Skip to main content

Luxury Train Travel: Ride the Rails in Splendor Aboard One of These Extravagant Trains

With the ever-shrinking airline legroom and the desire to harken back to an age where travel was an elegant affair, luxury train travel has recently enjoyed a revival. While a train trip will take significantly longer, the benefit lies in the details of the experience. In addition to visiting exotic destinations along the route, you’ll be able to watch as amazing landscapes rush by while indulging in five-course meals before drifting off to sleep in your private cabin to the rhythmic rocking of the rails.

Book your ticket, pack your bags, and prepare for a timeless journey aboard one of these four extravagant rail trips.

Recommended Videos

Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express

Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Russia and Mongolia

The two-week Trans-Siberian route connects Moscow to Vladivostok and is perhaps the world’s greatest railway journey. While spending two weeks aboard a train may seem less than enjoyable, Golden Eagle has raised the ante with Silver and Gold Class accommodations (all with en-suite bathrooms) and limited Imperial Suites on each route. The route is available eastbound and westbound with each crossing the Ural Mountains, traversing the vast Mongolian steppe and ride along the shore of the world’s largest freshwater lake. 

Rovos Rail Pride of Africa

Step Aboard The Pride of Africa - Rovos Rail

Africa

Climb aboard this epic 15-day train journey from Cape Town, South Africa, to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Guests can choose from three suite options as they travel on this safari-by-rail trip of a lifetime. Prices for the north to south (or the return) journey start at $12,820 and include all accommodations, meals, and excursions. Need a little more motivation before booking? The excusrion will take guests through South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania. While large panoramic windows allow for epic views of the African landscape, guests can also experience whitewater rafting, sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, game drives, and more. 

Belmond Andean Explorer

Belmond Andean Explorer
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Peru

While shorter in scope than some of the other luxury trips, this rail route travels through some of the most scenic terrains in South America, if not the world. The Andean Explorer also takes one of the highest train routes and the dramatic landscape can be enjoyed from the observation car. Begin the journey in the former Incan capital of Cusco and navigate the heart of the Andes as the train makes its way to Arequipa via Puno and the Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. Or, if you prefer, start in Arequipa and finish in Cusco. Each of the twin and double cabins provides en-suite bathrooms and are accented with traditional handwoven fabrics and alpaca wool blankets.

Train Suite Shiki-Shima

Japan

Making travel reservations typically revolves around availability. With Train Suite Shiki-Shima, the process involves an application process and lottery if more reservation requests exist than spaces allotted. With multiple suite options to choose from, guests can relax in luxurious comfort while enjoying the beautiful landscape of this island nation. Even before guests board the  shiny gold modern train at Platform 13.5, they are treated like royalty as they wait in the private lounge. Once aboard, the train features multiple suite options and depending on your luck (and budget), perhaps the two-floor suite will be on the itinerary.

Clay Abney
Former Former Digital Trends Contributor, The Manual
Clay Abney is a PR guru and freelance writer living in the wild and wonderful state of West Virginia, where he spends his…
The most child-friendly city in Europe might surprise you
Paris might be the perfect place to take your kids
Paris

Thinking about moving abroad with kids or planning a family vacation? A new report from the Clean Cities Campaign reveals the top European cities for child-friendly mobility, and the winner might not be what you expect.

Paris, France, has been named the most child-friendly city in Europe. While often seen as a busy capital, Paris ranked highest for its safe driving speeds and protected cycling infrastructure. The city’s ambitious School Streets program is a key reason for its top ranking. Paris aims to create 300 School Streets by 2026, with at least a third fully redesigned to include greenery and safety features.

Read more
Rock Creek Resort in Montana is making a big comeback in July 2025
Newly renovated with the needs of the modern traveler in mind
Rock Creek Resort

Rock Creek Resort in Montana, a 40-acre property along Rock Creek near historic Red Lodge, is set to reopen in July after an extensive renovation. The property has a foundation built upon a long and rich history, serving as a staple in the community for over 50 years. Now managed by Columbia Hospitality, the newly reimagined Rock Creek Resort will serve the modern traveler while still honoring its storied past. Some upgrades include refreshed dining experiences, versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces, and new design elements and amenities designed with modern needs.

The new renovation includes 78 upgraded rooms and suites, including creekside accommodations that feature clawfoot tubs, fireplaces, and private decks. These accommodations make the resort well-suited for all types of travelers, including solo travelers, families, and groups. The development team's focus for the upgrades includes comfort and connection, with upgrades like a thoughtfully designed communal space to unite people. Upgraded amenities like saunas and a heated indoor pool promote relaxation while on-site activities, such as axe throwing and fly fishing, celebrate the area's natural beauty.

Read more
Delta adds new global flights and lounges as it grows Seattle presence
Delta SkyClub, Seattle

This week, Delta bolstered its offerings at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), announcing two new lounges and direct service to Rome and Barcelona. The airline will also offer priority access to 18 gates throughout Concourses A and B, so travelers can enjoy a smoother experience from ticketing to touchdown.

Flights to Rome and Barcelona, and two new lounges

Read more