When winter wraps the world in a soft white glow, there’s no better way to explore it than aboard a luxury train. Imagine sipping hot chocolate as snowflakes dance past panoramic windows, or dining on fine cuisine as you glide past frozen lakes and twinkling Christmas markets. These handpicked winter train journeys offer not only stunning scenery but a taste of timeless luxury.
Here are the most enchanting luxury trains to experience this winter - each promising a journey filled with festive magic, comfort, and curated elegance.
Glacier Express, Switzerland: The Slowest Express Through the Snow
Often referred to as the ‘slowest express train in the world’, the Glacier Express is a breathtaking journey through the Swiss Alps. Over eight leisurely hours, guests are treated to panoramic views of snow-covered valleys, majestic peaks, and iconic alpine villages.
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz (or reverse)
What Makes It Special:
Step aboard this red-and-white wonder and relax in plush, panoramic carriages that make the snowy world outside feel like an immersive movie. Winter brings an added layer of enchantment - glaciers sparkle under clear skies, while mountain chalets look lifted from a snow globe.
Luxury Touches:
Indulge in gourmet multi-course meals served at your seat with locally sourced Swiss ingredients. The Excellence Class experience offers guaranteed window seats, an onboard concierge, and champagne service.
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Bernina Express, Switzerland to Italy: A UNESCO World Heritage Winter Ride
A UNESCO World Heritage-listed journey, the Bernina Express traverses the highest railway crossing in the Alps and offers a winter spectacle like no other.
What Makes It Special:
Cross the Landwasser Viaduct and the snow-covered Bernina Pass with 360-degree views. The route cuts through sparkling glaciers and frozen lakes before descending into the sun-dappled vineyards of Northern Italy - a stunning juxtaposition of seasons.
Luxury Touches:
Panoramic glass carriages, cozy seat-side service, and an unparalleled view of alpine villages lit with holiday charm create an intimate yet grand experience.
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Bergen Railway, Norway: Arctic Dreams on Rails
Connecting Norway’s capital to its second-largest city, the Bergen Railway is one of Europe’s highest altitude train routes, and in winter, it transforms into a frozen fairytale.
Route: Oslo to Bergen (or reverse)
What Makes It Special:
Expect vast snowfields, frozen fjords, and pine forests blanketed in white. The journey includes the Hardangervidda Plateau - Northern Europe’s largest mountain plateau - where reindeer often roam.
Luxury Touches:
While not traditionally luxurious, upgrading to Komfort Class ensures extra comfort and serenity. Pair your rail journey with a stay at historic Norwegian hotels or a northern lights extension.
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Danube Express - Christmas Markets of Central Europe: Festive Elegance on Rails
Celebrate the holiday season in old-world grandeur aboard the Golden Eagle’s Danube Express as it takes you through the twinkling heart of Europe’s Christmas markets.
Route: Budapest to Munich (or reverse)
What Makes It Special:
Step into festive scenes straight from a storybook. Explore grand holiday markets in Vienna, Salzburg, Bratislava, and Budapest. Wooden stalls, mulled wine, twinkling lights, and carolers await at every stop.
Luxury Touches:
Expect private cabins with en suite bathrooms, fine dining in the restaurant car, and festive onboard entertainment. The train’s rich mahogany interiors and velvet drapes add to the warmth of the season.
Holiday Highlight:
Onboard celebrations include a special Christmas Eve dinner and regional treats served as you glide past snowy European towns.
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Rocky Mountaineer - Snow-Capped Wonders of Canada
Though traditionally a summer train, Rocky Mountaineer has introduced limited winter preview journeys to offer a new perspective on Canada’s majestic Rockies.
Route: Banff to Vancouver (special winter departure preview service)
What Makes It Special:
Towering snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes frozen in time, and wildlife peeking through powdery evergreens—Canada in winter is nothing short of cinematic.
Luxury Touches:
GoldLeaf Service delivers bi-level glass-dome coaches, heated cabins, gourmet cuisine, and storytelling from onboard hosts. Expect seasonal meals with Canadian flair and warm beverages to match the mood.
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Santa Claus Express, Finland: Arctic Magic on an Overnight Train
For a magical family escape or a romantic polar adventure, the Santa Claus Express delivers. This overnight train whisks passengers into the heart of Finnish Lapland - the official hometown of Santa Claus.
Route: Helsinki to Rovaniemi (Lapland)
What Makes It Special:
This overnight sleeper train lets you wake up in a snow-covered wonderland, with the chance to visit Santa’s Village, ride reindeer sleighs, and witness the northern lights.
Luxury Touches:
Book a private sleeping compartment with ensuite facilities and enjoy a peaceful, warm ride while snow falls silently outside. Seasonal décor, festive menus, and a magical destination make it an unforgettable family trip.
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The Season to Indulge
These luxury train journeys redefine winter travel. From sipping Swiss wine in a panoramic coach to drifting asleep under Arctic skies, each experience combines elegance, adventure, and festive charm. If you're seeking a way to celebrate the season that's as memorable as it is magical - the rails are calling.
Plan your winter escape now
Each of these winter luxury trains offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience wrapped in snow, celebration, and seamless service. Whether you're chasing alpine magic, old-world charm, or a festive family getaway, there’s a journey on rails ready to enchant you this winter.
Explore itineraries and reserve your seat at LuxuryTrains.in