The evolution of railway travel has woven a rich tapestry of history, reflecting the culture and essence of the destinations it connects. For that reason, traveling in luxurious trains offers an incomparable adventure that elevates your usual comfort to a level of extravagance. Each journey becomes a distinctive experience, transporting you to a world of elegance and sophistication. Here’s a top list of the most expensive trains in the world, where soulful luxury meets the magic of timeless travel.
Top 1: The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
Price range: Start from $4.000 – $100.000 USD/person depending on the accommodation type
Destinations: Various routes from Paris, Venice, Verona, Brussels.
About the train: The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a name that immediately springs to mind when talking about the most expensive luxury railway travel. This iconic train runs across Europe and is famous for its 1920s-style extravagance carriages, filled with vintage details that evoke the golden age of train travel. Passengers aboard this fancy train can enjoy exquisite full-course meals, and elegant sleeper cabins, making it a regal train journey. In other words, this luxury train ride defines what it is like to travel in the epitome of European’s luxury.
Top 2: Golden Eagle Danube Express, Europe
Price range: Start from $10,000 to $40,000 USD/person depending on itinerary chosen
Destinations: Various routes across Eastern Europe
About the train: The Golden Eagle Danube Express is a luxury train experience that offers an exceptional journey through the heart of Europe, taking passengers on a breathtaking exploration of some of the continent’s most enchanting landscapes and historic cities. This elegant train combines the charm of vintage rail travel with modern comfort, featuring beautifully appointed cabins that offer a blend of traditional décor and contemporary amenities. What elevates the Golden Eagle Danube Express to the realm of luxury is its all-inclusive nature and the level of personalized service provided to each guest. With a focus on comfort and exclusivity, the train accommodates a limited number of passengers, ensuring an intimate and attentive experience.
Top 3: The Palace on Wheels, India
Price range: From over $6,000 to $27,000/person depending on the cabin type
Destinations: Rajasthan, including Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and other royal destinations.
About the train: The Palace on Wheels and its high cost is justified by its meticulously designed royal suites that reflect the grandeur of Rajasthan’s palaces, equipped with high-end amenities and luxurious en-suite bathrooms to ensure utmost comfort. Guests enjoy gourmet meals prepared by local chefs, offering a menu that showcases the rich flavors of Indian cuisine, all within elegant dining cars that create a sophisticated atmosphere. The exceptional level of service, provided by a dedicated team of staff members trained to cater to each guest’s specific needs, adds to the regal experience. Additionally, the price range typically covers accommodations, meals, and guided excursions at various stops along the route which include exclusive experiences like private tours of historic forts and palaces.
Top 4: The Maharajas’ Express, India
Price range: Start from over $3,000/person to $24,000 USD/person.
Destinations: Multiple routes covering Rajasthan, Agra, Varanasi, to Mumbai.
About the train: One of the most luxurious trains in the world, the Maharajas’ Express offers a royal journey through some of India’s most stunning landscapes. This luxury train boasts the interiors that connect the grandeur of India’s royalty past, showcasing exquisite detail in every aspect of the experience. Specifically, the unparalleled level of craftsmanship in each suite, featuring hand-crafted furniture, plush bedding, and traditional artwork added to the extent of its prices. On top of that, the train’s world-class cuisine, and personalized service offer you an escape to live through a life of Indian’s royalty.
Top 5: The Deccan Odyssey, India
Price range: Start from $8,000 – $20,000 USD per person.
Destinations: Multiple routes in Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Southern India.
About the train: The Deccan Odyssey is a luxurious Indian train that offers a fancy journey through the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. Passengers aboard the Deccan Odyssey can enjoy spacious suites, a private spa, and luxury days out by train of India’s most famous historical and cultural sites. This modern luxury train is perfect for enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in India’s rich history and natural beauty where no price tag can define, promising a memorable and transformative travel experience that highlights the essence of India in the utmost luxury.
