In a world dominated by the hustle of air travel, train journeys are a testament to the magic of slow travel. With enchanting views, luxurious carriages, and rhythmic movements, there’s an undeniable romance and allure to traveling by rail. Boutique train journeys take this experience a step further, weaving landscapes, culture and history into one extraordinary journey that’s just as significant as the destination. 

From the longer expeditions such as Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer and South Africa’s Rovos Rail to the one-day journeys like Norway’s Flåm Railway and Peru’s Vistadome train to Machu Picchu, here are some of the most remarkable luxury boutique train journeys that take you to the heart of your destination. 

Rocky Mountaineer with GoldLeaf Service, Canada

Take an unforgettable journey through the Canadian Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer. With GoldLeaf Service, you’ll experience one of the most spectacular boutique train journeys in the world, as we roll from Jasper in Alberta to the city of Vancouver. 

In GoldLeaf, you’ll kick back in plush, reclining seats in the bi-level glass-domed cabin with full-length panoramic windows, so you can see all the snowcapped mountains, dazzling blue lakes, deep green forests, dreamy meadows and wildlife in high-definition. You’ll also get access to an outdoor viewing platform, so you can get even more immersed in the stunning landscapes of western Canada. Keep your eyes peeled and you are likely to spot eagles, elk and even bears.

Meals are another highlight of the GoldLeaf Service, served in the dedicated dining room on the lower level of the bi-level coach. Crafted by talented chefs with locally sourced ingredients, you’ll indulge in the authentic flavors of the region. Enjoy a glass of wine, a freshly baked cookie, and other gourmet snacks, before disembarking each evening to spend your night in a luxurious hotel. 

You can experience the Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service from Jasper to Vancouver, with a night in Kamloops, on our Majesty of the Rockies luxury tour.

Discover it on: Majesty of the Rockies with the Rocky Mountaineer

Read more: The Story of The Rocky Mountaineer, North America’s most luxurious train journey

Rovos Rail, South Africa

Rovos Rail’s Pride of Africa is the epitome of luxury train travel in South Africa, with lashings of old-world charm and an Agatha Christie-esque atmosphere. The journey starts with you settling into your private suite, dripping in vintage decor while equipped with modern comforts. The lavish suites are wood-paneled with thick carpet and everything from full-size beds and private bathrooms and amenity bags to air-conditioning and fluffy white gowns. 

Life on board is like a step back in time, with no televisions or digital entertainment on board, yet plenty to see. There’s an observation car with an open-air balcony to soak up the South African landscapes and often an onboard historian. There are places to socialize with fellow guests including a lounge car, gift shop and dining car, all designed with timeless elegance.

The dining car will quickly become a firm favorite with breakfast, lunch, and a formal dinner every day. You’ll indulge in four-course meals crafted by skilled chefs and paired with the finest South African wines. The dress code is smart casual during the day and more formal in the evenings, adding to the allure of this vintage journey.

You can travel from Pretoria to the majestic Victoria Falls aboard the historic Rovos Rail on our Spectacular South Africa tour. 

Discover it on: Spectacular South Africa with Rovos Rail

Read more: This is what it’s actually like to travel on South Africa’s Rovos Rail

Glacier Express Scenic Train, Switzerland

The Glacier Express may be the world’s slowest train, but that’s a bonus when you’re surrounded by the world’s most impressive landscapes. Chugging along at an average of 18mph, the Glacier Express takes around eight hours to travel from Saint Moritz to Zermatt. That means you get eight hours to soak up the remarkable views of the Swiss Alps. The journey is truly special, passing over 291 bridges, 91 tunnels and endless snowy peaks, emerald valleys, deep gorges, ancient castles and charming hamlets.

Mid-journey, the train snakes down the Rhine Gorge, known as the Grand Canyon of Switzerland. Keep your eyes peeled here for the breathtaking views of the UNESCO-listed Aletsch Glacier. As you arrive at the final destination, Zermatt, you’ll come face to face with the iconic Matterhorn.

