10 Great Rail Journeys Around the World – Prices from €1599 Including Flights
From luxury trains like the Rocky Mountaineer to Japan’s bullet train and New Zealand’s TranzAlpine crossing, we have some the world’s best rail journeys to add to your travel bucket list.
Rail journeys have long been associated with romance and nostalgia, but I think today’s interest in train travel is driven by very different reasons. In a world where everything feels rushed, slow travel is widely embraced, and the cliché that the journey is the destination, now genuinely resonates with all of us.
Travelling by rail allows you to switch off, relax and take in the scenery from the comfort of your seat, without the stress of driving or lengthy bus tours. It also has the added benefit of being a more sustainable way to travel.
For some, a train holiday through Italy is a bucket list experience, for others its hugging the Pacific Coast from Los Angeles to San Francisco on the Amtrak Rail Surfliner. However, today’s luxury train holidays take train tripping to a whole new level. From travelling through the Canadian Rockies to winding through the mountains of New Zealand, or travelling in opulent style through India and Africa, the world’s best rail journeys offer a unique and memorable way to see some of our most spectacular destinations.
In this guide, I have teamed up with long haul specialists Tropical Sky to help you plan your bucket list holiday by rail. Whether it is a luxury trip aboard a world-famous train or a scenic route linking iconic cities, I have rounded up 10 incredible rail journeys to suit all travel styles.
These are just a sample of the many rail journeys that Tropical Sky offers. They can tailor-make any holiday to suit your requirements, including adding on extra nights in on any of the train tours below. They can be contacted online, by phone, or you can visit their Customer Lounge in Dublin and they will advise on the best rail journey to best suit your requirements.
1. Italy Icons: Flights, Hotels & Rail Tickets, 9 Nights from €2199pp
This amazing train journey in Europe takes you to three of Italy’s most iconic cities – Venice, Florence, and Rome. Enjoy three nights in top-rated hotels in each city, with private transfers, water taxis, and 1st-class rail tickets all seamlessly arranged for you.
Your adventure begins in Venice, staying right on the Grand Canal. Arrive in style with a water taxi from the airport, then spend your days exploring St. Mark’s Square, gliding along the canals by gondola, and wandering through the city’s maze of narrow streets. Venice is a city like no other, making it the perfect starting point for your Italian rail adventure.
Read: Top 10 things to do in Venice
From Venice, a water taxi will take you to the station for your 1st-class rail journey to Florence, where you will check into another centrally located four-star hotel. Admire the magnificent Duomo, stroll across the famous Ponte Vecchio, and lose yourself in the masterpieces of the Uffizi Gallery – home to one of the world’s greatest art collections.
Finally, continue by 1st-class rail to Rome for your three-night stay close to the historic centre. With landmarks like the Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Vatican City just waiting to be discovered, Rome is the grand finale to this wonderful Italy train journey.
Read: Top 10 things to do in Rome and restaurant recommendations
Read: 10 Great holidays in Italy
Price of €2199pp per person includes flights, 1st class train tickets, transfers and nine-night hotel stays on a bed and breakfast basis.
Price is based on 27th October 2026. check with Tropical Sky for alternative dates and durations. Quote ref 734493-6
2. South Africa Kruger Safari & Rovos Rail to Victoria Falls: Flights, Hotels, Rail, 8 Nights from €6799pp
South Africa is one of my favourite holiday destinations, so combining a safari in Kruger National Park with a visit to Victoria Falls on one of the world’s luxury train journeys is, for me, the ultimate bucket list trip!
Your adventure begins when you arrive in Johannesburg and take a short flight to Hoedspruit for a two night stay at the intimate Motswari Game Lodge in Kruger National Park. You will then fly to Pretoria for an overnight stay before you board one of the great railway journeys in Africa for a three-night trip across South Africa and Zimbabwe on Rovos Rail.
This five-star luxury rail journey is an exceptional way to experience some of South Africa and Zimbabwe’s most striking scenery. Along the way, you will enjoy memorable stops including Hwange National Park, where a game drive excursion is included.
On arrival at Victoria Falls, you will be transferred to the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel, where you will stay overnight. With its rich history and superb location, it is the perfect place to unwind after your luxury train journey.
You can also choose to extend your stay here, or add on additional nights in South Africa before your train journey.
