8 Most Expensive Train Rides in the World: The Pinnacle of Luxury Travel

By - December 10, 2024 - Luxury, Trains, World
Most Expensive Train in the World: Maharajas Express

Step right into the world of lavish train travel! Get ready to embark on a thrilling ride as we unveil the 7 Most Expensive Trains in the World. We’re about to take you on a journey like no other, where luxury and extravagance know no limits. Picture yourself surrounded by stunning landscapes, enjoying top-notch amenities, and feeling like royalty. Sounds incredible, doesn’t it? So, buckle up and get ready for an adventure that will leave you breathless.

Join us as we explore the crème de la crème of train experiences, designed to spoil even the most discerning travelers. It’s time to discover the ultimate in refined travel.

Are you ready? Let’s dive into the world of the world’s most exclusive train journeys and prepare to be amazed!

1. Palace on Wheels

Price: Starting at $864 per night

Luxury Features

  • Luxurious Carriages: The Palace on Wheels boasts 14 deluxe coaches, each reflecting the regal heritage of Rajasthan with themes inspired by palatial designs.
  • Suites with Modern Comforts: Equipped with en-suite bathrooms, plush beds, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning to ensure a blend of classic charm with modern luxury.
  • Dining Excellence: Two opulent restaurants, Maharaja and Maharani, serve gourmet Indian and international cuisine, paired with fine wines and spirits.
  • Leisure Cars: The train includes a bar lounge and an observation car for unwinding while soaking in scenic views.

Itinerary Overview: Embark on a majestic 7-night journey that offers a curated exploration of India’s cultural and historical splendor, covering iconic destinations steeped in royalty and tradition.

Trip Highlights:

  • Delhi: Begin your journey in Delhi, the bustling capital of India. Here, explore iconic landmarks like the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and India Gate before boarding the Palace on Wheels.
  • Jaipur: In Jaipur, the regal Pink City, discover architectural marvels like the Amer Fort, City Palace, and the iconic Hawa Mahal. Immerse yourself in cultural performances and traditional markets.
  • Ranthambore: Head to Ranthambore, home to the renowned Ranthambore National Park. Experience an exhilarating safari and spot majestic Bengal tigers amidst lush landscapes.
  • Chittorgarh: Visit Chittorgarh, where the grand Chittorgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to Rajput bravery and romance, complete with palaces and intricate temples.
  • Udaipur: In Udaipur, the enchanting City of Lakes, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola, admire the majestic City Palace, and visit the spiritual Jagdish Temple.
  • Jaisalmer: Explore the Golden City of Jaisalmer, nestled in the Thar Desert. Marvel at the grandeur of Jaisalmer Fort, the intricate Jain temples, and enjoy a camel safari on the sand dunes.
  • Jodhpur: Experience the charm of Jodhpur, the Blue City, with visits to the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, the luxurious Umaid Bhawan Palace, and vibrant bazaars filled with crafts and local delicacies.
  • Agra: Conclude your adventure in Agra, home to the world-famous Taj Mahal, a timeless symbol of love and a masterpiece of Mughal architecture.

Additional Info

  • Inclusions: Accommodation, fine dining with alcoholic beverages, guided sightseeing tours, entrance fees, and onboard cultural activities.
  • Exclusions: Personal expenses, gratuities, and travel insurance. Comprehensive insurance coverage is mandatory for health and trip cancellations.

The Palace on Wheels offers more than just a luxurious train ride. It’s an opulent exploration of India’s regal past, steeped in culture, history, and unmatchable grandeur. With its impeccable hospitality and thoughtfully curated itinerary, this train promises an experience fit for royalty.

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2. The Maharajas’ Express, India

Price: $3,670 per night

Luxury Features:

  • 14 guest carriages, each themed uniquely from Art Deco to Victorian styles.
  • A range of luxurious suites equipped with modern amenities including en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning.
  • Two exquisite dining cars serving authentic Indian cuisine.
  • Lounge and observation car for relaxation and scenic viewing.

Itinerary Overview: A grand 7-night tour of Indian royalty, delving into the ancient cultures and historic landmarks across several cities.

