Discover the best and most expensive trains in the world – a ranking of 10 extraordinary train routes
The interest in prestigious train journeys on board exclusive trains is considerable among Poles, mainly thanks to literature and films. Exclusive trains evoke the image of old times, when travel was more than just moving from one city to another. We spend more and more on extraordinary trips and on unconventional and premium slow travel. Travelers do not skimp on exceptional experiences and sensations. There are so many planned routes of exclusive trains in 2025 alone that it is difficult to present them all. So get to know 10 luxury trains selected by us from the exclusive offer of the travel agency CARTER®. The best trains are available all over the world, both on European routes in England or France, as well as on routes in African countries, as well as in India, Peru or Vietnam.
We present 10 extremely exclusive train sets:
1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
2. British Pullman and Belmond Train
3. Royal Scotsman
4. Hiram Bingham
5. Andean Explorer
6. Eastern & Oriental Express, and Belmond Train
7. Rovos Rail
8. Maharajas' Express
9. The Vietage by Anantara, Vietnam
10. Britannic Explorer, England and Wales, Great Britain
1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the most famous train of the prestigious Belmond brand. VSOE travels on the London-Paris-Milan-Venice route, and its antique interiors are breathtaking with their elegant design and timeless splendor. The train made its first journey in 1982. Many of the interior design elements are original artifacts, largely from the early XNUMXth century. Train guests can discover the most beautiful corners of Europe during various routes, e.g. from Paris to Prague, from Rome or Florence to Paris, or from London to Vienna, Budapest or Prague. The route from London to Venice is considered the most iconic section of the train - it is an extremely picturesque route stretching through French plains, vineyards, castles, the Swiss and Italian Alps and many charming corners of northern Italy.
Guests fall asleep amidst plush furnishings, fresh linens and handcrafted decorations in beautifully restored 20s cabins. In the morning, they enjoy morning coffee and cakes served in bed by obliging stewards. The most luxurious form of accommodation is the Grand Suite with a marble bathroom, XNUMX-hour butler service and unlimited champagne. Guests of the train ending in Venice can continue their stay in the film scenery of the legendary Cipriani hotel, where they will find the same level of service and beautiful interiors. Discover the wonders of the Venetian lagoon and taste the Italian La Dolce Vita!
2. British Pullman
Go on a timeless journey around Great Britain. On board the historic British Pullman train you can expect luxury, splendor and adventure as you travel miles through the idyllic landscapes of the English countryside. British Pullman carriages, restored to their former splendor and splendor, are as famous today as they were in the heyday of the railway. Whether you prefer afternoon tea, champagne or both - like many guests - there is something for everyone. Whatever you choose, we guarantee you will be transported back to a more elegant era.
Outstanding chefs will take care of the guests' palates accompanied by the famous Dom Perignon champagne. Join a new, spectacular culinary series, led by the most talented Michelin-starred chefs in the country, in cooperation with Dom Perignon. Book your trip and dive into the secrets of culinary delights courtesy of Lisa Goodwin-Allen, Anna Haugh and Angela Hartnett in July and September. In October, we invite you to an unparalleled five-course culinary experience, signed by Nieves Barragán Mohacho. Enjoy the new exclusive Cygnus wagon designed by filmmaker Wes Anderson.
3. Royal Scotsman, Scotland
Discover the spirit of Scotland accompanied by great whiskey, traditional music and stories told from generation to generation. Scotland's railway lines are considered some of the most beautiful in the world, thanks to the unique landscapes of the rugged northern island landscape. Belmond Royal Scotsman trains offer the most beautiful routes, but also ubiquitous luxury and impeccable service. Passengers have 22 compartments at their disposal, which can accommodate a total of 40 people. During the day, the stewards turn the cabins into elegant living rooms, and in the evenings they reconfigure the rooms, turning them into cozy bedrooms.