Top 6: The Rovos Rail, South Africa
Price range: Start from over $3,000 – $20,000 USD per person for various itineraries.
Destinations: Cape Town to Pretoria
About the train: The Rovos Rail combines past charisma with modern conveniences, offering a leisurely journey through some of Africa’s most extraordinary landscapes. Known for its elegantly restored vintage carriages, luxurious cabins, and gourmet dining, it is the luxury train to dive in with irreplaceable excitement. The train’s observation car also provides panoramic views of Africa’s diverse scenery, from vast savannahs to mountain ranges. Additionally, the all-inclusive nature of the trip, which includes fine wines, curated excursions, and gourmet multi-course meals prepared with fresh local ingredients, adds to the expensive adventure.
Top 7: The Royal Scotsman, Scotland
Price range: Over $7.000 to $15.000 USD/person, based on suite types
Destinations: Various routes across the Scottish Highlands.
About the train: The Royal Scotsman presents one of the most expensive train fares in the world, taking passengers through the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. The luxury train cost is characterized by classic Scottish design with fine dining and personalized service, travelers are welcomed to venture authentically like a royal member of Scotland. Also, with a focus on world-class service, the Royal Scotsman offers everything from private cabins to an onboard spa, making it a standout in luxury railway travel.
Top 8: The Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan
Price range: From $6.000 to $14.000 USD per person.
Destinations: Kyushu Island
About the train: Japan’s Seven Stars in Kyushu defines luxury in terms of excellent service and rarity. It is the luxury private train that selects reservations through a lottery system. With only 14 suites available, this luxury private train is designed for those seeking a truly private and personal journey. The interiors feature a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern luxury, with handcrafted woodwork, intricate designs, and high-end amenities. The culinary experience onboard, featuring regional specialties prepared by renowned chefs, uses the finest seasonal ingredients. This combination of limited availability, bespoke service, and unmatched attention to cultural details creates an unparalleled experience that justifies its premium price.
Top 9: The Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru
Price range: Start from $1,100 to $12,000 USD per person depending on the itinerary.
Destinations: Cusco, Puno and Arequipa.
About the train: This luxury train ride to Machu Picchu offers deluxe accommodations, gourmet dining, and breathtaking scenery, highlighting the beauty and heritage of Peru. In detail, the design of the train is a rich reflection of the Andean culture and inspiration from the natural beauty of the Peruvian highlands. The cost of the journey lies in the spacious suites adorned with traditional Peruvian textiles, intricate wood accents to private observation cars that offer uninterrupted views of the stunning Sacred Valley. Without a doubt, the train takes you on a ride of authenticity and leisure unlike no other.
Top 10: The Royal Canadian Pacific, Canada
Price range: Start from over $8.000 – $10.000 USD per person depending on the itinerary
Destinations: Calgary, Vancouver, and the Canadian Rockies
About the train: Aboard the Royal Canadian Pacific, guests are treated to an exclusive experience with fine dining, plush suites, and attentive, personalized service, all set within the refined elegance of the train’s royal-inspired interiors. With a capacity of only 30 passengers, the journey offers a sense of privacy and exclusivity, making it ideal for those seeking a more intimate travel experience. As the train winds through the breathtaking landscapes of Canada, passengers can fully immerse themselves in the stunning views while enjoying the comfort and charm of this luxurious, historic train. The limited number of guests allows for a more tailored experience, ensuring a private and intimate experience as it travels through Canada’s most scenic landscapes.
Top 11: The Indian Pacific, Australia
Price range: From $3,000 – $9,000 USD per person based on cabin type
Destinations: Sydney, Perth and Allandale
About the train: The Indian Pacific is one of the world’s greatest transcontinental train journeys, stretching from the Pacific Ocean on Australia’s east coast to the Indian Ocean on its west coast. Spanning 4,352 kilometers (2,704 miles), this luxurious train journey crosses the entire Australian continent, passing through some of the country’s most iconic landscapes, including the Blue Mountains, Nullarbor Plain, and Outback. Operated by Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions, the Indian Pacific offers a combination of comfort, gourmet dining, and immersive off-train experiences, making it the world’s most expensive train ride.