You’ll see it all from your plush first-class seat. The glass-domed carriage has panoramic windows allowing you to feel close to the landscapes outside. You’ll also enjoy a delicious lunch prepared onboard.

Travel through the heart of the Swiss Alps in luxurious first class on the Glacier Express Scenic Train with our Majestic Switzerland tour. 

Discover it on: Majestic Switzerland

Read more: 5 incredible photographs to take from Switzerland’s Glacier Express

Flåm Railway Scenic Train, Norway

Renowned as one of the most beautiful train journeys, the Flåm Railway offers a mesmerizing showcase of Norway’s ethereal beauty. Setting off from historic Bergen, it’s a feast for the eyes as you wind through majestic fjords and snowy mountains. You’ll marvel at the idyllic countryside with its fairytale waterfalls and charming red clapboard cottages. You’ll also come face to face with the Norwegian wilderness passing over the Hardangervidda mountain plateau, the highest in Europe.

As you ascend up the mountainside to Myrdal, you’ll see the awe-inspiring Aurlandsfjord and the Kjosfossen Waterfall. The journey ends in the gorgeous town of Geiranger, nestled among snow-capped peaks and the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord. This is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting train rides on earth.

Take a magnificent journey from Bergen to Geiranger aboard the Flåm Railway Scenic Train on our Timeless Scandinavia luxury tour.

Discover it on: Timeless Scandinavia

Read more: 7 of the world’s most luxurious train journeys

Vistadome Train to Machu Picchu, Peru

Climb aboard the Vistadome Train for a journey through Peru’s remarkable landscapes to the mysterious Machu Picchu. You’ll set off from the Sacred Valley, passing through the spectacular Urubamba Valley. It’s incredible to see the towering Andes, cascading rivers, and verdant forest whizzing by your window.

We’ll pause for lunch at Café Inkaterra, nestled between the train tracks and forest above the Vilcanota River. After lunch, we’ll set off on a guided walk through the cloud forest. You can also choose to visit a working tea plantation and learn the art of tea making or see the world’s largest private collection of Indigenous orchids. 

Legs stretched, we’ll once again board the train, settling into the comfortable seats surrounded by panoramic glass windows. There’s also an outdoor observation carriage, so you can inch closer to the stunning landscapes. If the natural beauty isn’t enough, you’ll also be entertained by live traditional music on the train and enjoy meals inspired by the region’s rich culinary scene. The star of today is the final destination – the iconic Machu Picchu – but the journey here is sure to be as unforgettable as the Incan ruins themselves. 

Get immersed in the culture and nature of Peru on the Vistadome Train with our South America luxury tours.

Discover it on: Treasures of the Incas and Grand South America

Read more: Embrace the spirituality of the Incas in Peru’s Sacred Valley

TranzAlpine Scenic Train, New Zealand

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The TranzAlpine Scenic Train is one of New Zealand’s most dazzling boutique train journeys. You’ll traverse the breathtaking landscapes of the South Island, starting in Christchurch on the east coast. You’ll cross the island, arriving in the town of Greymouth, near Franz Josef on the west coast.

The 138-mile journey showcases some truly remarkable scenery from the pastoral farmlands of the Canterbury Plains to the soaring snowy peaks and crystal blue, ice-fed rivers of the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass. 

Credit @greatjourneysnz – Instagram

One of the highlights is the Otira Tunnel, a feat of engineering burrowing into the heart of the mountain range. You’ll also watch the landscape transform into verdant rainforest before reaching the Tasman Sea. Best of all, you’ll see it all unfold in comfort, with panoramic windows, café, and open-air viewing decks. 

Journey across the South Island aboard the TranzAlpine Scenic Train on our New Zealand luxury tours. 

Discover it on: The Long White Cloud and The Southern Drift

Read more: Rugged luxury: Why a Trip to New Zealand Might Surprise You

Jan Shatabdi Express Train, India

One of the best ways to explore Rajasthan and northern India is a journey on the Jan Shatabdi Express Train. We’ll board the train in the historic town of Bhraratpur, and set off into the heart of Rajasthan. You won’t want to blink as charming villages, lush plantations and countryside roll by. 

