Vintage carriages and panoramic domes bring glamour back to the world’s most spectacular routes in 2026.
The golden age of rail travel never truly ended – it simply became more exclusive. Whilst budget airlines democratised continental crossing, a select collection of railway operators has spent decades perfecting the art of slow, sumptuous travel at speeds that allow passengers to actually see the landscape they’re traversing.
For 2026, the luxury rail sector is experiencing something of a renaissance. Heritage routes are being restored with contemporary comforts, new operators are launching ambitious itineraries across previously inaccessible terrain, and legendary trains are reimagining their offerings for a generation that values experience over mere transportation. What follows is a curated selection of the world’s most exceptional train journeys departing this year.
Dream of the Desert, Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia enters the luxury rail market in 2026 with Dream of the Desert, an ambitious $53 million venture signalling the kingdom’s determination to diversify its tourism offering. The Italian-built train features 41 bespoke cabins traversing 800 miles from Riyadh to Al Qurayyat near the Jordanian border, showcasing desert and mountain landscapes largely unseen by international travellers.
Saudi Arabian Railways has partnered with Italy’s Arsenale Group – the force behind Orient Express La Dolce Vita – to deliver what it calls a redefinition of luxury rail travel. Excursions include visits to the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Natural Reserve, whilst onboard dining emphasises a carefully considered blend of international cuisine and Saudi culinary traditions. The service marks a significant milestone in the kingdom’s broader strategy to position itself as a serious player in high-end tourism.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, France to Italy
The legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express launches a new route in May 2026, connecting Paris to Italy’s Amalfi Coast across four days of meticulously curated luxury. The inaugural departure on 4 May traverses both the French and Italian Rivieras, with carriages dating from the 1920s and 1930s offering Historic Cabins, Suites, and Grand Suites adorned in period splendour.
The journey balances one night aboard the train with two nights at the 11th-century Caruso hotel in Ravello. Off-board experiences include boat tours along the Amalfi coastline, cooking classes with local producers, painting workshops, and guided tours of Pompeii. Grand Suite passengers gain exclusive access to Casa del Larario Regio V, typically closed to visitors. Onboard entertainment features live piano performances and sommelier-selected wines, whilst luxury car transfers and bespoke itinerary additions ensure the experience extends seamlessly beyond the rails.
L’Orient Express, Central Europe
The original Orient Express made its final journey from Paris to Istanbul on 20 May 1977, unable to compete with the rise of commercial aviation. Its Art Deco carriages were auctioned off, and the rolling palace that had inspired Agatha Christie’s 1934 novel seemed destined for the history books. Nearly five decades later, luxury rail travel is experiencing an unlikely resurgence.
Following the 2015 rediscovery of 17 original 1920s carriages – formerly the Nostalgie-Istanbul-Orient-Express – France has undertaken a meticulous restoration. The revived L’Orient Express, featuring plush green velvet seating, dark mahogany finishes and period detailing, is scheduled for its inaugural journey in mid-2026. Whilst the exact route and ticket prices remain undisclosed, early glimpses of the restored cabins will appear at the ‘1925-2025. One Hundred Years of Art Deco’ exhibition at Paris’s Musée des Arts Décoratifs.
The Blue Jasmine, Thailand
Thailand’s classic Bangkok-to-Chiang Mai rail route recently gained a luxurious new option with The Blue Jasmine, a meticulously restored 1960s Japanese sleeper train accommodating just 37 passengers. Operated by DTH Travel in partnership with the State Railway of Thailand, the vintage carriages feature three cabin classes, with premium suites offering private bathrooms, butler service, and access to the Panorama Lounge and premium dining car.
The nine-day itinerary transforms the 750-kilometre journey into a cultural exploration, connecting Ayutthaya’s ancient ruins with Chiang Mai’s ethical elephant sanctuaries. Passengers spend two nights aboard whilst chef-prepared meals and craft cocktails accompany views of rice paddies and mountain landscapes. The remaining nights unfold at carefully selected four-star heritage hotels.
Halloway’s Private Railcars, United States
The United States enters the luxury rail market in January 2026 with Halloway’s meticulously restored vintage carriages, offering European-style opulence on America’s most scenic routes. Two historic cars – the Evelyn Henry sleeping carriage and the Warren R. Henry vista dome lounge – will attach to existing Amtrak services on the Coast Starlight and California Zephyr routes, accommodating just six passengers per journey.
The inaugural departure leaves Los Angeles Union Station on 15 January 2026, reaching Oakland in San Francisco Bay after 12 hours traversing the Pacific coastline and California wine country. A longer expedition follows on 16–17 January, crossing four states from Oakland to Denver through the Sierra Nevada, Utah’s red rock canyons and the Rocky Mountains. The 1954 Evelyn Henry features five bedrooms including the master “Grand Canyon” suite with queen bed and en-suite bath. The 1955 Warren R. Henry offers a panoramic glass dome, mahogany dining salon and open viewing platform.
Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan
One of the world’s most exclusive luxury trains, Japan’s Seven Stars in Kyushu accommodates just 28 passengers per departure and books out years in advance. The seven bespoke carriages – five sleeping cars, a panoramic lounge and a salon car with tea room – are finished in deep wine-red livery with gold detailing, though the most sought-after accommodation remains the seventh car’s two deluxe suites, one featuring a large observation window.
Designed to showcase Japan’s third-largest island, the train highlights Kyushu’s crafts, traditions, culture and cuisine through interiors that blend Japanese and Western influences whilst honouring local craftsmanship and natural materials. Itineraries spanning two to four days include off-train experiences unique to this largely unspoiled region. Applications are closed through June 2026, though prospective passengers should monitor availability as spaces occasionally become available.
Al Andalus, Spain
Spain’s Al Andalus luxury train launches a seven-day southern circuit in spring 2026, traversing 480 kilometers through Andalusia’s cultural heartland. The journey connects Seville and Madrid via Córdoba, Cádiz, Jerez and Mérida, offering excursions to Roman archaeological sites, royal estates and coastal towns. Passengers experience flamenco performances, sherry tastings and beach visits between rail travel segments.
The 450-meter train comprises 14 restored 1929 Wagon-Lit carriages once used by British royalty, accommodating 64 guests in Grand Class cabins or Deluxe Suites with period-style furnishings. Onboard amenities include twin restaurants, multiple lounges and traditional Andalusian cuisine prepared by celebrated chefs, with 24-hour room service available throughout the journey.
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The glass-roofed Rocky Mountaineer introduces limited-edition “Passage to the Peaks” departures for June and July 2026, expanding its premium scenic rail offerings. The new route travels through British Columbia and Alberta, connecting Edmonton, Jasper, Calgary, Kamloops, Lake Louise and Banff across itineraries ranging from one to nine nights, with hotels and guided excursions included.
Off-train activities include visits to the Columbia Icefield, Athabasca Falls and a boat cruise on Lake Minnewanka. The rail journey crosses the Yellowhead and Rogers passes, traverses Kicking Horse Canyon, and passes through the spiral tunnels. A notable stop at Craigellachie marks where the last spike of the transcontinental Canadian Pacific Railway was driven in November 1885.
