luxury train journeys wales prices

Our Journeys

Celebrations, one of the world's most luxurious trains.

Days away on a train designed and created by the Orient Express, voted in the world's top ten and the best in Britain.

Flower Shows

In partnership with Krug we introduce another class of travel →

Caviar, champagne and much more.

To celebrate our fantastic recognition from Condé Nast Traveller magazine, we are enhancing our guest experience at no additional cost with the inclusion of a Champagne reception, Caviar and Blinis , upgraded Sommelier's choice wine, Port with the cheese board and Fortnum & Mason tea . We've also brought back Champagne Afternoon Tea which includes a bottle of Laurent-Perrier champagne per couple.

Give The Gift of Luxury Train Travel

Delight friends or loved ones with a unique and unforgettable experience on board the Northern Belle, where they can immerse themselves in opulence while traversing breathtaking landscapes. Whether it's a romantic escapade or a thoughtful gesture, Northern Belle gift cards offer a remarkable journey that will be treasured for years to come.

Image for illustration purposes only

Condé Nast Traveller

Readers’ choice awards 2023.

The Northern Belle has been voted one of "the best train trips in the world" by readers of the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller magazine for the second year in a row.

The magazine said: "It’s all about the food – and the scenery. The meal services are exquisite, offering fine dining crafted mostly from UK suppliers so you can enjoy classic British fare as the heaths, meadows and dales roll on by."

The epitome of luxury & elegance

Our mission is simple; to exceed our guests' expectations. We are constantly striving to improve the experience, make special memories for our passengers and operate the most luxurious train.

Experience luxury rail travel at its finest

Beyond the world of ordinary first-class there has been an almost secret world. Since the dawn of railways there has existed a world of private luxury trains and only a handful remain. The Northern Belle is one such Train, and the most luxurious, carefully restored to its former glory by the Venice Simplon-Orient Express. Welcome to our world.

News, Views & Offers

Our mission is simple; to exceed our guests' expectations. We are constantly striving to improve the experience, make special memories for our passengers & operate the most luxurious train.

Read our fabulous reviews

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5 out of 5 stars

It was a fantastic experience. We travelled from Manchester Victoria to visit Kew Gardens and we travelled in the Chatsworth Carriage. We were well looked after by Barry, Asim and Darryl, the cuisine was excellent, the ambience superb and the overall setting was luxurious. We had a table for two, but it was great to chat with the other travellers on the table for four opposite us. We will definitely consider the Northern Belle again in 2025.

This day out can only be described as unforgettable for all the best reasons. We boarded the train at Stafford at 0815 and returned at 2130. What a day. From the first to the last moment on the train everything was outstanding. Particularly the staff in our carriage (Harlech), working in intense heat due to it being the hottest day of the year, they were superb. Even cool towels for us all when we boarded for the return journey. How food of such a high standard can be served on a train can only be admired and applauded. Kew Gardens was also a great place to visit despite the heat. Finally, we were on a table of four, sitting with two really lovely ladies who were such good company throughout a long day.

Amazing experience going to Ladies' Day at Royal Ascot. The trip was as close to perfection as I've ever experienced. The brilliant staff on the train were so professional but also warm, friendly and fun. The food was sublime and attention to detail was like from a bygone day. Thanks to Asim, Joe, Katie and Chloe for so much attention and for creating for us an unforgettable journey!

We had an incredible day travelling on the Northern Belle to Ascot Ladies day. We boarded at Birmingham International and from start to finish had a fantastic experience. Thanks to Barry the team in Chatsworth carriage. Food, service and ambiance were amazing. A special mention to Zaina our drinks attendant . She oozes personality and we thought she was an incredible asset to the team. We will definitely be booking more trip 🚂

Absolutely excellent from start to finish. Silver service treatment with fabulous food. Staff extremely friendly, couldn't do enough to make your trip a memorable experience. We would definitely recommend booking this trip if you have a special occasion to celebrate

An exceptional day out on the Northern Belle with my sister. Staff were exceptional - Phil, Lucy and Tom in Belvoir carriage. Food was Michelin worthy, Plenty of food throughout the day/evening. Drinks a plenty, excursion to Chatsworth House was so well organised. Met some lovely people. Had a fantastic day out. Would highly recommend. The sun shone for us too! Everyone was so kind and helpful.

