5 Luxury Trains in Europe

Traveling by train is one of the best ways to cover a lot of ground in a single journey. Not only does train travel provide a sense of ease and reduce the stress of planning, but it also adds an element of whimsy that can’t be replicated. Plus, it’s like being a member of an elite club; fellow passengers come from all over the world and friendships can be forged easily. 

For your next European adventure, sip Champagne, savor some caviar, and let someone else do the driving with these luxury train journeys.

Golden Eagle Danube Express

Relax as the Golden Eagle Danube Express chugs through the Swiss Alps trimmed in snow, or continues on from Paris to Istanbul (the latter officially launches in 2025). This train is the ultimate in easy living. With its casual dress code and unique itineraries, the Golden Eagle is a perennial favorite. And despite its tiny kitchens, the Golden Eagle prides itself on its dining options. The food will always reflect the flavors of the countries you travel through, too. 

La Dolce Vita Orient Express

Italy’s new La Dolce Vita Orient Express is scheduled to leave Roma Ostiense station for the first time in spring 2025, and bookings are now available. The company has already announced its incredible new executive chef: German-born Heinz Beck, from the only three-starred Michelin restaurant in Rome, La Pergola. The train will pay tribute to “La Dolce Vita” in the 1960s, and elegance is key. It’s evident in the 31 cabins and suites, all with cozy bedding, chocolate wood accents, and massive picture windows.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Another favorite is the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE), complete with restored vintage cars. Especially popular is VSOE’s classic six-day, five-night Paris-to-Istanbul journey, offered in both directions twice a year. The vintage train retraces its famed route inaugurated more than a century ago by Orient Express creator Georges Nagelmackers.

If you really want over-the-top luxury, opt for the Grand Suite. A recent client of The Society of International Railway Travelers told us they loved the Vienna Grand Suite, which as a double bed, a private dining table, gorgeous tilework in the bathroom, heated floors, and walls with inlaid marquetry. Best of all, the young butler served never-ending Champagne and caviar upon request.

Other Popular Trains

Consider Spain’s 28-passenger Gran Lujo and 64-passenger Al Andalus Express. Their bar cars are the perfect place to chat over drinks, or meet fellow guests for a meal in the dining car. A recent client called Al Andalus a “gorgeous train with a superb staff.”

The Cost of Luxury Train Travel 

It’s worth noting luxury train journeys come at a hefty price, but our clients believe it’s worth it. Recently, two nurses from Durham, North Carolina, came to our company with the goal of traveling overnight on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Paris to Venice. They’d been saving for years to make their dream come true, and decided to go for it. Upon return, they shared that they loved every minute. 

Eleanor Hardy is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List, and as president of The Society of International Railway Travelers, she specializes in luxury rail travel. You can create an itinerary that fits your needs with Hardy by contacting her at ehardy@irtsociety.com.