Luxury train Journeys

By Sumita Chakraborty, Founder & Editor-in-chief, TheGlitz

Some people collect passport stamps. I collect unforgettable journeys.

Having travelled extensively across India and around the world, I’ve discovered that while first-class flights may get you there faster, nothing quite compares to the romance of a luxury train. There’s something deliciously old-world about watching landscapes unfold outside your window while sipping a perfectly brewed cup of tea (or champagne), dressed up for dinner as the train glides through mountains, deserts, vineyards or countryside. It’s slow travel at its most glamorous… and honestly, I’ve fallen hopelessly in love with it.

Luxury trains aren’t just about getting from one destination to another. They’re about the stories you gather, the people you meet, the impeccable hospitality, and those magical moments when time seems to slow down. If you’re planning your next bucket-list adventure, these are eight extraordinary rail journeys that TheGlitz has voted for… from glamorous luxury trains that redefine slow travel to one charming steam engine experience that proves the magic of a journey lies not just in where you go, but in how you get there. These are the train journeys every traveller deserves to experience at least once.

The Maharajas’ Express, India: Travel Like Royalty

I’ve travelled across India in countless ways, but nothing prepared me for the sheer magnificence of the Maharajas’ Express, bestowed the “World’s Leading Luxury Train” award at the World Travel Awards for seven consecutive years from 2012 to 2018 . From the moment I stepped aboard, I felt as though I’d been transported into the glamorous era of Indian royalty.

Every detail… from the exquisitely appointed suites and polished wood interiors to the impeccable butler service… whispers elegance. The journey isn’t simply about reaching a destination; it’s about immersing yourself in a lifestyle once reserved for kings and queens.

What I loved most was waking up each morning to a different postcard-perfect landscape outside my window. One day, it was the golden sands and majestic forts of Rajasthan; another, the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal waiting to be explored. Evenings were equally magical, with gourmet meals that celebrated India’s rich culinary heritage, served in beautifully designed dining cars where every meal felt like a royal banquet.

Between curated palace visits, cultural performances, and luxurious moments onboard, the Maharajas’ Express transforms travel into theatre. If there is one train journey that truly captures India’s grandeur, heritage and legendary hospitality, this is it. Trust me… you don’t just travel on the Maharajas’ Express… you reign.

Palace on Wheels, India: Rajasthan’s Regal Romance

I’ve always felt that Rajasthan isn’t a destination to be rushed… it’s a place to be savoured. And that’s exactly what the Palace on Wheels allows you to do. The moment I stepped aboard, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of old-world splendour. Inspired by the private coaches of erstwhile Maharajas, every carriage is adorned with regal décor, intricate detailing, plush furnishings, and warm hospitality that instantly makes you feel like royalty on a grand Indian sojourn.

What stayed with me long after the journey ended was the rhythm of it all. Mornings began with the sun rising over the desert, afternoons unfolded amidst magnificent forts, ornate palaces and bustling bazaars, while evenings brought colourful folk performances, traditional music and unforgettable Rajasthani feasts. Every station felt like a royal welcome, with garlands, drums and smiling faces adding to the magic.

Looking out of the window as the train rolled past golden dunes, tiny villages and endless horizons, I realised this wasn’t just a train ride, it was Rajasthan telling its story, one enchanting mile at a time. If you truly want to experience the soul of the Land of Kings, there’s no more elegant way than aboard the Palace on Wheels.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe: Pure Cinematic Magic

If there was ever a train that made me feel as though I’d wandered onto the set of a classic Hollywood film, it was the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. From the moment I stepped into its beautifully restored Art Deco carriages, time seemed to slow down. Polished wood panelling, gleaming brass accents, plush velvet seating and impeccable white-gloved service create an atmosphere that’s effortlessly glamorous. It’s the kind of journey where you instinctively want to dress up, linger over dinner, and savour every single moment.

One of my favourite memories was simply sitting by the window, watching Europe unfold like a living masterpiece… snow-capped mountains, charming villages, rolling vineyards and shimmering lakes passing by in slow, cinematic perfection. Even the simplest moments felt extraordinary. Breakfast in my cabin as the morning mist drifted across the countryside, afternoon tea served with impeccable elegance, and candlelit dinners accompanied by the gentle rhythm of the train made every day feel like a celebration of timeless luxury.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express isn’t merely a journey from one city to another; it’s an invitation to experience the golden age of travel, where romance, elegance and old-world charm still reign supreme. It’s impossible to step off this train without feeling you’ve lived inside a beautiful story.

