The World’s Most Exclusive Luxury Train Journeys

Traveling aboard a luxury train is far more than simply getting from one destination to another. It is an immersive travel experience where the journey itself becomes the highlight.

Today, only a handful of trains around the world are considered true icons of luxury travel. Some welcome just 20–40 guests per departure, others offer dining comparable to the world’s finest restaurants, and the most sought-after departures often sell out many months in advance.

We’ve selected the world’s most renowned luxury trains, each offering a completely different experience — from crossing the Alps and exploring Scottish castles to African safaris and the tropical landscapes of Southeast Asia.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Europe

One of the world’s most iconic trains, operated by Belmond, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is widely regarded as the modern successor to the legendary Orient Express and has remained a symbol of luxury rail travel for decades.

The train consists of beautifully restored 1920s and 1930s Art Deco carriages. Every interior has been handcrafted by French artisans, preserving the elegance and glamour of the Golden Age of travel.

Its most famous journey connects Paris and Venice, while additional routes include London, Prague, Vienna, Florence, Portofino, Istanbul, and several other European destinations.

Highlights

• Historic luxury carriages
• Elegant cabins and Grand Suites with private butler service
• Fine dining restaurant
• Evening dress code
• Live piano performances in the bar car
• Limited number of guests on every departure

This journey is chosen not for speed, but for its timeless atmosphere, impeccable service, and the opportunity to experience one of Europe’s most legendary rail journeys.

La Dolce Vita Orient Express

Italy

La Dolce Vita Orient Express is a brand-new luxury train created by Accor, inspired by the elegance and lifestyle of Italy during the 1960s and 1970s.

Unlike the classic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, it does not recreate historical interiors. Instead, it features contemporary design enriched with iconic elements of mid-century Italian style.

Its routes travel exclusively throughout Italy, showcasing some of the country’s most beautiful regions.

Highlights

• Contemporary Italian design
• Spacious suites
• Gastronomic journeys
• Tastings of Italy’s finest wines
• Excursions to charming historic towns
• A strong focus on Italian culture, art, and regional cuisine

Every itinerary offers an authentic introduction to Italy through its gastronomy, architecture, and traditions.

Andean Explorer

Peru

Belmond’s Andean Explorer is South America’s first luxury sleeper train.

Its route connects Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Arequipa while crossing the breathtaking Peruvian Andes.

During the journey, the train climbs to nearly 4,800 meters (15,700 feet) above sea level, passing remote villages, high-altitude plains, and spectacular natural reserves.

Highlights

• Panoramic observation car
• Open-air observation deck
• Restaurant serving contemporary Peruvian cuisine
• Onboard spa carriage
• Excursions on Lake Titicaca
• Visits to traditional Andean communities

It is considered one of the most spectacular rail journeys in South America.

The Royal Scotsman

Scotland

Another legendary Belmond train, The Royal Scotsman offers an intimate journey through Scotland’s most scenic landscapes.

With no more than 40 guests on board, every departure feels like a private country-house experience.

Routes travel through the Scottish Highlands, national parks, historic castles, whisky distilleries, and charming villages.

Highlights

• Approximately 20 luxury cabins
• Elegant accommodations
• Observation Car with an open-air veranda
• Single malt whisky tastings
• Private castle visits
• Exclusive Dior Spa carriage

Evenings feature candlelit dinners accompanied by traditional Scottish music.

Eastern & Oriental Express

Singapore & Malaysia

Part of the Belmond collection, the Eastern & Oriental Express is among Asia’s most elegant luxury trains.

Its routes travel between Singapore and Malaysia, passing tropical rainforests, rice fields, picturesque villages, and national parks.

During scheduled stops, guests enjoy curated excursions, cultural experiences, and opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Highlights

• Panoramic jungle views
• Open-air Observation Car
• Fine dining restaurants
• Exclusive Dior Spa carriage
• Cocktail bar
• Excursions to Taman Negara National Park
• Highly personalized service

This journey offers one of Southeast Asia’s most unforgettable rail experiences.

Seven Stars in Kyushu

Japan

Seven Stars in Kyushu ranks among the world’s most exclusive luxury trains.

It explores Japan’s southern island of Kyushu, renowned for its volcanoes, hot springs, tea plantations, and traditional craftsmanship.

Only around 20 guests travel on each departure.

Highlights

• Just 10 luxurious suites
• Panoramic lounge
• Cuisine prepared by renowned Japanese chefs
• Visits to traditional onsen hot springs
• Cultural experiences
• Meetings with local artisans

Demand is exceptionally high, and access to many departures is often determined through a private lottery held months in advance.

Rovos Rail

South Africa

Rovos Rail has become an icon of luxury rail travel across Africa.

Its journeys connect Cape Town, Pretoria, Victoria Falls, Namibia, Tanzania, and other remarkable destinations throughout Southern Africa.

Beautifully restored vintage coaches preserve the elegance of the early twentieth century while offering modern luxury.

Highlights

• Spacious heritage suites
• Fine dining restaurants
• Safari experiences in national parks
• Visits to celebrated wine regions
• Journeys to Victoria Falls
• No televisions, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the experience

It is the perfect choice for travelers wishing to combine a luxury train journey with one of Africa’s finest safari experiences.

Glacier Express

Switzerland

Known as the world’s slowest express train, the Glacier Express offers one of Europe’s most scenic rail journeys.

Over the course of eight hours, it connects Switzerland’s iconic mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz while crossing the heart of the Swiss Alps.

During the journey, the train passes:

• 291 bridges
• 91 tunnels
• The Oberalp Pass at more than 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) above sea level

Highlights

• Panoramic coaches with floor-to-ceiling windows
• Multi-course gourmet lunch
• Premium Swiss wine selection
• Audio guide
• Spectacular Alpine scenery throughout the journey

It is the ideal way to discover Switzerland’s breathtaking mountain landscapes in exceptional comfort.

Why Luxury Train Journeys Should Be Booked in Advance

Most luxury trains operate only a limited number of departures each year, while passenger capacity rarely exceeds a few dozen guests per journey. As a result, the most desirable travel dates are often fully booked 6–12 months in advance.

Many itineraries can also be complemented with stays at the region’s finest hotels, private sightseeing experiences, luxury transfers, business or first-class flights, and other exclusive services, transforming the journey into a fully tailored luxury vacation.

If you dream of experiencing one of the world’s most extraordinary luxury train journeys, the RaiSky Travel team will help you choose the ideal itinerary, secure availability for your preferred dates, and arrange every detail of your trip — from flights and accommodation to a fully personalized travel program.