The train also includes a restaurant car, serving local dishes from the freshest products delivered to the train at stops. In addition to exquisite dishes, the staff also offers Scotch whiskey tasting, of which there are several dozen types on board. Railway lines offer passengers the opportunity to organize special events on board. Royal Scotsman trains have new spacious Grand Suites cabins with private butler service and a complimentary spa treatment from the DIOR brand.
4. Hiram Bingham, Peru
Have you ever dreamed of traveling through the Peruvian Andes on a train inspired by exclusive Pullman cars from the 20s? The Hiram Bingham Train not only makes this possible, but turns an already magical journey into an unforgettable experience with personalized service that takes care of every little detail. Traveling to Machu Picchu on the exclusive Hiram Bingham train you will enjoy a refined dining car, bar car and observatory car, from where you can admire the wonderful open-air route, accompanied by a Peruvian cocktail and local live music shows.
Start your experience on the platform in Cusco with a welcome cocktail. Once the tour begins maitre d' invites you to a delicious lunch with Peruvian gastronomy. And if your trip is round-trip, a gourmet dinner will be waiting for you on your return from Machu Picchu. In both cases, guests have a choice of hot and cold drinks and an excellent selection of wines.
Throughout the entire route from Cusco to Aguas Calientes or from Aguas Calientes to Cusco, you will be accompanied by a unique show with international music, constituting the framework of an unforgettable trip.
5. Andean Explorer
Traveling aboard the modern Andean Explorer is the most luxurious way to experience Peru. The contemporary design of the train impresses with light earthy colors and noble materials such as alpaca wool. From the tranquil Lake Titicaca to the famous floating island of Uros, you will admire unforgettable places while sampling Peruvian cuisine made with the freshest Andean ingredients. The breathtaking landscapes of the highest railway line in the world will remain in your memory for a long time, as will the evenings spent with other guests in the lounge car, drinking pisco sour to the rhythm of the piano.
Guests have access to a spa car with invigorating Andean rituals and soothing massages. On the way from Puno to Cusco, the train stops at La Raya Market, a colorful stretch of stalls filled with handicrafts and traditional products. Exploring Peru on board Belmond trains and staying in amazing hotels of this brand is a dream travel plan to Peru with CARTER®.
6. Eastern & Oriental Express, and Belmond Train, Southeast Asia
There is only one place where the spirit of a bygone era has been captured and where sunsets lie beneath royal cities and rice plantations. A place where wonderful history and inspiring wealth intertwine. Welcome to the Eastern & Oriental Express, the unique Belmond luxury train in Malaysia. This is slow travel at its best - step on board and book an unforgettable train journey in splendor. Thai silk, Malaysian embroidery and cherry wood finishes are just a small fragment of the luxury provided by a journey on the Asian Eastern Oriental train through fascinating Malaysia. In the shiny green and cream carriages, guests can expect cabins with three available standards, each with a separate, fully equipped bathroom. There are also two restaurant cars and a bar waiting for passengers.
During the trip, each passenger can count on the service of the best butlers 24 hours a day, fulfilling the guests' wishes. A team of chefs creates dishes that make for delicious cuisine The Peranakan and spicy aromas of Southeast Asian cuisine become the highlight of your trip. Thanks to the unique combination of Chinese and Malaysian flavors, the crew will tirelessly please your taste buds.
The most expensive and at the same time the most luxurious form of accommodation on board the Eastern Oriental train is the spacious Presidential Suite with 24-hour service, unlimited champagne and caviar upon arrival.
From 2024, Eastern Oriental will feature two new, charming 4-day itineraries, enabling travelers to have unforgettable experiences, including a fascinating encounter with the tigers of Taman Negara Park and visiting picturesque places such as Kuala Lumpur and Penang, as well as discovering the charms of Langkawi and Penang.
7. Rovos Rail, Africa
Go on a magical journey "Pride of Africa" and discover the most beautiful places in Africa. This is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious trains in the world, offering journeys around the Dark Continent lasting from 48 hours to 15 days, during which you can visit South Africa, Namibia, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Rovos Rail also offers a fascinating 10-day Golf Safari with rounds of golf on the best golf courses in the world such as Leopard Creek, Roya Swazi and Sun City Gary Player. On board the ROVOS train, guests will discover the most beautiful places in South and Central Africa, enjoying the nostalgic atmosphere of the 20s. The founder of the railway is a South African entrepreneur, Mr. Rohan Vos, who in the 80s built replicas of historic carriages, but equipped them with all the latest amenities and also purchased a historic steam locomotive.