Trip Highlights:

  • Delhi: Start your journey in India’s capital, home to historic landmarks such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb.
  • Jaipur: Explore Pink City, known for its distinctive color and majestic forts such as Amer Fort and City Palace.
  • Ranthambore: Experience a thrilling wildlife safari in Ranthambore National Park, known for its Bengal tigers.
  • Fatehpur Sikri: Visit the city of Victory, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the capital of the Mughal Empire.
  • Agra: Marvel at the unparalleled beauty of the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
  • Gwalior: Wander around the Gwalior Fort and Scindia Palace, showcasing India’s royal past.
  • Khajuraho: Discover the world-famous Khajuraho temples, known for their erotic sculptures and intricate carvings.
  • Varanasi: Experience a spiritual awakening at the ghats of the holy river Ganges, where pilgrims perform rituals and ceremonies.
  • Lucknow: End your journey in the city of Nawabs, where you can indulge in delectable cuisine and visit Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza.

Additional Info: Price includes accommodation, meals, drinks (including alcoholic beverages), sightseeing trips, and entrance fees at monuments. Personal expenses and gratuities are not included. Passengers are required to take comprehensive travel insurance to cover any health issues, accidents, or trip cancellations.

Each of these destinations offers a unique cultural experience that takes you back in time to the grandeur of Indian royalty. With world-class services and a meticulously planned itinerary, the Maharajas Express truly embodies luxury on the rails.

Suggested Itineraries for India:

3. The Royal Scotsman, Scotland

Price: $2,800 per night

Luxury Features:

  • Edwardian-inspired interiors offer an intimate journey of luxury.
  • Accommodates only 36 passengers at a time, ensuring exclusive and personal service.
  • Delectable dining options, offering traditional and contemporary Scottish cuisine.
  • Observation car for panoramic views of Scotland’s rugged landscapes.

Itinerary Overview: A 5-night journey through the picturesque Scottish Highlands, visiting iconic locations like Edinburgh, Keith, Kyle of Lochalsh, Boat of Garten, and Dundee.

Trip Highlights:

  • Edinburgh: Begin your journey in Scotland’s capital, home to the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the historic Royal Mile.
  • Keith: Visit the Strathisla Distillery, the oldest operating distillery in the Highlands, for an exclusive whiskey tasting.
  • Kyle of Lochalsh: Traverse through one of the most scenic rail routes in the world, with an option to visit Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most recognized castles in Scotland.
  • Boat of Garten: Visit the tranquil village known as the Osprey Village because of the extensive birdlife in the area. Enjoy an exceptional dining experience at a private family home.
  • Dundee: Conclude your journey in this vibrant city, known for its historic ships and the cutting-edge V&A Dundee, Scotland’s first design museum.

Additional Info: The fare includes all meals, drinks, accommodation, and off-train excursions. The train also hosts traditional entertainment like ceilidhs, story-telling, and music performances. Travel insurance is advised to cover unforeseen circumstances or health issues. Personal expenses and gratuities are not included.

A journey aboard the Royal Scotsman is a unique way to explore the grandeur of Scotland. From indulging in fine dining and whiskey tasting to exploring historical landmarks and experiencing traditional entertainment, every moment on the train is designed to encapsulate the best of Scottish luxury and hospitality.

4. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

Price: $2,500 per night

Luxury Features:

  • Authentic and beautifully restored 1920s vintage carriages, encapsulating the glamour of the golden age of travel.
  • Elegant cabins transformed into comfortable bedrooms at night.
  • Three dining cars serve exquisite cuisine prepared by skilled French chefs.
  • Champagne Bar and Lounge Car for relaxation and socializing.

Itinerary Overview: A classic 2-night adventure that takes you from London, through Paris and the stunning Swiss Alps, culminating in Venice.

Trip Highlights:

  • London: Start your journey from the bustling capital of England, home to iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace.
  • Paris: Traverse through the City of Light, known for its romantic charm, haute couture, and world-class museums.
  • Swiss Alps: Wake up to the spectacular views of the Swiss Alps, as the train winds its way through this stunning mountain range.
  • Venice: Conclude your journey in the City of Canals, where you can explore iconic sights such as St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and the Grand Canal.

Additional Info: The fare includes all meals, drinks, accommodation, and onboard entertainment. It is important to note that the journey includes a day-time travel leg from London to Folkestone, then a transfer via luxury coach through the Channel Tunnel to Calais, France, where passengers board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. The journey from Calais to Venice is overnight. Passengers are advised to have travel insurance for health issues or unforeseen events. Personal expenses and gratuities are not included.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers an unforgettable journey, filled with luxury and romance. This classic train trip provides an immersive experience of Europe’s diverse cultures and landscapes, with world-class dining and service adding to the grandeur of the voyage.

5. Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia

Price: $2,000 per night

Luxury Features:

  • Beautifully restored, colonial-style train carriages, offer a unique blend of classic craftsmanship and modern comfort.
  • Elegant cabins with en-suite bathrooms and large picture windows to enjoy the passing scenery.
  • Two restaurant cars serving delectable Eastern and European cuisine prepared by skilled chefs.
  • The observation car with an open deck for panoramic views of the Southeast Asian landscapes.

Itinerary Overview: A classic 2-night journey from Singapore to Bangkok, passing through the lush landscapes of Malaysia and Thailand.

Trip Highlights:

  • Singapore: Start your journey in the Lion City, known for its modern architecture, lush gardens, and diverse food scene.
  • Kuala Lumpur: Traverse through Malaysia’s capital, known for its iconic Petronas Twin Towers and vibrant mix of cultural influences.
  • Kanchanaburi: Visit the River Kwai and the infamous bridge, a significant World War II site.
  • Bangkok: Conclude your journey in the City of Angels, where you can explore grand palaces, ornate temples, and bustling markets.

Additional Info: The fare includes all meals, drinks, accommodation, and off-train excursions. The train also hosts onboard entertainment including music performances and local cultural displays. Travel insurance covering health issues and unexpected events is recommended. Personal expenses and gratuities are not included.

The Eastern & Oriental Express presents an unforgettable journey through the heart of Southeast Asia. With its opulent interiors, gastronomical delights, and cultural immersions, the train encapsulates the charm and elegance of a bygone era, offering a unique perspective on the region’s diverse cultures and landscapes.

Singapore & Thailand Packages:

6. Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express, Russia

Price: $1,700 per night

Luxury Features:

Spacious and well-appointed en-suite cabins, furnished with modern amenities for a comfortable journey.

Two beautifully decorated restaurant cars serving both international and Russian cuisine.

An elegantly designed bar car offering a wide range of drinks and hosting nightly entertainment.

Itinerary Overview: An unforgettable 15-day journey that takes you from Moscow, Russia’s bustling capital, to Vladivostok, passing through the vast Siberian landscapes.

Trip Highlights:

  • Moscow: Begin your journey in the historic city of Moscow, home to the Kremlin, Red Square, and the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral.
  • Kazan: Visit the capital of Tatarstan, home to the historic Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Yekaterinburg: Explore the city where Russian Tsar Nicholas II and his family were executed.
  • Novosibirsk: Visit Russia’s third-largest city, renowned for its thriving arts scene.
  • Irkutsk: Known as the “Paris of Siberia,” Irkutsk is home to numerous 19th-century churches and log houses.
  • Lake Baikal: Take a boat trip on the deepest lake in the world, also known as the “Pearl of Siberia.”
  • Ulan Ude: Visit the capital of the Buryat Republic, where you can explore the city’s unique Buddhist culture.
  • Vladivostok: End your journey in this major Pacific port city, known for its impressive naval history and the iconic Russky Bridge.

Additional Info: The fare includes all meals, drinks, accommodation, and off-train excursions. Onboard activities include Russian language lessons and lectures on local history and culture. Travel insurance covering health issues and unforeseen events is recommended. Personal expenses and gratuities are not included.

The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express offers a once-in-a-lifetime journey, showcasing the diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes of Russia. With world-class services, luxurious accommodations, and an expertly planned itinerary, this train trip is the epitome of travel in grand style.

7. Rovos Rail, South Africa

Price: $1,300 per night

Luxury Features:

  • Majestic carriages from the Edwardian era, refurbished to offer an authentic luxury rail experience.
  • Spacious and elegant suites with wooden finishes, all equipped with en-suite bathrooms and modern amenities.
  • Dining cars serving traditional South African dishes, expertly prepared by skilled chefs.
  • Observation car at the rear of the train, offering panoramic views of the African landscapes.

Itinerary Overview: An epic 15-day journey from Cape Town, South Africa’s Mother City, to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, traversing through some of Africa’s most stunning scenery.

