Ride the best luxury trains around the world in 2024.
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1. Swiss Glacier Express
If you're looking for a luxurious train experience, we recommend purchasing an Excellence Class ticket, which includes a five-course meal, concierge service, and a guaranteed window seat. Prices start from 470 Swiss Francs (approximately 530 USD).
However, travelers can also purchase a standard adult ticket, known as the Glacier Express Classic, starting from 159 Swiss Francs (approximately 180 USD) for the entire route.
Ruscher recommends trying the Glacier Express twice if possible, once in the summer and once in the winter, as the landscape is completely different in both seasons.
2. South Africa's Blue Train
South Africa's Blue Train is one of the most popular rail experiences in the world, with a current two-year waiting list, Ruscher said.
The route spans 1,600km (about 994 miles) between Pretoria and Cape Town over two nights, or about 31 hours, according to global tourism operator Audley Travel.
Tickets start at $1,499 and include a luxury butler and fine dining, Luscher said.
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3. Japan's Twilight Mizukaze
Twilight Mizukaze, also known as Twilight Express, operates various routes throughout western Japan. The train is known for its Art Deco decor and observation deck where passengers can admire landmarks, national parks, and impressive viaducts.
Guests will enjoy live music and a food and beverage menu featuring local ingredients unique to each route.
Tickets cost between $2,800 and $5,500 and must be purchased in Japan, Luscher said. On each trip, he takes 34 passengers, Luscher added, and there is often a waiting list of more than six months.
4. Belmond British Pullman
Enjoy live cabaret performances and afternoon tea on board. Routes vary and 2024 trips start at £400 (approximately $510 USD).
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5. Rocky Mountaineer
The Rocky Mountaineer offers luxury trains throughout Western Canada and the American Southwest, and is best known for its glass dome windows that offer panoramic views of major landmarks.
Prices for Rocky Mountaineer's 2024 packages start at $1,500 USD and vary depending on the length of the trip and the type of package purchased. For example, the Gold Leaf service includes additional luxury benefits such as all-you-can-drink and menu meals. In contrast, the Silver Leaf service includes pre-selected meals in the ticket price.
6. Venice at Belmond – Simplon Orient Express
The Orient Express between Venice and Simplon has hosted a variety of guests over the years, from ambassadors and royalty to writers and spies.
Similar to Britain's Pullman trains, parts of the train date back to the 1920s, and each carriage's classic interior will give guests the feeling of being transported back in time. This train serves routes from major European cities such as Amsterdam, Rome, and Venice.
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Ticket prices vary. For example, his nightly stay in the train's Grand Suite costs from £10,165 (approximately US$13,000) and includes 24-hour butler service, unlimited champagne and private on-board dining. Meanwhile, an overnight stay in a historic or standard cabin starts from £3,530 (approximately US$4,500).
Luscher said the train is “very popular” among customers, and it's common for some to rent out the entire carriage or train.
“This is a great idea for a very special private event, if you can afford it, of course,” Ruscher says.
“The experience itself is much more than just a train ride, it's a journey back in time to the luxury and style of the Golden Age/Art Deco era,” he added.