Rovos Rail is more than just a train. It is a nearly 40-year-old living legend, comprising a five-star hotel, an exclusive dining and observation car, and a means of transport that allows you to discover Africa from a railway perspective. The Rovos Train has gained a reputation for discreet and friendly service, exquisite cuisine and wonderful South African wines served on board without limit. The beautifully restored cars, pulled by diesel or electric locomotives, can carry up to 72 passengers in 36 suites.
The most exclusive cabins on the ROVOS train are the Royal Suites with an area of 16 square meters, a living room with a refrigerator and a spacious bathroom with a Victorian bathtub and a separate shower.
8. Maharajas' Express, India
Since the advent of railways in India, train travel has always been a privilege of the upper classes. Traveling in luxurious private trains was a common practice among the British aristocracy and Indian royalty. "Maharaja", the title of ancient Indian kings, is synonymous with wealth and luxury. Now you can see this luxury with your own eyes and experience it yourself, leisurely visiting historical and iconic places in India.
Since 2010, Maharajas' Express has allowed you to discover the charms and attractions of India in truly royal conditions. It is a unique combination of style, local culture and splendor. It is currently one of the highest-rated luxury trains in the world, and its quality is proven by seven awards in a row, won in the years 2012-2018 in the prestigious World Travel Awards competition. The train is over one and a half kilometers long and has 23 carriages that can carry a maximum of 84 passengers. In total, there are 43 cabins on the train, including one unique presidential suite. All cabins have full-size bathrooms. On the train, passengers have two restaurants, a bar, a boutique and a club at their disposal. In the last carriages there are luxury cars waiting for guests during off-train attractions along the route.
The wagons were named after the precious gems worn in the crowns of Indian maharajas, such as Moti (pearl), Manik (ruby), Heera (diamond), Panna (emerald), and Neelam (sapphire). The Navratana presidential suite with an area of over 40 square meters consists of a living room, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a free mini-bar; is served XNUMX hours a day by a personal butler.
9. The Vietage by Anantara, Vietnam
The most exclusive train experience in central Vietnam, combining history with nature, beauty with luxury and excitement with tranquility. Two elegant 12-person carriages, operated by the prestigious Anantara chain, connect the historic ancient town of Hoi An, the coastline of Quy Nhon and the bustling seaside resort of Nha Trang. The Vietage train is two luxurious train carriages, each with six private cabins, with two comfortable seats in each cabin.
Inspired by the beauty of Vietnam and old-time train travel, the train offers passengers views of the green plains of central Vietnam and forested mountains. The beautifully designed carriages also feature their own bar seating, gourmet meals, private toilets and a dedicated area for head and shoulder massages.
10. Britannic Explorer, England and Wales, Great Britain
Britannic Explorer takes you on fascinating journeys through the landscapes of England and Wales, combining nostalgia with timeless railway heritage and contemporary British food and culture. Prepare for a truly unique way to travel, immersing yourself in the epitome of British creativity and finesse – elegant carriages filled with works of art and artefacts from contemporary cultural icons.
The train departs from London and the routes take you on a three-day journey through the spectacular natural landscapes of Cornwall, the Lake District and Wales. During the day, join optional guided tours to explore the rich cultural heritage, beauty and history of each destination.
At night, relax in the train bar and enjoy the culinary delights of celebrity chef Simon Rogan. Brittannic Explorer is one of the newest and most luxurious trains in England, Europe and the world, and has been officially added to the Belmond brand portfolio. Brittannic Explorer will be launched in July 2025 and will be the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales. Its construction was justified by the huge increase in demand for slow and eco-friendly travel.
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Author: Travel Agency CARTER®
