Traveling through Europe on a luxury train has a unique charm. Picture yourself walking along beautiful streets, sipping champagne, and enjoying fine caviar, all while the gentle motion of the train adds to the ambiance. These journeys combine comfort, elegance, and adventure, offering more than just transportation—they create unforgettable experiences.

With top-notch service, breathtaking views, and romantic settings, Europe’s luxury trains have become timeless symbols of refined travel. If you’re dreaming of such a getaway, here’s a closer look at some of the best European train tours, designed to make your journey truly special.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

1. • The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express epitomizes luxury European train travel, renowned for its timeless Art Deco carriages and sophisticated ambiance. This legendary train evokes the golden era of rail journeys, connecting iconic cities such as Venice, Paris, and London.
   • Routes: The train traverses various parts of Europe, with popular routes including Venice to London and Paris to Venice.
   • Travel Duration: Trips typically range from 1 to 5 days.
   • Ticket Prices:
   • Grand Suites: Starting from approximately $13,000 per person.
   • Luxury Train Tickets
   • Suites: Starting from around $10,000 per person.
   • Luxury Train Tickets
   • Historic Cabins: Starting from about $4,500 per person.
   • Luxury Train Tickets
   • Dining: Guests indulge in gourmet meals crafted from seasonal ingredients, accompanied by fine wines and champagne. The menu blends traditional European recipes with modern twists, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

Belmond

1. • Embarking on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers a unique journey through Europe’s picturesque landscapes, all while enjoying unparalleled luxury and service.

The Illustrious Scotsman, Scotland

For travelers seeking a blend of adventure, culture, and luxury, the Royal Scotsman stands out as an excellent choice for luxury train travel in Europe. This Scottish treasure takes you on an intimate journey through the stunning Highlands, offering breathtaking views, visits to historic castles, and indulgent whisky tastings.

Routes:
The Royal Scotsman offers journeys across Scotland with itineraries like Taste of the Highlands, Wild Scotland, and the Scotch Malt Whisky Tour.

Travel Duration:
Trips range from short 2-day escapes to immersive 7-day explorations.

Ticket Prices:

• Grand Suites: Starting at $15,600 per person
• Double Cabins: Starting at $6,900 per person
• Twin Cabins: Starting at $6,300 per person

Dining:
The onboard dining experience celebrates Scotland’s rich culinary traditions with dishes like haggis, fresh seafood, and locally inspired delicacies. Meals are thoughtfully paired with fine Scotch whiskies, prepared by expert Scottish chefs for an authentic and luxurious culinary journey.

Belmond Northern Beauty, UK

The Belmond Northern Belle captures the charm of the golden age of rail travel in the UK. This luxurious train offers scenic journeys across the British countryside, combining gourmet dining with rich cultural experiences.

Routes:
The train travels from London to various cities, including York, Bath, and Edinburgh, providing a mix of picturesque and historic destinations.

Travel Duration:
Primarily designed as day trips, making it perfect for short, indulgent escapes.

Ticket Prices:
Fares range from $260 to $740 per person. The carriages are elegantly designed and named after iconic British castles and estates.

Dining:
The culinary experience features dishes such as braised pork belly, lamb shoulder with kale, and traditional afternoon tea, all expertly crafted by the onboard executive chefs for a refined dining experience.

The Ice sheet Express, Switzerland

1. The Glacier Express, often called the “slowest express train in the world,” offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Travelers are treated to stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and charming Swiss villages.
2. Routes:
   The train travels between Zermatt and St. Moritz, passing through picturesque cantons like Valais, Uri, and Graubünden.
3. Travel Duration:
   The full journey takes approximately 8 hours.
4. Ticket Prices:
   Fares vary based on the route, ranging from $90 to $320 per person.
5. Dining:
   The onboard menu highlights regional Swiss specialties such as raclette, paired with fine wines and digestifs from the cantons of Graubünden and Valais, providing a delightful culinary experience to complement the scenic ride.

El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, Spain

The El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo is one of Spain’s most luxurious trains, offering travelers a unique way to explore the northern coast. This journey combines breathtaking coastal views, regional cuisine, and visits to iconic landmarks for an unforgettable experience.

Routes:
The train travels between San Sebastián and Santiago de Compostela, with options to journey in either direction.

Travel Duration:
The full trip spans 8 days.

