Five bucket list luxury trains

Luxury train travel is a holiday experience unlike any other.

Most holidays are built around squeezing as much time out of the holiday itself as possible, reducing the amount of travel to get you to your destination quickly and efficiently.

But on a luxury train trip, it’s the travel that’s the showpiece, with itineraries that allow the journey to go at a pace where you can soak up the views and maximise the amount of destinations you visit. Plus, it’s a great way to really get into the heart of a country, or indeed travel across multiple countries, without needing to clock up additional air miles.

What’s more, choosing a luxury train holiday adds all the bells and whistles to ensure you travel in style; like you’re own private cabin, butler service, Michelin-star menus and champagne on tap. It’s a glamorous way to travel, appealing to those who seek a gentler rhythm to their holidays, in an atmosphere that’s convivial and social.

Tempted? We’ve rounded up 10 of the world’s best luxury trains to add to your travel bucket list:

Andean Explorer

A great way to slow travel through Peru, the pace of the Andean Explorer allows you the time to absorb your environment and soak up world-class views. The journey on South America’s first luxury train will take you to see Lake Titicaca, UNESCO-listed Arequipa and the ancient capital of Cusco. Belmond luxuries include the train’s very own Spa Car.

 Rocky Mountaineer

It’s for good reason this Canadian train journey finds its way onto so many a bucket list. After all, you’ll be treated to astonishing views of the landscape from the viewing platform; an itinerary that immerses you in the history, wildlife and sights of the Rockies; and dining that focuses on locality and a sense of place with every menu.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

A name synonymous with luxury travel, step aboard the elegant carriages for a European journey steeped in history. You’ll experience Midnight Brunch, a romantic private cabin or suite, and itineraries that wend their way through Europe’s finest capitals and favourite cities for an unforgettable adventure.

Rovos Rail

Rovos Rail celebrates the golden age of travel with itineraries that take its guests on “train safaris through the heart of Africa”. There are options to stop at Victoria Falls, at a conservancy to see the Big Five, and in the scenic Winelands. Dining is a formal affair, with guests embracing the old school glamour of the dining cars in how they dress for evening meals.

Maharajas’ Express

One of the world’s leading luxury trains, the Maharajas’ Express is an elegant, timeless way to experience some of India’s most cherished sites, including Amber Fort, the Taj Mahal and the Ranthambore National Park. This multi-award-winning train is a great option for those inspired to explore India, but who want an easier, quicker and seamless way of getting around than other modes of transport.