Many of the world’s most luxurious sleeper trains combine spectacular scenery with world-class service and elegant private cabins, offering an immersive travel experience. From historic trains to modern marvels, here is a guide to some of the Best sleeper trains in the World and around the globe.

Top 10 Best Sleeper Trains in the World

Drawing on factors like scenic routes, luxury offerings, and overall experience, here are 10 of the best sleeper trains in the world.

1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe)

This iconic world’s most luxurious sleeper train offers a journey reminiscent of a bygone era of glamorous travel.

Route: Famous routes run between Paris and Venice, with extended, annual journeys to Istanbul.
Highlights: Restored 1920s Art Deco carriages, opulent suites, exquisite fine dining, and lively entertainment in the bar car.

2. The Ghan (Australia)

Known as one of the world’s greatest rail journeys, The Ghan crosses the Australian continent from north to south, traveling through the country’s rugged interior.

Route: Adelaide to Darwin (and vice versa).
Highlights: All-inclusive luxury with regionally-inspired cuisine and off-train excursions to Alice Springs and Katherine.

3. Maharajas’ Express (India)

Voted the “World’s Leading Luxury Train” multiple times, this luxury train takes passengers on a royal tour of India’s heritage sites.

Route: Several routes, such as “Indian Splendour” (Delhi to Mumbai) and “Heritage of India” (Mumbai to Delhi).
Highlights: Elaborate dining cars, plush suites, and off-train tours to places like the Taj Mahal and Ranthambore National Park.

4. Belmond Royal Scotsman (Scotland)

This exclusive train provides an intimate luxury experience through the Scottish Highlands, with custom itineraries that stop for excursions at distilleries and historic castles.

Route: Journeys depart from and return to Edinburgh on various multi-day itineraries.
Highlights: A Dior Spa, an open-air observation car, and lavish dining.

5. Eastern & Oriental Express (Southeast Asia)

A luxurious rail experience that travels through the tropical landscapes of Southeast Asia.

Route: Revived in 2024 with seasonal routes between Singapore and Malaysia.
Highlights: Colonial-style interiors, gourmet meals, and excursions that showcase local culture.

6. Sjourney (Vietnam)

SJourney, introduced in December 2024 as Vietnam’s first 5-star train route, offers a luxury travel experience operated by PYS Travel in partnership with Vietnam Railways Corporation

Route: The primary route is an 8-day, 7-night journey connecting Vietnam’s two major cities, either from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City or vice-versa.
Highlights: Tickets cover luxury cabins, meals, and curated off-train excursions for a seamless experience. With only 30 cabins, the train provides a tranquil and personalized travel experience for a maximum of 60 guests.

7. The Canadian (VIA Rail, Canada)

VIA Rail’s transcontinental sleeper train offers a nostalgic journey through the vast and diverse Canadian landscape.

Route: Toronto to Vancouver.
Highlights: Glass-domed observation cars, comfortable private cabins, and classic dining cars that recapture the golden age of rail travel.

8. Caledonian Sleeper (UK)

This modern sleeper service connects London with the major cities and scenic regions of Scotland.

Route: London to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen.
Highlights: A convenient, comfortable overnight trip with modern cabins and a stylish lounge car.

9. Belmond Andean Explorer (Peru)

This is South America’s first luxury sleeper train, traveling across the high Andean plains.

Route: Cusco to Arequipa, through Lake Titicaca.
Highlights: Luxurious cabins, fine dining, and a scenic observation car for taking in the stunning Peruvian landscape.

10. Tren Crucero (Ecuador)

This unique journey combines modern amenities with restored, historical steam engines. The trip descends through the Andes, offering incredible views.

