12 Luxury Global Train Rides for Picturesque Views

Napa Valley Wine Train, U.S.

Starting price: $195 for the 3-hour express lunch experience

For years, the Napa Valley Wine Train has provided an experience that blends history, comfort and gourmet indulgence. Step aboard the restored vintage train as it chugs through the heart of California’s most celebrated wine country, all while enjoying the scenic beauty of the valley’s rolling hills, sprawling vineyards and charming small towns such as St. Helena. You’ll journey through the valley in elegant dining cars while enjoying a multicourse meal, paired with local wines and prepared by top chefs who highlight Napa’s seasonal ingredients.

Those located on the West Coast can turn it into a fun day trip through the daily train or a romantic date night via the evening route. The Napa Valley Train’s package offerings allow you to add on to your experience with everything from accommodations and daytime trips to private tours at famous wineries such as Charles Krug or Grgich Hills. Children are allowed onboard, which means you can turn your trip into a core memory for the entire family.

Catch a glimpse of the Andes Mountains in Peru while on the Andean Explorer.

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Andean Explorer, Peru

Starting price: Around $4,095 for 1-night Puno to Cusco route in March 2025

Get a glimpse of Peru’s Andes Mountains from the comfort of a posh motor coach. With several shorter journeys, you can spend a few days slowly taking in the sights. In your downtime, visit the lounge or feast on gourmet cuisine, and when you’re ready, retreat to your private cabin. If you are subject to altitude sickness, this may not be the best experience for you. The train travels through higher elevations and stops overnight, too. But don’t fret — there is a doctor on board should you unexpectedly need assistance.

Gourmet meals on Rovos Rail feature South African wine.

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Rovos Rail, South Africa

Starting price: Around $2,052 for a Pullman suite in 2025 on the Cape Town to Pretoria (and the reverse) route

Rovos Rail, which considers itself “the great South African train adventure,” is an experience that provides lots of bang for the buck. Whether you’re exploring the diverse landscapes of South Africa, the varied terrain of Botswana or the lush beauty of Zimbabwe, each journey is designed to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Be prepared to unplug during your adventure as Wi-Fi, televisions or even radios are nonexistent.

Onboard, there are a range of offerings, including gourmet dining as well as world-famous South African vino. Additionally, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion and other exciting excursions along the way.

The Ghan covers ground from Darwin to Adelaide, Australia.

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The Ghan, Australia

Starting price: $1,308 per passenger

Explore the best of the “land down under” via this locomotive, which covers ground from Darwin to Adelaide. For nearly a century, guests have been able to traverse some of Australia’s picturesque backdrops and see unique wildlife from the comfort of a plush seat — or take part in on-the-ground excursions. Trips can be as short as two days and one night or as long as 10 days and nine nights.

Make the adventure as lavish as you want by choosing between the gold, gold premium or platinum cabins. Of course, as the name suggests, platinum is the pinnacle of the three tiers and includes four-course dinners with Australian wine pairings, a private en-suite, an exclusive carriage onboard when you’re in need of a new vantage point and much more.

To receive the highest level of service on The Glacier Express, book a ticket in the Excellence Class cabin.

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The Glacier Express, Switzerland

Starting price: $358 for a seat in first class

There’s something about seeing this candy-apple-red train against the snow-capped Alps during the winter. Switzerland has several upscale rail offerings like The GoldenPass Express or the Glacier Pullman Express. But as someone who has experienced the Glacier Express, I can say it was a core memory I’ll never forget.

“For women like me in their 50s, this isn’t just a train ride; it’s a reward for all the hard work we’ve put in over the years,” says Tomiko Harvey, a blogger who focuses on travel geared toward women 40-plus. “The Glacier Express is the trip of a lifetime because it’s more than just a getaway, it’s a celebration of living intentionally and reminding yourself that you’re worth every bit of it.”

To ensure you receive the highest level of service, you’ll want to book your ticket in the Excellence Class cabin — and plan to do so at least three to four months in advance. Within this premium cabin, you’ll be treated to a nearly eight-hour journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz (or the reverse) while feasting on a five-course meal (with wine pairings) that is paced to cover the duration of your trip. This is a single-day experience, so you’ll want to have the rest of your Switzerland itinerary mapped out as well.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express travels through some of Europe’s magical cities.

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Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, throughout Europe

Starting price: $3,600 per person for a twin cabin

If you’re familiar with Belmond Hotel properties around the world, then you know it’s a brand focused on providing guests with top-notch service while leaving no stone unturned. That same attention to detail carries over to its railroad experience. Spanning some of Europe’s most magical cities — Venice, Paris, London, Amsterdam and more — you’ll see the continent in a new way.

On the train, you can enjoy midnight brunch or visit with new friends in Bar Car “3674” for live music from the onboard pianist. With this being a five-star experience, the pricing for an upgraded cabin beyond twin accommodations is above the expected $6,659 travel budget in AARP’s trends survey. Cabin suites start around 7,900 pounds (about $9,954), and the grand suites start at 11,100 pounds (about $13,985).

The Palace on Wheels takes travelers through some of India’s iconic sites.

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Palace on Wheels, India

Starting price: $6,048 per person for a double-occupancy cabin in April 2025

The eight-day, seven-night experience begins in Delhi and takes you through some of India’s most picturesque cities and sites. With several stops along the way, you’ll get to see and do things that are bucket-list-worthy, like marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal and enjoy a scenic boat ride along Lake Pichola.

While the excursions and route stops are certainly a highlight in themselves, we can’t gloss over the fact that your mode of transportation is a literal palace on wheels. Onboard the train, you’ll be treated to cabins that pay homage to the dynasties that once ruled Rajasthan.

The Golden Eagle travels through Central Asia’s Silk Road.

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Golden Eagle, Central Asia

Starting price: $14,595 for Silver Class twin accommodations

Most of the itineraries aboard this train are longer than most, which also means a heftier price tag as well. Spanning from eight to 16 days, this is an experience you’ll want to take time to plan to ensure it all goes off without a hitch. The train stops throughout some of Central Asia’s stunning locations along the Silk Road. You’ll spend your days exploring on the ground via city tours with local guides, stopping into historic landmarks and UNESCO sites, as well as perusing museums. At night, hop back on the train for an evening of fine dining, world-class wines and listening to the resident pianist in the Bar Lounge Car.

As a passenger, you can choose between three cabin classes, with the Imperial Suite being the highest. There is always a registered doctor available throughout your adventure, so you never have to worry should anything happen.

A maximum of 40 guests travel on Royal Scotsman journeys in Scotland.

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Royal Scotsman, Scotland

Starting price: Around $2,883 per ticket

The Royal Scotsman, also a Belmond-branded experience, provides a rare opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of Scotland in comfort and style. With room for a maximum of 40 guests, the experience is intimate, ensuring a personalized and relaxed journey. You’ll also want to make sure you book your ride well in advance to secure the exact dates you want.

The train features wood-paneled cabins, each offering cozy beds, plush interiors and en-suite bathrooms. For those seeking extra luxury, the grand suites offer more spacious accommodations along with added perks such as personal butler service. There are several routes available with off-train excursions that cater to nearly any interest, from historic castles, whiskey distilleries and even charming Scottish villages. And when you want to relax, the onboard spa is ready and waiting.