Price of €6799pp includes flights, transfers, accommodation and meals as per itinerary.
Price is based on January 2027 check with Tropical Sky for alternative dates and durations. Quote ref 734493-3
Great Rail Journeys in Canada
From travelling by rail from Toronto to Canada’s capital, to a spectacular journey through the Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer, we have two fantastic rail holidays in Canada to tempt you.
Read: 10 Amazing holidays in Canada
3. Toronto, Niagara Falls & Ottawa Journey: Flights, Hotels, Rail Tickets & Tours, 6 Nights from €1799pp
This wonderful Canada holiday brings you to Ontario’s three contrasting cities, with time to explore its top attractions by rail and cruise.
Your trip starts in Toronto, where you will have three nights to explore this iconic city. Visit the top of the CN Tower, enjoy a city tour and scenic harbour cruise, and take a full-day trip to Niagara Falls – all included in the cost!
You will then travel in business class with VIA Rail to Canada’s capital, Ottawa, where you will spend three nights. Enjoy its vibrant nightlife, riverside walks, impressive architecture and fascinating museums, and take your pick from a cruise on the Rideau Canal or the Ottawa River, also included. You can choose to fly home from Ottawa or return to Toronto by rail and fly home from there.
Price of €1799pp includes flights, 3-night stays in Toronto and Ottawa, business class train tickets and tours as per itinerary.
Price is based on October 2026 check with Canadian Sky for alternative dates and durations. Quote ref 734493-9
4. Rockies Highlights with Rocky Mountaineer: Flights, Hotels, Rail & Transfers, 7 Nights from €3999pp
This iconic trip through Western Canada has been on my own bucket list for many years. Your journey starts in Calgary, where you will stay for one night before transferring to Banff in the heart of the Canadian Rockies for a three-night stay.
Banff is one of Canada’s most scenic destinations and is surrounded by towering mountains and stunning lakes. You have free time to explore at your own pace or book one of Canadian Sky’s optional tours along the Icefields Parkway and Athabasca Glacier, or book a trip to Canada’s most photographed lake, Lake Louise.
Your trip continues with a trip of a lifetime on the Rocky Mountaineer train for two days, where you will overnight in Kamloops before continuing to Vancouver. See stunning scenery as you pass through the heart of the Canadian Rockies in a glass domed coach, while you are served gourmet meals and drinks – it doesn’t get much better than this!
A two night stay is included in Vancouver, but you can choose to extend your stay there, add on an Alaska Cruise, spend some more time in Banff, or add in some time in Jasper National Park – the choices are endless!
Price of €3999pp includes flights, 1-night stay in Calgary, 3-night stay in Banff, 2-night stay in Vancouver and a 2-day trip on the Rocky Mountaineer train in Goldleaf service and overnight in Kamloops, selected transfers as per itinerary.
Price is based on October 2026 check with Canadian Sky for alternative dates and durations. Quote ref 734493-10
Great Rail Journeys in USA
From the iconic cities of the East Coast to the highlights of California, these two vacations by rail are a great way to discover America’s most popular destinations.
Read: 7 Epic USA holidays
5. Iconic East Coast Cities: Flights, Hotels & Rail Tickets, 7 Nights from €1599pp
Visit four of America’s most iconic cities on one epic rail holiday. Your journey starts in Washington D.C., where you can tour its famous memorials, step inside the Capitol building and explore the renowned Smithsonian musems. A visit to Georgetown is a must, as is a trip to Arlington National Cemetery.
Read: Top things to do in Washington
You will then travel by Amtrak to Philadelphia, where you can see the Liberty Bell and explore Independence Hall. American Sky have included a one night stay in Philadelphia on this trip, but you can extend that if you wish.
Your journey continues by train to New York, where you will enjoy two nights in this incredible city. Take in skyline views from its observation decks, walk across Brooklyn Bridge, explore the brownstones of the West Village and soak up the energy of Times Square.
Read: Top things to do in New York
Your trip ends in Boston, where you can walk the Freedom Trail, enjoy waterfront cafés or take a trip to nearby Harvard University or Salem.
Read: Top things to do in Boston
Want to spend more time in a particular city? Talk to the team in American Sky and they will curate the perfect itinerary to suit you.