You’ll enjoy comfortable seating and large glass windows to make the most of the beautiful views. In just a few hours you’ll arrive in Ranthambore, set on the edge of the world-renowned national park home to Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears and more.

A former royal retreat and hunting ground turned wildlife sanctuary, you’ll catch a glimpse of the incredible jungle as you roll into the train station. The views are an exciting preamble to your game drive through the park tomorrow. 

Travel through the landscapes of Northern India on the Jan Shatabdi Express Train with our Essence of India luxury tour. 

Discover it on: Essence of India

Read more: Walking With the King of the Big Cats in India’s Royal Hunting Grounds

Experience more of the world’s greatest luxury and boutique train journeys with our exclusive Golden Extensions. 

The Isle of Capri is the epitome of Mediterranean glamor. With its brilliant blue waters, secret grottoes, sweet lemons, and lush landscapes, Capri has been the world’s muse for centuries. Our recorded fascination with Capri goes all the way back to the Ancient Romans when Emperor Tiberius built his private retreat on top of a cliff overlooking the ocean. By the mid-19th century, Capri was cemented as the go-to destination for artists, dreamers, and A-listers, with everyone from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis to Elizabeth Taylor and Sophia Loren gracing these spectacular shores. Capri’s timeless reputation as a place of glitz and glamor remains and it’s still a favorite holiday destination for celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Cruise, Beyonce and Jay Z, Lenny Kravitz, Valentino and more.

If you want to vacation like a star, we’ll show you how to spend the perfect day in Capri. Unlock the essence of Capri with exclusive experiences like a private cruise to hidden grottoes and Michelin-starred dining overlooking the Gulf of Naples. From driving the winding roads in an open-top car to tasting lemon Granita and relaxing at beach clubs, here’s how to spend the perfect day in Capri. 

TAKE THE TRIP: Utimate Italy

Arrive in style

Your perfect day in Capri begins with the magnificent entrance. You’ll board a boat and sail across the sparkling turquoise waters, taking in the gorgeous views as you approach the island. As you dock in the harbor, you’ll get your first glimpse of the stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and balmy atmosphere of the island. 

After disembarking from the boat, you’ll be escorted to your private open-top taxi for a glamorous experience that’s oh-so-Capri. As you cruise along the winding roads with the warm breeze in your hair (headscarf and sunglasses optional!), you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight out of a vintage film. Onlookers might even speculate about the VIP cruising through the streets!

Your stay – Quisisana Hotel

You’ll arrive at the luxurious Quisisana Hotel, where you’ll stay for two nights. This beautiful hotel overlooks Capri’s central plaza and is perched high above the lush landscapes with views of the brilliant blue ocean. It’s a prime position for a stay in Capri, and the rooms are equally elegant, with the gorgeous Mediterranean design matching the dreamy backdrop. 

Read more: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

@quisisanacapri

Explore Capri

You’ll have a whole day to explore the wonders of Capri. We recommend starting with a private cruise around the spectacular coastline of Capri. This intimate journey reveals hidden coves and glittering grottoes on the cliffside. You’ll also visit the renowned White Grotto, where sparkling stalactites hang over the entrance. They reflect against the turquoise sea creating a dazzling display. 

On your cruise, you’ll likely catch a glimpse of the famous Faraglioni, the towering rock formation rising from the ocean. If you want to get a panoramic view from above, there’s plenty of great spots to explore. Head to the Gardens of Augustus, not only for gorgeous views but ornate gardens and historic sculptures.

From the gardens, you’ll find the start of Via Krupp, a pedestrian-only hairpin walkway leading to the beautiful Marina Piccola beach below. Wander down the walkway and marvel at the rugged cliffs, before arriving at the beach. You can check out the luxury yachts and villas or go for a dip in the Mediterranean Sea. Looking for a truly glamorous Capri experience? Rent a sunbed at the glitzy beach clubs, like La Canzone del Mare.

