style. Whether you’re sipping champagne in a 1920s Art Deco carriage or gazing at the African savanna from your suite, this rail journey promises to be an experience you’ll never forget.
