List of Luxury Trains in the World
Trains were the backbone any country’s economy back in the days of industrial revolution and they still are the lifeline of communication for many. Large coaches sitting on tracks traveling long distances for hours even days, equipped with all necessary amenities evoke a sense of romance and adventure unlike any other form of travel!
Here are the world’s top 20 luxury trains, equipped with decadence in every corner that is bringing train travel back in vogue.
1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
This train is probably the father of the concept of luxury train for the masses! No other luxury voyager would evoke a similar sense of romance and adventure as the infamous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, the setting for Agatha Christie’s famous novel “Murder on the Orient Express” that has also inspired several movies on the story.
Apart from being a part of a historic novel, the train also has a rich political and dark history behind it. It is said that Hitler was also one of the fans of the train. The train was French pride and in 1940, the Germans hauled the train to the spot of their previous surrender and took it over. Later, the train narrowly escaped its doom of being exploded by the Nazis when Hitler’s downfall was imminent as he didn’t want this trophy of luxury travel to shine on his enemies’ land.
The legendary train, which is the most popular luxury carriage around the world has more scoop behind it, spies during world wars used it as a secret weapon, a president once tumbled down from it and much more. But perhaps the most understated story of them all is how the train remains the perfect symbol of romance with train rides and classy travel.
Also Read : 15 Most Expensive Trains in the World
2. Golden Eagle
Hardcore travel enthusiasts have a saying that many find to ring true – they say that one hasn’t really experienced the beauty of train of travel until they’ve boarded the Trans-Siberian Express. The Golden Eagle has the most intimidating itinerary surpassing eight different time zones with a long tour of two weeks embroidered with lavishness and comfort in every way.
The train features extravagance in its facilities and decor with keen attention to detail like, climate controlled interiors as per the season, TVs in every room, an English speaking doctor on board, laundry services and even a resident pianist on board.
Furthermore, to help their passengers acclimatize to the luxury accommodations, the comfort begins even before boarding the train and thereafter with 5 Star accommodations in Moscow and Vladivostok.
Read Also: List of Luxury Trains in India
3. Palace on Wheels
A regal luxury train that travels around the royal Indian state of Rajasthan, the Palace on Wheels was one of the foremost in India’s pack of luxury trains. The train is fit for kings with state-of-the-art facilities, butler and attendant services round the clock, guided excursions and sight-seeing tours at each stop, delightful cuisine and climate controlled rooms with lavish en-suites.
The train was designed with inspiration borrowed from the bygone days of Rajasthan’s past with kings and princes. The royals would often set out in lavish hunting expeditions with large hunting parties accompanying them. Each coach of the train is designed keeping in mind the local arts and craft of each bygone state or royal province of Rajasthan under rule of legendary rulers.
The train explores the most popular forts and palaces including the nature reserves in Rajasthan in seven days packed with luxury and opulence. The interior of the cabins are setup to emulate the royal palaces of Rajasthan to give you all feels of being a Rajput on the royal land. The train also takes passengers to the Taj Mahal one of the Seven Wonders of the World in Agra.
Know more about the Palace on Wheels
Also Read : How to Book Palace on Wheels Train
4. Belmond Royal Scotsman
Would you like to explore the Scottish countryside is a complete Downton Abbey style? Then you must board the Royal Scotsman that delivers full justice to its name. While passengers can chose from several different itineraries starting from Edinburgh that ranges from 2 to 7 days, but the classic voyage aboard the express is the 4 day travel that passes into the Scottish highlands.
The train also comes with guided tours to distilleries and excursions to castles around Scotland. This being UK’s only luxury class sleeper express has a famous bar stocked with more than 50 varieties of its very own whisky.
The best time to travel aboard is perhaps fall that offers a unique purple tinted view of the Scottish meadows colored by the blossom of wild heather.
Explore: Feel like Royals with Luxury Trains of India
5. Maharajas' Express
Rightfully called “the Orient Express of the Orient”; this award winning luxury train offers unique experience of luxury travel in royal style and lavishness to its passengers. While still being a new entrant in the luxury train travel market, this train has already won the hearts of many and been crowned as one of the best.
As the name suggests the Maharajas' Express train decor attempts to emulate with success the golden days of the royal raj when Maharajas' would travel with opulence and pomp in flamboyant carriages.