Booked the trip to Chatsworth for my husbands 60th, and it didn’t disappoint, food was excellent, service was good. A really special day! Special mention for the Blini 😋 😋

We travelled yesterday on the Northern Belle from Manchester as a birthday celebration for the two of us. We were in the Chatsworth carriage and our team of three were Barry, Zaina and Freya who were all absolutely wonderful. From the moment we arrived at Victoria to the sound of a piper playing the bagpipes to shaking hands with Barry as we left, the day was absolutely perfect. The traditional train is lovely; the food could not be faulted; the timings were perfect and Britannia was so interesting. There was a table magician and a musical duo - all lovely people and such fun. It was simply the best day out and we would have no hesitation in recommending it to others.

Amazing experience on board the Northern Belle to Glamis Castle. We were in carriage Alnwick and our servers were Tom, Lucy and cannot remember the other girls name (sorry). Fantastic service and the food was amazing. We were on a table with another couple whom we had never met but had a brilliant day with them. Cannot fault it and would highly recommend.

I have been on many journeys now on this superb train since 2015 and this recent one was just as good as ever. I was in Harlech carriage and I must say that the service was second to none. All of the staff were super efficient and it was a truly very enjoyable and perfect day. I will be back at Christmas

We have been on the Northern Belle on a number of occasions mainly for Christmas Lunch, but also one Afternoon Tea trip. This was our first day trip travelling from Newcastle upon Tyne to Dundee to visit Glamis Castle. With travelling on the Northern Belle before we thought we knew what to expect but food, drink, service on board entertainment and tour of Glamis Castle exceeded even our expectations. Carriage as always was immaculate as was Crockery, Cutlery, Glassware and Table Linen. Its not a Cheap day trip, but it is worth every penny. We hope to have more day trips like this in future, and would recommend The Northern Belle to any potential customers who want a once in a lifetime treat. But beware you will want to repeat and keep on repeating this experience.

A fantastic trip on Northern Belle. The staff on board were friendly and attentive, the food was delicious and the journey exceeded our expectations. The train is very comfortable and it was great to just sit back and relax and be waited on. We were entertained by a magician in the morning and by the musicians at night. The trip to the Royal yacht well organised and a treat to have a tour of Edinburgh and hear about its history. All in all a memorable trip and i have no hesitation in recommending the Northern Belle to anyone who is looking for a memorable day out.

Wonderful trip from Birmingham to Settle & back on this luxury train.Beautiful carriage, incredible food, brilliant staff. Read/seen about how good this trip was, expected it to be brilliant , it exceeded my expectations. The whole experience made ever greater by being pulled by a steam train. A truly amazing day.

From Telford to Carlisle via the Ribblehead viaduct and back, we had a fabulous time. We could not fault the food or the service, which was five stars. The scenery was to die for, helped by all day sun, and we enjoyed time in Carlisle to look around the Cathedral. The magician was entertainingly ham, and the musicians did a great double happy birthday, but what made the trip for us was the happenstance of being seated next to a lively and lovely German couple, who were shooting a YouTube video. Lots of laughs, and you can catch it on their two Germans in Britain Channel.

My husband booked the Northern Belle to celebrate my 60th birthday. We boarded at Liverpool Lime Street for our onward journey to Carlisle (Settle & Carlisle Steam Special). From the moment we were greeted by staff at the door to our carriage for the day (Glamis), a birthday card was waiting on the table from the Glamis staff (Debbie, Asim & Jo), our table was beautifully ‘dressed’, the food was perfectly cooked & presented until we arrived back at Liverpool, the day couldn’t have been more perfect. Nothing was too much trouble & we would like our thanks to be passed on to Debbie, Asim, Jo & to the chef & team for making my 60th celebration a truly memorable & unforgetable day.

Boarded the Northern Belle at Wakefield for a full days outing to Carlisle and what a fabulous experience it was from start to finish. The food and service were first class, we were in the Chatsworth carriage and our stewards Barry and Zayna looked after us impeccably with enthusiasm, grace and humour. The cost of the trip may seem expensive but when a full 12 hours experience is factored in with a 3 course brunch, 6 course dinner, champagne, wine and port included along with a magician, a band and the luxurious experience, it all makes for a wonderful memory. Can highly recommend.

