5 Star Train Ride: Top 10 Unforgettable Journeys 2024

Journey in Style: Luxury Train Travel

If you’re looking for a 5 star train ride that marries elegance, comfort, and an unforgettable experience, you’ve come to the right place. Nothing compares to the allure of luxury train travel. It offers more than just a means of transportation—it provides a journey through picturesque landscapes with all the amenities of a five-star hotel.

Why Choose a 5 Star Train Ride?
– Timeless elegance and sophisticated design
– Personalized, top-tier service
– Gourmet dining experiences
– Private, luxurious accommodations

Imagine moving through the world’s most stunning scenery while nestling comfortably in a plush seat or relaxing in an exquisitely designed sleeper cabin. Luxury trains like the Venice Simplon-Orient Express and the Royal Scotsman turn travel into an neat trip.

Paul Theroux once said, “If a train is large and comfortable, you don’t even need a destination.” Whether you’re traveling through the English countryside or the Japanese mountains, the journey itself is the reward.

The Most Luxurious Train Rides in the World

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Relive the golden age of travel on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This train features carefully restored 1920s carriages and offers five-star dining and service. Choose from historic cabins with upper and lower sleeping berths, or splurge on a suite or grand suite for a truly bucket-list experience. Once onboard, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Rovos Rail

Experience the best of South Africa with Rovos Rail. This train offers stunning scenery, wildlife, and mouthwatering cuisine. Choose from three luxurious accommodation classes and enjoy world-class service. Rovos Rail provides a unique way to explore South Africa, making every journey unforgettable.

Golden Eagle Danube Express

Travel from the castles of Transylvania to the lush Balkan landscapes on the Golden Eagle Danube Express. This train offers unique off-train excursions managed by a personal tour manager. After a busy day of exploring, return to luxurious cabins with private bathrooms and enjoy white-glove dining featuring the finest regional cuisine.

Deccan Odyssey

Explore India’s historic sites in ultimate luxury on the Deccan Odyssey. This train offers a royal experience with traditional Indian cuisine and visits to iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal and Ranthambore National Park. It’s the perfect way to see India in style.

Belmond Royal Scotsman

Travel through the Scottish Highlands on the Belmond Royal Scotsman. This train offers dreamy landscapes, world-class cuisine, and luxurious private cabins with ensuite showers and toilets. Each day includes excursions through Scotland’s small towns and countryside.

El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo

Journey through Spain’s northern coast on the El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo. This train offers luxurious suites, gourmet dining, and off-train excursions to cultural landmarks. It’s a splendid way to experience Spain’s rich heritage and beautiful landscapes.

Eastern & Oriental Express

Explore Southeast Asia in luxury on the Eastern & Oriental Express. This train offers ornate sleeping cabins, white-linen dining, and included sightseeing experiences. Travel through Singapore and Malaysia in air-conditioned comfort and style.

Belmond Andean Explorer

Travel through the Peruvian Andes on the Belmond Andean Explorer. This train offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of the Andes. It’s a unique way to explore Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

Shangri-La Express

Experience China in luxury on the Shangri-La Express. This train offers comfortable cabins, delicious cuisine, and guided excursions to some of China’s most famous landmarks. It’s an unforgettable way to see this fascinating country.

Al-Andalus

Travel through southern Spain on the Al-Andalus. This train offers luxurious suites, gourmet dining, and off-train excursions to cultural landmarks. It’s a splendid way to experience Spain’s rich heritage and beautiful landscapes.

Belmond Hiram Bingham

Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas on the Belmond Hiram Bingham. This train offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of the Andes. It’s a unique way to explore Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

The Ghan

Travel through the heart of Australia on The Ghan. This train offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of the Australian outback. It’s a unique way to explore Australia’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

Indian Pacific

Travel from Sydney to Perth on the Indian Pacific. This train offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of Australia’s diverse landscapes. It’s a unique way to explore Australia’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

Rocky Mountaineer

Gaze upon the Rocky Mountains from a unique perspective while savoring delicious food and drinks from the comfort of a luxurious cabin on the Rocky Mountaineer. Choose from routes through Western Canada or Colorado, with the entire journey taking place during daytime hours so you won’t miss a minute of scenery.