Trip Highlights:

  • Cape Town: Begin your journey in this scenic city, home to iconic landmarks like Table Mountain and the Cape of Good Hope.
  • Kimberley: Visit the historic city known for the Big Hole, the largest hand-dug excavation in the world.
  • Pretoria: Explore South Africa’s administrative capital, renowned for its jacaranda-lined avenues and historic buildings.
  • Victoria Falls: Marvel at one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
  • Rift Valley: Traverse through the dramatic landscapes of the Rift Valley, with stunning vistas of savannahs, lakes, and wildlife.
  • Selous Game Reserve: Enjoy a game drive in one of the largest animal reserves in the world.
  • Dar es Salaam: Conclude your journey in Tanzania’s vibrant city, offering a blend of African, Arab, and European influences.

Additional Info: The fare includes all meals, drinks, accommodation, and off-train excursions. There are no televisions or radios on the train to maintain the tranquillity and elegance of the bygone era. Travel insurance covering health issues and unexpected events is recommended. Personal expenses and gratuities are not included.

Rovos Rail presents a timeless journey through the heart of Africa. With its nostalgic charm, outstanding service, and immersive itinerary, it offers a unique and luxurious travel experience, allowing passengers to witness the enchanting beauty and diversity of the African continent.

8. Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru

Price: $1,500 per night

Luxury Features:

  • Contemporary, Andean-inspired design offering a relaxing and elegant journey.
  • Comfortable en-suite cabins furnished with hand-woven fabrics and alpaca-style blankets.
  • Two dining cars serving exquisite Peruvian cuisine prepared by top chefs.
  • Observation car with an open deck, offering unparalleled views of the Andean landscapes.

Itinerary Overview: A spectacular 2-night journey from Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, to the beautiful Lake Titicaca, and finally to the city of Arequipa.

Trip Highlights:

  • Cusco: Begin your journey in the historic city of Cusco, renowned for its archaeological remains and Spanish colonial architecture.
  • Raqchi: Visit the ancient Inca archaeological site, home to the Temple of Wiracocha.
  • Lake Titicaca: Take a traditional boat ride on the highest navigable lake in the world, visiting the Uros Islands and Taquile Island.
  • Sumbay Caves: Discover the ancient cave paintings, estimated to be almost 8,000 years old.
  • Arequipa: End your journey in the ‘White City,’ known for its baroque architecture built from white volcanic stone.

Additional Info: The fare includes all meals, drinks, accommodation, and off-train excursions. The train also offers onboard entertainment such as traditional music performances and cocktail-making classes. Travel insurance covering health issues and unexpected events is recommended. Personal expenses and gratuities are not included.

The Belmond Andean Explorer offers an unforgettable journey through the Peruvian Andes. It combines luxury travel with cultural exploration, providing passengers with a unique way to experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peru.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Why are some train rides so expensive?

Luxury trains offer world-class amenities, gourmet dining, personalized service, and exclusive scenic routes, providing a premium travel experience.

2. Which are the most expensive train rides in the world?

Famous luxury trains include the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe), Maharajas’ Express (India), Rovos Rail (South Africa), Belmond Royal Scotsman (Scotland), and the Rocky Mountaineer (Canada).

3. What makes the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express so special?

Known for its vintage carriages, lavish interiors, and gourmet meals, this train offers journeys through Europe’s most iconic cities.

4. Why is the Maharajas’ Express considered luxurious?

The Maharajas’ Express in India features opulent cabins, private butlers, fine dining, and cultural excursions to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

5. What can I expect on Rovos Rail in South Africa?

Rovos Rail offers spacious suites, classic decor, and breathtaking views of African landscapes, including safaris and cultural tours.

6. What is unique about the Belmond Royal Scotsman?

This Scottish train provides a luxurious journey through the Highlands, with exclusive experiences like whisky tastings and spa treatments on board.

7. Why is the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada expensive?

The Rocky Mountaineer is known for its glass-domed coaches, providing panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies while offering premium service and gourmet cuisine.

8. What is the most expensive train journey in the world?

The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express is among the most expensive, offering a 15-day journey across Russia with private suites and cultural experiences.

9. Are these train rides worth the cost?

Yes, for travelers seeking exclusive experiences, luxurious comfort, and unique itineraries, these rides provide unparalleled value.

10. What amenities are included in luxury train rides?

Amenities typically include private cabins, en-suite bathrooms, fine dining, guided tours, and personalized service.

11. When is the best time to book a luxury train journey?

Book 6–12 months in advance to secure availability, especially for seasonal or limited itineraries.

12. How can I book these luxury train rides?

Book directly through the train’s official website, luxury travel agencies, or specialized tour operators.

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