The colonial charm is carried on throughout the journey with guided excursions to palaces and historic spots in and around Rajasthan, called famously as the Golden triangle of travel in North India. The week long journey also inspires similar royal spirit with gin and tonic sun downers, opulent elephant rides, tea parties on fort balconies and a chance to chat with the erstwhile royal families of Rajasthan.
Top 5 Itineraries of Maharajas' Express Train :
- 6 Nights / 7 Days - The Heritage of India (Mumbai to Delhi)
- 3 Nights / 4 Days - Treasures of India s of India (Delhi to Delhi)
- 3 Nights / 4 Days - Gems of India (Golden Triangle )
- 6 Nights / 7 Days - The Indian Panorama (Delhi to Delhi)
- 6 Nights / 7 Days - The Indian Splendor (Delhi to Mumbai)
Also Read : How to Book Maharaja Express Train Tickets (Step by Step)
More details about Maharajas' Express:
- Maharajas' Express train schedule
- Maharajas' Express train cost
- Facilities of Maharajas’ Express
- Read Terms and Conditions of Maharajas' Express
- General Information of Maharajas’ Express
- Maharajas’ Express Photo Gallery
- Maharajas’ Express Train Cabins
Read On: What Are The Some Interesting Facts About The Maharajas’ Express Train?
6. Eastern & Oriental Express
Enjoy an awe inspiring tour of the landscape of Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia aboard this unique luxury train of the east. The train travels through the enchanting green forests of the land, with guided tours to golden temples, pagodas and mountains.
The train offers 6 itineraries with the special New Year itinerary being one of the most sought after one. With luxurious carriages, two on board restaurants and a special observation car to watch the wildlife in their habitat, the train offers a unique experience to its passengers.
Also Read : Why choosing a luxury train for traveling is the convenient one in India?
7. Deccan Odyssey
The Deccan Odyssey is another one of the luxury train’s in India offering a glimpse of the southern parts of the country. The train is equipped with private carriages and cabins, lounge spaces with regal interior decor inspired by the southern art and even a luxurious spa and restaurants and bar on board. The train offers a unique journey unlike other luxury trains running in the country with special itinerary that travels through the southern states like Hyderabad, Gujarat through Nasik and other popular Konkan cities.
Also Read : How To Book Tickets In Deccan Odyssey Luxury Train (Step by Step)
Know more about Deccan Odyssey:
- Deccan Odyssey Train Schedule
- Deccan Odyssey train fares
- Deccan Odyssey Train Booking
- Terms and Conditions - Deccan Odyssey
Deccan Odyssey Train Itineraries :
- 7 Nights / 8 Days - Maharashtra Splendor
- 7 Nights / 8 Days - Indian Odyssey
- 7 Nights / 8 Days - Hidden Treasures of Gujarat
- 7 Nights / 8 Days - Indian Sojourn
- 7 Nights / 8 Days - Jewels of the Deccan
- 7 Nights / 8 Days - Maharashtra Wild Trail
Do you Know - Deccan Odyssey Titled for the 5th Time Asia’s Leading Luxury Train
8. Rocky Mountaineer
This is one of the few luxury train services in North America offered by the Golden Leaf Service of the Rocky Mountaineers. This was the last, grueling leg of the great rail expansion westwards that united Canada in the late 1880's and offers a unique experience of exploring the Rockies. There are several routes to the Rockies but by far the most famous one is the Banff to Vancouver ride that still captures the imagination of travelers with the promise of green panoramic views of the mountains.
Suggest Article: Why choosing a luxury train for traveling is the convenient one in India?
9. Golden Chariot
A new addition to India’s suite of luxury trains takes its passengers on a ride around the popular tourist spots of southern Indian states of Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry. Several itinerary options are available.
The Golden Chariot train started its journey from the recent 2008 and has already been a success with those that have a special place in their hearts for the romance of train journeys. Fit with all modern amenities, a royal interior decor, round the clock attendants, climate controlled interiors, guided tours and sightseeing trips, spas and luxury restaurants the train is equipped to tantalize all your senses.
Know more about Golden Chariot:
- Golden Chariot train schedule
- Golden Chariot train fares
- Facilities of Golden Chariot train
- Terms and Conditions - Golden Chariot train
Golden Chariot Train Itineraries:
Read Also:
- Golden Chariot Luxury Train Services Will Start from March 2020
- How to Book Golden Chariot Train 2020 – 2021
- What is the price of Golden Chariot?
