Europe by Train: Luxurious journeys to take this year

There’s a certain romance to train travel that even the most lavish first-class flights can’t compete with. As Europe’s summer crowds thin and the pace slows, these iconic rail journeys transform from simple transportation into unforgettable experiences. Think vintage carriages, panoramic alpine views, and Michelin-level dining – all without leaving your seat.

From the timeless elegance of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to the glass-domed Glacier Express and the culture-rich Golden Eagle Danube Express, these luxury trains redefine the art of slow travel. Whether you’re seeking a grand adventure across the continent or a short but luxurious escape, this is the month to board in style.

VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT-EXPRESS

Few travel experiences capture the golden age of luxury like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. With its 1920s and 1930s Art Deco carriages, polished wood panelling, and signature blue-and-gold livery, every detail feels timeless. Step aboard and you’re instantly transported to an era of opulence, where liveried stewards serve champagne, and white-gloved service is second nature. Routes span from London to Venice and Paris to Verona, making it the perfect way to see Europe in old-world style.

By night, the cabins transform into plush sleeping quarters, while Grand Suites offer private bathrooms, butler service, and cinematic window views of Europe’s most iconic landscapes. From Michelin-level dining to the piano melodies in the bar car, this isn’t just a journey – it’s theatre on rails, where every detail feels curated for indulgence.

GLACIER EXPRESS EXCELLENCE CLASS

Dubbed the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express in Excellence Class is a masterclass in high-altitude luxury. Linking Zermatt and St. Moritz, this panoramic journey offers floor-to-ceiling windows that frame snow-capped peaks, alpine valleys, and storybook villages. The refined interiors and attentive concierge service make it more akin to a five-star hotel than a traditional rail experience.

Guests in Excellence Class enjoy a six-course wine-paired menu, bespoke cocktails in the exclusive bar, and personal iPads loaded with interactive maps and stories about the route. For those who believe luxury should be as much about the journey as the destination, this Swiss journey proves that slow travel can be the height of luxury.

LA DOLCE VITA ORIENT EXPRESS

Launching in 2025, the La Dolce Vita Orient Express brings mid-century Italian glamour back to the rails. Designed to capture the spirit of 1960s Italy, this train is all about cinematic style: think plush retro interiors, statement lighting, and bold, glamorous details. Its routes traverse Rome, Venice, Portofino, and Lake Como, creating the perfect itinerary for lovers of la dolce vita.

Guests can expect world-class Italian cuisine, curated wine pairings, and a service experience rooted in refinement. For those who want to see Italy at a more leisurely pace while wrapped in luxury, this new chapter of rail travel will certainly impress.

BELMOND BRITISH PULLMAN

For those craving vintage glamour without committing to an overnight journey, the Belmond British Pullman delivers quintessential old-world charm in a single day. Departing from London Victoria, this train offers curated trips to historic castles, countryside estates, and Britain’s most iconic events, from Royal Ascot to the Chelsea Flower Show.

Step into restored 1920s Pullman carriages, complete with polished brass, marquetry panels, and indulgent dining. Each journey is a chance to savour champagne brunches, traditional afternoon teas, and white-glove service – all while watching the English countryside unfold through beautifully framed windows.

THE ROYAL SCOTSMAN

Step aboard the Royal Scotsman and experience Scotland at its most regal. With its mahogany-clad carriages, Edwardian-style furnishings, and warm tartan touches, the train is a moving country house that winds through the Highlands in impeccable style. The intimate size – just 40 passengers- ensures a personalised journey filled with fine dining and five-star service.

From private whisky tastings in Speyside to exclusive visits to historic castles, each itinerary is curated to showcase Scotland’s wild beauty and rich traditions. After a day of exploration, unwind in the train’s onboard spa or sip champagne as the sun sets over the Highlands. Few journeys offer this level of intimacy, elegance, and connection to the land.