Special birthday treat for my husband we went to The Cheltenham Gold Cup on the Northern Belle. It really is luxury travel and we were looked after extremely well by the staff always with a smile and nothing was too much travel. My husband was chuffed to receive a birthday card from them as well which was a lovely touch. The food is second to none and the tartlet “Arnold Bennett” was delicious melted in the mouth thank you chef. The ongoing travel into Cheltenham race course was well orchestrated and the staff on the steam train and at the station also looked after us very well. The five course dinner on our journey back was just a delight I particularly enjoyed the shin suet pudding and the beef. I wanted my husband to enjoy his day and he loved every minute of the experience and hasn’t stopped talking about it.

What an unforgettable and amazing experience for my birthday! Genuinely one of the best things I’ve ever done. From start to finish the day was PERFECT! The most wonderful staff, fantastic food, entertainment, everything just stunningly beautiful. Anyone considering doing a trip, DO IT! It’s a must! We had the spirit of travel luncheon and upgraded to a couples table and Laurent Perrier package, it was worth every single penny. We will definitely be back to do another one!

We were greeted by the most friendly and amazing smile, from the moment we got on board, the staff went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and satisfaction, the welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff made the day very pleasant. The menu offered a delightful array of dishes, each expertly crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Every bite was a culinary delight. My dining experience was truly exceptional. and I can’t wait to return. The luxurious train, coupled with exceptional service, made our day truly memorable Highly recommended!

Absolutely fantastic this Christmas trip is a must the best experience you can give someone the staff are absolutely lovely the food amazing could not fault this at all.

The Christmas Festive Lunch journey from Liverpool to Holyhead was great. We were in the Glamis carriage and the decor was lovely. The food was delicious and the porn star martini was very good. We were serenaded by songs and there was also a magician going from table to table. A thoroughly enjoyable experience.

First trip in 4 years and just as good as ever, if not better - superb, friendly attentive service attending to our every need in that wonderful atmosphere only found on the Northern Belle and the entertainment too from the singing duo and magician at the table. All four of us had a great day out from Carlisle to Dundee - topped off by a tour of Glamis Castle.

Fabulous excursion from Darlington to Edinburgh made an excellent experience by being hauled by Flying Scotsman to mark its Centenary. Absolutely faultless service, food, and organisation. The preparation and presentation of the carriage (Duart) was superb and was regularly maintained throughout the return journey. Nothing was too much trouble for the hardworking staff who cannot be praised highly enough. Main meal of beef was cooked to perfection and melted in the mouth. Absolutely recommended to anyone. A wonderful day.

We did the Flying Scotsman centenary special journey - from York to Edinburgh. What a wonderful day! The superb, efficient team worked hard to make our day memorable. The luxurious carriages and excellent food and beverages added to the glamour of the day. I’d recommend one of the Northern Belle journeys to anyone wanting this kind of special day out.

What an absolutely wonderful experience. A perfect day with friends spent being served outstanding food and drink by kind, attentive staff whilst relaxing in luxurious surroundings. The whole experience ran like clockwork and will be fondly remembered.

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Culinary Delights Await You

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Recipe spotlight: strawberries with pink champagne sorbet.

A Picture-Perfect Ladies Day at Royal Ascot!

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Heritage Train Tours of Wales

• » Special Interest Tours

Customised private tours

Some of the main experiences

Welsh highland railway, ffestiniog railway, llanberis lake railway, talyllyn railway, vale of rheidol railway, llangollen railway, snowdonia national park.

• Conwy Town and Conwy Valley

South Snowdonia & Llyn Peninsula

Dee valley and llangollen, welsh highland heritage railway, national slate museum, penrhyn castle railway museum.

• Dinorwic slate railway story

Some of the main sights

The National Slate Museum at Llanberis is one of the most alluring assets of this beautiful region. Visitors expecting dusty displays or worthy walkabouts are delighted to find a treasure trove of human stories and engaging activities, where craftsmen show the art of splitting slate and dramatic landscapes are magnets for exploration.  We can then follow the route of the old Dinorwic slate railway down to the harbour in Y Felinheli (Port Dinorwig). The Dinorwic Padarn Railway was an early and uncommon  4 ft (1219 mm) narrow gauge industrial railway connecting the slate quarry at Dinorwic in Caernarvonshire with the coastal port at Y Felinheli.     We can also show you the route of the horse-drawn tramway built in 1823 which was in use before the train railway was built. We also have a library of old images of the railway and the old port.

