While most train commuters choose rail travel solely for its speed and convenience, others choose the railroads to experience the world’s most beautiful landscapes in a luxurious atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the first class of the world’s most beautiful trains.
Every year, nearly 1.6 billion passengers take a seat on a train. For many of them, the railroads are a convenient and quick way to get to work or on vacation. However, for some, train travel is not just a means to a destination, but the very reason for the journey.
The Venice Simplon – Orient-Express (Europe)
The Venice Simplon – Orient-Express is one of the most famous trains in the world. Having taken over from the historic Orient Express in 1982, the train has retained 11 of its cars dating from the 1930s. The Orient Express, conceived in 1867 and first operated in 1883, was the world’s first luxury night train. Le Venice Simplon – Orient-Express departs from London and connects the West with the East, passing through the major European cities (Berlin, Budapest, Istanbul, Paris, Prague, Vienna and Verona) and ending in Venice. Its interior is decorated in Art Nouveau style and its 17 carriages in a romantic style reminiscent of the golden age of railroads ensure an instantaneous journey through time.
The Trans-Siberian Golden Eagle (Siberia-Mongolia)
The Trans-Siberian Golden Eagle is over 100 years old and offers the longest train ride in the world. Departing from Moscow, the train crosses the snowy plains of Siberia and Mongolia to reach the port city of Vladivostok. During its 15-day journey, the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Railway has a few well-chosen stops, such as Ulan Bator, Lake Baikal and Irkutsk. Russian language courses are offered during the trip, and a bar is present on board, ensuring that it will not close until the last passenger has left. Fares for this luxurious getaway start at €500.
The Blue Train (South Africa)
The Blue Train is described as a “beautiful five-star hotel on the move. Offering a luxurious two-day getaway, the Blue Train connects Pretoria to Cape Town and travels through some of South Africa‘s most beautiful scenery. With its 19 Edwardian style carriages decorated with wood and polished brass panels, this choice train offers a guaranteed change of scenery.
Shiki-Shima Train Suite (Japan)
The Shiki-Shima Suite Train is one of the most expensive trains in the world. With its 17 compartments, the train accommodates a maximum of 34 people, to ensure the utmost privacy for its passengers. Designed by designer Ken Okuyama, the Shiki-Shima Train Suite offers a 4-day, 3-night trip from Tokyo to Hokkaido Island before turning back. The price for a suite “maisonette type” is 8 500€ per person including meals, which is the highest price for a train trip, but it is always full.
The Cloud Train (Argentina)
The Cloud Train (in Spanish, Tren a las Nubes) is the perfect getaway for altitude-starved travelers who want to enjoy a luxurious setting without missing a beat of South America‘s mythical landscapes. The train is located almost 4000 meters above sea level in the Andes and claims to be one of the highest railroads in the world. For its 16-hour journey, the train leaves from Salta, to reach San Antonio de los Cobres, 217 km further on. Its route was created in the 1920s, but only opened its cars to tourists in the 1970s.
Read also > [LUXUS+ MAGAZINE] SOUTH AFRICA: THE SUMPTUOUS BLUE TRAIN OFFERS A SHORT GETAWAY AT A DISCOUNTED PRICE
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