Luxury trains all over the world were introduced for the lavish travel of the royals. But with changing times, the royal luxuries are available for all. If you are fascinated with the royal charms, chugging of trains, and constantly changing landscapes, there are luxury trains all over the world offering dreamy journeys to enthralling adventures.
10 best luxury trains in the world:
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Amongst the best luxury train rides, Eastern & Oriental Express is a charming experience. Indulge in the luxuries of five-star cuisines, 24-hour butler service and regal pampering in the lustrous green carriages with cabins designed in cherrywood. The scenic route of the magnificent train is through verdant jungles, rice paddies and languid rivers of Malaysia and Thailand. The lavish four-day journey links Singapore and Bangkok.
The recent additions are a new seven-day itinerary and a two-night trip. The seven-day itinerary is a new plan where the previous route is followed with stops in the Cameron Highlands and Huay Yang. The new two-night trip now runs between Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Pride of Africa, Rovos Rail, South Africa
In the world’s top luxury trains, Rovos Rail in Africa keeps its position. Enjoy a splendid train ride equipped with luxuries on routes around South Africa. The marvellous rail takes trips on routes such as the Garden Route, making way through Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania. Some pleasurable rides are of 24-hour rides, but the most impressive is a 14-day epic from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam. The exclusive train caters to 72 passengers in a single journey.
Enjoy the plush amenities of 1920s renovated carriages. The glorious suites feature private wood-panelled lounges and Victorian-style bathrooms. Also, enjoy a 24-hour service for esteemed guests.
Belmond Royal Scotsman
Ranked among the best luxury trains of the world, Belmond Royal Scotsman takes you to the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Travel through the breathtaking landscapes of pine-clad mountains, mirror-still lochs and serene natural beauty.
Start your sojourn from Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland. From the moment you step aboard, the welcoming staff pampers you. Relish world-class cuisines with Scottish specialities. The journey of the luxury train offers thrilling excursions each day. With just 36 guests, the train offers a cosy experience. Chill out in your luxurious private cabin or interact with fellow travellers, or enjoy views straight out of fairytales in the Observation Car.
The Ghan, Australia
The Ghan, travels through the world’s most remarkable routes. Meandering in Australia, the luxury train ride starts from Adelaide, pauses at outback destinations such as Alice Springs and Katherine and arrives in Darwin. The charming Australian outback cannot be better enjoyed than on this expedition.
Explore the rugged landscapes with numerous tales to tell on a comfortable vacation. In 2015, a new four-day itinerary was introduced. An extra day to the journey for an excursion to opal-mining Coober Pedy has been added to the previous itinerary. Further renovations of a new Platinum Club luxury lounge and dining carriage are added. The plush amenities are exclusive to the Platinum travelers.
Palace on Wheels, India
One of the pioneers of luxury trains, Palace on Wheels, still retains its place. Though half a dozen luxury category trains are now in operation, India’s trend-setting train is the true definition of splendour. The carriages, the route and the services take you back to the bygone era of the nation of Maharajas, Nizams and Royalty.
The plush carriages of the train are the renovated and well-maintained carriages of former Maharajas. The multi-cuisine restaurant serves extravagant dishes. The amiable staff are dressed in immaculate India attire with turbans. The round trip from Delhi relives the glories of Indian royalty. The route starts from Delhi, leading to the beautiful desert cities of Jaipur and Jodhpur, the magnificent Taj Mahal and the tigers’ abode of Ranthambore National Park.
The Blue Train, South Africa
Ranked as a magnificent five-star hotel, the Blue Train is a spectacular experience. The luxury train travels an approximately 1,600-kilometer journey in South Africa between Pretoria and Cape Town. One of the most luxurious train journeys in the world, it boasts butler service, two lounge cars (smoking and non-smoking), an observation car, and carriages with gold-tinted picture windows, in soundproofed, fully carpeted compartments, each featuring its own en-suite (many of which are equipped with a full-sized bathtub). The plush luxuries, the beautiful views of the mystical South Africa and the blissful experience inspire one to enjoy the ride once taken up by royalty.
Trans Siberian Express, Golden Eagle Luxury Trains
The Trans-Siberian ranks at the top of the luxury trains of the world. The longest train ride travels almost 10,555 kilometers. The route covers the breathtaking landscapes of Russia. Starting from Moscow to the Pacific port of Vladivostok, the scenery drastically changes. Each place is alluring and charming in its own way.
This vital route has been upgraded by Russian Railways at a massive expense of more than $1 billion. The luxuries of the Rossiya train are available at various price packages. Indulge is the magnificence of private compartments with pampering amenities. Enjoy the regal treatment of the train ride.
Belmond British Pullman
Belmond British Pullman is a private luxury train ranked among the best rides of the world. The lavish train operates day and weekend journeys around Britain. The trains originate from London Victoria Station. Cherish the allure in southern Britain, such as castles, country houses, cities, sporting occasions and events, including the Grand National and Goodwood Revival.
There are also weekend journeys to Cornwall, with overnight accommodation in hotels, and non-stop round trips with lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner served on board. Lavish dining is an added pleasure. The extravagant coaches date from the 1920s to the 1950s, which were once used to convey royalty.
Hiram Bingham Express, Peru
Ranked as one of the best luxury trains in the world, the Hiram Bingham Express, Peru is a wonderful train. Undoubtedly, South America’s best rail journey navigates spectacular scenery between Poroy, near Cuzco, and Machu Picchu in Peru. Discover the fabled Incan ruins on this expedition. The beautiful blue-and-gold train treats guests with the best views of the Andes and Urumbamba River.
Enjoy close-up views of passing villages and llama herds. The lavish ride is just not a treat to the eyes; savour the appetising meals in the 1920s-style dining car. The plush luxuries are the furnished interiors, hospitable staff and the breathtaking sights of the route.
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
A luxury train ride along the picturesque natural beauty makes perfect memories. For an unbeatable experience, The Canadian is among the best luxury trains in the world. Go on a four-day, cross-continent expedition of 4466 kilometres in Canada’s charming landscape. The Canadian runs between Toronto and Vancouver.
Enjoy the scenery of beautiful lakes, lush forests and cloud-topped landscapes. Some highlights of the memorable tour are at Jasper, where you’re right among the waterfalls and glaciers of the Rocky Mountains, where elk and bears make their home. In 2012, a USD 22 million modernisation was completed. The renovations include refurbished Sleeper Plus carriages and a new wheelchair-accessible cabin.
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