Luxury trains are the best way to travel, combining old world charm with modern comfort. These trains are more than just a means of transport to get from one place to another. They are complete experiences, with luxurious interiors, personal service, stunning views and, most importantly, world-class cuisine. A luxury train journey is a great way to combine excitement and good food. They take you through the rolling fields of Europe, the vast landscapes of Africa and the vibrant cultures of Asia.
Simplon Orient Express Venice, Italy
The Venice Simplon Orient Express is the most famous luxury train in the world. The name stands for class, beauty and elegance. This train takes you from London to Venice, Paris and other parts of Europe in beautifully recreated 1920s Art Deco carriages. The dishes on board are created by top chefs using only the freshest seasonal ingredients from all over the route. In a luxurious dining car designed to resemble a chic European restaurant, passengers can enjoy delicacies such as Breton lobster, truffle dishes and freshly baked desserts. The magnificent wine list perfectly complements the delicious food, making for a truly luxurious dining experience.
Maharaja Express
Considered by many to be one of the most luxurious trains in the world, the Maharaja Express is a fantastic way to learn about the country’s royal history. With luxurious rooms, beautiful artwork and first-class service, this train pays tribute to the Maharajas of India’s past. The best part is the food, which consists of traditional Indian and foreign dishes prepared by top chefs. You can enjoy Mughal feasts, South Indian dishes and royal Rajasthani delicacies, while sipping on fine wines and champagnes. The train’s two dining cars, Mayur Mahal and Rang Mahal, are so luxurious that every meal feels like a royal feast.
Blue Train
The Blue Train runs between Pretoria and Cape Town, taking you through some of South Africa’s most beautiful landscapes. Known as the “five-star hotel on wheels” for its first-class service, luxurious rooms and delicious food, the train is a must-see. The meals prepared by the onboard chefs showcase the flavours of South Africa, using local ostrich and springbok meat, fresh fish from Cape Town and rich desserts such as chocolate fondant with Amarula wine. A wide selection of premium South African wines are served with each meal, ensuring a perfect experience. Passengers dine in an elegant setting with white tables, sparkling glasses and friendly service.
Canadian Rocky Mountaineer
If you want to enjoy the majestic beauty of the Canadian Rockies in style, the Rocky Mountaineer is the right choice. People can only take this train during the day to enjoy the beautiful scenery and delicious food. The train’s chefs use local ingredients to create regional specialties such as Alberta tenderloin, wild Pacific salmon and freshly baked desserts. GoldLeaf Service guests dine in a private double-decker bus with a glass dome and views of the mountains, forests and waterfalls. There is also a large selection of Canadian wines and craft beers on board to complete the culinary experience.
Belmond Andean Explorer
The Belmond Andean Explorer is South America’s first luxury sleeper train. This journey through the Peruvian Andes is an experience you will never forget. Taking the train from Cusco to Arequipa and Lake Titicaca is a luxurious way to see the ancient Inca landscape. Chefs from the renowned Belmond Hotel Monasterio prepare gourmet meals on board the train, including dishes based on local ingredients such as Peruvian ceviche, alpaca steak and Andean quinoa soup. Guests can dine in the luxurious Llama and Muña dining cars while enjoying the beautiful mountain views. The train’s bar serves artisanal Pisco Sours, so you can be sure that you are eating authentic Peruvian food.
The Orient Express of South Asia
The Orient Express takes you through Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore, offering beautiful scenery and first-class service. The train’s restaurant is run by chefs renowned for their fusion of Asian and European flavours and styles. Passengers can enjoy dishes such as Thai vegetables with fresh coconut milk, lobster laksa and French tarts. With its beautiful wooden panelling and vintage look, the dining car is a cosy place to enjoy a delicious meal. In the observation car, guests can enjoy afternoon tea and drinks while enjoying the the dining car is called the Queen Adelaide Restaurant and features an elegant atmosphere, clean linen, beautifully presented plates and first-class service. The hotel also offers guests a selection of premium Australian wines, including those from the Barossa Valley and Margaret River, making every meal a unique culinary adventure.
King of Scots (Scotland)
Belmond operates the Royal Scotsman, one of the most unique train journeys in the world. You will take a small-group tour of the Scottish Highlands. The train seats just 40 passengers, yet offers personal service and Michelin-starred cuisine. Highland venison, smoked fish and fresh oysters are just some of the highlights on the menu, paired beautifully with rare single malt whiskies from some of Scotland’s finest distilleries. The train’s elegant dining car, decorated with luxurious wood and fine silverware, provides the perfect setting for an exquisite meal.
In short
Luxury trains are more than just a means of transport to travel from one place to another. They offer a complete experience with delicious food, beautiful scenery and unparalleled friendly service. Every journey, from the luxurious Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to the exotic Orient-Express, is an unforgettable adventure. Enjoy delicious Peruvian cuisine on board the Belmond Andes Explorer and South African wines on board the Blue Train. These luxury train journeys have transformed every meal into a gastronomic feast and changed the way people travel.
