There is nothing quite like a great train journey. When you are not just getting from one place to another – you’re watching the landscape unfold, meeting fellow travelers, and enjoying the rhythm of travel in a way that planes and cars cannot replicate. These iconic train rides are true bucket-list adventures, and each line comes with its own unique dining, lodging, and onboard experience.

Below we are breaking down five train journeys worth adding to your travel dreams – plus when to go and what to expect onboard.

1. The Rocky Mountaineer – Canada

Best Time to Go: Late April through early October

Why It’s Special: This is a daylight-only luxury rail journey through the Canadian Rockies with sweeping views of turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, and wildlife.

Lodging: There are no sleeper cars. The train stops overnight in towns like Banff, Jasper, or Kamloops, where you’ll stay in hotels ranging from rustic lodges to upscale resorts depending upon the level or service you pick.

Dining & Drinks: Multi-course meals are freshly prepared onboard, often inspired by local ingredients (think Alberta beef or wild salmon). Wine and cocktails flow freely with service at your seat in GoldLeaf Service.

Entertainment: The views are the star, but friendly hosts share stories about history, wildlife, and culture as you ride.

2. The Glacier Express – Switzerland

Best Time to Go: Winter (December–March) for snow-draped Alps, or summer (June–September) for lush green valleys.

Why It’s Special: Affectionately dubbed the “slowest express train in the world,” this 8-hour panoramic ride connects Zermatt and St. Moritz.

Lodging: This is a daytime ride, so you’ll stay overnight in alpine chalets or luxury hotels at either end of the route.

Dining & Drinks: Expect white-tablecloth service right at your seat. Regional Swiss dishes like rösti or fondue are paired with local wines. “Excellence Class” offers a six-course gourmet tasting menu with champagne.

Entertainment: This train is quieter and more serene. Your entertainment comes from the panoramic views. Commentary is available via headphones for travelers who want background stories on the landscapes.

3. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – Europe

Best Time to Go: Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) for mild weather and fewer crowds.

Why It’s Special: A glamorous step back in time with restored 1920s carriages traveling iconic routes such as Paris to Venice or London to Istanbul.

Lodging: You will sleep on board in vintage-inspired cabins, with options ranging from classic bunks to lavish suites with private bathrooms.

Dining & Drinks: Michelin-level chefs prepare multi-course meals with seasonal European ingredients, served in elegant dining cars. The Champagne Bar and piano lounge add extra sparkle.

Entertainment: Evenings feature live piano music, cocktails in the lounge, and a refined, social atmosphere. Formal attire is encouraged at dinner, adding to the sense of occasion.

4. The Maharajas’ Express – India

Best Time to Go: October through March (cooler, drier months).

Why It’s Special: Known as “India’s Palace on Wheels,” this opulent train takes you through the Golden Triangle and beyond, with off-train tours of palaces, forts, and the Taj Mahal.

Lodging: All accommodations are onboard, from elegant cabins to extravagant suites with private bathrooms and butler service.

Dining & Drinks: Two ornate dining cars serve both Indian specialties and international cuisine, with fine wines and spirits.

Entertainment: Cultural performances and themed evenings occasionally take place onboard, but most entertainment happens off-train during guided tours and excursions.

5. The Ghan – Australia

Best Time to Go: May through August (Australia’s cooler winter months).

Why It’s Special: This is a legendary rail adventure crossing the Outback from Darwin to Adelaide, covering nearly 2,000 miles.

Lodging: Your overnight journeys include sleeper cabins. There is Gold Service for cozy compartments or Platinum Service for spacious suites with full beds.

Dining & Drinks: Multi-course meals showcase Australian flavors, from barramundi to kangaroo, paired with premium wines and craft beers. All meals and drinks are included.

Entertainment: Onboard lounges encourage mingling, while off-train excursions, think river cruises, Aboriginal cultural tours, and stargazing in the desert, bring the Outback to life.

Compare each route at a glance

Train Journey	Best Time to Go	Lodging	Dining & Drinks	Entertainment
Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)	April – October	Hotels in towns along route (no sleeper cars)	Multi-course meals, local wines, cocktails	Narration from hosts, scenic views
Glacier Express (Switzerland)	Winter (Dec – Mar) or Summer (Jun – Sep)	Hotels in Zermatt & St. Moritz	Swiss dishes, wine pairings, 6-course menu in Excellence Class	Scenic commentary, quiet atmosphere
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe)	April – June & Sept – Oct	Onboard cabins & suites	Gourmet fine dining, Champagne Bar, piano lounge	Live piano, social lounge, elegant dining
Maharajas’ Express (India)	Oct – Mar	Onboard luxury cabins & suites	Indian & international cuisine, fine wines & spirits	Cultural shows, guided excursions
The Ghan (Australia)	May – Aug	Onboard sleeper cabins & suites	Australian-inspired meals, premium wines & beers	Onboard lounge, off-train excursions, stargazing

Final Thoughts

These five train adventures are more than transportation, they are unforgettable journeys with world-class food, unique lodging, and incredible experiences along the way. With plenty to see and do for everyone, this is a perfect way to enjoy a unique multi-generational family adventure. Whether you’re sipping champagne in Europe, sampling Indian cuisine in a palace-on-wheels, or gazing out at the Australian Outback, each of these trips proves the journey can be just as memorable as the destination.

✨ Travel tip: These luxury trains sell out quickly, sometimes a year in advance! If one is on your bucket list, the earlier you plan, the better your chances of securing your preferred route, cabin, and season.