Price of €1599pp includes flights, 7-night hotel stays and Amtrak rail from Washington DC – Philadelphia, Philadelphia – New York, New York – Boston.
Price is based on March 2027 check with American Sky for alternative dates and durations. Quote ref 734493-8
6. California Rail Journey: Flights, Hotels & Rail Tickets, 11 Nights from €2549pp
Travel from San Diego to San Francisco exploring some of California’s most famous cities and attractions on this 11 night rail journey.
Your trip starts in San Diego where you will have three nights to enjoy its stunning beaches and vibrant Gaslamp Quarter. Step on board the USS Midway while you are there and explore Balboa Park.
You will then travel along the coast by Amtrak Rail Surfliner to Los Angeles, admiring the sea views along the way. Home of Hollywood, Beverly Hills and the famous Santa Monica Pier, as well as the Universal Studios theme park. The Surfliner train stops in Anaheim too making Disney California another possibility!
Read: Top things to do in Los Angeles
Continue north along the coast by train, passing through famous towns such as Santa Barbara and Ventura, before choosing to stay along the Central Coast in either San Luis Obispo or at coastal Pismo Beach.
Your final journey is by Amtrak coach to San Francisco, where you will stay for your last three nights. Take a tour of Alcatraz Island, cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge and enjoy a scenic bay cruise to finish off this epic adventure.
Price of €2549pp includes flights, 3-night hotel stays in San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco, and 2-night stay in San Luis Obispo and Amtrak rail / coach tickets.
Price is based on October 2026 check with American Sky for alternative dates and durations. Quote ref 734493-7
Great Rail Journeys in Asia
From the energy of Japan’s bullet train to the slower pace of India’s Maharajas’ Express, these rail journeys showcase the rich diversity and contrasts of both countries.
7. Iconic Japan by Bullet Train: Flights, Hotels, Train & Tours, 11 Nights from €7499pp
Japan is a bucket list destination in its own right, but exploring its modern and traditional cities on a small group tour by its famous bullet train adds even more adventure to this fascinating trip. Combining the highlights of Japan with immersive cultural experiences, this is a journey that offers a deeper connection to the country.
Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Tokyo, where you will enjoy a leisurely three-night stay. Here, you will visit its iconic landmarks as well as the famous Tsukiji Market, where you can even try your hand at making your own sushi, offering a perfect introduction to Japan’s unique blend of old and new.
You will then travel by bullet train to Nagiso, where you will stay in a traditional minshuku, a Japanese-style bed and breakfast. From here, visit the beautifully preserved Edo-period town of Tsumago before continuing to Kanazawa, where you will explore Nagamachi, a well-preserved samurai district at the base of Kanazawa Castle.
A two-night stay in Hiroshima is sure to be a highlight. You will have time to reflect at the Peace Memorial Park, where a flame continues to burn until all nuclear weapons worldwide are eliminated. You will also take a scenic ferry to Miyajima to see the iconic floating torii gate.
Your trip concludes with three nights in Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, where you will explore its magnificent temples, palaces, gardens, and the Golden Pavillion, before enjoying a guided walk through the lantern-lined streets of Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district.
A meeting with a local monk for a lesson in Zen meditation and calligraphy as well as learning the basics of samurai and kembu will undoubtedly be more memorable experiences, and a day trip exploring Nara, Japan’s first capital is also included.
Price of €7499pp includes flights, 10 nights hotel accommodation and 1 night in Traditional Inn, 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner, all transport between destinations on bullet trains, express train, local train, ferry, metro, taxi, public bus to/from included activities, tours as per itinerary and a tour director throughout.
Price is based on travelling in February 2027. check with Tropical Sky for alternative dates and durations. Quote ref 734493-2
8. Heritage of India – All Inclusive Maharajas’ Express: Flights, Train Journey With Meals, Drinks & Tours, 7 nights from €9,699pp
Visit some of India’s most iconic sights by luxury train travel, aboard the world-class Maharajas Express train. This fascinating 8 day journey will bring you from vibrant Mumbai to Delhi, stopping at Ranthambore National Park where you will be treated to a game safari, Udaipur Jodhpur, and Jaipur, as well as Agra to visit the jaw-dropping Taj Mahal.