The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada: Nature’s Front-Row Seat

Some journeys leave you speechless, and for me, the Rocky Mountaineer was one of them. I’ve travelled through some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, but nothing quite compares to the awe of gliding through the majestic Canadian Rockies in a glass-domed coach. Every time I looked out of the window, I found myself reaching for my camera… only to realise that some moments are simply too magnificent to be captured. Towering snow-capped peaks, emerald forests, crystal-clear turquoise lakes, dramatic waterfalls and rushing rivers unfolded like nature’s own masterpiece, each view somehow more breathtaking than the last.

What I loved most was that there was never a need to rush. This wasn’t about ticking destinations off a list; it was about immersing yourself in every glorious mile. The onboard hosts brought the journey to life with fascinating stories about the region’s history, wildlife and hidden gems, while gourmet meals crafted from fresh local ingredients made every dining experience feel as memorable as the scenery itself. One moment, I was spotting bald eagles soaring overhead; the next, everyone in the carriage was quietly watching a black bear wander through the forest below. There was a shared sense of wonder that connected complete strangers.

The Rocky Mountaineer reminded me that some of life’s greatest luxuries aren’t found in glittering chandeliers or lavish suites… they’re found in having a front-row seat to nature at its most spectacular. It’s a journey that fills your camera roll, yes, but more importantly, it fills your soul.

The Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru: Luxury On The Rails

There are journeys that take you places, and then there are journeys that transform the way you see the world. My experience aboard the Belmond Andean Explorer was the latter. Travelling through the breathtaking Peruvian Andes, surrounded by landscapes that seemed almost too beautiful to be real, felt like stepping into a dream suspended between earth and sky.

As the train climbed through the mountains, every turn revealed another spectacular view… shimmering high-altitude lakes reflecting endless blue skies, snow-capped peaks standing proudly in the distance, golden plains stretching towards the horizon, and tiny villages that seemed untouched by time. I found myself spending hours by the window, completely mesmerised by the ever-changing scenery. There was something deeply calming about watching this ancient landscape unfold at such a gentle pace.

Inside the train, the experience was a beautiful balance of understated luxury and authentic Peruvian warmth. The elegant cabins, beautifully designed interiors and attentive service created a sense of comfort without taking away from the magic of the destination. Meals became memorable experiences, with locally inspired cuisine celebrating Peru’s incredible flavours while the dining carriage offered the perfect setting to connect with fellow travellers and share stories.

What makes the Belmond Andean Explorer truly special is the feeling that you’re not simply passing through Peru… you are experiencing its soul. From the mystical beauty of the Andes to the warmth of its people and the rich cultural heritage woven into every moment, this journey is a reminder that true luxury lies in meaningful experiences. It’s not just a train ride above the clouds; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure where every mile feels extraordinary.

The Ghan, Australia: Crossing an Entire Continent in Style

Some train journeys take you from one city to another. The Ghan takes you across an entire continent and introduces you to the many personalities of Australia along the way. This was one of those rare travel experiences where the journey itself became the destination. Watching the landscape transform from the lush tropical beauty of the north to the dramatic red earth of the Outback was nothing short of mesmerising.

What fascinated me most was the sheer scale of it all. One moment, I was surrounded by endless greenery and rugged wilderness; the next, I was looking out at vast desert landscapes painted in shades of ochre and gold. The changing scenery felt like watching Australia’s greatest natural wonders unfold like a cinematic masterpiece outside my window.

Inside the train, The Ghan offered a beautiful contrast to the wild landscapes outside. The cabins were comfortable and elegant, the dining experience celebrated Australia’s finest produce, and every interaction with the crew reflected genuine warmth and hospitality. The off-train experiences were equally unforgettable… from exploring ancient Aboriginal landscapes to discovering hidden corners of the Outback that many travellers never get to see.

The Ghan reminded me that luxury isn’t always about glamour and grandeur; sometimes, it’s about access, discovery and experiencing a place in the most extraordinary way possible. It is adventure wrapped in comfort, a celebration of Australia’s vast beauty, and a journey that stays with you long after the final mile.

The Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan: Zen Meets Luxury

Japan has always had a unique ability to transform simplicity into something spectacular, and the Seven Stars in Kyushu is the perfect expression of that philosophy. My experience aboard this exquisite train felt like entering a world where time moved differently… slower, calmer and far more meaningful.

Unlike luxury experiences that rely on excess, Seven Stars captivates through thoughtful details. Every element has been carefully considered, from the handcrafted wooden interiors and elegant furnishings to the impeccable Japanese hospitality that makes every guest feel truly special. There is a quiet confidence to the luxury here… it doesn’t demand attention; it earns it.

As the train travelled through Kyushu’s beautiful landscapes, I found myself captivated by the changing scenery… peaceful countryside, lush mountains, charming villages and coastal views that seemed almost meditative. Every moment invited you to pause and appreciate the beauty of the present.

The culinary experience was another highlight, showcasing seasonal Japanese ingredients prepared with artistry and precision. Each meal felt less like dining and more like experiencing Japan’s rich culture through taste. The warmth, grace and attention to detail of the service reflected the very essence of Japanese craftsmanship.

Seven Stars in Kyushu is more than a luxury train journey; it is an immersive cultural experience. It reminded me that the most memorable luxuries are often found in the smallest details… a perfectly prepared meal, a beautifully crafted space, a quiet morning view, and the feeling of being completely present. It is elegance in its purest, most serene form.

Šargan Eight, Serbia: A Nostalgic Ride Through the Balkans

Šargan Eight, Serbia: The Magical Steam Train Through the Balkans

I must add this… the highlight of my trip was undoubtedly this amazing steam engine journey over the mountains of Serbia. Long before the train completed its route, I was already enchanted by the romance of it all. There was something incredibly special about hearing the distant whistle of the locomotive, watching the gentle clouds of steam rise into the air, and knowing that I was about to experience a piece of living history.

The Šargan Eight is unlike any luxury train journey I’ve experienced, and that is precisely what makes it unforgettable. Its magic doesn’t come from champagne glasses or lavish suites; it comes from nostalgia, authenticity and the simple joy of slowing down. As the beautifully restored steam train wound its way through the spectacular Balkan landscape, I found myself completely mesmerised by the emerald-green valleys, thick pine forests, dramatic mountain tunnels and charming villages that appeared like little postcards along the route.

Sitting by the window, listening to the rhythmic chug of the engine and watching the breathtaking scenery unfold felt like travelling back in time. The scent of wood and coal, the vintage carriages, the friendly faces of fellow travellers and the gentle sway of the train created an experience that was wonderfully soulful. Every curve of the track revealed another stunning view, and every stop felt like a moment frozen in time.

What stayed with me most was the feeling of simplicity and wonder. In a world where travel is often about speed and ticking destinations off a list, the Šargan Eight reminded me that the true beauty of a journey lies in the moments between arrival and departure. Sometimes, the greatest luxury is not extravagance… it is nostalgia, discovery and the chance to experience something wonderfully timeless. This little steam train through the Serbian mountains was, without doubt, one of those rare travel memories I will treasure forever.

Why Luxury Rail Travel Never Goes Out of Style

In a world obsessed with speed, luxury trains remind us of the joy of slowing down. They encourage lingering conversations over dinner, mornings spent watching landscapes unfold, and evenings where dressing up feels wonderfully appropriate again. There’s no rushing through airports or endless security queues… just the gentle rhythm of the tracks and the excitement of discovering somewhere new.

Perhaps that’s why every luxury train journey stays with you long after you’ve unpacked your suitcase. You don’t simply remember the destinations… you remember the journey itself. The conversations over breakfast, the spectacular sunrises, the impeccable service, the clink of crystal glasses, and those quiet moments when the world outside feels almost dreamlike.

At TheGlitz, we believe true luxury isn’t measured by how quickly you arrive… it’s measured by how unforgettable the journey becomes. And if there’s one travel experience that continues to steal my heart, again and again, it’s stepping aboard a magnificent train, settling into my seat, and letting the world roll beautifully by. After all, life’s most extraordinary adventures don’t always begin at the destination… sometimes, they begin the moment the whistle blows.