8 Most Expensive Train Rides To Take In The World

Luxury train travel is more than just reaching a destination—it's about experiencing timeless elegance, world-class hospitality, and breathtaking scenery along the way. From royal suites and gourmet dining to exclusive excursions and personalized service, the world's most expensive trains redefine the meaning of luxury travel.

Whether you're dreaming of exploring India's royal heritage, Scotland's dramatic Highlands, or Europe's iconic cities in vintage style, these extraordinary rail journeys promise an unforgettable experience. Let's discover some of the most luxurious trains in the world that combine comfort, history, and adventure in the most spectacular way.

# Palace on Wheels

Starting Price: From $864 per night

Luxury Features

The Palace on Wheels is one of India's most iconic luxury trains, inspired by the royal coaches once used by the Maharajas of Rajasthan. Every detail reflects regal elegance while offering modern comforts.

14 beautifully designed coaches inspired by Rajasthan's royal palaces.
Spacious cabins with attached bathrooms, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and luxurious furnishings.
Two fine-dining restaurants—Maharaja and Maharani—serving authentic Indian and international cuisine.
Elegant lounge bar and observation car for relaxation while admiring scenic landscapes.
Journey Overview

This 7-night luxury journey showcases India's magnificent royal heritage, taking passengers through historic forts, vibrant cities, wildlife reserves, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Major Destinations
Delhi – Explore landmarks including Red Fort, India Gate, and Qutub Minar.
Jaipur – Visit Amer Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and colorful local markets.
Ranthambore – Enjoy an exciting wildlife safari in Ranthambore National Park.
Chittorgarh – Discover India's largest fort complex and its fascinating Rajput history.
Udaipur – Cruise across Lake Pichola and visit the magnificent City Palace.
Jaisalmer – Experience the Golden Fort, Jain Temples, and camel safaris in the Thar Desert.
Jodhpur – Explore Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, and bustling bazaars.
Agra – End the journey with a visit to the breathtaking Taj Mahal.
What's Included
Luxury accommodation
All gourmet meals
Premium beverages
Guided sightseeing
Monument entrance fees
Onboard cultural performances
Not Included
Personal expenses
Gratuities
Travel insurance (mandatory)

Why Choose Palace on Wheels?

Combining royal hospitality, heritage, and luxurious amenities, the Palace on Wheels delivers one of the finest train journeys in the world for travelers seeking an authentic taste of India's regal past.

# Maharajas' Express

Starting Price: $3,670 per night

Luxury Features

Recognized among the world's finest luxury trains, the Maharajas' Express offers unmatched elegance and exceptional hospitality.

14 lavish guest carriages inspired by Art Deco and Victorian design.
Deluxe cabins and suites with private bathrooms and modern amenities.
Two upscale restaurants serving gourmet Indian and international cuisine.
Stylish lounge and observation car with panoramic views.
Journey Overview

This luxurious 7-night rail expedition explores India's royal cities, ancient monuments, wildlife reserves, and spiritual destinations.

Major Destinations
Delhi – Explore Mughal-era monuments and vibrant markets.
Jaipur – Visit Amer Fort, City Palace, and Jaipur's colorful bazaars.
Ranthambore – Spot Bengal tigers during an exciting jungle safari.
Fatehpur Sikri – Discover the magnificent abandoned Mughal capital.
Agra – Witness the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal.
Gwalior – Visit the impressive Gwalior Fort and royal palaces.
Khajuraho – Admire UNESCO-listed temples renowned for their intricate sculptures.
Varanasi – Experience the spiritual rituals along the sacred River Ganges.
Lucknow – Explore the city of Nawabs and its remarkable architecture.
Package Includes
Luxury accommodation
Gourmet meals
Alcoholic beverages
Guided sightseeing tours
Monument entry fees
Exclusions
Personal expenses
Tips and gratuities
Mandatory travel insurance

Why Choose Maharajas' Express?

Offering exceptional service, luxurious suites, and carefully curated itineraries, the Maharajas' Express provides one of the most prestigious rail journeys available anywhere in the world.

# Royal Scotsman

Starting Price: $2,800 per night

Luxury Features

The Royal Scotsman delivers an intimate luxury experience while showcasing Scotland's breathtaking countryside.

Beautiful Edwardian-style interiors.
Accommodation for only 36 guests for personalized service.
Fine dining featuring Scotland's finest seasonal ingredients.
Comfortable observation car with panoramic Highland views.
Journey Overview

The 5-night itinerary travels through the magnificent Scottish Highlands, combining spectacular scenery with exclusive cultural experiences.

