Traveling long-distance by luxury train is a remarkable experience that goes beyond reaching a destination; it’s about completely immersing yourself in the journey. Long-distance train rides always offer the perfect blend of slow travel, where you can unwind in comfort, savor cuisine, and connect with fellow travelers in an atmosphere that’s both intimate and exclusive. There’s no rush, no crowds—just the pure joy of travel, elevated to its most luxurious form. Here’s our curated list of 15 world’s longest luxury train rides you must experience for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Top 1: ROVOS RAIL of Africa
– Distance: 5,800 km
– Destinations: South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania
– Travel Days: Route options vary from 3 days to 15 days
– About the train: As the longest luxury train journey, adventurers can find themselves surrounded by magnificent African wildlife, such as elephants and antelope, as the train gently moves through the open space. The experience is further elevated by the option to enjoy a classic high tea, complete with freshly baked pastries, all while surrounded by the breathtaking scenery. Its observation car creates a perfect blend of old-world charm and an intimate connection with nature.
Top 2: THE CANADIAN of Canada
– Distance: 4,466 km
– Destinations: Visits to famous cities like Vancouver, Winnipeg to Toronto
– Travel Days: Depends on each itinerary, usually from 4-5 days
– About the train: The Canadian features scenic dome cars, specifically designed to provide passengers with unmatched panoramic views of Canada’s breathtaking landscapes. These observation cars are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a 360-degree experience that lets travelers take in the natural beauty around them. This thoughtfully designed space delivers a perfect vantage point for witnessing Canada’s diverse terrain while relaxing in plush seats, making the journey as captivating as the destination itself.
Top 3: THE INDIAN PACIFIC of Australia
– Distance: 4,352 km
– Destinations: Sydney, Perth, and Adelaide
– Travel Days: Depends on each itinerary, usually from 2 – 3 days
– About the train: The Indian Pacific offers a cross-continental journey through three different time zones. The luxury sleeper train delivers a seamless blend of adventure and extravagance, from the lush Blue Mountains to the vast stretches of the Nullarbor Plain. In addition, guests can savor signature meals for the impressive dining experiences, featuring locally sourced Australian cuisine, paired with fine regional wines, all while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Top 4: SHONGOLOLO EXPRESS of Southern Africa
– Distance: Up to 4,000 km
– Destinations: Through South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique
– Travel Days: 12-15 days
– About the train: The train finds its way through diverse landscapes, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of rugged mountains and magnificent savannahs, each offering a unique glimpse into the natural beauty of Southern Africa. There are spacious observation cars where travelers can take in panoramic vistas while enjoying a refreshing drink or indulging in gourmet meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Another awesome attribute for culinary enthusiasts is the gourmet meals prepared by skilled chefs who focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that present the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Top 5: MAHARAJAS’ EXPRESS of India
– Distance: Approximately 3,000 km (varies by route)
– Destinations: Rajasthan, Agra, Varanasi, to Mumbai
– Travel Days: 7 days
– About the train: The Maharajas’ Express is a renowned journey that offers travelers an unparalleled royal experience steeped in the luxury reminiscent of India’s regal heritage. Onboard, guests can indulge in several dining options, including elegant restaurants and private dining experiences, ensuring that every meal is a special occasion. Additionally, guests can engage in curated excursions, from guided tours of ancient temples to interactions with local artisans.
Top 6: THE GHAN of Australia
– Distance: 2,979 km
– Destinations: Adelaide, Darwin, and Alice Springs
– Travel Days: 4 days for each itinerary
– About the train: As it traverses the continent from north to south, the train passes through the heart of Australia’s iconic Red Centre, offering passengers an up-close view of the country’s rugged and remote landscape. Along the way, travelers can marvel at the dramatic transformation of the landscape—from the tropical Top End with its lush wetlands and gorges, to the arid, sunburnt expanses of the Outback. Accompanied with the gorgeous view, the train operates with high-end furniture for that extreme level of expense.
Top 7: VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT-EXPRESS of Europe
– Distance: 2,740 km (Venice to Istanbul)
– Destinations: Venice, Paris, Istanbul, Verona, Brussels, Amsterdam and Prague
– Travel Days: 2 days for each itinerary
– About the train: This legendary train traverses the heart of Europe, taking passengers on an memorable journey that captures the elegance and glamour of the 1920s and 1930s. As it rolls through stunning landscapes, guests are transported back in time to an era of Art Deco sophistication. Every detail on board, from the meticulously restored vintage carriages to the intricate marquetry and plush furnishings, reflects the opulent style of a golden age.
Top 8: GOLDEN EAGLE DANUBE EXPRESS of Europe
– Distance: 2,500 km (varies by itinerary)
– Destinations: Central and Eastern Europe
– Travel Days: 8 or 12 days
– About the train: The Golden Eagle Danube Express is a luxurious train that offers a captivating journey through the heart of Europe. With its elegantly restored vintage carriages and opulent interiors, the train provides an exquisite travel experience reminiscent of a golden era. Travellers can indulge in gourmet dining that showcases local culinary delights while enjoying breathtaking views of the picturesque landscapes, including the stunning Danube River and the scenic hills of Central Europe. Each journey is enriched with cultural excursions, allowing travelers to explore historical sites, charming villages, and vibrant local markets.
