What Are the Most Luxurious and Stunning Hotels in Switzerland?
August 8, 2024
BLACK PLATINUM GOLD WINS GOLD STEVIE® AWARD IN 2024 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS®
August 14, 2024
Traveling by train offers a unique perspective on the world, combining the romance of old-world travel with modern comforts. For those seeking to experience the journey as much as the destination, some routes stand out as truly exceptional. From traversing the snowy peaks of the Swiss Alps to winding through the vast Australian Outback, these train journeys promise more than just transit—they offer adventure, luxury, and a chance to see some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes. Here are the top 10 greatest train journeys in the world.
1. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe)
Route: London to Venice via Paris and the Swiss Alps
Duration: 1–2 days
Stepping aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is like stepping back in time to the golden age of travel. The train is renowned for its Art Deco interiors, plush cabins, and gourmet dining. The journey through the Alps, with its panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and serene lakes, is nothing short of magical. With impeccable service and luxurious amenities, this train journey offers an unforgettable experience through some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes.
2. The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
Route: Vancouver to Banff/Lake Louise
Duration: 2 days
The Rocky Mountaineer is a breathtaking journey through the Canadian Rockies, offering unparalleled views of rugged mountains, pristine rivers, and dense forests. With glass-domed coaches, passengers are treated to unobstructed views of the dramatic landscape, including iconic sights like the Spiral Tunnels and the soaring peaks of the Continental Divide. The journey is made even more special by the attentive service, gourmet meals, and storytelling that bring the region’s history and natural beauty to life.
3. The Maharajas’ Express (India)
Route: Delhi to Mumbai (or reverse)
Duration: 8 days
The Maharajas’ Express is often referred to as a palace on wheels, and for good reason. This opulent train offers an 8-day journey through India’s most iconic destinations, including the Taj Mahal, Jaipur, and Udaipur. Passengers are treated to royal treatment, with lavish suites, world-class dining, and personalized service. The journey not only showcases India’s rich cultural heritage but also offers a deep dive into the history and traditions of the regions it traverses.
4. The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Duration: 8 hours
The Glacier Express is often dubbed the slowest express train in the world, but that’s precisely the point. This leisurely journey through the Swiss Alps offers passengers time to soak in the stunning scenery, from deep valleys and mountain streams to quaint villages and ancient bridges. The train’s large panoramic windows ensure that no view is missed, while onboard dining and impeccable service make this journey a feast for the senses.
5. The Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia)
Route: Moscow to Vladivostok
Duration: 7 days
The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the longest and most iconic train journeys in the world, spanning over 9,000 kilometers across Russia. This epic journey takes passengers through diverse landscapes, from the bustling cities of Moscow and Yekaterinburg to the remote wilderness of Siberia and the shores of Lake Baikal. While the journey is long, it offers a deep dive into the vastness and cultural diversity of Russia, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.
6. The Blue Train (South Africa)
Route: Pretoria to Cape Town
Duration: 2 days
The Blue Train is synonymous with elegance and luxury, offering a 2-day journey through South Africa’s most stunning landscapes. From the rolling vineyards of the Cape Winelands to the stark beauty of the Karoo Desert, passengers are treated to a visual feast. The train itself is a marvel, with spacious suites, gourmet cuisine, and personalized service that ensures a memorable journey. The highlight of the trip is often the stop at Matjiesfontein, a charming Victorian village that feels frozen in time.
7. The Ghan (Australia)
Route: Adelaide to Darwin
Duration: 3–4 days
The Ghan is an iconic Australian journey that traverses the continent from south to north, offering passengers a front-row seat to the diverse landscapes of the Outback. From the lush vineyards of South Australia to the red deserts of the Northern Territory, this journey is a showcase of Australia’s natural beauty. The train itself is a symbol of modern luxury, with spacious cabins, gourmet dining, and excursions that allow passengers to explore the remote wilderness along the way.
8. The Belmond Andean Explorer (Peru)
Route: Cusco to Arequipa via Lake Titicaca
Duration: 3 days
The Belmond Andean Explorer is South America’s first luxury sleeper train, offering a journey through the heart of the Andes. Passengers can explore ancient Incan sites, marvel at the beauty of Lake Titicaca, and witness the rugged beauty of the Colca Canyon. The train’s elegant cabins, gourmet Peruvian cuisine, and personalized service make this journey a luxurious experience, while the stunning Andean landscapes provide a breathtaking backdrop.
9. The Royal Scotsman (Scotland)
Route: Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands
Duration: 4–7 days
The Royal Scotsman is a journey through the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, where passengers are treated to views of misty lochs, rolling hills, and ancient castles. The train itself is a marvel of Edwardian elegance, with wood-paneled cabins, plush furnishings, and a fine dining experience that highlights the best of Scottish cuisine. With options for whisky tastings, guided excursions, and even a spa carriage, the Royal Scotsman offers a truly immersive Scottish experience.
10. The Eastern & Oriental Express (Southeast Asia)
Route: Bangkok to Singapore
Duration: 3–4 days
The Eastern & Oriental Express offers a journey through the heart of Southeast Asia, from the vibrant streets of Bangkok to the modern skyline of Singapore. The train’s carriages are adorned with rich wood paneling, silk furnishings, and fine art, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. The journey itself is a feast for the senses, with stops at ancient temples, lush rainforests, and bustling markets. Onboard, passengers enjoy gourmet cuisine, impeccable service, and the chance to experience the diverse cultures of the region.
Each of these train journeys offers something unique, whether it’s the chance to explore remote wilderness, immerse oneself in local culture, or simply relax in luxurious surroundings while the world passes by. For the discerning traveler, these journeys are more than just a means of getting from one place to another—they are experiences to be savoured, remembered, and cherished for a lifetime.