Route: Travel between the Andean highlands and the Pacific coast, from Quito to Guayaquil.
Highlights: Includes a dramatic ascent of the “Devil’s Nose,” with excursions showcasing the country’s biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Experience Vietnam in ultimate comfort aboard SJourney, one of the best sleeper trains in the World and the country’s first 5-star Vietnam luxury train. This exclusive journey offers elegant cabins, gourmet dining, and curated off-train excursions that showcase the best of Vietnam’s scenery and culture. For booking and exclusive offers, contact us via Mobile / WhatsApp / Zalo: +84 975 119 466.

Why You Should Choose a Sleeper Train To Discover The Word

Luxury sleeper trains are long-distance passenger trains equipped with sleeping cars, allowing travelers to rest overnight and arrive at their destination in the morning. Popular in Europe and Asia, these trains are seeing a revival as a more sustainable and experience-focused alternative to air travel for many routes, with some routes even earning recognition among the world’s best sleeper train experiences.

Save time and money: You can save on hotel costs by combining overnight accommodation with your travel. You also maximize your time by traveling while you sleep, arriving in the morning refreshed and ready to begin your day.
Sustainable travel: With growing environmental concerns, sleeper trains are a popular choice for eco-conscious travelers. Trains have a significantly lower carbon footprint than airplanes, making them a “greener” way to travel.
Avoid airport hassles: Train travel eliminates many of the most stressful parts of air travel, such as long security lines, strict baggage restrictions, and the inconvenient location of many airports.
Scenic and immersive experience: A sleeper train offers a romantic, nostalgic way to see the world. You can watch landscapes pass by from the comfort of your room, and in some regions, experience breathtaking scenery that would be missed on a daytime journey.

FAQs About the World’s Most Luxurious Sleeper Train

1. Which country has the best sleeper train?

Japan’s Seven Stars in Kyushu might just hold that title. Considered one of the most luxurious and sought-after sleeper trains in the world, it’s so exclusive that passengers must enter a lottery just to purchase tickets. Its name pays homage to the seven prefectures of Kyushu, reflecting both elegance and regional pride.

2. What is the best sleeper train in Europe?

In many ways, the Caledonian Sleeper, which runs between London and Fort William in the Scottish Highlands, stands out as Europe’s top night train.

3. What is the most luxurious train journey in the world?

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers an unparalleled experience of timeless glamour — a legendary train that captures the golden age of travel with its exquisite cuisine, refined cabins, and carefully curated cultural stops along the route.

4. Are there any luxury trains in Vietnam?

Yes. SJourney is described as “Vietnam’s first luxury train” travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City (or reverse) in an 8-day journey with high-end cabins, gourmet dining, guided off-train cultural stops.

5. Are sleeper trains in Vietnam safe?

If you’re sensitive to cleanliness, it’s recommended to bring your own bedding and pillowcase. Expect to share the cabin with someone else, if you choose the beds. It’s generally safe to travel by train; however, you might still want to keep your valuables safely hidden.

6. What are the disadvantages of the sleeper train?

So here are some disadvantages of traveling by train overnight.

Overnight Train Travel Can Cost More. …
Sleeping Quarters on Trains can be Tight. …
Chairs and Beds aren’t always comfortable. …
Limited Facilities onboard the Train. …

Conclusion

Exploring the world aboard the best sleeper trains offers an unmatched blend of comfort, elegance, and adventure. From Europe’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to Vietnam’s SJourney, each journey redefines luxury rail travel. Whether you seek breathtaking landscapes or refined hospitality, these are truly the world’s most luxurious sleeper train experiences.

Contact us today to book best sleeper trains in the World and experience the ultimate in luxury train travel.

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SJourney

Hotline (Phone/whatsapp): +84-975-119-466

Email: inquiry@vietnamluxuryexpress.com

Head office: No. 15/52 Giang Van Minh, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

Travel Story Team

The Travel Story Team is the editorial group behind Vietnam Luxury Express – passionate storytellers and travel enthusiasts dedicated to sharing the art of luxury train journeys across Vietnam.

Best Sleeper Trains in the World: Ultimate Guide to Luxurious Train Journeys