Top 5 Best Train Travel Holidays in the World: Journeys That Are Worth the Ride

There is something magical about watching the world pass by through a train window. Snow-covered mountains, endless deserts, green valleys, historic villages and spectacular coastlines become part of the holiday rather than just scenery you rush past on your way to a destination.

Unlike flying, train travel gives you the luxury of slowing down. You can enjoy a meal while crossing a mountain range, wake up to an entirely different landscape or spend hours watching nature unfold without worrying about the road ahead.

And then there are trains that make the journey as memorable as the destination itself. Think royal-style suites, panoramic glass ceilings, fine dining, vintage interiors and carefully planned stops at some of the world's most beautiful locations.

If you're looking for a holiday that offers more than the usual flights and hotel stays, here are five of the best train travel experiences in the world that deserve a place on your bucket list.

From the Scottish Highlands to the Canadian Rockies, these journeys offer some of the most memorable ways to explore the world by rail.

1. Royal Scotsman, Scotland - A Luxury Journey Through the Scottish Highlands

Best for luxury and heritage

Imagine travelling through the Scottish Highlands in a beautifully restored train, surrounded by elegant wood-panelled interiors, fine dining and some of Britain's most dramatic landscapes.

The Royal Scotsman is more than just a train journey. It is an exclusive holiday experience that combines traditional Scottish hospitality with luxury accommodation and curated excursions.

Departing from Edinburgh, the train takes passengers through the spectacular Scottish countryside, passing remote villages, mountains, forests, lochs and historic estates.

What makes the journey special?

• Luxurious sleeper cabins with traditional interiors.

• Fine dining featuring Scottish ingredients.

• An observation car with panoramic views.

• A spa carriage for onboard relaxation.

• Excursions to historic estates, distilleries and scenic Highland locations.

• Opportunities to experience Scottish culture and heritage.

Depending on the itinerary, passengers can enjoy journeys lasting between two and seven nights.

Must-see experiences: Explore the Highlands, visit historic castles, discover traditional whisky distilleries and admire the beautiful landscapes around the West Coast.

Best time to visit: May to September for longer daylight hours and greener landscapes. Autumn is also beautiful for its changing colours.

Ideal for: Couples, luxury travellers, honeymooners and anyone looking for a slow, indulgent holiday.

Travel tip: The Royal Scotsman operates premium-priced journeys, so book well in advance and compare itineraries before choosing your preferred experience.

Official website: https://www.belmond.com/en/trains/europe/uk/royal-scotsman

2. Rovos Rail, South Africa - Experience Africa in Old-World Luxury

Best for a luxury African adventure

If you have ever imagined travelling across Africa in a vintage luxury train, Rovos Rail might be exactly what you're looking for.

Often associated with the golden age of railway travel, Rovos Rail combines beautifully restored vintage coaches with modern comforts, elegant dining and fascinating off-train excursions.

One of its popular journeys connects Pretoria and Cape Town over three nights, covering approximately 1,600 kilometres.

The changing scenery is one of the biggest highlights. Travellers move through the grasslands of the Highveld, the semi-arid landscapes of the Great Karoo, mountain ranges and the beautiful Cape Winelands.

What makes the journey special?

• Elegant wood-panelled sleeper suites.

• Fine dining and a dedicated onboard bar.

• Scenic observation opportunities.

• Guided excursions at selected destinations.

• Visits to historic towns and cultural attractions.

• A relaxed atmosphere inspired by traditional railway travel.

Other itineraries include journeys towards Victoria Falls, safari experiences and longer cross-country adventures.

Must-see experiences: Visit the historic mining town of Kimberley, explore Matjiesfontein and enjoy the dramatic landscapes surrounding Cape Town.

Best time to visit: March to May and September to November are attractive periods for exploring South Africa, although the best season depends on your chosen itinerary.

Ideal for: Luxury travellers, couples, wildlife enthusiasts and those looking for an unusual African holiday.

Travel tip: Consider combining your train journey with a stay in Cape Town or a wildlife safari to make the most of your trip.

Official website: https://rovos.com/

3. Maharajas' Express, India - Travel Like Royalty Across India

Best for culture and royal experiences

Who says you need to travel abroad to experience one of the world's most luxurious train holidays?

