The world’s most swoon-worthy way to slow travel? These 20 top train trips, from European routes to Indian and Australian options

Travel in style on a luxury train (Source)

Ah, the allure of train trips. Adventurers and the eco-conscious are drawn to this glamorous, old-world mode of exploration for the impeccable slow-travel vibes. There’s also something to be said about the perspective found onboard a train; experiencing the landscape and scenery in a way that can’t be matched by any other mode of travel. A train trip often brings you where everyday roads cannot, whether it’s through untouched Malaysian jungles on the revamped Belmond Eastern and Oriental itineraries relaunching in 2024, or high into the Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer. For our annual Readers’ Choice Awards – which capture the travel experiences our readers love best, from hotels and airlines to cruises, islands, and luggage – we called on all of you to rank the best of the best rail journeys out there. Here, dear readers, is how the dice fell.

20. Inca Rail
South America

Inca Rail Cabin (Source)

If you’re interested in taking a train to Machu Picchu (and unless you’re a mountain goat, we suggest you do), Inca Rail offers a level of convenience that is difficult to match. It’s also worth mentioning that the first-class service is priced more accessibly than other luxury operators servicing the same route. While onboard, you can expect a tasty menu prepared with organic ingredients grown right in the Sacred Valley, live Peruvian music, ample windows through which you can admire the staggering Andean scenery, and a spacious Observatory Lounge complete with an open-air balcony. For fresh and frothy Pisco sours this good, this is one train that’s well worth the price of admission.

19. Transcantabrico Gran Lujo
Spain

Cabin on the Transcantabrico Gran Lujo (Source)

Take in all the sights and flavors of Spain’s iconic northern coastline on this luxurious sleeper train which, over the course of a week, makes its way between San Sebastián and Santiago de Compostela. You’ll enjoy onboard cuisine that celebrates each of the distinct regions through which this train passes, from Galicia to Basque Country. A unique aspect of this train is that it remains stationary overnight, allowing for late-night excursions and explorations that are uncommon on other sleeper train experiences.

18. Glacier Express
Switzerland

Cabin on the Glacier Express (Source)

It’s been said that the Glacier Express is the slowest express in the world – it takes eight hours to traverse the 180-mile journey – but boy, do the views here invite a slow journey. Connecting the resort towns of Zermatt and Saint Moritz, the train provides an up-close perspective of some of this mountainous country’s most iconic natural features, including the Matterhorn, Piz Bernina, and the Rhine Gorge (dubbed Switzerland’s Grand Canyon). Book into Excellence Class, and you’ll be served Champagne at your seat, followed by a six-course meal complete with wine pairings.

17. The Canadian
Canada

Observatory car on The Canadian (Source)

Take in every mile of the vast Canadian landscape from The Canadian, a special sleeper service offered by VIA Rail, the country’s national rail carrier. Keep in mind that this train is more about sightseeing from the cars than actually getting off and doing anything. But if you’re traveling in the comfort of Prestige Class – with your own private cabin, private washroom, and built-in TV screen monitor with video selection – you’ll be perfectly content to take in the journey from the privacy of your very own picture window.

16. The Ghan
Australia

The Ghan (Source)

Completed in 1929, The Ghan runs through the heart of the Australian continent, from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north. It may have only started running its current route in 2004, but its history dates to the 19th century, its name harkening to the Afghan camel trainers and riders who first helped chart a course through the country’s interior. The three-day all-inclusive journey sees the train lilting its way through Australia’s Red Centre with diverse landscapes passing by. Travel through the expansive ridges of the MacDonnell Ranges, witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Simpsons Gap, and visit the opal town of Coober Pedy.

15. JR Kyushu 36+3
Japan

The very Japanese interior of the JR Kyushu 36+3 (Source)

This train’s unusual name derives from Kyushu being the 36th-largest island in the world, and there being three key stakeholders on this journey: the passengers, the local community, and the rail company, JR Kyushu. It isn’t a sleeper train, instead offering a series of weeklong roster of one-day itineraries around the perimeter of Kyushu – a do one, do them all, or do as many as you like situation – but the journey is no less enriching for it. The inside feels like a ryokan, featuring immaculate woodwork made from local techniques, comfortable furniture, and a mix of private and communal spaces. It’s a gorgeous way to get off the beaten track on this gorgeous Japanese island, packing in a number of stops and towns into a single day of productive – yet comfortable – sightseeing.

14. Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train
Southeast Asia

Dining compartment on the Eastern & Oriental Express (Source)

Snaking its way between Singapore and Bangkok, the “E&O” is the stuff of train enthusiasts’ legends. Classical design lovers will appreciate the polished wood-panelled corridors trimmed with silk, the old-world dining room replete with polished silver and white-linen-covered tables, and the Bar Car, reminiscent of 1920s jazz clubs. Indeed, a ride on the E&O is something out of a bygone era of glamorous travel. Order a Singapore Sling at the bar, take it to the outdoor viewing platform as the Malaysian jungle rolls on by, and you just might forget what year we’re living in. (The E&O is still on a pandemic-era pause, unfortunately, but it is expected to be returning to service in 2024.)

13. Northern Belle
Europe

Dining on the Northern Belle (Source)

It’s all about the food – and the scenery, too, but mostly about the food – onboard this lovingly restored 1930s train, which zigzags its way across the English, Scottish, and Welsh countryside. Each of the journeys on offer are day trips, so they require less of a time (and money) commitment than other luxury trains. But what the Northern Belle lacks in length, she more than makes up for in quality: The meal services are exquisite, offering fine dining crafted mostly from UK suppliers, so you can enjoy classic British fare as the heaths, meadows, and dales roll on by.

12. The Maharajas' Express
India

Dining on the Maharaja’s Express (Source)

There are luxury sleeper trains, and then there are luxury sleeper trains like the Maharaja’s Express, where a greeting of marigold garlands and rose petals showered at your feet kicks off the journey before your personal butler escorts you to your room. The Junior Suite rooms are surprisingly spacious, especially by train travel standards, and come with full-sized closets, comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and satellite TVs. Both of the onboard watering holes – the Safari Bar and the Raja Club – have plenty of chairs, comfy sofas, books, and board games. Each day of the itinerary includes special opportunities to experience India through the train’s luxurious and singular perspective: like an early-morning champagne breakfast on a private hillside overlooking the Taj Mahal.

11. Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train
Scotland

Stunning interior of the Royal Scotsman (Source)

It’s about the journey, not the destination, right? Nowhere is train travel more indulgent – or convenient! – than on Belmond’s Royal Scotsman, which departs from and arrives at Edinburgh’s Waverley Station. With only 40 guests onboard, the train circumnavigates the heart of the Scottish Highlands, passing such landmarks as the Kyle of Lochalsh and Cairngorms National Park. There’s even a dedicated spa carriage, where the specialists are trained to synchronize their motions with the natural lilts and tilts of the train. If that’s not luxury, we’re not sure what is.

10. Belmond Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train
South America

Lounge on the Blemond Hiram Bingham (Source)

Named after the US explorer who supposedly “discovered” Machu Picchu in 1911, the Belmond Hiram Bingham train line is as grand as the man’s claims. The round-trip journey connects the city of Poroy (just west of Cusco) to the Lost City and Sacred Valley of Machu Picchu. The Belmond Hiram Bingham turns on the turn-of-the-20th-century charm, from gleaming polished wood and brass surfaces to lavish meals and accommodations, which offer plenty of space to stretch out: the perfect setting for viewing the mountains and rivers zooming past the window.

9. Golden Chariot
India

Dining on the Golden Chariot (Source)

Experience a mix of Southern India’s greatest hits and lesser-explored destinations onboard the iconic purple and gold Golden Chariot, which connects the Indian states of Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Pondicherry. All itineraries depart from Bengaluru, with options for both three-night and six-night journeys. This train’s strength is its access to off-beat attractions than what you’ll find on the well-worn Golden Triangle, such as the ruins of Hampi. With sparse crowds and a comfortable train to retreat to at the end of each day, it’s an approach to India that captures all the magic this country has to offer.

8. Golden Eagle Danube Express
Europe

Dining on the Golden Eagle Danube Express (Source)

A pioneer in luxury trains for three decades, Golden Eagle is perhaps best known for its Silk Road and Trans-Siberian routes, but the Danube Express unlocks an approach to Southern and Eastern Europe which is no less breathtaking and engaging. The “Castles of Transylvania” route from Istanbul to Budapest is particularly unique – spend all day learning about Vlad the Impaler’s history through guided tours, then spend all night luxuriating in a well-appointed private compartment (all come with a personal mini bar). Don’t miss the exceptional excursions planned at the halfway point in Brasov, Romania, where you can hike through the Transylvanian Alps.