10. Rovos Rail Pride of Africa
Those in search of the thrill of wilderness coupled with the unique combination of luxury. This is a trip not to be missed by the photographers and artists. The train runs from the early April to May which is the best season to venture through the African wilderness. The train offers passengers to explore some of Africa’s famous spots like, diamond mines, the exciting cosmopolitan city of Namibia, National park giving sights of wild animals in their natural habitat, and the famous Kalhari desert and more.
Also Read : Luxury Train Between Chennai And Madurai – Tejas Express
11. The Blue Train
The train gets its name from its iconic blue and cream exterior color. If you are looking for a perfect way to explore Africa, this is the best option. Covering routes between Cape Town and Cairo, this train glides along the shorelines of Atlantic Ocean. Introduced to the world in 1997, this train provides eight itineraries; Pretoria to Cape Town and vice versa, Pretoria to Durban and vice versa, Pretoria to Hoedspruit and vice versa, Pretoria to Kruger National Park and, Circle Route. Starting from 24-hour butler service to five-course meals served in silverware, this luxury train experience starts from R23050 onwards.
Also Read : How to Feel like Royals with Luxury Trains of India
12. The Canadian
The Canadian is a transcontinental luxury train running between Toronto and Vancouver. This train used stainless steel cars post WWII. In 1955, it started its transcontinental route. Currently, The Canadian operates twice a week from each destination. The entire journey takes four nights and three days, covering prairie fields, waterfalls, colorful town and much more. The train provides six different itineraries to choose.
Also Read : 18 Things That Will Make You Love Train-18, India
13. Seven Stars in Kyushu
This timeless burgundy train is the modern Japanese luxury train covering exclusive destinations of the Kyushu Island. Launched in 2013, this luxury palace was introduced by Kyushu Rail Company. With luxury of seven-star hotel and the speed of a bullet train, this exclusive train has detailed artistic beauty in every element. Each destination in the route is explored to grasp the natural and cultural beauty of the land. The train provides two itineraries, one spanning for two days and the other for four days long. The itinerary starts from 480,000 Yen per passenger, onwards.
Also Read : Comparison Between Palace on Wheels And Maharajas Express Train
14. The Ghan
The Ghan is an Australian luxury passenger train running between Adelaide and Darwin. The history runs back to 1929 when it started as a narrow gauge train. In 1980, the train was immensely modified to accommodate luxury travelers. In 2001, the Ghan was re-introduced as a modern tourism element serving one of the greatest train journeys of all times.
Marking its 90th anniversary in 2019, this train provides three unique itineraries; Adelaide to Darwin, Adelaide to Alice Springs and, Darwin to Alice Springs. Ghan focuses on providing a holistic vacation rather than just a luxury train ride. Starting from amenities to exclusive scenic routes, Ghan provides the perfect comfort vacation starting from $2,889.
Also Read : Tejas Express Lucknow to Delhi Train – A Complete Guide
15. The Transcantabrico Gran Lujo, Spain
This five-star cruise train covering the northern Spain is one of the most demanding journeys for avid luxury travelers from around the world. This grand train provides almost all 21st century comforts as it runs along the glamour landscapes of Spain. The train keeps a nostalgic décor of 1920s to create a legendary look and feel. The train still runs on the coaches introduced in 1923, adding more juice to the heritage value. This vintage train provides one signature itinerary starting in Santiago de Compostela and ending at San Sebastian or vice-versa. The itinerary runs for eight days and seven nights at 2,100 Euro onwards.
16. The Chepe
The famous El Chepe took a renovation of the century to become The Chepe. This luxury tourist train runs along the northern part of Mexico, covering the Copper Canyon of Chihuahua. Started just in 2018, this train runs between Chihuahua capital to Los Mochia. Since its maiden journey in 1961, this train is famous for its luxury element, astonishing entertainment and exclusive scenic beauties. The train makes just two stops in its route, at Sinaloa and Divisadero. The train runs for nine hours and is packed with entertainment elements. One-way ticket starts at the cost of 3,743 pesos per head, onwards.