India's Maharajas' Express offers an opportunity to explore the country's royal heritage, historic cities, architectural wonders and cultural diversity without constantly changing hotels.

The train takes passengers through some of India's most celebrated destinations, including Jaipur, Agra, Udaipur, Jodhpur and Ranthambore, depending on the selected itinerary.

The interiors are inspired by India's royal past, featuring elaborate furnishings, elegant cabins and beautifully designed dining spaces.

What makes the journey special?

• Deluxe cabins, suites and a Presidential Suite.

• Fine dining with Indian and international cuisine.

• Traditional hospitality and personalised services.

• Guided sightseeing excursions.

• Visits to historical monuments and royal palaces.

• Opportunities to explore wildlife and local culture.

Some itineraries include a visit to the Taj Mahal, tiger safari experiences in Ranthambore and sightseeing around Rajasthan's magnificent forts and palaces.

The available journeys range from four days and three nights to seven days and six nights.

Must-see experiences: Explore the Taj Mahal in Agra, discover Jaipur's royal architecture, visit Udaipur's beautiful lakes and experience the wildlife of Ranthambore.

Best time to visit: October to April, when temperatures are generally more comfortable for sightseeing across northern and western India.

Ideal for: International tourists, couples, history lovers and travellers who want to experience India's heritage in comfort.

Travel tip: Compare the four main itineraries carefully. The Heritage of India and Indian Splendour journeys offer different routes and experiences.

Official website: https://www.the-maharajas.com/

4. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada - Through the Spectacular Canadian Rockies

Best for breathtaking natural scenery

If mountain views, turquoise lakes, towering forests and dramatic canyons are your idea of a perfect holiday, the Rocky Mountaineer should be high on your list.

This luxury sightseeing train is famous for its glass-dome coaches, allowing passengers to enjoy uninterrupted views of the Canadian wilderness.

One of its iconic routes, First Passage to the West, connects Vancouver with Banff or Lake Louise over two days, with an overnight hotel stay along the way.

Unlike traditional sleeper trains, Rocky Mountaineer operates during daylight hours so passengers can enjoy the scenery throughout the journey.

What makes the journey special?

• Glass-dome coaches offering panoramic views.

• Gourmet meals inspired by regional ingredients.

• Comfortable seating and attentive onboard service.

• Fascinating stories about Canada's railway history.

• Views of rivers, forests, mountain peaks and remote wilderness.

• Overnight stays at selected destinations.

Depending on the route, you may travel alongside the Fraser River, pass through dramatic mountain valleys and witness some of Canada's most impressive natural landscapes.

Must-see experiences: Explore Banff National Park, admire Lake Louise, visit Jasper and spend time discovering the Canadian Rockies.

Best time to visit: May to September for relatively warmer weather and accessible mountain attractions. The train's operating season generally runs from spring to autumn.

Ideal for: Nature lovers, photographers, couples and travellers who prefer scenic experiences over fast-paced sightseeing.

Travel tip: Choose a route that includes Banff or Lake Louise and consider extending your stay to explore the national parks rather than treating the train journey as a standalone trip.

Official website: https://www.rockymountaineer.com/

5. Glacier Express, Switzerland - The Slowest Express Through the Swiss Alps

Best for spectacular Alpine views

Sometimes, the best way to experience a destination is to slow down. And few train journeys demonstrate this better than Switzerland's famous Glacier Express.

Often described as the world's slowest express train, this iconic railway connects two beautiful mountain destinations: Zermatt and St. Moritz.

The approximately eight-hour journey takes passengers through some of Switzerland's most spectacular Alpine scenery.

Think snow-covered peaks, charming mountain villages, deep valleys, dramatic bridges and glistening rivers.

The train's large panoramic windows make it particularly popular among photographers and travellers who want to enjoy the scenery without missing a moment.

What makes the journey special?

• Panoramic windows offering expansive mountain views.

• Comfortable seating and onboard dining.

• A journey across 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels.

• Views of the Oberalp Pass and Rhine Gorge.

• The famous Landwasser Viaduct.

• An optional Excellence Class experience with premium services.