The Canadian

Travel from Toronto to Vancouver on The Canadian. This train offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of Canada’s diverse landscapes. It’s a unique way to explore Canada’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

Belmond British Pullman

Travel through the British countryside on the Belmond British Pullman. This train offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of the British countryside. It’s a unique way to explore Britain’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

Maharajas’ Express

Make your way through some of India’s treasured historic sites and destinations in ultimate luxury onboard the Maharajas’ Express. Taste traditional Indian cuisine while visiting the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and more. It’s the bucket-list India vacation you’ve always dreamed of.

Kyushu Seven Stars

Travel through Japan’s Kyushu Island on the Kyushu Seven Stars. This train offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of Japan’s diverse landscapes. It’s a unique way to explore Japan’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

Golden Pass Panoramic Express

Travel through Switzerland’s stunning landscapes on the Golden Pass Panoramic Express. This train offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of Switzerland’s diverse landscapes. It’s a unique way to explore Switzerland’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

Flam Railway

Travel through Norway’s stunning landscapes on the Flam Railway. This train offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of Norway’s diverse landscapes. It’s a unique way to explore Norway’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

Bergen Railway

Travel through Norway’s stunning landscapes on the Bergen Railway. This train offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of Norway’s diverse landscapes. It’s a unique way to explore Norway’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

Glacier Express

Travel through Switzerland’s stunning landscapes on the Glacier Express. This train offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of Switzerland’s diverse landscapes. It’s a unique way to explore Switzerland’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

Bernina Express

Travel through Switzerland’s stunning landscapes on the Bernina Express. This train offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of Switzerland’s diverse landscapes. It’s a unique way to explore Switzerland’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

5 Star Train Ride: The Ultimate Luxury Experience

Start on a 5 star train ride and experience the epitome of luxury travel. These journeys are akin to staying in a five-star hotel, offering exquisite design, gourmet dining, and personalized service, all while gliding through some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Exquisite Design

Luxury trains are a marvel of design. Take the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, where Art Deco interiors transport you back to the golden age of travel. Each car is a masterpiece, featuring polished wood, plush fabrics, and intricate marquetry. Similarly, Japan’s Seven Stars in Kyushu blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern luxury, offering a serene yet opulent environment.

Gourmet Dining

Dining on a luxury train is a culinary trip. On the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, meals are crafted using ingredients sourced along the route. Imagine savoring Brittany lobsters or Provençal tomatoes while the train winds through picturesque landscapes. The Eastern & Oriental Express in Asia offers a similar experience, with dishes inspired by Thai, Malaysian, and Singaporean cuisines, served in a setting reminiscent of the 1932 film “Shanghai Express.”

Personalized Service

Personalized service is the hallmark of these journeys. On the Royal Scotsman, for instance, the service is so custom that passengers can enjoy a Dior Spa treatment while gazing at the Scottish Highlands. The Seven Stars in Kyushu takes exclusivity to the next level by limiting its capacity to just 20 passengers. This ensures that each guest receives undivided attention and a truly unique experience.

Unforgettable Experiences

A 5 star train ride is more than just a journey; it’s an experience. On the Rovos Rail in South Africa, passengers can enjoy the view from open-air balconies, sip drinks in the observation car, and even stop in the Cape Winelands for a final toast. The British Pullman, redesigned by Wes Anderson, offers themed rides like murder mystery luncheons and star guest-chef dinners, making each trip a memorable trip.

Whether it’s the grandeur of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, the exclusivity of the Seven Stars in Kyushu, or the unique experiences on the Royal Scotsman, a 5 star train ride promises an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and trip.

Next, let’s explore the top 5 star train rides in the USA.

Top 5 Star Train Rides in the USA

While the U.S. might not be the first place that comes to mind for luxury train travel, it offers some truly exceptional 5 star train rides that rival the best in the world. Here are the top U.S. experiences that promise elegance, comfort, and unforgettable views.

