Looking to experience Europe in style while soaking in breathtaking views and iconic destinations? Luxury train travel offers a way to explore the continent with a level of comfort, elegance, and exclusivity that few other forms of travel can match. With nine incredible routes, you’ll glide through Europe’s most scenic landscapes and historic cities, all from the plush surroundings of your luxurious train carriage.
Here are nine of the most renowned luxury train routes that promise unforgettable journeys across Europe:
1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
One of the most famous train routes in the world, this journey takes you from London to Venice. Along the way, you’ll pass through stunning locations like Paris and the Swiss Alps, all while being surrounded by the elegance and charm of a bygone era.
Luxury Level: One of the most iconic luxury train experiences in the world, this train offers opulent 1920s-style cabins, fine dining, and impeccable service.
Price Range: Tickets start from around $3,500 per person for a one-way journey from Venice to London but can go up depending on the route and cabin choice.
Best Time to Go: April to November for European routes, but special winter journeys are available, such as to Venice’s Carnival.
Highlights: Art deco interiors, gourmet meals paired with top-tier wines, and breathtaking scenery along the way.
2. The Royal Scotsman
Travel through the Scottish Highlands on this luxurious train, where you’ll experience everything from whiskey tastings to visits to ancient castles. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and luxury in the heart of Scotland.
Luxury Level: Known for its small, intimate size (with a maximum of 40 guests), the Royal Scotsman exudes classic elegance with mahogany-clad cars and five-star service.
Price Range: Approximately $5,500 for a two-night journey, and prices rise for longer itineraries.
Best Time to Go: May to September, when Scotland’s countryside is at its greenest.
Highlights: Majestic views of the Scottish Highlands, off-train excursions to castles and distilleries, and a dedicated spa carriage.
3. The Glacier Express
Billed as the slowest express train in the world, the Glacier Express takes you across the Swiss Alps from Zermatt to St. Moritz. With panoramic windows offering views of snowy peaks and lush valleys, this route is a favorite for nature lovers.
Luxury Level: Although not traditionally classified as a “luxury train,” the Excellence Class on Glacier Express offers a premium experience with panoramic windows, gourmet meals, and personalized service.
Price Range: Excellence Class starts at around $800 per person for a one-way journey.
Best Time to Go: Winter (December to February) offers breathtaking snow-capped views, while summer (June to September) provides lush greenery.
Highlights: The slowest express train in the world, traversing 291 bridges and 91 tunnels through the Swiss Alps.
4. The Bernina Express
Another stunning Swiss route, the Bernina Express, connects Switzerland with Italy, passing through breathtaking alpine scenery. Its journey through the Alps is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Luxury Level: Although it doesn’t offer First-Class-style luxury, the Bernina Express provides a premium experience with panoramic windows that make the scenic views of the Swiss Alps and glaciers feel close enough to touch. The comfort is in the smooth ride and stunning vistas.
Price Range: Tickets start around $60 for second class and $100 for first class, but prices may vary depending on the season and booking time.
Best Time to Go: June to September for the lush, green landscapes of summer, or December to February to witness the snow-covered mountains and frozen lakes.
Highlights: Journey from Switzerland to Italy through the stunning Alps, passing 55 tunnels and crossing 196 bridges. It’s one of the highest railways in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering breathtaking views all year round.
5. The Golden Eagle Danube Express
This luxurious route takes you through Central Europe, passing through iconic cities like Budapest, Prague, and Vienna. It’s a perfect combination of cultural exploration and elegant train travel.
Luxury Level: This train offers a range of cabin classes, with the highest being luxurious en-suite compartments that include all meals and excursions.
Price Range: Journeys start at $7,000 per person, depending on the length of the itinerary.
Best Time to Go: Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
Highlights: The train takes you on multi-country adventures through Central and Eastern Europe, offering excursions to historical sites along the way.
6. The Belmond Grand Hibernian
Explore Ireland’s rolling countryside and bustling cities aboard this luxurious train. The journey includes stops at historic estates, whiskey distilleries, and charming coastal towns.
