Exploring the world of luxury train journeys in Europe.

What Are the Luxury Train Journeys in Europe: Discover Europe’s Most Luxurious Train Adventures

In an age dominated by budget airlines and high-speed rail focused solely on getting from A to B as quickly as possible, there’s a certain magic being rediscovered: the art of slow travel. And nowhere is this art perfected quite like aboard Europe’s legendary luxury trains. These aren’t just modes of transport; they are rolling palaces, evocative time capsules offering unparalleled service, exquisite dining, and a perspective on the continent’s landscapes you simply can’t get any other way.

Forget cramped seats and hurried connections. Imagine sinking into a plush armchair in a beautifully restored vintage carriage, cocktail in hand, as breathtaking scenery glides past your window. Picture dressing for dinner and savouring gourmet cuisine paired with fine wines in an elegant dining car, the gentle rhythm of the train lulling you into a state of blissful relaxation. This is the world of luxury train travel – an experience that blends nostalgia, romance, comfort, and discovery into one unforgettable journey.

If you’re dreaming of exploring Europe in style, here are some of the most opulent and iconic train journeys the continent has to offer:

1. The Legend: Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train

Perhaps the most famous luxury train in the world, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) needs little introduction. Synonymous with the golden age of travel, mystery, and romance, stepping aboard its meticulously restored 1920s and 1930s Art Deco carriages is like stepping back in time.

• The Experience: The VSOE is pure theatre. From the liveried stewards welcoming you aboard to the tinkling ivories of the baby grand piano in the bar car (‘3674’), every detail exudes glamour. Cabins are intimate jewel boxes of polished wood, marquetry, and soft fabrics. While historic twin cabins have upper and lower berths and convert from seating during the day, newer, opulent Grand Suites offer double beds, private en-suite bathrooms with showers, and dedicated lounge areas.
• Dining: Meals are a highlight, served in three distinct, stunning restaurant cars. Expect gourmet French cuisine prepared by skilled chefs, served on crisp white linens with sparkling crystal and silverware. Dressing for dinner is part of the experience – black tie or formal wear is encouraged, adding to the sense of occasion.
• Routes: The classic, iconic route runs between London/Paris and Venice, traversing the stunning Swiss Alps. Other itineraries often include journeys to Verona, Florence, Rome, Vienna, Prague, Budapest, and even Istanbul on its special annual pilgrimage, recreating the spirit of the original Orient Express.
• Best For: Romantics, history buffs, lovers of Art Deco, and anyone seeking the ultimate glamorous rail experience.

2. Scotland’s Rolling Country House: Belmond Royal Scotsman

If your heart yearns for misty glens, dramatic castles, and the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands, the Belmond Royal Scotsman offers an unparalleled way to experience it. Often described as a “country house on wheels,” this train provides an intimate and exclusive journey through Scotland’s most stunning landscapes.

• The Experience: With a maximum capacity of around 40 guests, the atmosphere is akin to a private club. The carriages are Edwardian in style, featuring rich mahogany panelling, tartan furnishings, and plush seating. All cabins feature private en-suite facilities. The Observation Car, with its open veranda, is a favourite spot for soaking in the scenery, perhaps with a fine Scotch whisky in hand.
• Dining & Activities: Dining focuses on exceptional Scottish produce – seafood, game, Aberdeen Angus beef – accompanied by fine wines. Evenings often involve traditional Scottish music or storytelling. A unique feature is the Bamford Haybarn Spa car, offering relaxing treatments. Off-train excursions are a key part of the experience, including visits to castles, whisky distilleries, and private estates, often with expert guides.
• Routes: Journeys typically depart from Edinburgh and range from two to seven nights, covering various Highland routes, often including loops through the West Highlands, North Coast, or focusing on specific themes like whisky or heritage homes.
• Best For: Lovers of Scotland, whisky aficionados, those seeking an intimate, club-like atmosphere with immersive off-train experiences.

3. Central & Eastern European Grandeur: Golden Eagle Danube Express

For those looking to explore the heart of Central and Eastern Europe in supreme comfort, the Golden Eagle Danube Express provides a luxurious base for discovery. This private train offers longer, more exploratory itineraries than many others.

• The Experience: The train features well-appointed en-suite sleeping cars, ranging from Heritage Class (soon to be phased out) to Deluxe Class and the top-tier Superior Deluxe Class, which offer larger cabins and enhanced amenities. Elegant Bar Lounge and Restaurant Cars provide sophisticated spaces for relaxing and dining. Onboard lectures often enrich the journey, providing context to the places visited.
• Dining: Expect high-quality international and local cuisine, often reflecting the regions travelled through, served in the elegant dining cars. Service is attentive and professional.
• Routes: The Danube Express covers extensive ground. Popular journeys include routes through Hungary, Austria, Slovakia, Poland, the Czech Republic, and even into Romania (exploring Transylvania) or further afield towards Turkey on special departures. Routes often focus on imperial capitals like Budapest, Vienna, and Prague, or explore unique regions like the Balkans.
• Best For: Travellers seeking longer, culturally rich itineraries through Central and Eastern Europe, those interested in history and imperial grandeur.