National Slate Museum Website

Conwy Town and the Conwy Valley

South Snowdonia and the Llyn Peninsula offer you an incredible variety of scenery, architecture and history. The Italianate fantasy village of Portmeirion, castles at Criccieth and Harlech, beautiful gardens at Brondanw and an Iron Age hillfort are all en route. And if that were not enough, there is a dramatically located, restored quarry village repurposed as a cultural centre which lies on the shores of an azure sea.

South Snowdonia & Llyn Peninsula Tour

The natural centre of this beautiful region is Llangollen, an attractive small town at an important crossing point of the river Dee. The river is quite wild at this point and it’s a great pleasure to spend time on its banks watching canoeists battle their way through, while keeping an eye on the steam trains arriving and departing from the perfectly preserved station. On a gentler note, the town is also a cultural centre, hosting an International Eisteddfod (festival). 

Yet another World Heritage Site is nearby – the famous Pontcysyllte aqueduct which takes the Llangollen canal soaring above the valley of the River Dee. You can visit Telford’s masterpiece from below or for those who want to brave the heights, you can walk across. Nearby are also the atmospheric ruins of Vale Crucis Abbey and the hilltop castle of Dinas Bran – the City of the Crow.

Dee Valley & Llangollen Tour

Tour information

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Places to visit by train

Don’t let the car drive your day.

Ready to see what Wales and the Borders has to offer, without the hassle of driving? You can be inspired by destinations full of history, culture, art and, of course, shopping. Whatever you like doing, there’re plenty of places to visit easily by train across our network.

We can take you to some of Wales and the UK’s best destinations. Not only that, we have many different offers to make your trip more affordable. You can save up to 50% with Advance train tickets on selected long-distance journeys. If you’re travelling as a family, you can also take the kids for free*

Take a look at some of our top destinations you can visit by train across the UK and Wales.

*Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. See tfw.wales/advance and tfw.wales/kids-go-free .

Visiting Aberystwyth

Visiting Abergavenny

Visiting Chepstow

Visiting Conwy

Visiting Harlech

Visit Llandudno

Visiting Ludlow

Visit Tenby

*Saving based on average percentage saved by customers between 01/01/2019 to 31/12/2019 buying TfW Advance tickets before the day of travel, compared to the cheapest TfW priced Anytime Single ticket for the same journey, available on the day of travel. Advance fares sold subject to availability before the day of travel. For applicable routes see tfw.wales/Advance. National Rail Conditions of travel apply. 2019 fares savings claims correct as at 28/03/2022. Current average fares savings may equal or be better than 2019 figures.

Popular routes

17 Best Sleeper Train Journeys In The World (Luxury & Budget)

• Sleeper trains are a cost-effective option that combines accommodation and transportation, making them ideal for budget travelers or those seeking a luxurious experience.
• From the OBB NightJet in Europe to the Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia, there are sleeper train journeys available around the world that cater to all types of travelers.
• Prices for sleeper train tickets vary depending on the route and level of luxury, but there are affordable options starting at $29, making sleeper trains accessible for many.

Sleeper trains are becoming more popular than ever, and it’s easy to see why. Not only do they combine two key costs for travelers (accommodation and transportation), making a journey more affordable, but there are sleeper trains around the world for all types of travelers.

Whether travelers are backpacking on a budget or looking for a luxurious experience in a first-class cabin, the perfect overnight train exists. These are 17 of the best sleeper train journeys around the world, and there’s something for every type of traveler.

UPDATE: 2023/10/03 14:39 EST BY MARIA BOU INK

17 Of The Best Sleeper Train Journeys In The World (Luxury & Budget)

Sleeper train journeys are limitless, but a few of them are remarkable. Therefore, this list was updated to include additional luxurious and on-budget sleeper train trips around the world, so vacationers can choose the best ones close to them for their next travel.