Top 12: The Ghan, Australia
Price range: $2,500 – $9,000 USD per person based on cabin type
Destinations: Adelaide to Darwin (through the Outback).
About the train: Spanning across Australia, the Ghan is known for being one of the most expensive luxury trains in the world. The train’s Gold and Platinum service cabins offer passengers the chance to enjoy the vast landscapes of Australia in complete luxury. The interiors reflect a sophisticated design, incorporating warm colors and natural materials that evoke a sense of tranquility and connection to the surrounding landscape. Another significant factor contributing to its high cost is that The Ghan features exceptional dining options, where guests can enjoy gourmet meals prepared by world-class chefs using fresh, signature ingredients as the train passes through.
Top 13: The SJourney, Vietnam
Price range:
- Dec 2024: $7.320/person
- Jan 01/2025 – Dec 31/2025: $8.610/person
Destinations: Journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City or vice versa, with special stops in six distinctive cities along the route.
About the train: As Vietnam’s first luxury train, SJourney sets the standard for the most expensive sleeper train that blends contemporary luxury with old-world charm. Leisure enthusiasts are drawn to this luxurious train for the extensive comfort and cultural immersion it provides, featuring a charming balance between Vietnam’s rich heritage and high-end amenities. The train comprises grand sleeper cabins that are spacious and elegantly furnished with cultural signature’s details. The focus on luxury then extends to the exclusive VIP dining lounges with sophisticated atmosphere. Another significant premium attribute is the all-inclusive nature of the journey. Passengers enjoy a curated selection of cultural excursions and experiences at various stops often off the beaten track.
Top 14: The Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
Price range: Start from over $3,150 to $7,375 USD/person based on types of accommodation.
Destinations: Various connecting routes connecting Singapore, Bangkok or Malaysia
About the train: The Eastern & Oriental Express offers a luxury train experience between Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. With Southeast Asia-inspired interiors, gourmet dining, and top-notch service, this glamorous train takes passengers through tropical landscapes, ancient temples, and bustling cities. What makes it so expensive is the excellent level of exclusivity and comfort it provides where each cabin is a private sanctuary featuring elegant wood paneling and plush furnishings. Additionally, the train’s gourmet dining experience, with menus crafted by world-class chefs using the finest ingredients, offers a culinary journey that matches the scenic vistas outside, elevating the entire travel experience to a level of a lifetime adventure.
Top 15: The Blue Train, South Africa
Price range: From over $3,000 – $5,000 per person.
Destinations: Between Pretoria, Cape Town and Kruger National Park
About the train: Often referred to as the most luxurious train ride in the world, South Africa’s Blue Train offers a dazzling journey. This overnight luxury train provides travelers with exquisite cabins that are furnished with expensive amenities, ensuring a comfortable and indulgent stay. Guests can relish the elegance of the dining cars, where world-class chefs prepare gourmet meals featuring local ingredients, paired with exceptional wines. Additionally, the attention to detail in the train’s design, which incorporates rich fabrics, elegant woodwork, and a sophisticated atmosphere, reflects the grandeur of South African heritage. This combination of fancy accommodations, splendid cuisine, and the chance to experience Africa’s stunning landscapes and wildlife creates an unforgettable travel experience that justifies the Blue Train’s premium price.
Final Thoughts: The World’s Most Expensive Trains for an Ultimate Luxurious Journey Ahead
As you contemplate the luxurious journeys that lie ahead aboard the world’s most expensive trains, remember that each experience offers a unique blend of comfort, elegance, and adventure that no expense can define. From splendid world-class designs to customizing dining with stunning scenic views, these trains tell the story of travel with history, allowing you to soak in the beauty and culture of your destination in distinctive style. So, let yourself embark on a remarkable adventure that combines luxury and exploration in a way that only these extraordinary trains can offer.