If you feel like getting active, walk along the lush Via Tragara. You’ll find breathtaking views of the coastline, and spot Villa Malaparte, Curzio Malaparte’s red-painted architectural gem. There’s also the Path of the Little Forts in Anacapri, and the path to the Migliera Scenic Overlook, both with beautiful views. You could even take on the challenging 921 Phoenician stone steps that take you from Anacapri to the main port, Marina Grande. 

Dining

After your private cruise, we’ll indulge in a lemon Granita tasting session. Freshly made with sweet Sicilian lemons, this beloved drink is the best way to cool off in the Mediterranean. 

At lunchtime, we’ll combine views with food at the Michelin-starred restaurant, Mammà. Perched over the Gulf of Naples, you’ll savor delicious Mediterranean flavors. The mouthwatering meals are made with local produce by renowned chef Salvatore La Ragione.

@mammarestaurant

Evening

Once all the day-tripper tourists go home, you’ll have Capri all to yourself with the locals. You might like to head to a viewpoint and watch the enchanting sunset cast a golden glow over the island. Or settle in at a vibrant bar or restaurant for some local wine or Limoncello. You could even retire to your luxurious rooms at the Quisisana Hotel and soak up the view some more.

@quisisanacapri

You’ll enjoy the perfect day in Capri on our Ultimate Italy luxury tour. While the Isle of Capri is certainly the showstopper of this trip, you’ll also visit other iconic destinations including Rome, the Vatican, Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence and Tuscany. From lavish hotels to exclusive dining, discover all the remarkable experiences you’ll have with Luxury Gold in Italy.

The most glamorous coastal cities serve up a bewitching blend of stunning beaches, mouthwatering cuisine, and vibrant nightlife – and it’s all best experienced in summer. Whether you’re drawn to glitzy Saint-Tropez, energetic Rio, or laidback Sydney, here are the coastal cities that embody summer glamour. 

Saint-Tropez, France

Set in the heart of the French Riviera, Saint-Tropez is synonymous with glamour and luxury. What was once a quiet fishing village is now a summer paradise, with its reputation for glitz firmly established by Brigitte Bardot in the 1960s. In the summer, beautiful beaches like Pampelonne Beach come alive with people soaking up the Mediterranean sun. 

The city’s marina boasts an impressive array of lavish yachts, and the waterfront is lined with high-end boutiques, terraced cafes and gourmet restaurants offering the finest French cuisine. Saint-Tropez is also renowned for its lively nightlife, with world-famous clubs like Les Caves du Roy attracting celebrities and socialites from around the world. 

Despite its flashy reputation, Saint-Tropez hasn’t lost its magic. The old town, La Ponche, provides a quaint contrast to the city’s glamorous side. The narrow, winding streets, traditional Provencal market stalls, and historic Citadel add a touch of old-world charm to the city. 

Experience it: Ultimate Southern France 

Read more: 5 Côtes de Provence rosés you should be sipping this summer

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubbed the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik perfectly blends history with modern glamour. The UNESCO-listed city’s medieval walls and historic Old Town back onto the city’s gorgeous beaches, like Banje Beach and Sveti Jakov. They become a playground for sun-seekers in the summer months, with the turquoise water enticing swimmers and snorkelers to the shores. 

The city’s gourmet restaurants are the ideal spot to enjoy al fresco dining in the balmy evenings and savor delicious Dalmatian cuisine and fresh seafood. You also can’t resist the city’s nightlife on a warm summer night, with wine bars and exclusive clubs adding another alluring layer to Dubrovnik. Experience its food and vibrant nightlife firsthand on one of our Croatia luxury tours.

Experience it: Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast

Read more: Six of the world’s most beautiful walled cities and towns 

Monaco

No list of glamorous coastal cities would be complete without mentioning Monaco. This tiny yet affluent city-state on the French Riviera is the embodiment of summer glam. The sparkling Mediterranean Sea makes a stunning backdrop as you explore the iconic marina filled with superyachts, lush gardens, upscale cafes and Michelin-starred restaurants. 

Head to the beautiful Larvotto Beach or try your luck at the elegant Casino de Monte-Carlo. You could even time your visit with high-profile events like the Grand Prix, Monaco, for the ultimate luxury coastal holiday. 