Rocky Mountaineer

The Rocky Mountaineer made its U.S. debut in August 2021 with the Rockies to Red Rocks route, a two-day journey from Denver to Moab, Utah. This trip includes an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. The glass-domed cars provide stunning views of mountains, canyons, and rivers. Passengers enjoy multi-course meals, with SilverLeaf Plus ticket holders gaining access to a lounge car with a bar and an exclusive outdoor observation deck.

Napa Valley Wine Train

The Napa Valley Wine Train has been a staple since 1864, offering a three-hour round-trip journey between downtown Napa and St. Helena. This ride is perfect for wine lovers, featuring multi-course gourmet meals in historic railway cars. The Vista Dome car, a 1952 Pullman, offers nearly uninterrupted vineyard views. Some itineraries even include stops and tastings at various wineries.

Grand Canyon Railway

For a unique way to visit the Grand Canyon, the Grand Canyon Railway offers a leisurely two-and-a-half-hour journey from Williams, Arizona, to Grand Canyon Village. The Luxury Parlor and Luxury Dome classes provide the most opulent experience, with private bars and open-air platforms. This adults-only service ensures a peaceful and luxurious ride through the desert landscapes.

Strasburg Railroad

Pennsylvania’s Strasburg Railroad is the oldest continuously operating railroad in the country, founded in 1832. While the rides are short, lasting only 45 minutes, they are filled with history and charm. For a luxury experience, book one of the historic first-class cars, such as the Marian (the private-hire President’s Car), the Parlor Car, or one of the Lounge Cars. Special wine-and-cheese experiences are available on select evenings, adding an extra layer of indulgence.

Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad offers a 470-mile scenic journey from Seward to Fairbanks. The GoldStar Service, available on the Denali Star and Coastal Classic trains, provides a luxurious experience with spacious seats in a domed car, access to an outdoor viewing platform, meals in the dining car, and a private bar. This service allows passengers to soak in Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes in style.

These top 5 star train rides in the USA offer a unique blend of luxury, history, and stunning scenery, making them a must-try for any travel enthusiast.

Next, let’s explore the top luxury train rides in Europe.

Exploring Europe in Style

Europe offers some of the most luxurious and scenic train journeys in the world. Here are the top 5 star train rides that promise elegance, comfort, and unforgettable experiences.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is legendary for a reason. Running from London to Venice, with stops in Paris and Verona, this train is a journey back in time. The Art Deco interiors and vintage cabins evoke the golden age of travel. Dining on board is a gourmet experience, with local ingredients sourced along the route. Imagine savoring Brittany lobsters or Provence tomatoes as you glide through picturesque landscapes.

Quote: “If a train is large and comfortable you don’t even need a destination,” wrote Paul Theroux in “The Great Railway Bazaar.”

Belmond Royal Scotsman

Travel through the Scottish Highlands in unparalleled luxury on the Belmond Royal Scotsman. This train offers a unique blend of opulence and rugged beauty. Guests can relax under tartan wool blankets in their suites or enjoy a scotch in the mahogany dining car. Unique to this train is the onboard Dior Spa, where you can book a facial, massage, or manicure while enjoying the stunning views.

Golden Eagle Danube Express

The Golden Eagle Danube Express provides a luxurious way to explore Central and Eastern Europe. The train travels through iconic cities like Budapest, Prague, and Istanbul. Each cabin is neatly designed, and the dining car serves gourmet meals that reflect the regions you pass through. The train also includes a bar lounge, perfect for relaxing with a drink after a day of sightseeing.

Belmond Andean Explorer

South America’s first luxury sleeper train, the Belmond Andean Explorer, offers a unique way to experience Peru. The train travels from Cusco to Arequipa, passing through the stunning landscapes of the Andes. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining, luxurious cabins, and an observation car with an open-air deck for panoramic views. The train also stops for excursions, allowing passengers to explore local attractions like Lake Titicaca.

