Epic Train Journeys of the World

Romance of the Rails

There’s a unique romance to luxury rail travel – the slow rhythm of steel wheels on the tracks, the pleasure of gazing out at landscapes that change hour by hour, and the indulgence of first-class train journeys where every meal feels like an occasion. The world’s most iconic rail adventures combine exquisite interiors, five-star service, and scenic routes through spectacular landscapes, turning travel into an art form. Whether it’s a luxury train holiday through Europe, an overnight rail experience in Asia, or a bespoke cross-country journey, our team has curated a collection of the best luxury train trips worldwide, each one a story in motion.

In Peru, the Belmond Andean Explorer offers South America’s first luxury sleeper service, linking the Incan capital of Cusco with the shimmering expanse of Lake Titicaca and the UNESCO-listed city of Arequipa. Over two or three days, the train climbs to over 4,800 metres, gliding past snow-capped peaks, remote Andean villages, and open plains where alpacas graze. Inside, the décor is inspired by Peruvian handcrafts, with soft alpaca wool throws, polished wood panelling, and a serene observation car at the rear. Days are punctuated by gourmet meals showcasing Andean ingredients, from quinoa and trout to pisco-infused desserts.

Open Sided Viewing

Further south, the Rovos Rail evokes the golden age of African travel with lovingly restored carriages, en-suite Pullman and Deluxe Suites, and a grand observation car where leather chairs face wide-open windows. Routes range from the three-day Cape Town to Pretoria journey through the winelands and Karoo desert, to epic 15-day expeditions from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam, passing Victoria Falls and the great wildlife reserves of Zimbabwe and Tanzania. Life on board is refined yet relaxed, with gourmet dining paired with South African wines, and open-window lounges perfect for spotting giraffes and antelope along the tracks.

To the east, the Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express glides between Singapore, Malaysia, and occasionally Thailand, offering a unique perspective on Southeast Asia’s landscapes. Its green and cream carriages house teak-panelled cabins dressed with silks and Malaysian batik prints. Guests can sip champagne in the open-sided observation car as palm plantations give way to jungle-clad hills. Dining is an event in itself, blending Asian spices with European technique, while evenings are spent in the piano bar listening to live jazz as the train rolls gently through the night.