Experience it: Ultimate Southern France 

Read more: Destination France: Live Your Parisien or Provencal Dream

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is undeniably one of the most glamorous and energetic coastal cities in the world. The iconic Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are the city’s crown jewels, with golden sands, warm waters and people pumping music and playing football. At sunset, the beachside bars and restaurants come alive with locals and visitors enjoying the unique culinary scene. 

Unwind with a caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail, or dive into Rio’s vibrant nightlife in the Lapa neighborhood. From chic rooftop bars to buzzing samba clubs, you can’t help but have a blast in Rio. Stick around for Carnival, and you’ll really see the city light up, with two million people descending on the city for the greatest party on earth. 

Experience it: Classic South America

Read more: The personal touch: our top 5 curated luxury travel experiences for 2023

Isle of Capri, Italy

It may not be a city, but the Isle of Capri is the queen of summer glamour. Set off the Sorrentine Peninsula in Italy, Capri is renowned for its crystal blue grottoes, luxury beach clubs, upscale hotels, and designer shopping. It’s also home to a remarkable culinary scene, with restaurants offering fresh seafood and authentic Italian cuisine. And it’s all best enjoyed with an Aperol Spritz in the summer months. 

Here you’ll walk in the footsteps of the most famous artists, socialites, and dreamers who were all captivated by the charms of Capri. From classic icons like Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Sophia Loren and Elizabeth Taylor to the modern-day glitterati like Beyonce, Jay-Z, Tom Cruise, and Leonardo DiCaprio, Capri goes hand-in-hand with stardom. 

Experience it: Ultimate Italy 

Read more: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

Sydney, Australia

Summer in Sydney conjures up images of lavish boat rides on Sydney Harbor and iconic beaches like Bondi and Bronte. With plenty of music and art festivals and a remarkable dining scene, summer is the best time to soak up the glamour of Sydney. You could catch a performance at the world-renowned Sydney Opera House and enjoy international cuisine in hotspots like Surry Hills, Newtown and Haymarket. Take the ferry to laidback Manly or have a picnic at the Royal Botanical Gardens. You could even head out of the city to the beautiful Blue Mountains to soak up the Australian bush scenery.

Plan your summer holidays over New Year’s Eve, and you’ll witness one of the world’s most impressive celebrations with a spectacular fireworks show over Sydney Harbor. 

Experience it: Inspiring Australia

Read more: Acclaimed Sydney restaurant Bennelong and its love affair with Australian food

Barcelona, Spain

With a unique combination of sun, sea, and stunning architecture, Barcelona is one of those effortlessly glamorous coastal cities. Spend your mornings exploring the icons of Barcelona like the Gothic Quarter and Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell. In the afternoon, relax on sunny beaches like Nova Icaria and Barceloneta. 

As evening falls, delve into the city’s gastronomic scene, from mouthwatering tapas bars to Michelin-starred restaurants. After dark, you can’t resist the vibrant nightlife. With glitzy nightclubs, jazz bars, and a thrilling atmosphere filling the streets, everyone comes together to celebrate summer in Barcelona. 

Experience it: Spain & Portugal in Style

Read more: 5 timeless and beautiful European cities to re-discover this summer

Cape Town, South Africa

World-class winelands, golden beaches, and vibrant nightlife – Cape Town is the epitome of summer glamour. Start by exploring the city’s exceptional natural beauty. Take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain or wander around the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Go swimming at Clifton Beach and Camps Bay, or meet the resident African penguins at Boulders Beach. Venture into the Cape Winelands for the most remarkable wine experiences. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl are all within easy reach of the city and offer stunning vineyards and wine tastings.

You’ve also got to explore the culinary scene. Dive into local specialities at the Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill. Or ask your Travel Concierge to make a reservation at a gourmet restaurant to try traditional South African dishes. You can also head to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront for high-end shopping and dining experiences or check out Long Street for bustling nightlife. 

Experience it: Spectacular South Africa

Read more: A Gastronomic Guide to Cape Town