Ticket Prices:

• Select Double Suite: Approximately $10,000 per person
• Exclusive Single Suite: Approximately $17,000 per person

Dining:
The onboard dining experience rivals Michelin-star quality, showcasing the best of Spanish cuisine. Guests can savor tapas, paired with locally sourced wines and spirits, ensuring an exceptional culinary journey. 

The Danube Express, Central & Eastern Europe

The Danube Express
The Danube Express is celebrated for its vintage elegance, offering journeys through iconic cities such as Budapest, Vienna, and Istanbul. It combines historical exploration with modern luxury for a truly unique experience.

Routes:
The train offers itineraries like Paris-Istanbul, Budapest-Zurich, and Venice-Istanbul.

Travel Duration:
Journeys typically range from 7 to 12 days.

Ticket Prices:

• Select Cabin: $11,000 – $28,000 per person
• Superior Deluxe Cabin: $17,000 – $40,000 per person

Dining:
Gourmet meals are crafted using locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Guests can observe the daily morning tradition of fresh supplies being brought aboard, ensuring every meal is fresh and authentic.

Al Andalus Train
The Al Andalus train takes passengers through southern Spain, blending a vintage Belle Époque atmosphere with modern amenities. It offers an immersive experience of Andalusian culture as it passes through historic cities like Seville, Córdoba, and Granada.

Routes:
Runs between Seville and Málaga, with the option to travel in either direction.

Travel Duration:
Week-long journeys.

Ticket Prices:

• Grand Class Room: $6,600 – $11,000 per person
• Superior Deluxe Cabin: $7,700 – $13,500 per person

Dining:
The onboard dining experience includes Spanish specialties such as tapas, gourmet dishes, and wines from some of Spain’s most renowned regions, adding a rich culinary touch to the journey.

The Jacobite, Scotland
The Jacobite steam train is a nostalgic journey through the scenic Scottish Highlands, running between Fort William and Mallaig. It’s famous for crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films.

Routes:
Fort William to Mallaig and back.

Travel Duration:
Covers 42 miles (68 km) in approximately 2 hours.

Ticket Prices:

• First Class: Around $100 per person
• Standard Class: Around $70 per person
• Private Table for Two: Available for $220

Dining:
Passengers can enjoy Afternoon Tea with a selection of Scottish treats, including mature cheddar, free-range egg sandwiches, and Coronation Chicken, adding a touch of local flavor to the journey.

The Flåm Railroad, Norway
The Flåm Railroad offers a breathtaking journey through Norway’s stunning fjords. Starting in the village of Flåm, the train climbs to the Myrdal mountain station, showcasing incredible views of waterfalls, deep gorges, and majestic peaks.

Routes:
A round trip from Flåm to Myrdal.

Travel Duration:
Spans 20 miles (32 km) and takes about 2 hours.

Ticket Prices:
Tickets start at $60 per person.

Dining:
The train provides light refreshments and snacks onboard, ensuring passengers can relax and enjoy the picturesque scenery in comfort.

Golden Pass Panoramic Express, Switzerland
The Golden Pass Panoramic Express is a scenic train journey through the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views of lakes, mountains, and picturesque villages through its large panoramic windows.

Routes:
The train runs between Interlaken, Gstaad, and Montreux, connecting some of Switzerland’s most stunning destinations.

Journey Length:
Approximately 3.5 hours.

Ticket Prices:

• Second Class: Starting at $70 per person
• First Class: Starting at $110 per person
• Prestige Class: Available upon request

Dining:
Passengers can enjoy locally sourced Swiss specialties such as artisan cheese, Frutigen caviar, and Lavaux wine, adding a delightful culinary touch to the journey.

Final Thoughts: Beyond European Luxury Trains
Luxury train journeys redefine travel, combining history, sophistication, and exceptional service. From the majestic Swiss Alps aboard the Glacier Express to Spain’s stunning coastline with El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, each experience blends comfort and culture in unique ways.

For those seeking a similar level of refinement outside Europe, Vietnam’s SJourney offers an unparalleled experience. This Southeast Asian luxury train combines European-style elegance with local charm. Passengers can explore iconic Vietnamese destinations while enjoying gourmet dining, impeccable service, and curated excursions.

Whether in Europe or Asia, luxury trains embody the romance and relaxation of rail travel, making them ideal for travelers who value comfort and unforgettable scenery.