There’s nothing quite as pleasant as a train ride. With the methodical hum of the engine, the world passing by outside, and the quiet space to sit and think, a good train ride will undoubtedly make for a relaxing journey. But, why leave this peaceful transportation to commuters and daytrippers? It’s time to take train travel to the next level with a multi-day luxury sleeper car experience instead.
All over the globe, the tracks are set for you to have the vacation of a lifetime. All you need to do is book your ticket, pack an overnight bag, and hop aboard. Here are the best luxury sleeper trains you can ride through every corner of the earth.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: London to Venice
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is well known to be one of the most luxurious train companies in the world. However, its London to Venice route takes that service to a whole new level. On the four-day trip, guests will board the vintage British Pullman train and settle into a stunning suite that rivals any hotel. On the train, guests can mingle with other passengers in the bar car, dine on world-class food in its dining car, or sit in one of the plush seats anywhere on the train to watch the European countryside outside. On the way, guests will depart from London, cross through the Alps, and spend a few glorious days in Venice, Italy before returning home to a more modern life. If you want to join this journey, you must be available between March and November as that is the only time when the train runs. Pricing begins at $3,657.
Blue Train: Pretoria to Cape Town
Though the blue trains ride from Pretoria to Cape Town is a mere 31 hours it is just enough time to feel like you’ve gone a whole world away. On the route to Cape Town, guests will not only be able to take in this stunning landscape of South Africa, but they will also be able to take exclusive excursions during its stops as well. On the train, guests are treated to the utmost in impeccable service with rooms filled with plush bedding oversized bathtubs sitting areas, and more. On the train, guests are treated to high tea, dinner, and breakfast on a first-come, first-serve basis before disembarking from the train. Pricing starts at $1,500 per person.
Cruise Train Seven Stars: Kyushu
If you visit Japan just once in your life, make sure to board one of its fantastic trains. And, if you can, make it the cruise train seven stars. On the four-day itinerary, guests will visit five of the seven prefectures on Kyushu and will have the opportunity to see just about everything thanks to the trains panoramic windows throughout each of its cars. On the way, guests will also disembark for a one-night stay in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, where they can rest and relax in one of the resorts hot springs. No really, you may not want to get off the train as each of its suites come with every amenity you’d ever need on or off a train. Guests onboard will also be treated to some of the most delicious food in all of Japan as the dining car serves exclusive dishes prepared by its master chef. Pricing is available upon request.
Belmond Royal Scotsman: Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands
If you’re going to take something as traditional as a train journey, you might as well make it to a tradition-filled location. That’s where the Belmond Royal Scotsman's Edinburgh train ride comes in. On the four-night trip, guests are treated to all meals onboard the train, including a full Scottish breakfast and four-course dinner. Along the way, guests will disembark for seal watching or a visit to the Eilean Donan Castle. Guests will also have the chance to visit the Ballindalloch Castle as well as the Rothiemurchus Estate. After a long day of exploring, guests can retire to their suite, which comes outfitted with plush bedding and soft Scottish tartans to keep you warm at night. Each room also comes with a large picture window so you never even have to leave your room to get the best that Scotland has to offer. Pricing begins at $7,500 per person.
Maharajas' Express: Delhi to Mumbai
Maharajas’ Express is like a vintage dream you never thought possible. The over-the-top train comes decorated with glamour. And that glamour is only amplified by the setting on its Dehli to Mumbai route. On the eight-day route, the train travels through the Indian countryside, stopping at different locations like Udaipur for a Boat ride on Lake Pichola, and Jaipur for an exclusive dinner. If you’re taking this trip, you might as well go all out by booking its presidential suite, which comes with a whopping 448 square feet of living space. Pricing begins at $5,980 per person.
Golden Eagle: Moscow to Vladivostok
The Golden Eagle is ready to take visitors through the wild expanse of Russia. On the 15-day trip, guests will travel fro Moscow through the city of Kazan and on to Novosibirsk, where they may disembark for exclusive city tours. Next, the train heads to Irkutsk, known as the “Paris of Siberia,” and head to Lake Baikal, Ulan Ude, and Mongolia. Don’t worry about getting tired out during the day as guests get to sleep in beautiful accommodations. Book an imperial suite to maximize space and comfort with their double beds, sitting area, and private bath. Pricing begins at $16,995 per person.
The Canadian: Toronto to Vancouver
If you’re looking to have a landscape take your breath away, hop aboard The Canadian from Toronto to Vancouver. The four-night and four-day trek takes guests from Toronto to Sudbury, Sioux Lookout to Winnipeg, Saskatoon to Edmonton, Jasper to Kamloops, and finally to Vancouver. On the route, the train will take guests through deep forests, along river banks, through cities, and every bit of scenery in between. Book a stay with its prestige class, which comes with a personal concierge, private bedrooms with private bathrooms, an a la carte menu, and more. Pricing available upon request.
The Ghan: Adelaide to Darwin
For four days and three nights, the Australian Outback can be yours. All you need to do is board The Ghan from Adelaide to Darwin. On the cross-continental adventure, guests will have the chance to partake in off-train excursions in Katherine, Alice Springs, and Coober Pedy. Onboard, they will be treated to delicious meals, have the opportunity to taste Australian wines, and simply sit by the window to watch the stunning landscape whiz by. On the train opt for the platinum level, which comes with a more extensive suite and personalized service while en route. Pricing begins at $1,425 per person.
