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.

Iceland Winter Escape: The South

14 December 2025

Spend five nights exploring the landscapes of South Iceland, combining hotel comfort with the freedom of self drive. With return flights from Dublin, a stay at Hotel Ranga and two included experiences, this trip gives you time to follow the Golden Circle, visit the region’s key waterfalls and enjoy quiet evenings under clear winter skies.

Florida Villas and Beaches

14 December 2025

This fourteen night Florida escape moves from the energy of Orlando’s theme parks to the easy pace of the Gulf Coast. Spend your first week in a spacious villa near Walt Disney World, with room to relax, cook and reset between park days. The second half of the trip slows everything down on Anna Maria Island, where a beachside villa, wide sands and calm Gulf waters shape days that are unplanned and easy, ending with relaxed evenings by the water.

All-Inclusive Family Luxury – Ikos Kissamos, Crete

12 December 2025

Experience the beauty of Crete on this 7-night family escape to the brand-new five-star Ikos Kissamos. Set along a long stretch of sand overlooking Kissamos Bay, this serene all-inclusive resort blends bohemian elegance with exceptional service and family-friendly comfort. With direct Ryanair flights from Dublin, private transfers, and a spacious suite surrounded by gardens, every detail has been considered for an effortless start to summer.