Brussels To Vienna, OBB NightJet

With budget-friendly tickets, OBB NightJet is one of the best sleeper trains in the world, not only in Europe. The outstanding amenities are the highlight of the service. The cost of the ticket includes a modest breakfast with tea and coffee as well as access to an ensuite bathroom and shower. Additionally, a welcome package with beverages, towels, earplugs, and snacks is given to customers. Moreover, air conditioning and lockable compartments are both provided.

• Prices: Starting at €29 ($30.35) per passenger

Bicycles and dogs are allowed on board.

New York To Miami, Silver Meteor Or Silver Star

If looking for a train experience that includes magnificent scenery, interesting history, and fascinating culture, passengers can make a reservation on one of Amtrak's Silver Meteor or Silver Star trains, which cruise down America's east coast between New York and Miami. Passengers have the possibility to stop along the route to break up the trip's 29-hour overall duration. Highlights include Charleston, where there are many historical museums and superb restaurants; Tampa, where there are many mesmerizing white sandy beaches; and Orlando, where there are many family-friendly activities.

• Prices: Starting at $130 for a one-way trip

Paris To Venice, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Most people have heard of the Orient Express from the famous novel by Agatha Christie entitled “Murder on the Orient Express.” In real life, the train runs across Europe from London to Istanbul. However, the most popular sleeper train route is from Paris to Venice, which takes around 20.5 hours to complete , meaning passengers spend 1 night bunking on the train. Travelers can choose to book a single cabin, a twin cabin, a suite, or a grand suite, depending on their budget.

• Prices: Starting at £3745 (4517.4) per passenger for a twin cabin

Related: 10 Of The World's Most Expensive Sleeper Train Journeys (Better Than A Cruise!)

Hanoi To Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Vietnam is a favorite country to visit among backpackers who are traveling around Southeast Asia. Given how long and narrow the country is, a sleeper train is a great way to get from the northern capital city of Hanoi to the southern city of Ho Chi Minh without riding on a motorbike. This sleeper train route is suitable for the budget traveler, only costing around $40 for the 32 to 37-hour journey .

Depending on how much passengers are willing to spend on a ticket, they can choose from several seat classes. These are 3rd class (hard wooden seats), 2nd class (soft seats with AC), 2nd class (sleeper with 6 beds per compartment, with AC), or 1st class (sleeper with 4 beds per compartment, with AC).

• Prices: Starting at $40 per passenger

Zambia To Tanzania, TAZARA Railway

Train travel might not be the first thing that comes to mind when travelers imagine exploring Southern Africa, but spending a night on the TAZARA Railway’s sleeper train is an excellent way to travel between Zambia and Tanzania. TAZARA stands for Tanzania Zambia Railway Authority. The journey takes two nights, running passengers between Kapiri Mposhi and Dar es Salaam. The trains have sleeper cabins and a restaurant car for a comfortable journey across Africa.

• Prices: A 2nd class sleeper cabin ticket costs 84,600 Tanzanian shillings (around $36.29), and a 1st class sleeper cabin costs 104,000 Tanzanian shillings (around $44.62).

Related: Scotland By Sleeper Train: Why The Deerstalker Is Britain's Best Rail Journey

London, England To Scotland, Caledonian Sleeper

Travelers exploring the UK can forget flying and opt for a comfortable overnight train journey through the Scottish Highlands instead. The Caledonian Sleeper transports passengers from London to various destinations around Scotland, such as Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Glasgow, and Inverness. The sleeper cabins are designed to be exceptionally comfortable, complete with a Glencraft mattress.

Passengers can book the more basic Classic Room, which has twin bunk beds and an in-room wash basin, or they can go for a more high-end Club Room, which includes breakfast. If they prefer a double bed to bunk beds, book the Caledonian Double Cabin instead. Passengers should book in advance because these spaces fill up quickly.

• Prices: Starting at £225 ($271.4) for a classic room from London to Glasgow

Moscow, Russia To Beijing, China, Trans-Siberian Railway

The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the greatest adventures in the world, taking passengers across the vast country of Russia to Mongolia or China. Taking the train from Moscow to Beijing takes 16 days, but there are several stops along the way, including the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar . When riding the Trans-Siberian railway, passengers can choose from a variety of cabin types.