Major Destinations
Edinburgh – Discover Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.
Keith – Visit the historic Strathisla Distillery for whisky tasting.
Kyle of Lochalsh – Travel along one of Scotland's most scenic rail routes with optional visits to Eilean Donan Castle.
Boat of Garten – Enjoy peaceful countryside surroundings and exclusive dining experiences.
Dundee – Explore historic attractions and the modern V&A Dundee museum.
Included
Luxury accommodation
All meals and beverages
Off-train excursions
Traditional Scottish music and entertainment
Exclusions
Personal purchases
Gratuities
Recommended travel insurance

Why Choose Royal Scotsman?

The Royal Scotsman combines breathtaking Highland scenery, exceptional cuisine, whisky experiences, and impeccable hospitality, making it one of Europe's most exclusive rail adventures.

# Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Starting Price: $2,500 per night

Luxury Features

Steeped in history and glamour, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express recreates the romance of 1920s rail travel with beautifully restored vintage coaches.

Authentic Art Deco carriages from the golden age of travel.
Elegant private cabins transformed into luxurious sleeping compartments each evening.
Three sophisticated dining cars serving gourmet cuisine prepared by renowned French chefs.
Stylish Champagne Bar and Lounge Car for cocktails and live entertainment.
Journey Overview

This unforgettable 2-night European rail adventure travels from London through Paris and the spectacular Swiss Alps before arriving in the magical city of Venice.

Major Destinations
London – Begin your journey in England's vibrant capital.
Paris – Pass through the romantic City of Light.
Swiss Alps – Wake up to breathtaking alpine scenery.
Venice – Finish your journey among Venice's canals, bridges, and historic landmarks.
What's Included
Luxury accommodation
Gourmet meals
Premium beverages
Onboard entertainment
Important Information

Passengers first travel from London to Folkestone before transferring through the Channel Tunnel to Calais, where they board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for the overnight journey to Venice. Travel insurance is strongly recommended, while personal expenses and gratuities are charged separately.

Why Choose the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?

Blending timeless elegance, historic charm, gourmet dining, and breathtaking European landscapes, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express remains one of the world's most iconic and luxurious train journeys.

# Eastern & Oriental Express

Starting Price: $2,000 per night

Luxury Features

The Eastern & Oriental Express is one of Southeast Asia's most elegant luxury trains, combining colonial-era sophistication with contemporary comfort. Every carriage is thoughtfully restored to provide an unforgettable rail experience through some of the region's most scenic landscapes.

Beautiful colonial-style coaches featuring handcrafted interiors and timeless décor.
Spacious private cabins with en-suite bathrooms and large panoramic windows.
Two elegant dining cars serving a refined selection of Asian and European cuisine.
Open-air observation car offering uninterrupted views of lush forests, rivers, and countryside.
Journey Overview

This luxurious 2-night rail journey travels from Singapore to Bangkok, passing through the breathtaking landscapes of Malaysia and Thailand while showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage.

Major Destinations
Singapore – Begin your adventure in the vibrant Lion City, famous for its futuristic skyline, lush gardens, and world-renowned culinary scene.
Kuala Lumpur – Discover Malaysia's dynamic capital, home to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, bustling markets, and diverse cultural influences.
Kanchanaburi – Visit the historic Bridge over the River Kwai, one of the most significant World War II landmarks.
Bangkok – Complete your journey in Thailand's lively capital, where magnificent temples, royal palaces, floating markets, and street food await.
What's Included
Luxury accommodation
All gourmet meals
Premium beverages
Guided off-train excursions
Live onboard entertainment and cultural performances
Not Included
Personal expenses
Gratuities
Recommended travel insurance

Why Choose the Eastern & Oriental Express?

Blending old-world elegance with exceptional hospitality, the Eastern & Oriental Express offers a remarkable journey through Southeast Asia's diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable cuisine.

# Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express

Starting Price: $1,700 per night

Luxury Features

The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express transforms the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway into one of the world's most luxurious rail adventures.

Spacious en-suite cabins equipped with premium furnishings and modern comforts.
Two elegant restaurant cars serving authentic Russian specialties alongside international cuisine.
Sophisticated bar lounge hosting nightly entertainment, lectures, and social gatherings.
Journey Overview

This extraordinary 15-day expedition travels from Moscow to Vladivostok, crossing thousands of kilometers through Russia's vast wilderness, historic cities, and breathtaking natural wonders.