17. Belmond Hiram Bingham
Covering the route between Machu Picchu and Cusco, the main motto of the train is to dine and dance. The train holds the 1920 look with wooden carriages, brass finish and artistic ornamentation. The train provides two itineraries, from Cusco to M.Picchu and vice versa. Starting from the vintage observation deck to the exclusive dining options, the train takes you on a heart-felt train journey for $1802 per head, onwards.
18. Royal Canadian Pacific
The train includes ten 1920-era cars and two 1950-era business cars. The splendor brass ornamentation, silver décor and the walnut paneling brings out the heritage look of the train. With the beauty of the bygone era, this royal train runs two itineraries namely, the Rockies Experience and Royal Fly-Fishing Adventure. The cost of a ticket starts from 8,000 Canadian Dollars per traveler.
19. El Transcantabrico Clasico Luxury Train
This heritage train is the original 1923 Pullman cars. The cars are specifically renovated to accommodate luxury travelers. The train covers the evocative landscapes of northern Span from Galicia to Biscay. The train provides five different itineraries focusing on the less-traveled routes of Europe, with the all-amenities luxury train environment. This exclusive vacation starts at the price of 180 Euro. Starting from writing desk to individually controlled lighting, the cabins are provided with many cream amenities for pampering the travelers.
20. Belmond Andean Explorer
Travel with the finest selected amenities filled cabins, across Peru in Belmond Andean. This is one of the first luxury sleeper trains of South America launched in May 2017. The train runs between Cusco and Arequipa, covering Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon and others. The train provides one-day and two-day itineraries covering heritage sites of Peru. Every inch of the train and every km covering by the train is etched in beauty. This exclusive journey starts from 5,105$ .
21. Belmond British Pullman
This heritage British Pullman has been polished to accommodate many 21st century amenities. The train creates the perfect English travel that echoes the elegant eras of the land. The train runs through the peaceful countryside of Britain trying to incorporate serenity and adventure into the luxury vacation. There are numerous itineraries to cover within a day. These exclusive itineraries come with a meal or/and tea fit for the Queen. The itineraries start from 297 Pounds per passenger.
22. Bernina Express
Bernina Express is also termed as the exclusive and mind-blowing way to enjoy the Alps. Running along one of the highest tracks of Alps, the Bernina Express tries to give you the glacier look of Italy, bridging exclusive destinations rich with culture and heritage. The train covers 196 bridges and 55 tunnels taking you to a Narnia of nature, to enjoy Alps in the most-raw form. The train provides numerous itineraries and many more are added during this current year too. Cost of a ticket starts from CHF 62 per passenger, onwards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the most luxurious train in the world that runs from Paris to Istanbul. Along with different types of splendid accommodations, it offers a five-star dining system. The lounge car is also decorated in a magnificent way.
A. Maharajas' Express is considered as the most luxurious train in India. It runs from October to April covering a large part of Rajasthan. The journey includes visiting Khajuraho temple, meeting the royal family members and enjoying the elephant polo match in Jaipur.
A. Japan is renowned for having the world's most luxurious train. Japan’s most luxurious train "Seven Stars in Kyushu" has a holding capacity of 30 people in 14 opulent suits. The decoration with authentic Japanese craftsmanship makes this train more elegant.
A. Japan has the best trains in the world. The trains of Japan are not only famous for their speed but they are also very punctual. A well-equipped carriage named Maya50 runs like a normal train to monitor the railway tracks in Japan.
A. Maharajas' Express in India is renowned as the most expensive train in the world. It covers a major part of North-west and Central India. Travelling in the Presidential Suits of this train costs around $3385 per night for each person.
A. There are some countries like Bhutan, Kuwait, Iceland etc. that have no railway networks. Most of these countries do not have enough found for railway construction. In Iceland, it is difficult for a bad environment where transportation is mostly done by road in Kuwait.
A. Taiwan has the fastest train in the world. Shanghai Maglev is the fastest train with an average speed 251 kmph. However, the highest operational speed of the train is 430 kmph. This train runs 30.5 km on Shanghai Maglev track from the year 2004.
A. Maharajas' Express in India offers the world's most expensive train ride. To book its Presidential Suits for one night you have to pay $3385 for each passenger. This train provides an accommodation of 88 guests in 23 deluxe coaches with luxurious facilities.