It is not just India’s remarkable attractions that will captivate you, the journey itself is a true highlight. Travelling on the Maharajas’ Express is a bucket list experience in its own right. Expect lavish interiors, exceptional dining and impeccable service, with your own private butler on hand throughout, all contributing to its reputation as one of the world’s finest luxury train journeys.
As well as meals and local drinks included throughout, you will also be treated to tours of the City Palace and Crystal Gallery in Udaipur, the Amber Fort in Jaipur, a Sam Sand Dunes excursion on a camel cart, cultural performances by the Kalbeliya and Langa artists, a Champagne breakfast at Taj Khema, a jeep safari to Ranthambore National Park and a sightseeing tour of the Taj Mahal.
Price of €9699pp includes flights, train journey with meals and local drinks, and tours as per itinerary.
Price is based on travelling in November 2026. check with Tropical Sky for alternative dates and durations. Quote ref 734493-4
Great Rail Journeys in Australia & New Zealand
From travelling across Australia’s outback on the luxury Ghan train to embarking on an epic 16 night adventure in New Zealand, these top rail journeys need to be added to you bucket list.
9. Darwin to Adelaide on The Ghan: Flights, Hotels, Train & Tours, 7 Nights from €5899pp
Travel on Australia’s premier luxury train, The Ghan, from Darwin to Adelaide, one of the world’s great rail journeys. Sit back and admire the remarkable landscapes from the comfort of your private cabin, while enjoying gourmet dining and exceptional service throughout.
Your adventure begins with a two-night stay in Darwin, giving you time to soak up the tropical atmosphere before boarding The Ghan for your all-inclusive journey through the heart of Australia.
Along the way, you will stop in Katherine to explore the spectacular Katherine Gorge, before continuing through the vast Outback to Alice Springs and on to Coober Pedy, a fascinating opal mining town where many residents live underground! Guided tours are included at each stop, offering a deeper insight into these unique locations.
On arrival in Adelaide, you will enjoy a two-night stay in this elegant and laid-back city, the perfect way to round off your journey.
This iconic rail experience can also be seamlessly added to any Australia holiday, with tailor-made options available through Australian Sky.
Read: Top 10 Australia Holidays
Price of €5899 includes flights, 4-night hotel stays, and 3 night train journey with meals, drinks and tours as per itinerary.
Price is based on travel in October, check with Tropical Sky for alternative dates and durations. Quote ref 734493-1
10. North to South New Zealand: Flights, Hotels, Car Hire, Train Journeys & Tours, 16 Nights from €6799pp
Travel from Auckland to Christchurch over 16 nights by train, car and ferry on this epic journey through New Zealand’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities and charming towns. After a two-night stay in Auckland, your first rail experience takes you south through the heart of the North Island to Wellington, where you will also stay for two nights.
The journey continues with one of New Zealand’s most scenic travel combinations, beginning with the Interislander ferry across the Cook Strait, followed by the Coastal Pacific train from Picton to Christchurch. Hugging the coastline, this spectacular rail route offers stunning views from its open-air viewing carriage.
You will then explore the South Island by car, visiting Mt Cook, Dunedin and beyond, with highlights including the Taieri Gorge Railway and time in Queenstown and Franz Josef. A standout experience is the overnight cruise in Doubtful Sound from Manapouri, where you can enjoy remote wilderness, wildlife sightings and a unique dining experience.
The grand finale is the world-famous TranzAlpine train journey from Greymouth to Christchurch, crossing the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass, and widely regarded as one of the world’s great rail journeys.
Combined with car hire and many tours included, this epic New Zealand adventure is one to add to your bucket list!
Price of €6799pp includes flights, 16-night motel stays, rail journeys, car hire with tour pack and guide books, Doubtful Sound overnight cruise, Interislander ferry, 1 breakfast, 3 dinners, and tours as per itinerary.
Price is based on travelling in November 2026. check with Tropical Sky for alternative dates and durations. Quote ref 734493-5
I hope this post on the some of the world’s best rail holidays will inspire you to take a trip soon. This is just a small sample of the many holidays that Tropical Sky offer. They can tailor make the perfect trip to suit your requirements, and can be contacted online, by phone, or you can visit their Customer Lounge in Dublin if you prefer to book holidays by train in person.
While every effort was made to ensure accuracy, prices, attractions and activities are subject to change. This post was sponsored by Tropical Sky.