Major Destinations
Moscow – Explore Red Square, the Kremlin, and St. Basil's Cathedral.
Kazan – Visit the UNESCO-listed Kazan Kremlin and experience Tatar culture.
Yekaterinburg – Learn about Russia's imperial history and the Romanov family.
Novosibirsk – Discover Siberia's cultural capital, renowned for its performing arts.
Irkutsk – Wander through the charming streets often called the "Paris of Siberia."
Lake Baikal – Cruise across the world's deepest freshwater lake and admire spectacular scenery.
Ulan-Ude – Experience the fascinating blend of Russian and Buddhist traditions.
Vladivostok – Finish your journey at Russia's important Pacific port, famous for the Russky Bridge and maritime heritage.
Package Includes
Luxury accommodation
All meals and beverages
Guided sightseeing excursions
Cultural lectures and Russian language sessions
Exclusions
Personal purchases
Gratuities
Recommended travel insurance

Why Choose the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express?

Offering luxurious accommodations, immersive cultural experiences, and one of the world's greatest railway journeys, the Golden Eagle provides an unforgettable way to explore the immense beauty and diversity of Russia.

# Rovos Rail

Starting Price: $1,300 per night

Luxury Features

Known as the "Pride of Africa," Rovos Rail delivers an elegant vintage rail experience across some of the continent's most spectacular landscapes.

Beautifully restored Edwardian-era coaches preserving classic railway charm.
Spacious suites featuring polished wood interiors, en-suite bathrooms, and premium amenities.
Fine dining cars serving authentic South African cuisine paired with regional wines.
Observation lounge at the rear of the train with panoramic views of Africa's stunning wilderness.
Journey Overview

The signature 15-day itinerary travels from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam, passing through South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania.

Major Destinations
Cape Town – Begin your journey beneath the iconic Table Mountain and explore the Cape Peninsula.
Kimberley – Visit the famous Big Hole diamond mine and learn about South Africa's mining history.
Pretoria – Discover historic landmarks and tree-lined boulevards in South Africa's administrative capital.
Victoria Falls – Witness one of the world's greatest natural wonders on the Zambia–Zimbabwe border.
Great Rift Valley – Admire dramatic landscapes filled with lakes, wildlife, and sweeping savannahs.
Selous Game Reserve – Enjoy unforgettable wildlife safaris in one of Africa's largest protected reserves.
Dar es Salaam – Conclude your adventure in Tanzania's vibrant coastal city.
What's Included
Luxury accommodation
All meals and beverages
Guided excursions
Wildlife safaris
Not Included
Personal expenses
Gratuities
Recommended travel insurance

Why Choose Rovos Rail?

Rovos Rail combines vintage luxury, world-class hospitality, and extraordinary African scenery, creating one of the continent's most prestigious rail journeys.

# Belmond Andean Explorer

Starting Price: $1,500 per night

Luxury Features

The Belmond Andean Explorer is South America's first luxury sleeper train, offering an elegant journey through Peru's spectacular Andean landscapes.

Stylish cabins inspired by traditional Andean craftsmanship.
Comfortable en-suite rooms featuring handcrafted textiles and luxurious alpaca wool furnishings.
Two gourmet dining cars serving modern Peruvian cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Open-air observation deck offering breathtaking mountain views.
Journey Overview

This scenic 2-night luxury rail adventure travels from Cusco to Lake Titicaca and Arequipa, showcasing Peru's incredible natural beauty and ancient history.

Major Destinations
Cusco – Begin in the former capital of the Inca Empire, famous for its colonial architecture and archaeological treasures.
Raqchi – Visit the remarkable Temple of Wiracocha, one of the most important Inca archaeological sites.
Lake Titicaca – Cruise across the world's highest navigable lake while exploring the floating Uros Islands and Taquile Island.
Sumbay Caves – Discover prehistoric cave paintings dating back nearly 8,000 years.
Arequipa – End your journey in Peru's beautiful "White City," celebrated for its volcanic stone architecture and charming plazas.
Package Includes
Luxury accommodation
Gourmet meals
Premium beverages
Guided sightseeing excursions
Onboard entertainment and cultural experiences
Exclusions
Personal expenses
Gratuities
Recommended travel insurance

Why Choose the Belmond Andean Explorer?

Combining exceptional luxury with Peru's breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage, the Belmond Andean Explorer offers one of the most memorable train journeys in South America, making it a dream experience for luxury travelers and adventure seekers alike.