7. Rocky Mountaineer
North America

Gorgeous views from the Rocky Mountaineer (Source)

There’s a reason why train enthusiasts all over the world are so vocal in their admiration for the Rocky Mountaineer: This iconic train offers one of the most immersive sightseeing experiences of North America’s most dramatic landscapes. For many, it’s the stunning natural scenery that makes the trip, with the train traversing the Canadian Rockies, passing through Alberta and British Columbia, and even dipping down into the American Rockies. GoldLeaf Service – which includes a bi-level glass-dome carriage with an outdoor viewing platform, plush seats, and complimentary alcoholic beverages – is a particular highlight. Expect exceptional cuisine featuring regional ingredients, such as British Columbian salmon and Alberta beef, served with locally sourced wines. The hosts and guides are also exceptional, providing insightful commentary and excellent service throughout the journey.

6. Rovos Rail
Africa

Lounging on the Rovos Rail (Source)

There’s a lot to love about a journey onboard South Africa’s Rovos Rail, an immersive train experience featuring some of the best trains in the world. All rooms are furnished with old-world South African wood paneling and brass fixtures, lending a sense of yesteryear to every aspect of your stay. The Royal Suites are downright enormous, spanning half a train car and providing unparalleled levels of space and privacy; they even feature full bathtubs in the bathrooms. Some of the line’s most popular routes include trips to Namibia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and even an epic Cape Town-to-Dar es Salaam route that takes two weeks to complete.

5. Belmond Andean Explorer
South America

Relax on the Belmond Andean Explorer (Source)

The Belmond Andean Explorer connects two of Peru’s most iconic destinations: Cusco and Lake Titicaca. South America’s first luxury sleeper train, the Explorer meanders through one of the highest train routes in the world (about 16,000 feet above sea level). The rooms are luxurious – the train cars were retrofitted from their previous life as Australian sleeper trains – and range in size from bunk-style double beds to full-on suites complete with a separate living room. There’s an open-air observation car, a number of restaurants serving gourmet meals, and even a library and lounge to enjoy. The most popular route is the three-day itinerary between Cusco and Arequipa, with a stop at Lake Titicaca along the way.

4. British pullman, a belmond train
england

Embrace luxury on the British Pullman train (Source)

The experience on the British Pullman is enchanting no matter where you're seated. Departing from London, you'll journey through the picturesque British countryside, visiting cities and towns such as Cambridge, York, and Canterbury. The restored carriages, dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, feature Art Deco touches, polished interiors, and classically prepared multi-course meals. This is the same train line that has served British royalty and government officials for years.

3. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train
Europe

Beautiful cabin on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Source)

There are no trains more iconic than the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a rolling relic of the Art Deco age which still plies the tracks of Europe. The classic route connects Paris and Istanbul, a week-long itinerary stopping at Bucharest, Budapest, and a number of other quaint stops along the way. The train is exquisitely appointed, a modern day Agatha Christie whodunit. Book the Presidential Suite if you can; the cabins here are finished with plush furniture and vintage fixtures, which lend an air of old-world glamor. The highlight, though, is undoubtedly the dining car: the train’s chef reportedly forages for fresh ingredients from the farmers markets in each of the cities the train passes through.

2. PALACE ON WHEELS
INDIA

Relax on the Palace on Wheels (Source)

India’s renowned train, the Palace on Wheels, offers a variety of journeys, from short trips of a few days to week-long excursions. Departing from New Delhi, these trips take you through the Land of Kings, including the famous Pink City of Jaipur in Rajasthan, where you can explore majestic UNESCO sites like the Amer Fort and 16th-century palaces. The train also stops in Agra, home to the Taj Mahal, making it an ideal destination for visiting some of the country's most iconic landmarks. Throughout the journey, enjoy regional cuisine in well-appointed, colorful carriages adorned with Indian textiles.

1. Seven Stars in Kyushu
Japan

Incredible design on the Seven Stars train (Source)

From the second you step on board the Seven Stars, you’ll understand why it’s one of the most highly coveted train tickets in the world: It’s a one-of-a-kind bespoke experience. Made up of only seven cars, the train includes 14 suites, a dining car, and a lounge. Itineraries feature four-day circuits around Japan’s southern island of Kyushu and two-day versions covering just part of the island, but the train can be privately chartered, too. Once aboard, you’ll be treated to some of the best food the country has to offer – think bento boxes stuffed with local specialties, beautifully prepared sashimi, and carefully curated regional ingredients – and given exclusive access to sights such as the pottery houses of Arita and the sacred Japanese baths of Beppu. Tickets here are pricey, but the experience is unmatched.

This ranking was put together by cntraveller.com.