The Standard cabin sleeps 4 people in a bunk bed formation; the Classic and Superior cabins sleep 2 people. Private cabins can also be booked.

• Prices: Starting at €650 ($681.2) per passenger

Related: Is this Europe’s Most Underrated Sleeper Train?

Delhi To Mumbai, India, Maharajas’ Express

The Indian Splendour route on the Maharajas’ Express is a grand tour of India from the bustling streets of Delhi to the majestic buildings of Mumbai that takes 6 nights and 7 days. Destinations along the way include Agra, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. This is a luxury travel experience that doesn’t come cheap.

• Prices: Starting at $5820 for a single passenger in a deluxe cabin

Pretoria To Capetown, South Africa, The Blue Train

The Blue Train route from Pretoria to Capetown, South Africa, takes two nights and offers spectacular views of the African countryside. Train tickets on The Blue Train include all meals, a sleeper cabin, high tea, drinks, and one excursion in Kimberley. Passengers can choose to book a Deluxe Suite or a Luxury Suite, depending on their budget.

• Prices: Starting at R36 945 ($1,915.8) in low season and at R45 145 ($2,341) in high season

Oslo To Bergen, Norway

The train ride from Oslo to Bergen is one of the world's most scenic journeys. The distance between these Norwegian cities isn’t as vast as some other sleeper train journeys around the world, but it’s still possible to book a sleeper cabin for the 7.5-hour trip.

• Prices: Starting at $59 for a sleeper accommodation which a passenger books for themselves (there are no shared cabins with other passengers).

Bangkok To Chiang Mai, Thailand

Traveling in Thailand has never been more accessible since the introduction of the sleeper train running between Bangkok, where most international flights land, and Chiang Mai, the digital nomad paradise of the North . There are two options when booking a sleeper journey on this train: passengers can book 2nd class sleeper seats (with air conditioning) or 1st class sleeper seats (with air conditioning). The 2nd class booking includes a lie-flat seat in a shared train car, while the 1st class seat offers a private cabin. The journey takes just over 12 hours to complete when the trains are running on time.

• Prices: Starting at 1,453 THB ($39.20) for a first-class sleeper

Cusco To Arequipa, Peru, Belmond Andean Explorer

Explore the Peruvian Andes from the comfort of a luxury train car. The Belmond Andean Explorer offers sleeper accommodation for passengers traveling between Cusco and Arequipa. It’s possible to book bunk bed cabins, twin bed cabins, or suite cabins. The train also has a lounge car, an upscale dining car, an observation car for appreciating the impressive landscapes whizzing past, and an onboard spa. The Peruvian Highlands route takes 3 days and 2 nights to complete , from Cusco to Arequipa via Puno.

• Prices: Single occupancy tickets start at around $3,940

Chicago To San Francisco, On The California Zephyr

Embarking on this 2,400-mile (3,900 km) journey takes travelers from the shores of the Great Lakes in Chicago to the Pacific Coast in San Francisco. This route is run by the California Zephyr and takes some of the most incredible terrains the USA has to offer. While travelers relax in their accommodations, the train tackles sheer gorges, hot desert, snowy mountains, and plenty of tunnels and switchbacks. These tracks were the first to cross the Continental Divide to link the Atlantic and Pacific. Now Travelers need to simply arrive at the station in Chicago before 2 pm, and they will be swept away to the West Coast. Book early for the best prices.

• Prices: Starting at $150 per passenger

Brisbane To Longreach, Australia

Many of the best overnight trains in Australia are multiple-day rides, such as the Ghan that runs through Australia's "Red Centre" between Darwin and Adelaide and the Indian Pacific that links Perth and Sydney. The Spirit of the Outback running from Brisbane to Longreach is just over a day long, with much of the trip happening at night when travelers are sleeping. The ride itself takes travelers intimately close to and along the coast before it turns inland to the stunning landscape of Australia's outback.

• Prices: Starting at $140 per passenger

Amtrak Auto Route - Washington D.C. To Orlando, Florida

Amtrak is the national train carrier of the United States and offers a number of overnight sleeper options on its trains . Of these, the Amtrak Auto Route is arguably the most unique. The Amtrak Auto Route doesn't just have accommodation for the passengers to sleep on board, but also its passenger cars. That's right, on this train; people can bring their car onto the train. The Auto Route runs from Washington D.C. to near Orlando and spares passengers from the hassle of driving down to Florida by themselves.