Al-Andalus

The Al-Andalus train takes you on a journey through the cultural heart of Spain. This luxury train travels through cities like Seville, Córdoba, and Granada. The train’s carriages are beautifully restored and feature neat dining cars, where guests can enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine. The train also offers guided tours and excursions, providing a deep dive into Spain’s rich history and culture.

These 5 star train rides in Europe offer a perfect blend of luxury, history, and breathtaking scenery, making them a must-try for any travel enthusiast.

Next, let’s explore the top luxury train rides in Asia.

Asian Luxury Train Journeys

Asia offers some of the most exotic and luxurious train journeys in the world. Each of these 5 star train rides promises a blend of cultural richness, exquisite design, and unparalleled comfort. Let’s explore the top luxury train rides in Asia.

Eastern & Oriental Express

Since 1993, the Eastern & Oriental Express has been enchanting travelers with its luxurious journeys through Southeast Asia. Inspired by the 1932 film “Shanghai Express,” the train’s interiors feature Thai silk, Malaysian embroidery, and cherrywood paneling.

• Destinations: Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok
• Highlights: Lush rainforests, ancient temples, white-linen dining
• Unique Feature: Evening wear is required for dinner, adding a touch of elegance to the experience

Quote: “The rich design is improved by the views when the train passes through lush rain forests or ancient temples.”

Maharajas’ Express

The Maharajas’ Express offers a royal experience through India’s historic sites. This train is known for its opulent cabins and gourmet dining, reflecting the grandeur of India’s royal past.

• Destinations: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Ranthambore National Park
• Highlights: Traditional Indian cuisine, guided excursions
• Unique Feature: Personal butlers ensure a personalized service, making you feel like royalty

Deccan Odyssey

The Deccan Odyssey is a journey through India’s diverse landscapes and rich history. Designed to resemble a palace on wheels, this train offers a luxurious way to explore India’s cultural heritage.

• Destinations: Mumbai, Goa, Jaipur, Udaipur
• Highlights: Lavish interiors, multi-cuisine dining, onboard spa
• Unique Feature: Themed journeys like “Maharashtra Splendor” and “Indian Sojourn” offer varied experiences

Shangri-La Express

The Shangri-La Express takes you through the heart of China, offering a unique blend of modern luxury and ancient culture. This train is perfect for those looking to explore China’s vast landscapes in comfort.

• Destinations: Beijing, Lhasa, Xi’an
• Highlights: Scenic views, cultural excursions
• Unique Feature: Personal tour managers provide in-depth insights into local culture and history

Kyushu Seven Stars

Japan’s Kyushu Seven Stars is a masterpiece of luxury train travel. With its beautifully crafted interiors and exceptional service, this train offers a unique way to explore the island of Kyushu.

• Destinations: Fukuoka, Yufuin, Kagoshima
• Highlights: Japanese craftsmanship, gourmet dining, hot spring visits
• Unique Feature: The train’s design incorporates elements of traditional Japanese aesthetics, creating a serene and neat atmosphere

These 5 star train rides in Asia offer an unparalleled travel experience, combining luxury with the rich cultural heritage of the region. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples or savoring gourmet meals, these journeys promise unforgettable memories.

Next, let’s explore the top luxury train rides in the USA.

Frequently Asked Questions about 5 Star Train Rides

Are there any luxury train trips in the US?

Yes, the US offers several 5 star train rides that provide luxurious experiences:

• Rocky Mountaineer: This Canadian company debuted its first U.S. route, Rockies to Red Rocks, in 2021. The two-day journey between Denver and Moab, Utah, features glass-domed cars for exceptional views and multi-course meals. The SilverLeaf Plus service includes a lounge car with a bar and an outdoor observation deck.

• Napa Valley Wine Train: Operating since 1864, this train offers a three-hour round-trip journey through California’s wine country. Passengers can enjoy gourmet meals and vineyard views from historic railway cars. The Vista Dome car, a 1952 Pullman, is particularly popular for its nearly uninterrupted views.

• Grand Canyon Railway: This train departs from Williams, Arizona, and travels to Grand Canyon Village. The Luxury Parlor or Luxury Dome classes offer private bars and open-air platforms for a more upscale experience.

