For decades, luxury train travel represented elegance, romance, and the golden age of exploration. While air travel and high-speed trains gradually took the spotlight, the charm of luxury train journeys never truly disappeared. In fact, 2025 marks a remarkable revival of this timeless mode of travel, as more travelers seek unique, slow-paced, and eco-friendly experiences.
So, why are luxury trains making a comeback this year? Let’s explore the reasons, the top journeys available, and what makes this form of travel so special.
Why Luxury Train Travel Is Trending Again
1. A Shift Toward Slow Travel
Modern travelers are moving away from rushed itineraries. Instead, they crave immersive experiences that allow them to enjoy the journey itself, not just the destination. Luxury trains provide just that—elegant cabins, fine dining, and scenic routes that turn travel into an experience.
2. Nostalgia and Romance
There’s something inherently nostalgic about trains—the vintage decor, the sound of wheels on the tracks, and the sense of stepping back into a more glamorous era of travel. With themed carriages and old-world hospitality, these journeys recreate the romantic spirit of the early 20th century.
3. Sustainable Luxury
Compared to frequent flights, trains offer a more sustainable way to explore multiple destinations. Many luxury train operators are now emphasizing eco-friendly practices, appealing to conscious travelers who want indulgence without guilt.
4. Exclusive and Private Experiences
As luxury tourism grows, people are seeking experiences that feel exclusive. Trains offer limited passenger capacity, personalized service, and privacy—something high-end travelers value deeply.
Top Luxury Train Journeys in 2025
1. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe)
Perhaps the most iconic of them all, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express continues to capture imaginations. In 2025, new routes across Europe, including Paris to Istanbul, make it a bucket-list journey. Guests enjoy art-deco cabins, gourmet dining, and panoramic views of the European countryside.
2. The Royal Scotsman (Scotland)
For travelers wanting rugged landscapes with elegance, the Royal Scotsman offers journeys through the Scottish Highlands. With private cabins, a spa car, and excursions to castles and distilleries, it combines luxury with authentic cultural immersion.
3. The Maharajas’ Express (India)
India’s Maharajas’ Express has been dubbed one of the world’s leading luxury trains. Its lavish suites, themed journeys, and guided cultural tours make it a spectacular way to explore Rajasthan, Delhi, and other heritage destinations.
4. The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
For North American travelers, the Rocky Mountaineer provides scenic journeys through Canada’s breathtaking Rockies. In 2025, it continues to expand its routes, offering glass-domed coaches and gourmet meals with unmatched mountain views.
5. The Ghan (Australia)
Running through the heart of Australia, from Adelaide to Darwin, The Ghan is a legendary luxury journey. This year, travelers can expect enhanced experiences, including stargazing events and immersive Indigenous cultural excursions.
6. Rovos Rail (South Africa)
Known as “the most luxurious train in the world,” Rovos Rail offers journeys through South Africa’s diverse landscapes. It’s a perfect choice for safari lovers, combining wildlife excursions with unparalleled comfort on board.
What Makes Luxury Train Journeys Unique?
- Scenic Routes: Unlike air travel, the journey itself is the attraction. Passengers witness breathtaking landscapes unfold at a leisurely pace.
- Personalized Service: Attendants and chefs cater to every detail, making the trip feel like a private retreat.
- Fine Dining: Multi-course meals prepared by world-class chefs, often featuring local specialties.
- Exclusive Excursions: Many journeys include guided tours of landmarks, cultural experiences, and adventure stops.
- Old-World Ambiance: Vintage-inspired decor, private cabins, and lounge cars recreate the feel of classic travel.
Challenges and Considerations
While luxury train travel is appealing, it comes with a few challenges:
- Cost: Tickets are expensive, often costing thousands of dollars per passenger.
- Limited Availability: With small passenger capacities, spots sell out quickly.
- Niche Appeal: Not all travelers enjoy long journeys or slower itineraries.
Still, for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, the value often outweighs the cost.
The Future of Luxury Trains
With rising demand, 2025 is just the beginning of a broader revival. Expect to see:
- New routes in Asia, the Middle East, and South America.
- Eco-friendly innovations, including hybrid or fully electric luxury trains.
- Customized journeys, where travelers can book private carriages or themed experiences.
Closing Thoughts
The resurgence of luxury train journeys in 2025 reflects a broader shift in travel—one that values experience, sustainability, and nostalgia over speed. Whether it’s gliding through the Scottish Highlands, crossing the Canadian Rockies, or exploring India’s royal heritage, luxury trains offer travelers the rare chance to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
