Train travel is an iconic experience that often combines comfort, scenic views, and luxury. Some of the world’s most extravagant trains offer passengers not just a ride, but a luxurious experience that feels more like a five-star hotel on wheels. These expensive train journeys are about more than just transportation—they’re about indulgence, opulence, and adventure. From gourmet meals to private suites, here’s a list of the most expensive and luxurious train journeys in the world.
1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe)
Arguably the most famous luxury train in the world, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has been synonymous with opulence and elegance for decades. The train runs from London to Venice, offering a timeless journey through some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes.
Cost: Prices for a one-way trip start around $2,000 per person, but for the ultimate luxury experience, the suite can cost more than $10,000.
Experience: Traveling aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is like stepping back in time. Passengers are treated to an ultra-luxurious experience with vintage 1920s carriages, fine dining, and personalized service. The journey is as much about the experience as it is about the destinations, offering passengers the chance to savor gourmet meals and cocktails in an elegant setting.
2. The Maharajas’ Express (India)
India’s Maharajas’ Express is one of the most luxurious trains in the world, offering multiple routes that travel across the country’s cultural and historical landmarks. It is often referred to as the “jewel of Indian luxury trains.”
Cost: Prices for a four-night journey start at approximately $3,500 per person, with the more exclusive suites costing up to $20,000.
Experience: The Maharajas’ Express offers world-class amenities such as lavish suites with private bathrooms, fine dining, and luxury service. Guests can enjoy excursions to famous Indian sites like the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s palaces, and Rajasthan’s deserts, all while being pampered by the train’s staff. With its royal décor, five-star cuisine, and cultural immersion, the Maharajas’ Express is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
3. The Royal Scotsman (Scotland)
The Royal Scotsman offers an exceptional way to explore the Scottish Highlands in style. This luxurious train journey allows travelers to experience Scotland’s scenic beauty in a setting of unmatched luxury.
Cost: Fares for a two-night journey start around $2,000 per person, with the most exclusive cabins costing more than $5,000 per person.
Experience: The Royal Scotsman boasts elegant wood-panelled cabins, private bathrooms, and exquisite dining. The train’s observation car offers panoramic views of the breathtaking Scottish landscape, and guests can enjoy local whisky tastings, gourmet meals, and private tours to castles, distilleries, and other Scottish landmarks.
4. The Eastern & Oriental Express (Southeast Asia)
This luxurious train offers a unique way to explore Southeast Asia, including travel through Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. The Eastern & Oriental Express features lavish interiors and a glamorous atmosphere.
Cost: Prices start around $1,800 per person for a two-night journey, with suites costing more than $4,000 per person.
Experience: This train journey is known for its luxurious atmosphere, which blends colonial-style interiors with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy fine dining in a beautiful restaurant car, relax in deluxe suites, and explore cultural sites in Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. The train is also known for its impeccable service, making it one of the most exclusive travel experiences in Southeast Asia.
5. The Blue Train (South Africa)
The Blue Train is one of the most luxurious trains in Africa, offering stunning views of South Africa’s natural beauty, from mountains and deserts to savannahs and vineyards. It travels between Pretoria and Cape Town.
Cost: Prices for a one-way journey range from $1,000 to $2,500 per person, depending on the suite and the route.
Experience: The Blue Train is renowned for its luxury, offering deluxe suites with private bathrooms, a gourmet dining experience, and stunning views of South Africa’s diverse landscapes. Guests can enjoy fine wines, personalized butler service, and scenic excursions to some of the country’s most iconic attractions, such as the Cape Winelands and the Kruger National Park.
6. The Shiki-shima (Japan)
The Shiki-shima is one of Japan’s newest luxury trains, offering passengers an unforgettable journey through the country’s most scenic and historic regions. Known for its sleek design and ultra-modern amenities, the Shiki-shima is a cutting-edge example of Japanese luxury travel.
Cost: A two-day trip on the Shiki-shima starts at around $2,500 per person, with higher-tier suites costing upwards of $10,000 per person.
Experience: The Shiki-shima offers passengers a mix of contemporary luxury and Japanese elegance. Each suite is equipped with private bathrooms and spacious interiors, and the dining experience is second to none, featuring traditional and modern Japanese cuisine. Onboard guests can enjoy breathtaking views through panoramic windows, attend cultural performances, and experience the ultimate in Japanese hospitality.
7. The Ghan (Australia)
The Ghan is a legendary train that travels through the heart of Australia, offering passengers the chance to explore the outback in luxury. The journey spans from Adelaide to Darwin, passing through vast deserts and unique landscapes.
Cost: Prices start around $1,200 per person for a three-day journey, with upgraded suites reaching over $3,000 per person.
Experience: The Ghan is known for its luxurious service, featuring spacious cabins, gourmet dining, and plenty of opportunities to explore the Australian outback. Travelers can take guided tours to places like Alice Springs, the stunning Nitmiluk Gorge, and the striking red deserts of the Northern Territory, all while enjoying first-class accommodations onboard.
8. Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
Traveling through the stunning Canadian Rockies, the Rocky Mountaineer offers an unparalleled view of this rugged and beautiful region. With several routes, the train offers an exceptional way to experience the mountainous terrain in comfort.
Cost: Fares for a one-way journey start around $1,500 per person, with luxury packages exceeding $5,000 per person.
Experience: The Rocky Mountaineer is famous for its panoramic windows, which provide breathtaking views of the Rockies and other natural wonders. Onboard, guests enjoy gourmet meals, first-class service, and the opportunity to take excursions in towns like Vancouver and Banff. The train is equipped with luxurious cabins, including GoldLeaf Service, which offers even more comfort and personalized attention.
9. Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express (Russia)
The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express offers one of the most luxurious ways to explore Russia and its neighboring countries, traveling across the vast Russian landscape and into Mongolia and China. The journey is epic, offering a deep dive into history, culture, and luxury.
Cost: Prices range from $15,000 to $40,000 for a one-way trip, depending on the suite and route.
Experience: Onboard, passengers are treated to deluxe suites, exquisite dining, and world-class service. The Golden Eagle offers excursions to historical sites such as the Kremlin, Lake Baikal, and Ulaanbaatar. It’s a perfect blend of luxury and exploration, with a focus on comfort and cultural immersion.
Conclusion
These luxurious train journeys are not just about transportation—they are an experience in themselves. From the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountaineer to the royal opulence of the Maharajas’ Express, these trains offer the ultimate in comfort, style, and adventure. For those willing to splurge, these expensive train journeys provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines travel, luxury, and unforgettable memories.