• Alaska Railroad: Offering scenic excursions through Alaska, the GoldStar Service on the Denali Star and Coastal Classic trains features domed cars, outdoor viewing platforms, dining cars, and private bars.

• Strasburg Railroad: The oldest continuously operating railroad in the U.S., it offers 45-minute rides in historic first-class cars. Options include the private-hire President’s Car, the Parlor Car with tables and sofas, and Lounge Cars with velvet-upholstered chairs. Special wine-and-cheese rides are available on select evenings.

What is the most luxurious train?

The most luxurious trains in the world set the bar high for elegance and comfort:

• Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Known for its art deco interiors and exceptional service, this train travels across Europe and offers gourmet dining and luxurious cabins.

• Seven Stars in Kyushu: Japan’s premier luxury train, featuring beautifully crafted interiors and gourmet dining, offers a serene and neat travel experience.

• Eastern & Oriental Express: Traveling through Southeast Asia, this train offers white-linen dining, luxurious cabins, and scenic views of rainforests and ancient temples.

• Rovos Rail: This South African train offers stunning scenery, world-class cuisine, and three luxurious accommodation classes.

• Heritage Palace on Wheels: Touring through India’s historic sites, it provides opulent cabins and gourmet dining, reflecting India’s royal past.

• Blue Train: South Africa’s Blue Train offers luxurious cabins, fine dining, and stunning views, making it one of the most iconic luxury trains in the world.

• Royal Scotsman: Traveling through the Scottish Highlands, this train offers world-class cuisine, private cabins, and daily excursions.

• Belmond Andean Explorer: This Peruvian train offers breathtaking views of the Andes, luxurious cabins, and gourmet dining.

Are luxury trains worth it?

Luxury trains offer a unique travel experience that combines the elegance of a five-star hotel with the trip of travel. Here’s why they are worth considering:

• Exquisite Design: Luxury trains often feature beautifully crafted interiors that reflect the cultural heritage of the regions they travel through. For example, the Eastern & Oriental Express showcases Thai silk and Malaysian embroidery.

• Dining: Gourmet meals are a highlight, with many trains offering multi-course dining experiences. The Rocky Mountaineer provides multi-course meals either in seats or in a designated dining room, depending on the ticket class.

• Personalized Service: Luxury trains often come with personal butlers or tour managers. The Maharajas’ Express in India, for example, offers personal butlers to ensure a royal experience.

• Scenic Views: Trains like the Rocky Mountaineer and the Alaska Railroad offer glass-domed cars for exceptional views of mountains, canyons, and rivers.

• Unique Experiences: Many luxury trains offer unique excursions and activities. The Grand Canyon Railway, for instance, provides a leisurely trip through the desert to the Grand Canyon.

Luxury train travel is not just about getting from one place to another; it’s about the journey itself. The combination of exquisite design, fine dining, and personalized service makes these journeys unforgettable.

Next, let’s explore the top luxury train rides in the USA.

Conclusion

At Nomazest, we believe that travel is more than just reaching a destination. It’s about the journey, the experiences, and the stories you gather along the way. This is why we are passionate about luxury train travel.

Luxury train journeys offer an unparalleled blend of comfort, elegance, and trip. Imagine gliding through stunning landscapes while enjoying gourmet meals, plush accommodations, and personalized service. This is not just travel; it’s creating unforgettable experiences.

Paul Theroux once said, “If a train is large and comfortable you don’t even need a destination.” This sentiment captures the essence of luxury train travel. Whether you’re exploring the Scottish Highlands on the Royal Scotsman or savoring the Art Deco elegance of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, each journey is a story waiting to unfold.

Our mission at Nomazest is to inspire wanderers like you to explore the world with zest. We want you to find beauty in every corner and joy in every journey. Luxury train travel epitomizes this philosophy, offering a unique way to experience the world.

Ready to start on your next trip? Find more about our luxury trips and start planning your journey in style with Nomazest.

Let’s turn your travel dreams into unforgettable experiences.