There is something undeniably romantic about the idea of train travel. Of the many great train journeys to be found around the world, we picked 10 of the most scenic and unforgettable; some expensive and luxurious, others historic and rustic. From Siberia to South Africa, Switzerland to Singapore, these are trips that will whisk you back in time, and away through some of the world's most stunning countryside.
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer has acquired the reputation as the most spectacular train trip in the world. The Rocky Mountaineer follows the historic train route constructed over 100 years ago through Canada's West and the Canadian Rockies, winds past towering snow-capped peaks the highest Mount Robson reaches 12,972ft, raging rivers & spectacular forests of pine, fir and spruce. As you travel through Canadas legendary landscapes, enjoy the passing views from the large picture windows of Rocky Mountaineers 1950s train cars, each of which have been revamped to modern standards. This world-renowned, luxurious train offers over 45 Canadian vacation packages and four unique rail routes - three train journeys through British Columbia and Alberta to Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper and Calgary, and one train excursion from Vancouver to Whistler.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express, which has been operating since 1930, is billed as "the world's slowest express train" and averages 36 km/h (22 mph) during the approximately 7-hour trip journey on its most popular route, Zermatt to St. Moritz or vice versa. The train travels through 91 tunnels and cross 291 bridges while you experience the alpine wonders of Switzerland. This comfortable train passes through an area of outstanding natural beauty with fragrant, primeval chestnut forests, peaceful Alpine meadows, rushing mountain streams and spectacular valleys with a wealth of centuries-old customs. The Glacier Express is also famous for its unrivaled pampering of travelers throughout the train journey as there are excellent facilities on board including a dining car to ensure all your refreshments & lunch requirements are catered fittingly.
Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
The Trans-Siberian railway (usually called TransSib in Russia) is the worlds longest and the most famous train route that goes through the entire length of Russia. Taking the trip from end to end lets one go through seven time zones, covering almost six thousand miles or over one third of the globe, takes complete eight days to complete the course of the journey. The train crosses the whole continent: starts in Moscow, passes through the European Russia, crosses the Ural Mountains (which separate Europe and Asia), continues into Siberias taiga and steppes, and finishes in Vladivostok the Russian Far East coast. With an average speed of around 60km/h, these Trans-Siberian services are not for travelers in a hurry. The most famous of these routes, the Trans-Siberian and Trans-Mongolian have historically drawn travelers from around the world keen to experience one of the worlds longest train journeys.
Eastern & Oriental Express, Singapore
The Eastern & Oriental Express is a magnificent private train, which has been operated by Orient-Express on the route from Bangkok to Singapore since 1993. The train covers a journey of 1,200 miles which connects some of the world's most remarkable cities and encompasses all the mystery, excitement and sheer staggering beauty of the East. Each air-conditioned compartment is an elegantly decorated day room and transforms in moments to a cozy bedroom at night. On-board chefs use the finest and freshest ingredients to prepare the excellent Eastern and European cuisine, which is served in the two elegant Restaurant Cars. With its comfortable and elegant compartments, delicious cuisine and superb service, the Eastern & Oriental Express is a truly unique way to experience the full wonder of this remarkable region.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
The world's most celebrated train, the historic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express carries passengers across Europe in the luxury and style of a bygone era on restored 1920s and 1930s rail carriages. The carriages are adorned with art-deco marquetry, vintage chrome fitting and 1930s designed upholstery, whilst the comfortable cabin is a restful retreat of gleaming wood, polished brass, soft towels and crisp linen. This magnificent vision of European sophistication has also inspired great writers, such as Agatha Christie, who called one of her most celebrated novels Murder On The Orient-Express. The train now visits many parts of Europe including the route from London to Paris but the original route to Istanbul via Venice is still the classic journey to take. The glamorous carriages, sumptuous cuisine and personal service, which is beyond comparison, make a journey on the VSOE the perfect place for a celebration or special holiday.
