Luxury train journeys are not about reaching a destination quickly. They are about slowing down, soaking in landscapes, dining like royalty, and travelling
in spaces where comfort feels almost theatrical. The world’s most expensive trains offer private suites, fine dining curated by top chefs, personalised butler service, and routes that pass through some of the most breathtaking regions on Earth. From India’s royal rail experiences to Europe’s legendary Art Deco carriages, these trains redefine what travel on rails can look like. Here’s a look at the five most expensive luxury trains in the world in 2025, and what makes them worth the price.
Maharajas’ Express, India
If you want to see what luxury on rails really looks like, start here. The Maharajas’ Express is in a league of its own, with the Navratna Presidential Suite setting the bar (and the price tag) higher than any other train in the world—$23,000 to $25,000 for a week-long trip. The journey covers some of North and West India’s most iconic spots—Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Varanasi, and even Ranthambore National Park. Guests don’t just get a bed. They get spacious suites, their own butler, private palace tours, and royal meals. Every detail, from the plush décor to the attentive service, channels the days of India’s maharajas.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE), Europe
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is pure old-world glamour on rails. Featuring beautifully restored 1920s Art Deco carriages, the train recreates the romance of Europe’s golden age of travel. A Grand Suite journey from Paris to Venice typically costs around USD 15,000 per person for a two-day, one-night trip. The most expensive route, the legendary Paris-to-Istanbul journey, can exceed USD 60,000 per cabin for two people. Grand Suites include a double bedroom, living area, marble bathroom, and round-the-clock service, along with black-tie dining and evenings in the iconic Bar Car.
Golden Eagle Danube Express, Europe
This train is all about slow, immersive travel. The Golden Eagle Danube Express takes you deep into Eastern and Central Europe, with itineraries that stretch over nearly two weeks and dive into places most tourists never see. The price tag matches the experience—a 12-day Balkan Explorer trip from Venice to Istanbul goes for about $24,895 per person in a Superior Deluxe cabin. You get fine dining, premium drinks, guided city tours, private concerts, and entertainment right on board. It’s a polished, intimate way to explore Europe, far from the usual crowds.
Palace on Wheels, India
Palace on Wheels isn’t just a name—it’s the whole vibe. Think ornate interiors, rich fabrics, and a route that sweeps you through Rajasthan’s famous cities: Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and more. For a seven-day trip, a deluxe cabin starts at $6,800 per person. Want the best suite? That’ll be about $12,000 each. The ride includes palace tours, cultural performances, gourmet Indian food, and a chance to truly soak up Rajasthan’s royal spirit.
Deccan Odyssey, India
Inspired by the Deccan kingdoms, the Deccan Odyssey brings five-star hotel comfort to the rails. Its top-tier Presidential Suite offers two bedrooms, a living room, and your own butler—yours for about $10,500 per person on a weeklong journey. The routes mix things up: one day you’re exploring vineyards in Nashik, the next you’re unwinding on Goa’s beaches. There’s a spa, gym, lounge bar, and two fine-dining restaurants on board, so you never have to give up any luxury while you’re rolling through India.
