Hello, fellow travel aficionados! If you’re anything like me, there’s something undeniably romantic and deeply nostalgic about traversing the vast, picturesque landscapes of Europe by train. Not just any trains—luxury trains, where the journey itself becomes a grand part of your adventure. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you my top picks for the most luxurious train rides across Europe. These journeys offer more than just travel; they offer a ticket to a bygone era of opulence and grandeur. So, let’s embark on this scenic journey together!
6. Venice Simplon-Orient Express (Italy, France, UK)
Step aboard the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient Express and you’ll quickly see why this train epitomizes the glamour of the 1920s golden age of travel. The journey, which can take you from London to Venice, or from Paris to Istanbul on select departures, is as enchanting as the destinations themselves. With polished wood, sumptuous upholstery, and antique fixtures, the train cars whisk you back in time, while the scenery through the Alps or rural Europe offers endless beauty.
- Price: Starts at $3,500 per person
- Perfect Time to Visit: April to October
5. The Presidential Train (Portugal)
Portugal’s Presidential Train, once reserved for the country’s heads of state and visiting dignitaries, now serves as a rolling restaurant of regal proportions. This day-long gastronomic journey starts and ends in Porto, transporting you through the picturesque Douro Valley. The trip includes world-class dining experiences prepared by Michelin-starred chefs. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate, making it a must for culinary enthusiasts.
- Price: Starts at $500 per person
- Perfect Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn
4. Belmond Royal Scotsman (Scotland)
Travel through the heart of the Scottish Highlands, where misty mountains and ancient castles tell tales as old as time. The Belmond Royal Scotsman offers an intimate experience, akin to a country house on wheels, with just 36 guests. Enjoy traditional Scottish entertainment, fine dining, and even a spa car, making it a sublime journey through one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe.
- Price: Starts at $5,800 per person
- Perfect Time to Visit: April to October
3. The Transcantabrico Gran Lujo (Spain)
Experience Northern Spain like never before aboard the Transcantabrico Gran Lujo. This train offers a leisurely ride along Spain’s northern coastline from San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela. The suites are luxurious, offering large double beds and living areas, with meals that highlight regional Spanish cuisine. Daily stops for sightseeing make it an immersive cultural experience.
- Price: Starts at $6,200 per person
- Perfect Time to Visit: May to October
2. Golden Eagle Danube Express (Central Europe)
For those seeking to traverse multiple countries in style, the Golden Eagle Danube Express is your portal to Central Europe, with routes that cover from Istanbul to Prague. This train combines the intimacy of private compartments with the pleasure of traversing through countries like Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria, offering both comfort and exotic charm.
- Price: Starts at $7,900 per person
- Perfect Time to Visit: May to October
1. Bernina Express (Switzerland)
The Bernina Express offers perhaps the most visually stunning train journey in Europe, if not the world. This high-altitude ride crosses the Swiss Alps from Chur to Tirano, linking the north and south of Europe in a ribbon of railways and UNESCO World Heritage landscapes. The panoramic cars allow you to soak in the dramatic vistas of glaciers, towering peaks, and pristine lakes in sheer comfort.
- Price: Starts at $150 per person
- Perfect Time to Visit: April to October
Each of these train journeys promises a unique blend of luxury, adventure, and scenic beauty, perfect for those looking to indulge in a slower pace of travel with all the comforts of a mobile five-star hotel. Whether it’s through rolling vineyards, rugged mountains, or along dramatic coastlines, these trains offer a window to the soul of Europe in unparalleled style. Pack your bags and let the romance of the rails carry you to some of Europe’s most dream-worthy destinations.
