The romance of train travel endures—commuters and leisure travelers alike feel it. There is something Hitchcockian, Agatha Christie–style and even a little Harry Potter about rolling along steel rails toward an intriguing destination with your bag stowed overhead, a book on your lap and the world sliding by outside the window. The moving panorama plays like a film; many trains offer comfortable seats that rival movie-theater lounges, and each carriage develops its own atmosphere depending on fellow passengers and attentive staff.
On overnight journeys you may have a private compartment: cozy, neat and luxuriously appointed. Dining car meals can be quite good—sometimes exceptional—served alongside fine beverages. The staff on some routes maintain elegant service standards. Time aboard such a train can feel suspended and accelerated at once, much like being at a particularly enjoyable party.
On lavish trains bound for iconic regions, the focus is often on sightseeing and pampering rather than simply getting from A to B. These journeys transport passengers into a dreamlike experience—a luxury hotel on rails—where exceptional service and thoughtful details offer a total break from routine. From the mahogany interiors of the Belmond Royal Scotsman through the Swiss panorama of the Glacier Express to India’s opulent Maharajas’ Express, these trains provide indulgence, attentive service and the chance to savor travel as an event. Below are a few standout services worth considering.
THE GLACIER EXPRESS
Operating for nearly a century, the Glacier Express calls itself the “Slowest Fast Train,” linking St. Moritz and Zermatt across Switzerland. This bright-red classic traverses a dramatic alpine route on a roughly 7.5-hour journey, threading 91 tunnels and crossing 291 bridges en route to the Matterhorn region. It’s ideal for families and travelers heading for ski slopes or alpine villages, offering scenic vistas and a relaxed travel pace.
Highlight: Panoramic windows that deliver sweeping 180-degree views of the landscape.
ORIENT EXPRESS LA DOLCE VITA TRAINS
Revived with new itineraries in 2023, the legendary Orient Express introduced La Dolce Vita–inspired routes that celebrate Italy’s glamorous 1960s. Designed by Dimorestudio, each train features 11 cars accommodating 63 passengers across 18 suites and 12 luxe cabins. With about 15 itinerary options spanning Italy and destinations such as Paris, İstanbul and Split, the journeys typically run one to three days and emphasize style, regional culture and leisurely exploration.
Highlight: A focus on Italy’s regions—14 in all—many of which are off the usual tourist path.
PHOTO: © BELMOND
BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN
The Belmond Royal Scotsman channels Edwardian elegance on journeys through Scotland’s Highlands, where castles, gardens, whisky distilleries and golf courses are among the attractions. The train’s baronial décor—wood paneling, tufted green leather and tartan accents—creates the feel of a stately country house. Formal dinners often call for tuxedos or kilts, and meals are multi-course gourmet affairs. Typical itineraries run two to four days from April through October.
Highlight: The onboard Whisky Advisor, who enhances whisky-focused experiences.
MAHARAJAS’ EXPRESS
For a princely journey through India’s Golden Triangle—Delhi, Agra and Jaipur—and wildlife outings such as Ranthambore tiger safaris, the Maharajas’ Express evokes old-world luxury. The train blends lavish décor with celebratory local touches: festive welcomes, rose petals, music and traditional dance are common. Itineraries can be combined with river cruise options for extended tours that showcase India’s cultural landmarks, including the Taj Mahal.
Highlight: Exuberant Indian hospitality, memorable cuisine and ceremonial arrivals.
INCA RAIL
In Peru, Inca Rail connects travelers to Machu Picchu, passing terraced farmlands, Andean valleys and rivers carved into the landscape. Trains depart from Cusco or Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley and offer several service levels, including an exclusive Private Car for single-party bookings. The Private Car raises first-class service with leather seating, local textiles, polished wood, a bar and dining service that includes Champagne and locally inspired meals. Travelers should check government travel advisories before planning a trip to Peru.
Highlight: Peruvian entertainment that enhances the onboard atmosphere and cultural connection.