Top 9: THE DECCAN ODYSSEY of India
– Distance: Approximately 2,300 km (varies by route)
– Destinations: Extend across India from Delhi, Agra, Sawai Madhopur, Jaipur to Mumbai and more
– Travel Days: 7-8 days
– About the train: Abroad on this luxurious train, passengers are treated to lavish accommodations that blend modern comfort with traditional Indian decor, ensuring a truly regal atmosphere. Each journey includes visits to iconic historic sites, such as the magnificent palaces of Udaipur and the majestic forts of Jaisalmer, where travelers can immerse themselves in India’s rich cultural heritage.
Top 10. EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS of Southeast Asia
– Distance: Around 2,030 km (varies by the itinerary)
– Destinations: Thailand, Bangkok and Malaysia
– Travel Days: 4 days
– About the train: The train travels from Singapore to Bangkok, offering an extraordinary journey that combines the exotic beauty of Southeast Asia with five-star luxury. Along the route, guests can explore vibrant markets filled with colorful textiles and aromatic street food in Malaysia, or venture into ancient rainforests teeming with unique wildlife. Part of the experience is also the elegantly designed compartments and modern amenities, ensuring an experience of ultimate comfort and style.
Top 11: THE SJOURNEY of Vietnam
– Distance: 1720 km
– Destinations: Depart from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, including stops at Ninh Binh, Quang Binh, Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phan Thiet City.
—> Detail itinerary & activities
– Travel Days: 8 days, 7 nights
– About the train: Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Vietnam as you trace the country’s unique shape from the Red River Delta to the Southern Central on the SJourney. The iconic train lets you witness the stunning views of terraced rice fields, and lush mountains, each offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry. Passengers can dive into authentic cultural experiences, such as hands-on craft workshops, jeep adventures and culinary cooking classes that provide a deeper understanding of local art and traditions.
Top 12: THE ROYAL SCOTSMAN of Scotland
– Distance: Approximately 1,500 km (varies by route)
– Destinations: Across Scotland Highlands
– Travel Days: 3 to 7 days journeys are available
– About the train: This is one of the longest luxury train rides offering scenic journeys through the Scottish Highlands with various itinerary options. Hence, passengers truly live in the diversity of such incredible landscapes and Scotland’s rich history. Travelers can enjoy the view by sitting back in signature tartan design amenities and feel the coziness from intricate wood panels. Moreover, The itinerary includes visits to historic castles that tell the stories of Scotland clans and stops at renowned whisky distilleries where guests can savor unique flavors and learn about the whisky-making process.
Top 13: THE BLUE TRAIN of South Africa
– Distance: 1,600 km
– Destinations: Pretoria, Cape Town, and Kruger National Park
– Travel Days: 3 days, 2 nights
– About the train: The Blue Train provides guests with a front-row seat to South Africa’s diverse and captivating landscapes. As the train winds through the country, passengers are treated to breathtaking scenes ranging from the sprawling savannahs and rugged mountain ranges to lush vineyards and arid desert plains. This extraordinary scenery is paired with an unrivaled level of luxury amenities, as the Blue Train delivers a five-star experience throughout the trip.
Top 14: SEVEN STARS IN KYUSHU of Japan
– Distance: 1,200 km
– Destinations: Kyushu Island
– Travel Days: 4 days journey
– About the train: This journey through Kyushu Island effortlessly blends modern luxury with traditional Japanese elements, creating an experience that captures the essence of Japan’s southernmost island. As the train travels through lively landscapes, guests are treated to the ever-changing views of misty mountains, tranquil coastlines, and scenic rice fields, all while enjoying the comfort of beautifully designed interiors that reflect the island’s rich cultural and local soul.
Top 15: BELMOND ANDEAN EXPLORER of Peru
– Distance: 700 km
– Destinations: Cusco, Puno and Arequipa
– Travel Days: 2 or 3 days
– About the train: Traveling from Cusco to Arequipa, this remarkable journey encompasses some of Peru’s most stunning natural and cultural highlights, including a visit to the majestic Lake Titicaca and the awe-inspiring Colca Canyon. As the train winds through the breathtaking Andean landscape, passengers are also impressed by panoramic vistas of towering mountains, soulful valleys, and vibrant terraced fields, all of which showcase the remarkable diversity of Peru’s topography.
Endless adventures with the world’s longest luxury train rides
These luxury train experiences offer not only some of the longest journeys in terms of distance but also combine high-end comfort with breathtaking views, cultural experiences, and the romance of classic rail travel. Leisure enthusiasts or adventurous spirits are treated to a divine environment that features cozy but expensive cabins decked with elegant furnishings, ensuring a serene retreat after a day of exploration. Every moment becomes a highlight with the ever-changing scenery outside combined with the timeless designed interiors inside, creating a seamless experience of relaxation and discovery.