The Bergen Railway, Norway
Described as the one of the most picturesque and breathtaking rail journeys in the entire world, the Bergen Railway traverses its way between Oslo and Bergen, and is the perfect way to explore much of the dramatic Norwegian landscape. Beginning in Bergen in Western Norway, the train begins its ascent into the rugged mountains, travelling alongside deep fjords and passing through numerous tunnels hewn out of the solid rock to the stations at Arna and Dale. The Bergen Line, or "Bergensbanen", as its known in Norwegian, makes its way between the two biggest cities in Norway and is of the highest altitude in the world. The train runs for 308 miles, taking seven and a half hours to cross some of Europes most inhospitable terrain. The Bergen Railway should also be noted for its versatility; the views in the summer and the winter are contrasting but beautiful in their own unique way.
Palace on Wheels, India
One of Indias most famous railway experiences, the Palace on Wheels, aims to recreate the ambience once enjoyed by Indias Maharajas during journeys both within and beyond their kingdoms. The Palace on Wheels runs on the legendary route covering Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ranthambore National Park, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, the Bharatpur bird sanctuary and the epitome of love and romance, Agra, before returning to Delhi, the capital of India. The decor, food and hospitality inside the Palace on Wheels speak volumes about the luxury and opulence. There are 14 coaches in the Palace on Wheels, where each carriage contains four compartments, which are all en suite with fully functioning shower facilities. This unique train experience is considered one of the great railway journeys of the world, providing a unique and memorable travel experience, reminiscent of travel during the days of the Raj.
Blue Train, South Africa
The Blue Train is a magnificent moving five-star hotel, combining the luxury of the world's leading hotels with the charm of train travel. The train has been voted the worlds leading luxury train at the World Travel Awards for four years consecutively. The Blue Train operates on four routes: Pretoria - Victoria Falls, Pretoria - Cape Town, Port Elizabeth - Cape Town and Pretoria - Nelspruit. Each route offers a very different perspective of the Southern African landscape, from flat open plains to rolling hills and mountains and the magnificent splendor and excitement of the Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. There are four suites per coach and each suite is equipped with every modern convenience including en-suite bathroom with bathtub or shower, a telephone, TV monitor and individually controlled air conditioner. Personal service of the highest caliber is standard on The Blue Train as professionally trained butlers are on duty on every coach to cater to the needs of the guests.
Hiram Bingham, Peru
One of the world-renowned trains operated by the Orient-Express group, the Hiram Bingham is a must for those seeking the utmost level of luxury. The Hiram Bingham is named after the explorer who discovered the fascinating remains of the Inca citadel, Machu Picchu on July 23rd 1911. The train winds past misty mountains and the turbulent rapids of Perus Urubamba River toward the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. The seven-hour route (round-trip) starts in high plains, continues through agricultural terraces from the era of the Incas, then passes through verdant fields and colorful villages to the famous lost city of Aguas Calientes. The Hiram Bingham's carriages are luxuriously coloured in their distinctive blue and gold and are furnished in the style of the 1920s Pullman carriages, described by their originator, George Mortimer Pullman as, Palaces on Wheels. For many visitors a trip to Machu Picchu is a once in a lifetime experience, and the Hiram Bingham assures a magical journey, never to be forgotten.
The Ghan, Australia
Operated by Great Southern Railway Limited, the name Ghan is an abbreviated version of the original, The Afghan Express. The worldfamous railway provides a luxury 3000 kilometer transcontinental voyage, the journey connects Adelaide, the picturesque capital of South Australia, Sydney and Alice Springs gateway to Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and then onto the fabulous country to Darwin. Marvel at the spectacular ever-changing landscapes; from the rusty reds of the MacDonnell Ranges surrounding Alice Springs, gateway to Ayers Rock and the Red Centre, then north to Tennant Creek, Katherine and the tropical splendor of Darwin. One can also take shorter journeys lasting only a few hours or less than a day; journeys that explore the country's amazing rainforests, mountains and further inland. The train will transport you with all the air-conditioned comfort and style of a fine hotel. The attention to detail and high level of service makes your journey a truly unforgettable experience.
