Luxurious Train Journeys, Over the past year, health and climate concerns have boosted alternative forms of travel. To avoid the hassle and crowds at a busy airport, many now choose to travel by train.
While a plane or car can get you to your destination faster, traveling by train is a great experience. “Unlike airplanes, when you travel by train, you can see an ever-changing landscape,” says Estelle Giraud, Managing Director of Club Med. “You can enjoy the view of the French Alps or the Canadian Rockies from the comfort of your seat.”
To find the best and most luxurious train routes, the travel company researched train routes from all over the world. Club Med ranked the best train journeys based on average ticket prices, reviews from Trip Advisor, popularity on Instagram and Pinterest, and the number of attractions you’ll see along the way.
Half of the top 20 routes are in Europe, while others are through countries including Peru, Japan and Australia.
Here are the five most popular Luxurious Train Journeys in the world.
5. Bernina Express, Europe
The Bernina Express is the highest railway in the Alps and will carry passengers from Chur in Switzerland through the mountain ranges to Tirano in Italy. You will pass through 55 tunnels, 196 bridges and climb to the highest point of the route at an altitude of 2253 meters above sea level. The section of the line between the stop in Tuzis (Switzerland) and Tirano even has UNESCO World Heritage status.
Large glass windows offer breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains, and a digital travel guide provides directions as you race through the breathtaking scenery. Prices start at just € 9.30 per person per leg.
4. Ghan, Australia
The Ghan Hotel stretches from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north and has transported passengers throughout Australia for over 90 years. However, these days it has more to offer than just a way to travel between the two cities. It’s a ride with luxury restaurants and private compartments available.
Off-train experiences await along the way, including excursions to the hinterland, watching the sunrise at world-famous Uluru, and seafood dinners at Darwin Harbor.
3. Flåm Railway, Norway
This luxury train in Western Norway lifts passengers from sea level at the end of the Aurlandsfjord to an altitude of 867 meters in the mountains at Myrdal station. The construction of the 20 km line is considered one of the country ‘s greatest engineering achievements .
The train also makes a 5-minute stop so you can take pictures of the impressive Kyosfossen waterfall. Here you can also meet Huldr, beautiful mythological creatures with long hair, dressed in a red dress. Prices for a seat on this impressive rail journey start at around 47 euros.
2. Glacier Express, Switzerland
This route, connecting the two main mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz, offers stunning panoramic views of the Alps along the way. On the eight-hour journey, you can enjoy the food prepared on the train and the wines from the vineyards that you pass along the way.
The ticket prices for this trip are also reasonable – only 268 euros for a first class ticket from St. Moritz to Zermatt.
1. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
This is the world’s best Luxurious Train Journeys through the Canadian Rockies with the opportunity to visit nine different destinations along the way. The Rocky Mountaineer rail company, ranked as one of the nicest options on Instagram on the list, is known for its multi-day trips, during which you can see the most beautiful landscapes.
As part of the luxury getaway, there is a guide to take you through the sights, in specially designed glass-roofed buses, and even from the outdoor observation deck.
It’s not cheap, with an average ticket price of around 1,600 euros, but the great views and high level of service justify the cost