• Prices: Starting at $95 per passenger

Deccan Odyssey: A Palace On Wheels

The Deccan Odyssey is one of the most luxurious train rides in the world . It has been designed as a palace on wheels and explores some of the most iconic attractions in India. Passengers are dotted upon as though they were Maharaja royalty, and the train celebrates the best of the heritage of the Rajasthan region of India. Enjoy impeccable service, rich Indian heritage, and one of the most comfortable train accommodations found anywhere.

• Prices: $8,330 per passenger in a deluxe cabin for single occupancy

Royal Scotsman, Scottish Highlands

The Royal Scotsman may be one of the most luxurious and one of the most expensive train rides in the world. There are multiple rides to select from around the Scottish Highlands, the Scottish Lowlands, and even in England. Like the Deccan Odyssey, the Royal Scotsman is a palace on wheels with a range of package tour options. The train cars of the Royal Scotsman combine Edwardian elegance with the comforts of a country house.

• Prices: Starting at $4,675 per passenger

More From Forbes

Travel vietnam in this luxury train with fine wine and 3-course meals.

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The Vietage Sit-Up Bar With View

Train travel is all the rage, with Belmond making headlines for its luxe offerings from Scotland, Italy, to Malaysia. In Vietnam, the North-South railway line courses the entire length of the coast. In recent decades, it has become a popular option for tourists to see the country while skipping the carnage and carbon footprint of flying. Now, travelers originating in both Hoi An and Nha Trang have a premium option connecting the two cities through Quy Nhon: The Vietage by Anantara . Launched in 2020 as a way to whisk guests from Anantara’s Hoi An Resort to its newest property, Quy Nhon Villas in Binh Dinh Province, the private carriage debuted its latest route in May 2024, linking the 3 cities across the approximately 315-mile route.

The clientele includes well-heeled travelers who want to skip the airport and journey in style. Couples looking to add a smart leg of slow travel to a romantic trip for their honeymoon. And slow travelers who hate the carnage of airports, and wish to reduce their carbon footprint.

To make the trip more sustainable, Anantara , a part of the Minor hotel group, has enacted a plan that includes strict waste management programs, recycling, and community support programs. Both resorts connected by train, Anantara Hoi An and Quy Nhon Villas, have received Green Growth 2050 certification, with the former receiving Platinum status (the first and only in Vietnam) and the latter earning Gold.

Train on a bend in central Vietnam.

The train staff source ingredients from within Vietnam, eschewing luxury imported foods except Wagyu beef and salmon. On a recent menu, the duck terrine featured a sauce with Da Lat strawberries and a cranberry jam infused with Hoi An spices. Fruit, vegetables, and herbs, along with seafood come from the local fields and waters around Quy Nhon. Teas and coffees are sourced from local, ethical brands from Vietnam, while the still and sparkling water is filtered, carbonated, and bottled at the on-site plant at Anantara Hoi An. Waste and scraps return to Hoi An in the evenings to be segregated into either recycling, compost, or general waste. Anantara’s zero single-use plastic policy applies to The Vietage, too.

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Finally, the Dollars for Deeds program donates $1 per ticket to The Kianh Foundation, a not-for-profit charity providing a full-time, customized, special needs curriculum for children with disabilities in the Quang Nam Province of Central Vietnam. Of course, train travel in and of itself, limits one’s carbon footprint as compared to air travel. (Read more about sustainable travel here .)

The interior car on The Vietage.

The Vietage covers an approximately 330-mile span of Central Vietnam, connecting Hoi An, Quy Nhon, and most recently, Nha Trang. Through big picture windows, guests watch rural life unfurl as the train phases through thinning cityscapes into an emerald-hued countryside of rice fields cut by rivers and ponds. Motorbikes pile up at railroad crossings; sampans, or traditional wooden fishing boats, traverse rivers, and waterways; farmers donning conical nón lá hats made of woven leaves, work the fields planting rice–or is that the Vietnamese version of a scarecrow in a red cotton shirt and hat?

The Vietage around a bend in Vietnam.

