8 of the World’s Most Breathtaking Luxury Train Journeys

10 July 2025

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.

China by Land, Japan by Sea with Wendy Wu

19 October 2025

Experience the wonders of China and Japan on this 18-night journey combining guided exploration and a luxurious cruise. From the imperial treasures of Beijing to the Terracotta Warriors of Xian, the pandas of Chengdu and the skyline of Shanghai, you’ll uncover China’s rich past and vibrant present before sailing aboard Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas to discover the highlights of Japan. With international flights, 4-star hotels, guided tours, all meals and a 7-night ocean cruise, this seamless itinerary offers an incredible blend of culture, comfort and discovery.

The Blue Danube with Riviera Travel

19 October 2025

Discover Central Europe in style on this 7-night river cruise through Hungary, Slovakia and Austria. Travelling on the five-star MS Riviera Radiance, you’ll visit Budapest, Bratislava, Dürnstein, Melk, Linz, Salzburg and Vienna. With guided tours included at every stop, full-board dining and comfortable staterooms, the most relaxing and enriching way to explore Europe’s most historic cities.

Discover South Korea

19 October 2025

Uncover the contrasts of South Korea on this 10-night journey through its capital, coastal cities and volcanic island landscapes. From Seoul’s futuristic skyline to the charm of Busan’s markets and the natural beauty of Jeju, this itinerary blends culture, history and scenery with the ease of private transfers and quality accommodation throughout.