The Luxury Train Travel Edit: The Exquisite Art of Sophisticated Luxury Train Journeys
- Kelly Bayer Rosmarin
- Mar 7
- 6 min read
Step aboard a world of elegance, luxury, and timeless charm as we invite you to explore the exquisite art of luxury train journeys with The Luxury Train Travel Edit.

Embark on a journey of sophistication and indulgence as we unveil a curated list of the most opulent and iconic train adventures that promise to transport you to a bygone era of glamour and romance. From the scenic landscapes of Europe to the rugged terrains of Africa and the vast expanses of Asia, luxury train journeys offer a unique way to experience travel, where every moment on board is a celebration of refined comfort, impeccable service, and unparalleled style. Join us as we guide you through our selection of the world's top five most luxurious train experiences, complete with insider tips that will inspire you to embark on a journey of sophistication and discovery through the art of luxury train travel.

1. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express - A Journey of Timeless Elegance
Embark on a grand tour of Europe in unparalleled style aboard the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, where luxury rail travel reaches its peak with exquisite accommodations, gourmet dining, and scenic routes that traverse iconic destinations from Venice to Paris, London, and beyond. Step back in time to the Golden Age of travel as you settle into your beautifully appointed Art Deco carriage, adorned with plush fabrics, fine linens, and elegant decor reminiscent of a bygone era. Indulge in sumptuous meals prepared by onboard chefs, savor afternoon tea in the elegant bar car, and mingle with fellow travelers in luxurious lounges that evoke the glamour and romance of classic train travel. As you glide through picturesque landscapes and historic cities, immerse yourself in the magic and allure of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, where each moment is a journey of timeless elegance and sophistication.
Insider Tips:
Don't miss the opportunity to dress to impress for dinner aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, as formal attire adds to the sense of occasion and elegance that defines this iconic luxury train experience.
Opt for a cabin with a private en-suite bathroom for the ultimate comfort and convenience during your journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
Embark on a journey of timeless elegance aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express with a luxury rail adventure that captures the essence of classic glamour and romance in Europe here.

2. The Blue Train, South Africa - African Safari in Style
Experience the majesty of Africa in unparalleled luxury aboard The Blue Train, a legendary rail journey that travels through the scenic landscapes of South Africa in sublime comfort and style. Discover the beauty of the African wilderness from the opulent confines of your private suite, where plush furnishings, exquisite linens, and personalized service set the stage for a safari adventure like no other. Delight in gourmet cuisine, fine wines, and decadent desserts in the elegant dining car, or relax in the lounge car with panoramic views of the savannah and mountains passing by. As the Blue Train winds its way from Pretoria to Cape Town or other destinations, immerse yourself in the romance and splendor of African luxury rail travel, where every moment on board is a celebration of style, comfort, and unmatched service.
Insider Tips:
Opt for a stopover at one of the Blue Train's exclusive off-train excursions, such as a visit to a renowned vineyard for wine tasting or a guided tour of a historic site, to enhance your African rail journey with immersive experiences.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit the lavish Blue Train lounge car for pre-dinner drinks, cocktails, and socializing with fellow travelers amidst an ambiance of luxury and charm.
Immerse yourself in the luxury of The Blue Train with a lavish rail safari through South Africa that combines adventure, comfort, and elegance in the heart of the African wilderness here.

3. The Eastern & Oriental Express, Asia - Oriental Splendor and Cultural Delights
Journey through the enchanting landscapes of Southeast Asia aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express, a luxurious train adventure that showcases the beauty, history, and culture of the region in unparalleled style and sophistication. Experience the magic of destinations such as Singapore, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur as you travel in exquisite comfort aboard beautifully appointed carriages inspired by the elegance of colonial-era travel. Indulge in gourmet meals featuring regional specialties, relax in plush cabins with modern amenities, and enjoy live music and entertainment in the elegant observation car as you traverse jungle-clad mountains, ancient temples, and vibrant cities that define the allure of Asia. Immerse yourself in the oriental splendor and cultural richness of Southeast Asia with the Eastern & Oriental Express, where every moment on board is a journey of discovery, luxury, and timeless charm.
Insider Tips:
Join a guided excursion to a local market, temple, or cultural site during one of the train's stopovers to immerse yourself in the authentic flavors and traditions of Southeast Asia, creating memorable and enriching experiences along your luxury rail journey.
Explore the beauty and culture of Southeast Asia aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express with a sophisticated rail adventure that captures the essence of oriental splendor and luxury travel in Asia here.

4. The Rocky Mountaineer: Majestic Landscapes of Western Canada
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, a luxury train journey that offers panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests as you traverse the wild landscapes of Western Canada. Travel in style through the scenic regions of Banff, Jasper, and Vancouver in glass-domed carriages that provide uninterrupted views of the majestic scenery, allowing you to witness nature's grandeur from the comfort of your luxurious seat. Enjoy gourmet meals inspired by local cuisine, attentive service, and guided storytelling that brings the history and culture of the region to life, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience of rail travel through some of Canada's most iconic destinations.
Insider Tip:
Book a GoldLeaf Service ticket for an elevated experience on the Rocky Mountaineer, featuring bi-level glass-domed cars, gourmet meals, and access to open-air viewing platforms for unparalleled views of the scenery.
Book your trip aboard the Rocky Mountaineer today and explore this beautiful part of the world in nostalgic style.

5. Belmond Hiram Bingham – Luxury Gateway to Machu Picchu
Step aboard the Belmond Hiram Bingham, a journey that redefines luxury rail travel through the heart of the Peruvian Andes. This opulent train, named after the explorer who rediscovered Machu Picchu, offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with its 1920s-style elegance, gourmet cuisine, and live Peruvian music. As you sip on a signature Pisco Sour in the bar car, the breathtaking Urubamba River snakes alongside, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure. For those who want to visit this iconic travel destination with a stylish and comfortable arrival, this is a train trip not to miss.
Insider tips:
Opt for a late-afternoon return journey to witness the golden hues of sunset over the Sacred Valley—a truly magical sight.
Be sure to take advantage of the exclusive guided tour of Machu Picchu included in your ticket, as it grants access to expert historians who share hidden stories of the Inca citadel.
For the ultimate indulgence, book your tickets well in advance to secure a coveted window-side table for panoramic views of the Andean landscapes.
Enjoy some music and dancing in the back car bar
Embark on an epic approach to a special destination on board the Belmond Hiram Bingham and enjoy the finest train travel in Peru.

Embark on a sophisticated journey of elegance and indulgence with our curated selection of luxury train experiences aboard the top five luxury train experiences, where opulent accommodations, gourmet dining, and scenic routes promise to transport you to a world of refined comfort and timeless charm. Whether you choose to traverse Europe in classic luxury, safari through African landscapes in style, marvel at the North American wilderness, journey to the heart of South America, or explore the cultural richness of Asia in oriental splendor, each luxury train journey offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience that celebrates the art of rail travel at its most refined and iconic level. Let the allure of luxury train adventures inspire your next travel escapade and elevate your journey with sophistication, romance, and unparalleled service with the support and inspiration from The Luxury Travel Edit.
Comments