Forested mountains offer a scenic backdrop, hinting at the hinterland’s topography, while red brick towers rising from distant fields inform its history. The region, along with nearby swaths of Laos and Cambodia, was once was once the domain of the forgotten kingdom of Champa, the towers, its former citadels and temples. At its peak between the 7th and 10th centuries, the Cham controlled key routes of the spice and silk trade, eventually falling to the Vietnamese in the 1400s.

Each of the two carriages features six private compartments with two seats (or one sleeper on the night journey) to accommodate a total of 12 passengers. Gray upholstered banquettes framed in dark wood are partly shielded by rattan cane screens and thick cream-colored curtains. The elegant design pays a nod to Indochine style, thanks to Hoang Le Ha, director of ShapeUs Studio in Ho Chi Minh City. Each booth has an international electrical outlet and large picture window. The well-appointed bar car features a semi-circular stone slab framed in black leather stools.

Dinner of beef and wine on the Vietage.

Morning travelers heading south on the route from Hoi An to Quy Nhon enjoy a light breakfast of warm pastries including croissants and pain au chocolat served with local coffee or tea. A few hours later, staff pre a three-course menu selected in advance. Dishes take inspiration from regional flavors and ingredients such as Quy Nhon seafood salad with green papaya, carrot and mint, and a green bean and quinoa salad peppered with lemongrass, tofu, peanuts and Hoi An chili sauce.

Mains include Hoi An chicken rice, and a braised wagyu beef neck accented with local vegetables of carrots and zucchini with green tea and sesame jus. Desserts infused the flavors of Vietnamese fruits like a dragon fruit compote atop a passion fruit tart, and strawberries sourced from the famous mountain city of Da Lat, served with coconut yogurt and local basil.

Wines by the glass range from a sparkling from Australia, Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, Chardonnay from Chile, and an Italian Primitivo. Spirits enthusiasts can dive into a selection of Vietnamese gins highlighted through specialty cocktails, a gin and tonic, or simply neat to sip and explore. Guests looking to bump up their wine experience can select from a reserve bottle list featuring Champagne, white Burgundy, Barolo, and Bordeaux.

The Vietage Bar Car.

As far as amenitites, it’s a trainn car, so it’s light on extras—but a small massage room provides a moment of calm while guests receive a 15-minute shoulder and back rub in a kneeling chair. Beneath the seat is a box with blankets, a neck pillow, and slippers. Complimentary Wi-fi keeps you connected, though you’re better off living in the moment by disconnecting.

Anantara’s The Vietage makes two trips daily, a morning run, and an evening route, linking Hoi An and Nha Trang, while stopping at Dieu Tri Station outside the port town Quy Nhon, along the way.

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Cardiff at Leisure

The Northern Belle Cardiff at Leisure journey

This luxury train journey on the Northern Belle vintage train, sets off to explore Cardiff at Leisure, where you will arrive in the Welsh capital just after lunch. When you arrive you will have plenty of time to explore the Welsh capital but before you do, there's a luxury train experience like no other to enjoy, as you are welcomed aboard the Northern Belle to a sparkling drinks reception. You will have a little time to spend conversing with fellow passengers before your Northern Belle steward shows you to your beautifully laid table with a comfortable armchair seat. It's not long before the fine dining begins, as your steward serves a delicious three-course brunch.

Upon arriving in Cardiff on the Northern Belle you will have plenty of time to explore this vibrant city, why not visit the castle, or museum or take a boat trip?

Your Northern Belle Cardiff at Leisure journey will conclude as you rejoin the Northern Belle vintage train. You will be welcomed back aboard with a Champagne reception. On the homebound journey, you will be served a fine dining five-course dinner, along with a bottle of wine, before arriving back at your departure station.

Included in the Cardiff at Leisure Northern Belle vintage train journey...

• Round-trip travel aboard the Northern Belle luxury train
• Welcome sparkling Bellini Cocktail
• Delicious three-course brunch on the outward journey
• Morning tea and coffee
• Free time in Cardiff
• Champagne reception back on board
• Five-course dinner: British seasonal table d'hôte menu
• A bottle of wine per couple
• Tea and coffee
• Petits fours

The Cardiff at Leisure journey aboard the Northern Belle is currently not in the schedule for 2024. You can view other Northern Belle journeys here .

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