When you think about travelling, odds are that your mind goes to catching flights (not feelings) and jet-setting to a thrilling new location. While more often than not you’d prefer to be in and out of a cramped plane seat as quickly as possible, we invite you to think back to the golden age of travel – when the journey was just as exciting as the destination. And the best way to recapture that magic today? Stepping aboard a luxury train. With glamorous dining cars, grand sleeping cabins, and furnishings dripping in opulence, luxury trains are the perfect way to globetrot in style.
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Eastern & Oriental Express – Southeast Asia
Explore Southeast Asia in the epitome of classic glamour as you chug through Malaysia and Singapore on the Eastern & Oriental Express. Feast your eyes on ancient temples from the ornate dining car, where your stomach will journey through Southeast Asia, all set against the backdrop of pristine white-linen tablecloths. Marvel at lush jungles from the rear observation car before retreating to the piano bar for a nostalgic nightcap. And while you’ll have the opportunity to disembark for off-board excursions during your journey, we suspect nothing will quite match the adventure on the rails.
Golden Eagle Silk Road Express – China
A new player in the world of luxury trains, the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express will be embarking on its maiden voyage in 2026. We’re clueing you in on this lavish railway experience now so you have ample time to prepare for a truly unforgettable journey. As a fully en-suite private touring train, the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express offers three extraordinary escorted tours along the storied Silk Road. With journeys covering 12, 13, and a whopping 22 days, this beacon of grandeur will feature both Western-style and Chinese-style dining cars, a bar lounge car, and an observation deck fitted with a 270-degree panoramic window.
British Pullman – England
If you aren’t able to commit to a multi-day expedition, many luxury trains operate extravagant day trips. An unrivalled example from this category is without a doubt the British Pullman – shepherding passengers across the UK in meticulously restored vintage train cars. With an extensive range of themed voyages, the British Pullman offers immersive murder mystery parties, curated experiences celebrating the golden age of travel, fine dining events, and more. This exemplary train also features a carriage redesigned by award-winning director Wes Anderson. The revamped Cygnus carriage, open to all on board, is steeped in the whimsy of Anderson’s unique aesthetic.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – Europe
After one trip aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, you’ll be spoiled for all future travels across Europe. On routes through Paris, Vienna, Istanbul, Prague, Geneva, and more, passengers are enveloped in authentic luxury reminiscent of a bygone era. With expertly refurbished 1920s Art Deco train cars, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers five-star service in all three of its luxurious dining cars – where the freshest ingredients are sourced along the routes. In addition to its plush suites, this legend on rails also offers passengers a chance to book historic cabins for a truly matchless experience.
Rovos Rail – Africa
There are few chances in life to embark on a bespoke train safari – so check the Rovos Rail itinerary today for an adventure through the heart of Africa. Step aboard the restored vintage train cars, with gorgeously rebuilt wood panels and classic furnishings at their finest . Whether your journey spans two nights or 15, Rovos Rail brings you up close and personal with the beauty of Africa from your window as well as on off-train excursions. Along with dining cars that serve traditional dishes and South African wines, Rovos Rail also has an incredible observation car with open-air balcony. This bona-fide rolling palace will slow down travelling just enough for you to admire the view – all with a glass of champagne in hand!
Rocky Mountaineer – USA/Canada
The epitome of rugged luxury, Rocky Mountaineer’s breathtaking glass-dome coaches transport passengers through the Canadian wilderness in style. A bucket-list experience for anyone with even an inkling of appreciation for nature, a Rocky Mountaineer voyage will take you through places in Vancouver, Jasper National Park, Moab, Denver, and more in a way you’ll never forget. With SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf services available, every passenger aboard the Rocky Mountaineer enjoys unforgettable panoramic view throughout your journey, along with plenty of opportunities for off-train adventures.
Andean Explorer – Peru
Revel in a contemporary take on classic vintage luxury as you soak up the beauty of Peru from your roomy cabin on the Andean Explorer. The first luxury sleeper train in South America, the Andean Explorer allows passengers to glide through the beauty of the Andean plains in opulence. If you’re searching for a unique luxury train experience, just step inside the Andean Explorer’s Picaflor Spa Car – a Peruvian spa offering treatments, clay wraps, deep tissue massages, and more. These one or two night journeys will bring you to the reflective beauty of Lake Titicaca and the highest plains of the Andes.
The Ghan – Australia
Say ‘g’day’ to the most luxurious way of exploring the incredible Australian outback! Ferrying passengers through Darwin and Adelaide, The Ghan offers two to four-day all-inclusive expeditions for a once in a lifetime experience. Fuel up with impeccable regionally-inspired dishes served in stunning dining cars, before partaking in amazing off-train excursions – tailored for passengers to get a taste of the authentic beauty of Australia. For those who want to go all-out for their luxury train adventure, we recommend booking the Platinum level for some extra care like a private en-suite, access to the Platinum Club carriage, and more!
Born in Korea and raised in Hong Kong, Min Ji has combined her degree in anthropology and creative writing with her passion for going on unsolicited tangents as an editor at Friday Club. In between watching an endless amount of movies, she enjoys trying new cocktails and pastas while occasionally snapping a few pictures.