A. You can enjoy the most expensive train ride in India with Maharajas’ Express. Maharajas' Express is the highest luxurious train in India that runs covering North-west and Central India. Presidential Suite of this train costs $3385 per night for each passenger.
A. Japan is famous for its railway system. It is said to be the best railway system in the world. Trains in Japan are well known for their speed and punctuality as well.A carriage called Maya50 runs along the track for monitoring purposes.
A. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is reputed as the oldest luxury train in the world. This train runs along a route between Paris to Istanbul. The present carriages are restored from the old stock and refurbished in a contemporary style providing memorable experiences.
A. Taiwan is renowned for the fastest train in the world. Shanghai Maglev is the world’s fastest train that runs with the highest speed. This train has an average speed of 251 kmph where its maximum operating speed is 430 kmph.
A. There are a plethora of countries that do not have a railway system. Some of them include: Bhutan, Iceland, Cyprus and Kuwait etc. Iceland has no railway system. There is lack of fund for railway construction and the environment is not also appropriate for railway communication. Kuwait also does not have any railway system since transportation majorly depends on road.Bhutan, Cyprus do not have railway systems too.
A. Dibrugarh-Kanyakumari Vivek Express is the biggest train in India. It takes almost 85 hours to complete the journey of 4273 km from Assam to Kanyakumari, the southern most point of mainland. It is the biggest train according to both time and distance and is renowned for its time as well as distance.
A. Glacier Express of Switzerland tops the list as the most beautiful train in the world. This train completes a seven-hour long journey between Zermatt to St. Mortiz. During the journey, it crosses 91 tunnels and 291 bridges which makes the ride more amazing. Not only this, the lush green nature, exquisite view of the mountains, beautiful landscapes are the main tourist attractions.
A. The Metupalayam Ooty Nilgiri Passenger train is claimed to be the slowest train in India. Since this train travels through a hilly region,it has to follow a limit of speed.The maximum operational speed of this train is 10 km per hour. Therefore, the passengers easily get a hassle-free view of the beautiful flora all the way.
A. At present, Kalka mail is the oldest train running in India. This train started its journey in the year 1866 with the name of "East Indian Railway Mail". This year, it has completed 154 years and is still in operation to move forward.
A. George Stephenson is renowned as the father of train. Robert Stephenson was the greatest early railway and civil engineer in 19th century. Being his only son, George Stephenson successfully continued his legacy. Standard gauge is the modern version of rail gauge created by Stephenson.
A. Lord Dalhousie took the first initiatives for railway communication in India. During his ruling period,the country’s first train started running. On 16th April, 1853 the first train of India ran from Bombay's Bori Bandar to Thane. And it was dedicated to Lord Dalhousie.
A. Currently, the utmost fastest train in India is Vande Bharat Express. It is a semi high speed intercity express having a speed of 180 km per hour in trail. But its operational speed is officially limited to 130 km per hour.
A. Train 18 is a semi high-speed train runs with a speed of 160 km per hour. Besides its unconventional white color, this train is designed with modern interiors and vacuum toilets. Therefore, it seems like a bullet train to rural people.
A. Vande Bharat Express has taken the place of the fastest train of Shatabdi Express in 2020. It is a semi high-speed train with modern facilities. This train has a high potential speed between 160 km per hour and 200 km per hour.
A. The Invention of train has a history of thousand years. The first train was invented by Richard Trevithick in 19th century. The first locomotive engine was built by Richard Trevithick in the year 1804. 10 tons of iron was carried by this first train invented by Trevithick.
A. The first train was invented by Richard Trevithick and it started the journey on the tramway of the Penydarren ironworks situated near Merthyr Tydfil in South Wales.
A. The first steam locomotive in the world was actually invented in 1802 by Richard Trevithick and Andrew Vivian. However, it was just an unnamed machine then and first ran along the tramway of Penydarren ironworks on 21st February, 1804 in South-Wales.
A. In 1802, Richard Trevithick invented train as an unnamed machine but his design was not adopted largely at that time. In next 20 years, this design was developed mainly for a purpose of commercial use. Then later, the same design began its use as a public stream railway.
A. The very first car of the train was known as locomotive or a railway engine. It was used to pull the train car along the railway track. Later, it had more coaches developed which were together came to be known as a train.
A. If you are not travelling in sleeper class, then you should call it as seat. But where you can sleep in the train on your allotted bunk, that is usually called as berth.
