12 luxury global train rides for picturesque views | members only

For those who savor slow travel and long for a bygone era of elegance, luxury train travel offers an unparalleled experience. Picture plush interiors, gourmet dining and ever-changing

vistas. These journeys are not to be confused with run-of-the-mill train travel, which usually only includes a snack bar or quick-serve food and is typically designed to get passengers to

their destination as efficiently (and affordably) as possible. Luxury experiences, on the other hand, are a destination in themselves. As someone who has had the opportunity to take a ride

myself, I can say that these premium trains provide more than just a way to get from point A to point B. These journeys cater to those seeking a stress-free way to explore diverse landscapes

and cultures while also appealing to those who want comfort, cultural immersion and nostalgia. Of course, the upgrade in service and dining can also mean a slightly steeper price tag.

According to the 2024 AARP Travel Trends survey, travelers 50-plus anticipated spending around $6,659 on their adventures, a number that has been fairly consistent over the years. Depending

on your length of travel, most swanky rail journey options today fall somewhere within that range, making the appeal that much sweeter.  “Train Treks are perennially popular for our

participants as well,” Maeve Hartney, chief program officer for Road Scholar, tells AARP. The not-for-profit brand focuses on educational travel specifically for the 50-plus community and

features a range of global offerings, including Train Treks, which are Road Scholar’s all-inclusive rail trips. “Trains are an amazing way to experience landscapes, learn about how other

countries manage their rail system, and travel sustainably.” At Rocky Mountaineer, “more than 90 percent of our guests are 50 years-plus,” says Nicole Ford, vice president of

communications, sustainability and stakeholder relations at the North American-based luxury train operator with routes through Canada and the U.S. “These are guests who prioritize good

service, socializing and meeting new people, and enjoying nature and soft adventures in comfort. When off the train, these travelers like to take scenic tours, explore on their own by

walking, and have local culinary experiences.” Whether you’re seeking something new across America’s heartlands or you’re looking for cultural immersion in far-off lands, these 12 luxury

train journeys are up for the challenge (pricing is in U.S. dollars and will depend on conversion rates). Rocky Mountaineer’s GoldLeaf service features multicourse menus and seating in an

upstairs lounge. Courtesy Rocky Mountaineer THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER, U.S. AND CANADA STARTING PRICE: $1,725 (2-day Denver to Moab route in April) If you’re dreaming of a journey that blends

awe-inspiring landscapes with the luxury of world-class service, the Rocky Mountaineer offers the perfect escape. With glass-domed coaches and panoramic windows, this train journey is your

front-row seat to North America’s western mountain vistas, including the Canadian Rockies. To maximize your trip, opt for a complete package that includes train fare, handpicked hotel

stays, and guided excursions that dive deeper into the rich history and culture of the regions you pass through. Onboard, you’ll indulge in gourmet meals made with local ingredients,

offering you a taste of the region. Choose from two exclusive service levels: GoldLeaf for a premium experience featuring multicourse menus and seating in an upstairs lounge, or SilverLeaf,

which offers a cozy experience with more casual dining and all-around spectacular views. Amtrak Coast Starlight Train travels from Seattle to Los Angeles. Here, the observation car windows

allow panoramic views. Alamy AMTRAK COAST STARLIGHT TRAIN, U.S. STARTING PRICE: $497 Although it may not have the same luxury amenities offered on many of the higher-end experiences, this

35-hour route from Seattle to Los Angeles makes up for it with views of some of the Western U.S.’s stunning backdrops. From Mount Shasta and the Cascade Range to tranquil glimpses of the

Pacific Ocean, this journey is more for the traveler who appreciates natural beauty. It is also for those who want to travel without having to drive or fly. Book a first-class sleeper cabin

to have your own private retreat during the journey, and when you’re ready to be social, head to the dining car to meet other riders. Keep in mind this is a standard passenger train, so you

won’t be able to hop on and off like some train experiences that are designed to be the destination in themselves. GoldStar Service on the Alaska Railroad is available on the Coastal Classic

Train and the Denali Star Train. Credit: Glenn Aronwits THE ALASKA RAILROAD GOLDSTAR, U.S. STARTING PRICE: $213 for GoldStar service route from Anchorage to Girdwood The GoldStar Service

on the Alaska Railroad offers a luxury experience that is designed to delight. While the railroad offers scenic routes for every budget, the GoldStar Service stands out as the ultimate

indulgence — combining comfort, elegance and spectacular views. GoldStar is available exclusively on two itineraries — the Coastal Classic Train and the Denali Star Train. These trips are

only available from mid-May through mid-September to make the most of the season’s extended daylight hours. That could also provide more opportunities to spot Alaskan wildlife (though never

a guarantee) and the towering mountains, sprawling glaciers and pristine wilderness.