The view from a hotel window can be stunning, but what if that view was constantly changing, First name / friend? 

 

My first experience with overnight train travel was in college, 8 hours Paris to Barcelona. The train was by no means luxurious, we had to bring our own food and wine. But my girlfriend and I spent the entire night talking in our shared 4 bunk cabin with a guy from London ( VERY cute, and that accent….)

Overall, an excellent time.

 

In the 1970s, American travel writer Paul Theroux set himself an impressive goal: to travel from England to Asia entirely by rail. He cataloged his experience in the book "The Great Railway Bazaar," which is still regarded as one of the most romantic pieces of writing about train travel.

 

Whether you're exploring the Andes or dashing around a Japanese island, luxury train travel proves that fly-by country is much more interesting when seen on the ground.

 

If you’re looking to travel differently in 2025, Take it slow on these rail journeys through some of the world's most glamorous destinations. 

 

Here are a few of the most luxurious train rides in the world.

 

 

📍 Route: London to Venice

📍 Duration: 2 Days

 

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is mythical for a reason. The train's classic route runs from London to Venice. Cars are adorned in Art Deco finery, creating an atmosphere of old-school glamour. Food is sourced along the route, meaning that when you sit down to dinner, there's likely to be lobsters from Brittany, or juicy tomatoes from Provence on your plate. After dinner, stop by the Champagne bar for a celebration that will transport you back to the golden age of luxury travel.

 

🤝 Pairs Perfectly With: Start in London with visits to classic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and afternoon tea at Claridge’s. After your journey, spend a few days in Venice exploring the city’s canals, St. Mark's Basilica, and Venetian cuisine.

 

📍 Route: Cusco to Arequipa, Peru
📍 Duration: 1-2 Nights

 

In the 15th century, the Andean Road System was a feat of engineering, where locals used to trek the 18,000 miles of road by foot or by llama. Today, guests can travel in luxury on the Belmond Andean Explorer. The train starts at the ancient capital of Cusco and proceeds through the Andean Plains, up to Lake Titicaca. Because of the high elevation in Peru, this is one of the highest train routes in the world. Inside, the cars are filled with local flair, from Peruvian tapestries (made from alpaca wool) on the bed to pisco sours served in the rear observation bar car.

 

🤝 Pairs Perfectly With: Begin with a few days in Cusco, exploring the Sacred Valley and ancient Inca sites like Machu Picchu. 

 

📍 Route: Darwin to Adelaide, Australia
📍 Duration: 3 Nights

 

Not every journey through the Australian Outback needs to be a dusty adventure. The Ghan is one of Australia's most luxurious train rides, taking passengers on a four-day expedition from Darwin to Adelaide. The train has been in operation since 1929 but has been updated with modern amenities. 

 

 Early autumn’s cooler temperatures are ideal for this trip, as you pass by red deserts, remote towns, and Outback scenery. Onboard, you’ll enjoy spacious cabins, fine dining, and off-train excursions.

 

🤝 Pairs Perfectly With: Begin in Darwin with a few days to explore Kakadu National Park, where waterfalls, Aboriginal rock art, and wildlife abound. After reaching Adelaide, head to the Barossa Valley for wine tasting and gourmet dining, completing your journey with a taste of Australia’s best wines.

 

📍 Route: Fukuoka to Fukuoka, Japan
📍 Duration: 3 Nights

 

This luxurious train circles the island of Kyushu, showcasing Japan’s beautiful southern landscapes, cultural treasures, and hot springs. Winter enhances the  ambiance onboard and offers views of snow-dusted mountains and temples.

 The Seven Stars promises an intimate and exclusive experience. Often referred to as the world's most luxurious train, Japan's Seven Stars train brings old-school luxury to a technologically advanced railway. 

 

But fair warning — the train can only carry up to 20 passengers at a time. Demand is so high that prospective riders must apply to ride. Winners are then invited to purchase their seats on an upcoming itinerary.

 

 

🤝 Pairs Perfectly With: Start in Fukuoka to explore the city’s temples, shopping districts, and famous yatai food stalls. After the  journey, relax in the hot springs of Beppu or Yufuin, where you can enjoy the winter scenery from natural onsen baths in charming mountain towns.

P.S. This is just a sampling of the incredible train journeys available! If you're curious to explore more, let's chat.