About Luxury Trains
Luxury Trains by Odyssey is Indias first and only website featuring luxury rail holidays with 45+ trains and over 100 journeys on almost all the luxury trains in the world. We cater to worldwide clients looking at experiencing an Indian luxury train journey and Indian clients looking at a rail experience abroad. For further information or to make a booking contact 020-66442929 or visit http://www.luxurytrains.in/
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer has acquired the reputation as the most spectacular train trip in the world. The Rocky Mountaineer follows the historic train route constructed over 100 years ago through Canada's West and the Canadian Rockies, winds past towering snow-capped peaks the highest Mount Robson reaches 12,972ft, raging rivers & spectacular forests of pine, fir and spruce. As you travel through Canadas legendary landscapes, enjoy the passing views from the large picture windows of Rocky Mountaineers 1950s train cars, each of which have been revamped to modern standards. This world-renowned, luxurious train offers over 45 Canadian vacation packages and four unique rail routes - three train journeys through British Columbia and Alberta to Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper and Calgary, and one train excursion from Vancouver to Whistler.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express, which has been operating since 1930, is billed as "the world's slowest express train" and averages 36 km/h (22 mph) during the approximately 7-hour trip journey on its most popular route, Zermatt to St. Moritz or vice versa. The train travels through 91 tunnels and cross 291 bridges while you experience the alpine wonders of Switzerland. This comfortable train passes through an area of outstanding natural beauty with fragrant, primeval chestnut forests, peaceful Alpine meadows, rushing mountain streams and spectacular valleys with a wealth of centuries-old customs. The Glacier Express is also famous for its unrivaled pampering of travelers throughout the train journey as there are excellent facilities on board including a dining car to ensure all your refreshments & lunch requirements are catered fittingly.
Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
The Trans-Siberian railway (usually called TransSib in Russia) is the worlds longest and the most famous train route that goes through the entire length of Russia. Taking the trip from end to end lets one go through seven time zones, covering almost six thousand miles or over one third of the globe, takes complete eight days to complete the course of the journey. The train crosses the whole continent: starts in Moscow, passes through the European Russia, crosses the Ural Mountains (which separate Europe and Asia), continues into Siberias taiga and steppes, and finishes in Vladivostok the Russian Far East coast. With an average speed of around 60km/h, these Trans-Siberian services are not for travelers in a hurry. The most famous of these routes, the Trans-Siberian and Trans-Mongolian have historically drawn travelers from around the world keen to experience one of the worlds longest train journeys.
Eastern & Oriental Express, Singapore
The Eastern & Oriental Express is a magnificent private train, which has been operated by Orient-Express on the route from Bangkok to Singapore since 1993. The train covers a journey of 1,200 miles which connects some of the world's most remarkable cities and encompasses all the mystery, excitement and sheer staggering beauty of the East. Each air-conditioned compartment is an elegantly decorated day room and transforms in moments to a cozy bedroom at night. On-board chefs use the finest and freshest ingredients to prepare the excellent Eastern and European cuisine, which is served in the two elegant Restaurant Cars. With its comfortable and elegant compartments, delicious cuisine and superb service, the Eastern & Oriental Express is a truly unique way to experience the full wonder of this remarkable region.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe
The world's most celebrated train, the historic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express carries passengers across Europe in the luxury and style of a bygone era on restored 1920s and 1930s rail carriages. The carriages are adorned with art-deco marquetry, vintage chrome fitting and 1930s designed upholstery, whilst the comfortable cabin is a restful retreat of gleaming wood, polished brass, soft towels and crisp linen. This magnificent vision of European sophistication has also inspired great writers, such as Agatha Christie, who called one of her most celebrated novels Murder On The Orient-Express. The train now visits many parts of Europe including the route from London to Paris but the original route to Istanbul via Venice is still the classic journey to take. The glamorous carriages, sumptuous cuisine and personal service, which is beyond comparison, make a journey on the VSOE the perfect place for a celebration or special holiday.