4. Northern Spain’s Coastal Charm: El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo

Journey through “Green Spain,” the stunning coastal region of Northern Spain, aboard one of the world’s most luxurious narrow-gauge trains. El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo combines vintage charm with modern five-star hotel comforts.

• The Experience: The train utilises original 1923 Pullman lounge cars, beautifully preserved social spaces brimming with Belle Époque character. The accommodation is exceptional – spacious suites featuring lounges, bedrooms with double or twin beds, and full private bathrooms with hydromassage showers/steam saunas. The train stables at stations overnight, ensuring a restful sleep.
• Dining & Activities: Gastronomy is a major focus, showcasing the best of Northern Spanish cuisine (seafood, cheeses, meats) and wines, served both onboard and in selected local restaurants. Daily guided excursions take guests to historic towns, natural parks, and cultural sites along the route, such as Santiago de Compostela, Bilbao (Guggenheim), Santander, Oviedo, and the Picos de Europa mountains. Luxury coach transport shadows the train for these excursions.
• Routes: The classic route runs for 8 days/7 nights along Spain’s northern coast between San Sebastián and Santiago de Compostela (or vice versa).
• Best For: Gourmands, culture enthusiasts, those seeking a deep dive into Northern Spain’s unique landscapes and heritage, travellers who appreciate spacious private suites.

5. Andalusian Adventures: Al Andalus

Explore the sun-drenched landscapes and rich Moorish history of Southern Spain aboard the Al Andalus train. Sister to El Transcantábrico, this train offers a journey through Andalusia in restored vintage carriages that evoke the glamour of the Belle Époque.

• The Experience: Like its northern counterpart, Al Andalus features beautifully appointed vintage lounge, bar, and dining cars originally built in France in the late 1920s. Accommodation consists of comfortable Gran Clase rooms (original Wagon-Lits sleepers converted to feature private bathrooms) and larger Deluxe Suites. The train also stables overnight in stations.
• Dining & Activities: Indulge in the flavours of Andalusia – tapas, sherry, Iberian ham, olive oil – both onboard and during meals at high-quality local restaurants. Guided excursions are integral, exploring iconic cities like Seville, Córdoba (Mezquita), Granada (Alhambra), Jerez (home of sherry), and Cádiz. Luxury coach travel facilitates these off-train explorations.
• Routes: The primary itinerary is a 7-day/6-night loop through Andalusia, typically starting and ending in Seville.
• Best For: History buffs fascinated by Moorish Spain, lovers of Southern Spanish culture and cuisine, those seeking a comfortable and immersive way to explore Andalusia’s key highlights.

Why Choose a Luxury Train Journey?

Beyond the specific trains, what makes this mode of travel so appealing?

• The Journey IS the Destination: It embraces slow travel, allowing you to truly appreciate the changing landscapes and the romance of the rails.
• Unparalleled Comfort & Service: Expect attentive, discreet service, luxurious accommodation, and every need anticipated.
• Exclusive Access & Perspectives: See landscapes often hidden from roads, enjoy curated off-train excursions, and travel with like-minded individuals.
• Gastronomic Excellence: Dining is a central part of the experience, often featuring regional specialities and fine wines.
• Nostalgia & Romance: These journeys evoke a bygone era of elegance and sophistication.
• Hassle-Free Exploration: Your hotel travels with you, eliminating the need for constant packing and unpacking.

Planning Your Trip

Luxury train travel is an investment. Journeys are typically all-inclusive (accommodation, meals, drinks, excursions) but command premium prices. It’s essential to:

• Book Well in Advance: These trains have limited capacity and are extremely popular, often booking up a year or more ahead.
• Check Itineraries Carefully: Routes and inclusions vary. Ensure the journey covers the destinations and experiences you desire.
• Pack Appropriately: While daytime is usually smart casual, many trains encourage or require more formal attire for dinner, particularly the VSOE.

A Journey Like No Other

A luxury train journey through Europe is more than just a holiday; it’s an experience woven from threads of history, comfort, fine dining, and breathtaking scenery. It’s a chance to slow down, reconnect with the romance of travel, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re captivated by the Art Deco splendour of the VSOE, the Highland charm of the Royal Scotsman, or the cultural depth of the Spanish trains, prepare for a journey that will redefine your perception of travel. All aboard!