In 2026, luxury travel is being redefined - not by isolated highlights, but by the way a journey thoughtfully connects remarkable places with an equally remarkable way of travelling. As travellers seek depth over speed, and meaning over momentum, luxury train journeys are emerging as the most elegant expression of slow, intentional exploration.
The journeys shortlisted here are routes where landscapes unfold like living canvases, cultures are encountered gradually, and indulgence is measured not in miles covered, but in moments savoured. What sets these journeys apart is the rare balance they achieve: the train itself becomes a destination, while every stop adds depth and context to the experience. From the ancient corridors of the Silk Route to mist-draped mountains, volcanic coastlines, and storied African plains, each journey travels through regions of deep historical significance, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and culturally rich landscapes.
These are not routes defined by distance, but by distinction - where world-class destinations unfold at a pace that allows for presence, understanding, and quiet privilege. Together, they represent the most meaningful way to experience the world by rail in 2026.
Golden Eagle Luxury Train - Jewels of the Silk Route
Central Asia | Transcontinental Journey
The Jewels of the Silk Route journey aboard the Golden Eagle Luxury Train is a masterclass in cultural exploration. With private en-suite cabins, refined dining, and expert-led excursions, the journey allows guests to traverse Central Asia in seamless comfort. This is slow travel at its most rewarding - connecting ancient empires, architectural masterpieces, and remote landscapes once accessible only to caravans and explorers.
Route Highlights
This transcontinental journey reveals the heart of the ancient Silk Route, where trade, religion, and art converged for centuries. Guests move through cities shaped by conquest and commerce, discovering some of the most extraordinary Islamic architecture in the world.
Places of Interest
- Samarkand - Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, Bibi-Khanym Mosque
- Bukhara - UNESCO-listed old town, Ark Fortress, Poi Kalyan complex
- Khiva - Itchan Kala walled city and ancient madrassas
- Desert landscapes and steppe regions across Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan & Turkmenistan
Jewels of the Silk Route Itinerary
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La Dolce Vita Orient Express - Shores of Sicily
Italy | Mediterranean Coastal Journey
La Dolce Vita Orient Express blends contemporary luxury with Italian nostalgia. Designed as a celebration of la dolce vita, this journey pairs elegant interiors with regionally inspired menus and leisurely pacing. Every moment onboard reflects Italy’s passion for design, flavour, and effortless sophistication.
Route Highlights
Travelling through southern Italy and into Sicily, the route showcases coastal scenery, historic towns, and culinary traditions shaped by centuries of Mediterranean influence.
Places of Interest
- Palermo - historic centre, Arab-Norman architecture
- Taormina - dramatic coastal views near Mount Etna
- Catania - baroque streets and volcanic landscapes
- Scenic stretches along Sicily’s coastline, olive groves, and citrus plantations
Shores of Sicily Journey Details
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S-Journey - Indochine Coastline
Vietnam | Ho Chi Minh City to Quang Nam
S-Journey offers a refined way to experience Vietnam’s diverse geography and heritage. Inspired by Indochine-era elegance, the train features intimate cabins, panoramic lounges, and thoughtfully curated excursions. The journey focuses on Vietnam’s coastal rhythm - where landscapes, cuisine, and culture evolve gradually along the route.
Route Highlights
The journey traces Vietnam’s coastline, moving from vibrant urban centres to heritage-rich towns shaped by centuries of trade and tradition.
Places of Interest
- Ho Chi Minh City - colonial landmarks and dynamic city life
- Nha Trang region - coastal scenery and fishing communities
- Quy Nhon - quiet beaches and Cham heritage sites
- Quang Nam - Hoi An Ancient Town, lantern-lit streets, historic ports
S-Journey Vietnam Route
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Winter Privilege: S-Journey Special Offer
For travellers planning well in advance, S-Journey extends a discreet winter privilege on its Indochine Coastline journey. Valid for travel between September and December 2026, this early confirmation window allows guests to secure preferred departures while enjoying a 10% early booking benefit on reservations made until 30 January 2026.
Vietnam’s winter months offer a particularly refined way to experience the route - cooler temperatures, gentler light along the coastline, and a quieter rhythm across historic towns. Combined with S-Journey’s intimate scale and cultural depth, this period lends itself to a more contemplative, immersive journey by rail. Learn More
Rocky Mountaineer - Journey Through the Clouds
Canada | Jasper to Vancouver (Westbound)
Designed exclusively for daylight travel, this journey ensures uninterrupted views of Canada’s most dramatic landscapes. Glass-domed coaches, gourmet regional cuisine, and storytelling hosts transform the route into an immersive nature experience.
Route Highlights
From alpine wilderness to coastal rainforests, this route offers constant visual drama.
Places of Interest
- Jasper National Park - glaciers, alpine lakes, wildlife corridors
- Mount Robson - the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies
- Fraser Canyon - steep cliffs and powerful river crossings
- Vancouver - coastal city framed by mountains and ocean
Journey Through the Clouds Westbound
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Rovos Rail - Pretoria to Victoria Falls
Southern Africa | Classic Rail Safari
Rovos Rail is a tribute to timeless African travel, combining Edwardian elegance with vast wilderness. Spacious suites, fine dining, and attentive service set the tone for a journey defined by scale and serenity.
Route Highlights
The route reveals Africa’s diversity - historic towns, open savannahs, and iconic natural landmarks.
Places of Interest:
- Pretoria - departure from South Africa’s administrative capital
- Matobo Hills - granite landscapes and ancient rock art
- Hwange region - wildlife-rich plains
- Victoria Falls - one of the world’s largest and most powerful waterfalls
Rovos Rail Victoria Falls Journey
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Hiram Bingham - Cusco to Machu Picchu
Peru | Sacred Valley Route
The Hiram Bingham transforms a scenic rail transfer into a grand celebration of Andean heritage. With elegant interiors, live music, and gourmet dining, the journey builds anticipation for one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.
Route Highlights
The train follows the Sacred Valley, offering a gradual immersion into Incan landscapes.
Places of Interest:
- Cusco / Poroy - gateway to the Andes
- Sacred Valley - terraced hillsides and rural villages
- Urubamba River - lush riverbanks and mountain scenery
- Machu Picchu - UNESCO World Heritage Site
Hiram Bingham Luxury Train
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Seven Stars in Kyushu - Kirishima Course
Japan | Kyushu Island
With limited departures and highly curated experiences, Seven Stars in Kyushu offers one of the world’s most exclusive rail journeys. The Kirishima Course reflects Japan’s philosophy of mindful travel - where craftsmanship, hospitality, and landscape are seamlessly connected.
Route Highlights
This journey explores Kyushu’s spiritual and natural heartland.
Places of Interest:
- Kirishima-Yaku National Park - volcanic peaks and crater lakes
- Kirishima Shrine - sacred Shinto site
- Traditional onsen towns - natural hot springs
- Artisan villages showcasing regional crafts and cuisine
Seven Stars in Kyushu - Kirishima Course
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Plan Your Luxury Train Journey for 2026
Luxury train journeys in 2026 offer something increasingly rare - time, continuity, and depth. These seven routes are not simply ways to reach destinations; they are carefully choreographed experiences that elevate travel into something meaningful and memorable. For travellers seeking exclusivity, storytelling, and immersive landscapes, luxury trains remain the most elegant way to see the world.
Explore curated luxury train journeys at https://www.luxurytrains.in