Posh style embodies grandeur, exclusivity, and refined sophistication, often evident in decor, fashion, and behavior. It reaches its pinnacle in the luxurious world of train excursions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the Top 10 posh trains globally, known for unparalleled elegance, superior materials, and opulent designs, making them the epitome of luxury travel.

1. SJourney – Vietnam’s First Luxury Train

Inspired by the 1930s Indochine era, SJourney showcases a perfect mix of vintage charm and modern touches. The interiors feature high-end materials such as hand-woven silk, polished wood, and marble finishes, with details like lotus embroidery and handcrafted pottery. This makes it one of the most exquisite trains globally. Cabins: Offers Twin and Double Cabins with designs reflecting traditional Vietnamese aesthetics combined with modern comfort. Dining: Dining cars offer polished wood paneling and elegant table settings, while the bar provides a relaxing ambiance with large windows and soft lighting. Route: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh (or vice versa) Price: Dec 2024: $7,320/person; From Jan 2025: $8,610/person

2. The Belmond British Pullman – United Kingdom

The Belmond British Pullman offers a vintage train experience filled with Art Deco glamour. The restored carriages feature plush velvet seats, brass details, and wood paneling, reflecting the golden age of British rail travel. Each carriage has its unique history, adding to the charm of this posh journey. Cabins: Provides day travel in royal-like seating arrangements. Dining: Passengers enjoy traditional British afternoon tea in elegantly designed dining cars. Routes: London to Canterbury or Bath. Price: $400 to $700/person.

3. The Blue Train – South Africa

Dating back to the 1920s, the Blue Train is a symbol of luxury travel in South Africa, offering a mix of classic elegance and modern comfort with rich mahogany wood and marble interiors. Cabins: Offers Deluxe and Presidential suites with en-suite facilities, converting cozy seating areas into beds at night. Dining: Passengers enjoy gourmet meals in lavish dining cars, paired with scenic views of South Africa. Routes: Pretoria to Cape Town or Pretoria to Kruger National Park. Price: $3,000 to $5,000/person.

4. The Seven Stars in Kyushu – Japan

The Seven Stars blends traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern luxury. The train features polished brass, lacquered wood, and silk fabrics, with artistic elements like stained glass and marquetry that reflect Japanese culture. Cabins: Offers Deluxe and Standard Suites, decorated with natural wood, plush cushions, and handmade furnishings. Dining: Features fine porcelain, crystal glasses, and silverware for a formal dining experience. Routes: Kyushu Island. Price: $6,000 to $14,000/person.

5. Maharajas’ Express – India

Maharajas’ Express delivers a royal travel experience with palatial interiors, gold accents, and silk upholstery, capturing India’s regal heritage. The suites feature handcrafted furniture and traditional Indian decor. Cabins: Offers Presidential Suites, Junior Suites, and Deluxe Cabins, adorned with rich fabrics and traditional art. Dining: The dining cars feature peacock-themed decor, providing a luxurious setting for enjoying regional Indian dishes. Routes: Rajasthan, Agra, Varanasi, or Mumbai. Price: $3,000 to $24,000/person.

6. The Royal Scotsman – Scotland

The Royal Scotsman showcases the essence of Scotland through mahogany paneling, tartan upholstery, and Edwardian aesthetics, creating a cozy private club atmosphere. Cabins: Single, Twin, and Double cabins with tartan accents and warm colors evoke classic Scottish charm. Dining: Features two dining cars, The Raven and The Swift, decorated with rich mahogany tables and plush fabrics. Routes: Scotland’s Highlands. Price: $7,000 to $15,000/person.

7. The Belmond Andean Explorer – Peru

Blending Andean culture with modern luxury, the Belmond Andean Explorer features soft neutral tones, alpaca wool throws, and polished wood finishes, creating a serene atmosphere. Cabins: Offers Deluxe Double, Junior Double, Twin, and Bunk Bed cabins, providing scenic views of the Andes. Dining: Dining cars offer a tranquil ambiance with large windows and polished wood tables. Routes: Cusco, Puno, and Arequipa. Price: $3,000 to $9,000/person.

8. Eastern & Oriental Express – Southeast Asia

The Eastern & Oriental Express blends colonial elegance with Asian elements, featuring teakwood interiors, silk wall coverings, and marble bathrooms. Cabins: Features Presidential, State, and Pullman cabins with silk embroidery, lacquered wood, and handcrafted art. Dining: Two dining cars provide exotic Asian cuisine in a colonial-style setting. Routes: Singapore to Bangkok, or routes through Malaysia. Price: $3,150 to $7,375/person.

9. Rovos Rail – South Africa

Rovos Rail combines Victorian luxury with mahogany paneling, antique fixtures, and spacious suites. It provides uninterrupted views of Southern Africa’s diverse landscapes. Cabins: Offers Royal, Deluxe, and Pullman cabins with antique furnishings and fine linens. Dining: Elegant dining cars serve gourmet meals in Edwardian style. Routes: Cape Town to Pretoria. Price: $3,000 to $20,000/person.

10. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – Europe

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express epitomizes Art Deco luxury with rich wood paneling, polished brass fixtures, and plush velvet upholstery, transporting passengers back to the 1920s. Cabins: Offers Historic Cabins, Suites, and Grand Suites, featuring fine linen and antique fittings. Dining: Three dining cars with vintage art, wood paneling, and crystal lighting, complemented by a Piano Bar for relaxation. Routes: Paris, Venice, and Verona. Price: £3,000 to £20,000/person.

Posh and Luxurious Train Journeys

The world’s most posh trains are more than transportation—they are luxurious journeys that combine exquisite design, cultural richness, and unparalleled comfort. Each train offers a unique experience, making it ideal for travelers seeking elegance, adventure, and refinement.