The Bergen Railway, Norway
Described as the one of the most picturesque and breathtaking rail journeys in the entire world, the Bergen Railway traverses its way between Oslo and Bergen, and is the perfect way to explore much of the dramatic Norwegian landscape. Beginning in Bergen in Western Norway, the train begins its ascent into the rugged mountains, travelling alongside deep fjords and passing through numerous tunnels hewn out of the solid rock to the stations at Arna and Dale. The Bergen Line, or "Bergensbanen", as its known in Norwegian, makes its way between the two biggest cities in Norway and is of the highest altitude in the world. The train runs for 308 miles, taking seven and a half hours to cross some of Europes most inhospitable terrain. The Bergen Railway should also be noted for its versatility; the views in the summer and the winter are contrasting but beautiful in their own unique way.
Palace on Wheels, India
One of Indias most famous railway experiences, the Palace on Wheels, aims to recreate the ambience once enjoyed by Indias Maharajas during journeys both within and beyond their kingdoms. The Palace on Wheels runs on the legendary route covering Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ranthambore National Park, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, the Bharatpur bird sanctuary and the epitome of love and romance, Agra, before returning to Delhi, the capital of India. The decor, food and hospitality inside the Palace on Wheels speak volumes about the luxury and opulence. There are 14 coaches in the Palace on Wheels, where each carriage contains four compartments, which are all en suite with fully functioning shower facilities. This unique train experience is considered one of the great railway journeys of the world, providing a unique and memorable travel experience, reminiscent of travel during the days of the Raj.
Blue Train, South Africa
The Blue Train is a magnificent moving five-star hotel, combining the luxury of the world's leading hotels with the charm of train travel. The train has been voted the worlds leading luxury train at the World Travel Awards for four years consecutively. The Blue Train operates on four routes: Pretoria - Victoria Falls, Pretoria - Cape Town, Port Elizabeth - Cape Town and Pretoria - Nelspruit. Each route offers a very different perspective of the Southern African landscape, from flat open plains to rolling hills and mountains and the magnificent splendor and excitement of the Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. There are four suites per coach and each suite is equipped with every modern convenience including en-suite bathroom with bathtub or shower, a telephone, TV monitor and individually controlled air conditioner. Personal service of the highest caliber is standard on The Blue Train as professionally trained butlers are on duty on every coach to cater to the needs of the guests.
Hiram Bingham, Peru
One of the world-renowned trains operated by the Orient-Express group, the Hiram Bingham is a must for those seeking the utmost level of luxury. The Hiram Bingham is named after the explorer who discovered the fascinating remains of the Inca citadel, Machu Picchu on July 23rd 1911. The train winds past misty mountains and the turbulent rapids of Perus Urubamba River toward the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. The seven-hour route (round-trip) starts in high plains, continues through agricultural terraces from the era of the Incas, then passes through verdant fields and colorful villages to the famous lost city of Aguas Calientes. The Hiram Bingham's carriages are luxuriously coloured in their distinctive blue and gold and are furnished in the style of the 1920s Pullman carriages, described by their originator, George Mortimer Pullman as, Palaces on Wheels. For many visitors a trip to Machu Picchu is a once in a lifetime experience, and the Hiram Bingham assures a magical journey, never to be forgotten.
The Ghan, Australia
Operated by Great Southern Railway Limited, the name Ghan is an abbreviated version of the original, The Afghan Express. The worldfamous railway provides a luxury 3000 kilometer transcontinental voyage, the journey connects Adelaide, the picturesque capital of South Australia, Sydney and Alice Springs gateway to Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and then onto the fabulous country to Darwin. Marvel at the spectacular ever-changing landscapes; from the rusty reds of the MacDonnell Ranges surrounding Alice Springs, gateway to Ayers Rock and the Red Centre, then north to Tennant Creek, Katherine and the tropical splendor of Darwin. One can also take shorter journeys lasting only a few hours or less than a day; journeys that explore the country's amazing rainforests, mountains and further inland. The train will transport you with all the air-conditioned comfort and style of a fine hotel. The attention to detail and high level of service makes your journey a truly unforgettable experience.
About Luxury Trains
Luxury Trains by Odyssey is Indias first and only website featuring luxury rail holidays with 45+ trains and over 100 journeys on almost all the luxury trains in the world. We cater to worldwide clients looking at experiencing an Indian luxury train journey and Indian clients looking at a rail experience abroad. For further information or to make a booking contact 020-66442929 or visit http://www.luxurytrains.in/
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