8 of the World’s Most Breathtaking Luxury Train Journeys

There’s something undeniably romantic about train travel, the rhythmic motion, the ever-changing scenery, and the sense of timeless adventure. But these aren’t your average rail journeys. From the snow-dusted peaks of the Swiss Alps to the sun-soaked plains of the Australian Outback, these iconic trains redefine travel with their blend of luxury, comfort, and unforgettable landscapes.

8 of the World’s Most Breathtaking Luxury Train Journeys

Glacier Express - Switzerland - Zermatt to St. Moritz

 

Often called the "slowest express train in the world," this 8-hour journey crosses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels through the heart of the Swiss Alps. With panoramic windows, you’ll glide past deep valleys, mountain peaks, gorges, and picturesque villages, all in unrivalled comfort.

Rocky Mountaineer - Canada - Vancouver to Banff, Jasper or Lake Louise

 

Travel through some of Canada's most spectacular scenery in daylight-only luxury coaches with glass-domed ceilings and gourmet dining. This two-day journey takes you through rugged mountains, emerald lakes, waterfalls, and wildlife-rich forests of the Canadian Rockies.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express - Europe - London/ Paris to Venice (and beyond)

 

Step back into the golden age of travel aboard this beautifully restored 1920s train. With art deco interiors, white-glove service, and exquisite dining, this is one of the most luxurious and romantic rail journeys in the world.

The Ghan - Australia - Adelaide to Darwin

 

Spanning nearly 3,000 km over 4 days, The Ghan offers an unforgettable cross-continental adventure through the Australian outback. You'll see the Red Centre, Katherine Gorge, and ancient desert landscapes, with off-train excursions and plush sleeper cabins.

The Blue Train - South Africa - Pretoria to Cape Town

 

Dubbed a "five-star hotel on wheels," the Blue Train combines African adventure with luxurious comfort. Enjoy lavish suites, butler service, and scenic views of vineyards, deserts, and mountains on this 1,600 km journey.

 

Belmond Andean Explorer - Peru - Cusco to Arequipa via Lake Titicaca


South America's first luxury sleeper train traverses the high Andes with style. The journey includes a stop at Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, and offers views of alpaca-dotted plains, ancient ruins, and dramatic mountain vistas.

Bernina Express - Switzerland to Italy - Chur to Tirano


A UNESCO World Heritage route, this dramatic 4-hour journey climbs glaciers and alpine peaks before descending into the palm-lined valleys of northern Italy. The engineering marvel includes the Landwasser Viaduct and spiral tunnels through the Alps.

Eastern & Oriental Express - Southeast Asia - Singapore to Bangkok


A luxurious train adventure through lush jungles, rice paddies, and colonial towns in Malaysia and Thailand. With elegant dining cars, teakwood-panelled cabins, and immersive excursions, this journey blends timeless elegance with Southeast Asian charm.

Walking the Camino de Santiago with Intrepid

01 February 2026

Walk the final 100 km of Spain’s most iconic pilgrimage route, the Camino de Santiago. This journey takes you through the Galician countryside, visiting traditional towns, Roman sites, and historic landmarks along the way. With a local guide and a small group, enjoy a well-supported and enriching travel experience that’s as practical as it is memorable.

Family Algarve Stay at Domes Lake

01 February 2026

This ten night family holiday in the Algarve is designed for families who want space, easy days and everything close at hand. Staying in a one bedroom residence at Domes Lake Algarve gives you room to settle in properly, with private transfers, direct flights from Dublin and a dolphin watching trip included. It is a straightforward, well planned summer break that balances time at the resort with simple days out along the coast.

San Francisco and Hawaii: City to Island Escape

01 February 2026

This trip is for couples who want big, memorable places and time to actually enjoy them. Start with a few days immersed in San Francisco’s neighbourhoods, food and waterfront, then swap city life for Hawaii, where days revolve around beaches, scenic drives and being outdoors. It’s a journey that builds naturally, moving from iconic sights to wide open landscapes, with enough structure to make it easy and enough freedom to make it feel like your own.