Must-see experiences: Explore Zermatt and enjoy views of the Matterhorn, discover the mountain resort of St. Moritz and admire the dramatic landscapes of the Rhine Gorge.

Best time to visit: December to March for snowy Alpine scenery and June to September for greener landscapes and pleasant sightseeing conditions.

Ideal for: Couples, photographers, nature lovers and anyone planning a Swiss holiday.

Travel tip: Reserve your panoramic seat well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. If you have extra time, combine the Glacier Express with the Bernina Express for an extended Swiss railway holiday.

Official website: https://www.glacierexpress.ch/

Quick Comparison: Which Train Holiday Should You Choose?

Durations vary by itinerary. These are five editorial picks rather than an official global ranking.

How to Plan a Train Travel Holiday

A luxury train journey can be very different from booking a regular train ticket. Some experiences sell out months in advance, while others require separate hotel reservations and sightseeing arrangements.

Here are a few things to consider before booking.

1. Decide what kind of experience you want

Are you looking for luxury and fine dining, breathtaking scenery, cultural exploration or an adventurous journey? Each train offers a different experience.

2. Check what your ticket includes

Some luxury train packages include meals, accommodation and guided excursions, while others charge separately for certain activities.

3. Choose the right season

Mountain journeys are particularly beautiful during winter, while wildlife and countryside experiences may be better during specific seasons.

4. Book early

Popular luxury trains have limited cabins and departure dates. Early reservations give you a better chance of securing your preferred accommodation.

5. Extend your holiday beyond the train

Don't simply board the train, complete the journey and fly home. Spend a few extra days exploring the surrounding destinations.

For example:

• Combine the Rocky Mountaineer with Banff and Lake Louise.

• Explore Cape Town after travelling with Rovos Rail.

• Extend your Glacier Express journey with the Bernina Express.

• Explore Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands before or after the Royal Scotsman.

Are Luxury Train Holidays Worth the Money?

Luxury train holidays can be expensive, sometimes costing considerably more than conventional flights and hotel stays.

However, the experience is quite different.

You are not simply paying for transportation. The price can include accommodation, dining, personalised service, sightseeing excursions and access to landscapes that make the journey memorable.

That said, not every traveller needs a luxury train to enjoy a railway holiday. Regular scenic services such as Switzerland's Bernina Express, Scotland's West Highland Line and Norway's Bergen Railway offer memorable experiences at different price points.

The best choice depends on your budget and the kind of holiday you want.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is the most luxurious train journey in the world?

The Royal Scotsman, Rovos Rail and Maharajas' Express are among the standout luxury train experiences, offering elegant accommodation, fine dining and curated excursions.

2. Which country has the best scenic train journeys?

Switzerland is one of the strongest choices for scenic railway holidays, particularly because of its Alpine routes, panoramic trains and spectacular mountain landscapes.

3. What is the best train journey for first-time luxury travellers?

The Glacier Express is an excellent introduction to luxury scenic rail travel. Its approximately eight-hour journey offers a memorable way to experience the Swiss Alps.

4. Are luxury train holidays suitable for couples?

Absolutely. Many luxury trains offer private cabins, fine dining, scenic observation areas and romantic itineraries, making them particularly attractive for honeymooners and couples.

5. Which is the best train journey in India?

The Maharajas' Express is one of India's most prominent luxury train experiences. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is another excellent option for travellers who prefer heritage railways and mountain scenery.

6. Are train holidays more expensive than flying?

Luxury train holidays are generally more expensive than conventional train travel and can cost more than flying. However, they often include accommodation, meals and sightseeing experiences that make them a complete holiday package.

Conclusion

A memorable holiday doesn't always have to begin with an airport departure or end with a hotel check-in. Sometimes, the most extraordinary travel experiences happen somewhere between two destinations.

From the royal interiors of the Maharajas' Express to the breathtaking Swiss Alps aboard the Glacier Express, these five train journeys demonstrate how railway travel can become a holiday in itself.

Whether you want to explore Africa, discover Europe's countryside or experience the wilderness of Canada, there is a train journey waiting to make your next holiday unforgettable.

So, the next time you plan a vacation, consider choosing a journey where the destination is only half the adventure.