A renaissance in rail travel is underway, with travelers increasingly opting for scenic train journeys over commercial flights, according to Condé Nast Traveller. The publication's Readers' Choice Awards have identified the world's premier train trips, offering a range of experiences from fine dining to breathtaking landscapes.
The top honor went to the Royal Scotsman, a Belmond Train in Scotland. This luxury service offers trips through the Scottish Highlands, featuring overnight cabins, dining cars, and even a Dior spa. Shorter journeys start at approximately $5,700 per person.
Several other notable journeys were highlighted:
Rovos Rail operates across southern Africa, with itineraries ranging from three to 15 nights, traversing landscapes from South Africa to Namibia and Tanzania. The train offers different suite classes, including those with roll-top baths.
The Britannic Explorer, also a Belmond train, provides a three-night journey through the UK's scenic countryside, boasting 18 cabins, a wellbeing suite, and an observation car.
Europe's iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a Belmond train, offers glamorous travel to destinations like Paris and Venice, with routes extending to Vienna and Prague. It features restored 1920s carriages, private suites, and butler service. A Paris-Istanbul journey is priced at around $25,200 per person.
Further afield, India's Maharajas Express runs four routes from Delhi, with cabins named after gemstones. Prices for a deluxe cabin on a three-night itinerary begin at $4,000.
Canada's Rocky Mountaineer, founded in 1990, offers three routes through the Canadian Rockies, known for its gourmet meals and attentive staff. A US route was added in 2021.
The Belmond British Pullman offers a journey back to the golden age of travel through the UK countryside, featuring restored carriages from the 1920s and 1930s, fine dining, and an opulent atmosphere.
Europe's Golden Eagle Danube Express provides journeys like Istanbul to Paris, featuring stops in cities such as Sofia and Belgrade, and excursions to caves and vineyards. This route costs from approximately $21,300.
In Australia, The Ghan travels from north to south, a journey of four days and three nights covering 0.7 miles in length. Prices start from around $2,680 per person.
The Northern Belle, launched in 2000, is recognized for its 1930s Pullman-style carriages and luxurious interiors, offering day excursions including Christmas lunch journeys.
Southeast Asia's Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond train, connects Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok, passing through Malaysian countryside and Thai paddy fields.
Switzerland's Glacier Express is a popular choice, particularly during winter, offering an eight-hour journey with Matterhorn views. Bookings can be made up to 93 days in advance.
Italy's La Dolce Vita Orient Express, which debuted in 2025, features interiors inspired by the 1950s and 1960s and gastronomy by Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck.
Peru's Andean Explorer, a Belmond train, travels from Cusco to Lake Titicaca and Arequipa, offering suite and twin cabins with en suite facilities and locally sourced cuisine. Prices start from approximately $3,160.
Australia's Indian Pacific train completes the list, running a staggering 4,352 kilometers (2,704 miles) from Perth to Sydney, a route first established in 1970.