Luxury Level: The epitome of luxury, the Belmond Grand Hibernian is Ireland’s premium train, featuring elegant cabins with private en-suite bathrooms, fine dining experiences, and all-inclusive service. It exudes the charm of a 5-star boutique hotel on wheels.
Price Range: Prices start around $4,000 for a two-night journey, depending on the season and itinerary, with longer trips costing significantly more.
Best Time to Go: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) provide pleasant weather and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to enjoy Ireland’s lush countryside.
Highlights: The train journeys through Ireland’s scenic landscapes, including stops at ancient castles, whiskey distilleries, and coastal towns. Passengers can immerse themselves in Irish culture with onboard storytelling and local cuisine. This is a must for anyone seeking the true charm of Ireland in an exclusive, intimate setting.
7. The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo
Offering a taste of northern Spain, this train takes you through the green hills and rugged coastline of the Basque Country, Galicia, and Asturias. The onboard dining experience is a particular highlight, showcasing regional Spanish cuisine.
Luxury Level: Offers a luxurious blend of classic Spanish charm with modern amenities, including grand suites, Michelin-starred dining, and guided excursions.
Price Range: Prices range from $4,000 to $6,000 for an eight-day journey.
Best Time to Go: May to October for pleasant temperatures along the northern coast of Spain.
Highlights: Journeying through Spain’s northern coast, with stops at cultural and historical landmarks.
8. The Rheingold Express
This classic route travels along the Rhine River, offering views of Germany’s most famous castles, vineyards, and picturesque towns. It’s a scenic route perfect for history and wine lovers.
Luxury Level: The Rheingold Express harkens back to the glamorous golden age of train travel in Germany. While it no longer runs as a regular service, special charter journeys recreate its historic charm, with vintage cars, fine dining, and impeccable service.
Price Range: Prices vary depending on the specific journey and charter experience, but expect to pay premium rates for these nostalgic rides.
Best Time to Go: Spring and summer (April to September) are ideal for viewing the Rhine River’s breathtaking scenery, including castles and vineyards in full bloom.
Highlights: Travel along the scenic Rhine River, famous for its fairy-tale castles, medieval towns, and terraced vineyards. The Rheingold Express is perfect for history buffs and luxury seekers who want to relive the grandeur of early 20th-century train travel.
9. The Majestic Train de Luxe
Travel like European royalty on this luxurious train that takes you through Austria and beyond. With its opulent interiors and impeccable service, it’s a journey fit for a king.
Luxury Level: The Majestic Train de Luxe delivers a first-class, royal-level experience on rails. Restored to replicate the grandeur of the Orient Express, the train features lavish interiors with plush velvet seats, hand-carved wooden panels, and gold accents. Private suites with spacious lounges and fine dining areas make this one of the most luxurious trains in Europe.
Price Range: Tickets vary based on the chosen route and package, with premium prices starting around $1,500 for a short journey. Full-scale trips can cost upwards of $5,000 per passenger, especially for longer, multi-day journeys.
Best Time to Go: Late spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are ideal times to travel to enjoy the European countryside in bloom or in rich autumnal hues, all while avoiding peak tourist crowds.
Highlights: Passengers are transported back in time to an era of elegance and romance, experiencing personalized service akin to a luxury hotel. The train operates through Austria, Italy, and Germany, showcasing stunning landscapes such as the Alps, Lake Garda, and historical cities like Vienna. The cuisine onboard is a gourmet experience featuring local dishes and fine wines.
Ready to Embark on Your Journey?
Each of these routes offers a unique window into Europe’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re gliding through the Swiss Alps or sipping fine wine in the heart of Spain, luxury train travel offers more than just a way to reach your destination—it’s a travel experience in itself.
To learn more about these incredible routes, including insider tips and how to make the most of your luxury train experience, head over to our full guide on Passing Thru. Here, you’ll find everything you need to plan your ultimate luxury train adventure through Europe’s finest landscapes.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Lidia fotografie.
The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional advice.
The images used are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the actual people or places mentioned in the article.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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