Luxury Rail Travel: Discover the World’s Most Scenic Train Journeys

Whether you want to avoid the stress of driving, visit towns not connected by air travel, or take in stunning landscapes, there are many reasons you might choose to travel by rail. Far from the monotony of highways, and the hustle and bustle of busy airports, when you decide to travel by rail, your holiday starts as soon as you step on the train. Take a seat, relax, and watch the scenery roll by. ​

Why Choose Rail Over Air Travel? ​

It’s about the journey, not the destination 

Rail travel is more than just a means of getting from A to B. Rail travel is the experience. Forget pre-packaged plane food: enjoy lunch with a view in the dining carriage on The Ghan in Australia, a four-course wine-paired meal on the Rovos Rail, or sip pisco sours in the observatory car of Peru’s Andean Explorer. 

​Unlike quiet planes where most people are confined to their seats, headphones in — with rail it’s easy to befriend your fellow passengers. Travel Writer, Daniel James Clark, recounts how he shared instant noodles and received a spontaneous language lesson from a fellow passenger on China’s night rail crossing. He recalls listening to an Austin couple share childhood stories of growing up in Texas while riding the Pacific Surfliner, a highlight of his trip along California’s West Coast. The saying "It's about the journey, not the destination" perfectly captures the essence of rail travel. 

Scenery

​Modern highways are often built for efficiency and when you travel by air you’re up among the clouds. However, trains traverse through stunning landscapes that are inaccessible by road. This means you can enjoy open plains, mountain passes, meadows and forests that aren’t always visible with other modes of transportation.  

Comfort 

With train travel, you can sit back, relax and watch the world go by. One of the main advantages of train travel is someone else is doing the driving. No need to worry about pulling over when nature calls. Unlike air travel, where you're often confined and restricted, rail travel lets you move around freely — no need to wait for the seatbelt sign to turn off before stretching your legs. ​

Convenience

In some cases, it's faster, because trains don’t get stuck in rush-hour traffic. There's no need to deal with long security lines, baggage claims, or arriving hours before your flight departs. Boarding is usually faster and more straightforward. Luxury trains include gourmet dining, personalised service, and comfortable sleeping arrangements, making the journey more enjoyable. ​

My Top Picks for an Unforgettable Train Journey

#1. The Ghan (Australia) 

The Ghan is a unique experience that travels through the heart of Australia’s rugged interior. From Darwin to Adelaide, the railway stretches 2979 km, with off-train experiences in Katherine, Alice Springs, and Coober Pedy. Discover the natural wonders of Nitmulk Gorge and explore the region's rich Indigenous culture. Experience dinner under the stars at the historic Telegraph Station in Alice Springs, and an optional scenic flight to Uluru. Venture underground in the mining town Coober Pedy, before arriving in Adelaide, the gateway to Australia’s wine country. With all-inclusive regionally inspired meals, fine wines and beverages, The Ghan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget. ​

#2. The Venice-Simplon Orient Express (Europe)  

For 140 years The Orient Express has been providing travellers with the world’s most iconic train journey. Travelling from Paris across Europe through Strasbourg, Munich, Vienna, Budapest, and Bucharest before arriving in Istanbul. Expect elegant cabins, fine dining, and impeccable service — all while travelling through some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes. ​

#3. Rovos Rail (South Africa)  

For those wanting to experience Africa in style, Rovos Rail is one of South Africa's premier luxury train experiences. Starting in Pretoria and ending in Cape Town, this journey travels through dramatic mountain ranges and visits the world-famous Kruger Park and the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Victoria Falls. Blending stunning landscapes with fine dining and the elegance and glamour of golden-age rail travel, this is one unforgettable trip. ​

#4. Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)

The Rocky Mountaineer is famed for its panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies. Travelling between Vancouver and Banff, this two-day journey is a feast for the eyes, with snow-capped peaks, rugged alpine terrain, turquoise lakes, lush forests and wildlife you can only see by rail. Guests enjoy gourmet meals and comfortable seats with glass-domed windows for uninterrupted views of the stunning scenery. ​

#5. Hiram Bingham (Peru) 

Travelling from historic Cusco through the Sacred Valley to the entrance of Machu Picchu, enjoy stunning open-air views as you savour exquisite Peruvian cuisine, then stop by the vintage cocktail bar for a bold Pisco sour. At the citadel, explore the awe-inspiring ruins with a professional guide before retreating to the Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel, for a refreshing cocktail in the mountain air. Board the train for your return journey and celebrate the South American spirit with lively music playing in the Bar Car. ​

#6. Danube Express (Europe) 

The Danube Express is "your luxurious home-on-wheels," offering an all-inclusive travel experience. Whether you dream of journeying through the snow-covered Austrian Alps to visit enchanting Christmas markets, embarking on an iconic voyage from Istanbul to Paris, spending New Year’s in Vienna, or travelling from Venice - the "City of Water" - to the heart of the Byzantine Empire, the Golden Eagle Danube Express delivers a remarkable adventure in style. ​

Why Book Your Rail Travel with Me? 

While booking online may seem convenient, working with me will ensure your luxury rail journey goes off without a hitch. I can access exclusive deals, arrange special experiences, and handle all the logistics, so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride.  Luxury rail travel is an unforgettable way to explore the world! Are you ready to ride the rails?  Get in touch today to start planning your rail escape for a unique and memorable journey.