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.

Kenya Safari and Zanzibar Beach Escape

29 March 2026

This two week journey combines a guided safari through Kenya’s most well known wildlife regions with time on the coast in Zanzibar. It suits travellers who want structured game viewing with experienced guides, followed by a comfortable beach stay where everything is included. Flights, transfers and touring are all in place, so the focus is on the experience rather than planning the route.

Maldives Family Escape at Siyam World

29 March 2026

Step straight from your villa into clear lagoon water, slide into the sea before breakfast and have every meal, activity and detail covered from the moment you arrive. This ten night Maldives stay at Siyam World is designed for families who want more than just a beach, with space, variety and a level of inclusion that means you are not thinking about what to do next.

Events Around the World

29 March 2026

Some moments define a place more than any landmark. Festivals, seasonal events and cultural celebrations bring a different energy, giving you a chance to see destinations at their most alive. Here are a few worth knowing about, whether you build a trip around them or simply keep them in mind.