Are you a travelenthusiast who wants to explore Europe in style? If so, then luxury train journeys in Europeare the perfect way to do so. Europe offers a wide range of luxurious train journeys that cater to different tastes and preferences. From the stunning views of the Swiss Alps to the picturesque countryside of France, there is something for everyone. Let's explore some of the best luxury train journeys in Europe and why they are worth your time and money.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is one of the most iconic luxury train journeys in Europe. This train journey has been running for over 100 years and takes you through some of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
Starting from London, the train passes through Paris, Innsbruck, Verona, and Venice. The train has been restored to its former glory, and the interiors reflect the luxurious and glamorous lifestyle of the 1920s.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is known for its exceptional service and delicious cuisine. You can indulge in a five-course meal prepared by some of the finest chefs in Europe while enjoying the breathtaking views outside your window. The train also offers a champagne bar, where you can sip on some of the finest champagne while socializing with fellow travelers.
The Royal Scotsman is a luxurious train journey that takes you through the stunning Scottish Highlands. The train journey starts and ends in Edinburgh and takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Scotland. The train has luxurious cabins, an observation car, and a dining car that serves traditional Scottish cuisine.
The Royal Scotsman is known for its exceptional service and attention to detail. The train also offers various activities such as hiking, fishing, and golfing, making it the perfect train journey for adventure enthusiasts.
The Blue Train is a luxurious train journey that takes you through the beautiful landscapes of South Africa. The train journey starts in Cape Town and takes you to Pretoria, passing through some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. The train has luxurious cabins, a dining car, and an observation car that offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
The Blue Train is known for its exceptional service and attention to detail. The train also offers various activities such as wine tasting, wildlife safaris, and golfing, making it the perfect train journey for adventure enthusiasts.
The Belmond Grand Hibernian is a luxurious train journey that takes you through the stunning landscapes of Ireland.
The train journey starts and ends in Dublin and takes you through some of the most beautiful cities in Ireland, including Cork, Killarney, and Galway. The train has luxurious cabins, a dining car, and an observation car that offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
The Belmond Grand Hibernian is known for its exceptional service and attention to detail. The train also offers various activities such as whiskey tasting, golfing, and visiting historical sites, making it the perfect train journey for history enthusiasts.
The Golden Eagle Danube Express is one of the most luxurious trains in Europe, offering a variety of journeys throughout Central and Eastern Europe. The train is a popular choice for travelers who want to explore the stunning scenery and rich history of the region in style.
The train features a range of elegant and spacious cabins, each with an en suite bathroom and all the amenities you would expect from a luxury hotel room. The cabins are decorated with beautiful fabrics and furnishings, creating a stylish and comfortable environment for passengers to relax in.
The train's dining car serves gourmet meals made with fresh, local ingredients, and passengers can also enjoy a range of wines and spirits from the train's well-stocked bar.
In addition, the train offers a range of onboard activities, including cultural lectures, live music performances, and even a spa car where passengers can indulge in a range of treatments.
The Glacier Express is a luxurious train journey that takes passengers on a breathtaking journey through the Swiss Alps. The train is known for its panoramic windows, which offer stunning views of snow-capped mountains, forests, and valleys, and is often referred to as the "slowest express train in the world" due to its leisurely pace.
The Glacier Express features comfortable seating, elegant dining cars, and a range of onboard amenities, including a bar car where passengers can relax with a drink and take in the beautiful scenery.
The train's dining cars serve gourmet meals made with fresh, local ingredients, and passengers can enjoy a range of Swiss wines and cheeses as they travel through the Alps. In addition, the train features an audio guide that provides passengers with information about the landscape and history of the region.
The Belmond Andean Explorer is the first luxury sleeper train in South America, taking passengers on a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in Peru. The train features 16 carriages, including cabins, dining cars, and observation lounges, all decorated with a blend of traditional Andean and contemporary styles.
The train's itineraries include visits to some of Peru's most iconic destinations, such as Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and the Colca Canyon. Along the way, passengers can explore ancient ruins, visit local markets, and even take part in traditional Andean ceremonies.
The train's dining car offers gourmet Peruvian cuisine, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and passengers can also enjoy a range of wines and cocktails from the bar.
The Belmond Andean Explorer also features a spa car, where passengers can indulge in a range of treatments and therapies, as well as an observation car with panoramic windows, providing breathtaking views of the Andes.
When packing for a luxury train journey in Europe, it's important to pack comfortable and stylish clothing suitable for the train journey's dress code.
- Clothing- Pack comfortable and stylish clothing that's suitable for the dress code on board the train. This may include formal wear for dinner, as well as casual wear for daytime activities. It's also a good idea to pack clothing that can be layered for varying temperatures.
- Shoes- Pack comfortable shoes for both onboard and off-train activities, such as exploring cities and visiting tourist attractions. Consider packing a pair of dress shoes for formal occasions, as well as comfortable walking shoes for more casual activities.
- Jacket or coat- It's recommended to pack a light jacket or coat for cooler weather, especially if you're traveling during the autumn or winter months. The train's air conditioning may also make the cabins cooler, so having an extra layer can come in handy.
- Travel documents- Don't forget to pack all necessary travel documents, including your passport, visa (if required), travel insurance, and any train tickets or itineraries. Keep these documents in a safe and easily accessible place.
- Medications- If you're taking any medications, make sure to pack enough for the duration of your journey, as well as any necessary prescriptions. It's also a good idea to bring along over-the-counter medications for common ailments such as headaches or motion sickness.
- Electronics and chargers- Consider packing any electronics you may need, such as a camera, e-reader, or tablet. Don't forget to bring along chargers for all of your devices, as well as any necessary adapters for different electrical outlets.
- Toiletries- Pack any necessary toiletries, such as toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Many luxury trains provide these amenities, but it's always a good idea to bring your own just in case.
- Other items - Depending on your personal preferences, you may also want to pack items such as a book, travel pillow, or snacks for the journey.
By packing these essentials, you'll be prepared for a comfortable and stylish journey on a luxury train through Europe.
The cost of luxury train journeys in Europe varies depending on the train journey, the duration of the trip, and the type of accommodation. Generally, luxury train journeys can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. However, the cost is often inclusive of all meals, drinks, and activities onboard, making it a more cost-effective way to explore Europe in luxury.
The best time to go on a luxury train journey in Europe varies depending on the train journey and the region you are traveling to. However, generally, the best time to go on a luxury train journey in Europe is during the spring and fall seasons. During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller, making it a more pleasant and comfortable experience.
Luxury train journeys in Europe can be family-friendly, depending on the train journey and the age of your children. Some train journeys offer activities and amenities that cater specifically to children, such as onboard games, storytelling, and outdoor activities. However, it's important to check with the train operator beforehand to ensure that the train journey is suitable for children.
It's recommended that you book a luxury train journey in Europe as far in advance as possible, as these train journeys tend to fill up quickly. Some train journeys require a reservation several months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Luxury train journeys in Europe offer a unique way to explore the continent in style. From the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to the beautiful landscapes of Scotland and Ireland, there is something for everyone.
These train journeys offer exceptional service, luxurious accommodations, and delicious cuisine. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or a history buff, luxury train journeys in Europe are an experience not to be missed.