The World's Most Iconic Train Journeys

The World’s Most Iconic Luxury Train Journeys

Luxury rail travel offers something no flight or cruise ever can: the chance to slow down, sink into elegance and watch the world unfold in front of you with theatre‑like grandeur. From Europe’s Art Deco glamour to the wild beauty of Australia and the mystical landscapes of Southeast Asia and South America, these legendary trains transform travel into an experience of pure indulgence. Each journey blends fine dining, attentive service and breathtaking scenery with a sense of romance that feels timeless. Whether crossing continents, gliding through ancient mountains or drifting past remote villages, these trains invite travellers to step into a world where every moment is crafted to be unforgettable.

Venice Simplon‑Orient‑Express

A Journey That Redefines Luxury Travel

Step aboard the Venice Simplon‑Orient‑Express and step instantly into a world of pure romance, glamour and indulgence. This is not simply a train journey; it is one of the most iconic travel experiences on earth. Every moment feels cinematic, from the polished Art Deco interiors to the soft glow of lamplight in the restaurant carriages.

As Europe’s most enchanting landscapes glide past your window, you will enjoy world‑class dining, impeccable service and the unmistakable thrill of travelling in true vintage style. Private cabins transform into elegant sleeping quarters by night, complete with crisp linens and attentive stewards who anticipate every need.

Why travellers choose this journey

• A legendary train with original 1920s carriages

• Exquisite fine dining created by celebrated chefs

• Champagne bars, piano evenings and glamorous dress codes

• Routes linking Paris, Venice, Vienna, Prague and beyond

• A once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience perfect for celebrations

This is the ultimate luxury rail adventure for couples, honeymooners and anyone who dreams of travelling through Europe in the most unforgettable way imaginable.

Royal Scotsman

Scotland’s Highlands in Unmatched Elegance

The Royal Scotsman offers a rare blend of rugged scenery and refined luxury. This intimate train carries just a handful of guests, creating an atmosphere of exclusivity as it winds through the dramatic Scottish Highlands.

Expect cosy, wood‑panelled cabins, exceptional dining inspired by local produce and a warm, personal service style that makes you feel instantly at home. Days are filled with castle visits, whisky tastings, distillery tours and tranquil lochside walks. Evenings bring fine dining, storytelling and the gentle rhythm of the rails.

Highlights that make this journey unforgettable

• One of the world’s most luxurious trains

• An onboard spa carriage for complete relaxation

• Immersive excursions into Scotland’s history and landscapes

• Intimate atmosphere with exceptional service

• Perfect for romantic escapes and milestone celebrations

The Royal Scotsman is ideal for travellers who want to experience Scotland’s wild beauty without sacrificing comfort or indulgence.

Eastern and Oriental Express

Southeast Asia’s Most Enchanting Rail Experience

The Eastern and Oriental Express transforms travel through Southeast Asia into a dreamlike adventure. From the moment you step aboard, you are surrounded by elegant interiors, Asian‑inspired design and a sense of timeless sophistication.

As the train glides through lush jungles, rice fields and vibrant cities, you will enjoy gourmet dining, piano‑bar evenings and beautifully appointed cabins. Each day brings discoveries, from ancient temples to bustling markets and serene river landscapes.

What makes this journey special

• Luxurious cabins with panoramic views

• Exceptional cuisine blending Asian and international flavours

• Immersive excursions in Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore

• Elegant lounges and observation cars

• A perfect blend of culture, comfort and adventure

This is the ideal choice for travellers seeking a luxurious and immersive way to explore Southeast Asia.

Belmond Andean Explorer

A Luxury Cruise on Rails Through the Peruvian Andes

The Belmond Andean Explorer is one of the highest and most spectacular train journeys in the world. Travelling through the Peruvian Andes feels like gliding across the sky, with snow‑capped peaks, shimmering lakes and vast plains unfolding outside your window.

Inside, the atmosphere is pure luxury: elegant cabins, fine dining, a piano bar and an observation car that opens to the mountain air. This journey connects iconic destinations such as Cusco, Lake Titicaca and Arequipa, offering a perfect blend of adventure and indulgence.

What makes this journey extraordinary

• One of the world’s highest luxury train routes

• Beautifully designed cabins and suites

• Gourmet Peruvian cuisine

• Visits to Lake Titicaca, ancient sites and remote Andean communities

• A unique blend of culture, scenery and comfort

This is the perfect choice for travellers who want to experience Peru in a way that feels both epic and luxurious.

The Ghan

Australia’s Most Legendary Rail Journey

The Ghan is one of the world’s greatest train adventures, carrying you straight through the heart of Australia in absolute comfort and style. This is not simply a rail journey; it is an epic crossing of an entire continent, where luxury meets raw, untouched wilderness.

From the moment you step aboard, you are welcomed into a world of refined interiors, exceptional dining and warm Australian hospitality. As the train glides from the lush landscapes of Darwin through the Red Centre and down to Adelaide, the scenery transforms dramatically—tropical greens, deep ochre deserts, endless horizons and star‑filled skies.

What makes The Ghan unforgettable

• All‑inclusive gourmet dining inspired by regional Australian produce

• Spacious cabins with private en-suites in Gold and Platinum Service

• Off‑train excursions to places such as Katherine Gorge and Alice Springs

• A perfect blend of adventure, comfort and cultural immersion

• A once‑in‑a‑lifetime way to experience Australia’s vast interior

The Ghan is ideal for travellers who want to experience Australia’s soul in a way that feels effortless, luxurious and deeply moving. It is perfect for couples, solo adventurers and anyone seeking a journey that feels both iconic and intimate.

Indian Pacific

A Coast‑to‑Coast Journey Across Australia

The Indian Pacific offers one of the most extraordinary rail experiences on earth, travelling from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean in a single, unforgettable journey. Stretching between Perth and Sydney, this transcontinental adventure delivers sweeping landscapes, gourmet dining and a sense of freedom that only Australia can offer.

Onboard, you will enjoy elegant cabins, attentive service and beautifully crafted meals that showcase the flavours of the regions you pass through. Off‑train experiences bring the life journey, from exploring the historic mining town of Kalgoorlie to stargazing in the remote outback settlement of Rawlinna.

Highlights that make this journey exceptional

• A true coast‑to‑coast crossing of the Australian continent

• All‑inclusive dining with premium wines and local ingredients

• Off‑train excursions in iconic outback and city locations

• Comfortable cabins with private en-suites and luxury touches

• A perfect balance of relaxation, exploration and indulgence

The Indian Pacific is ideal for travellers who want to experience the scale, beauty and diversity of Australia in a way that feels immersive and luxurious. It is a spectacular choice for milestone celebrations, bucket‑list adventures and unforgettable holidays.

Countless other iconic train journeys are waiting to be discovered, each offering its own atmosphere, scenery, and sense of adventure. Whether you dream of dramatic mountain passes, elegant luxury rail experiences, or slow, scenic routes through untouched landscapes, I can guide you through every option available. Speaking with me about what you are hoping for allows me to match your specific wants and needs with the perfect journey, ensuring you enjoy a rail experience that feels truly unforgettable.

“To secure your bespoke escape, contact Debbie on 07913 304716 or 01323 844630, or email her at debbie@designertravel.co.uk.”