Night trains are a timeless way to travel, offering the romance of rail, the practicality of an overnight journey, and the unique charm of watching the world go by from a cozy sleeper cabin. These trains connect bustling cities and scenic landscapes, allowing travelers to wake up refreshed and ready to explore a new destination. Whether you’re crossing continents or navigating picturesque countryside, night trains provide an unforgettable travel experience.
Here are 11 of the best night trains around the world, each promising comfort, adventure, and a touch of magic.
1. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe)
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is synonymous with luxury and nostalgia. Operating between cities like London, Paris, Venice, and Istanbul, this legendary train offers a step back in time with its elegant 1920s art deco interiors, plush sleeper cabins, and world-class dining.
Travelers are treated to exquisite meals prepared by top chefs, served in opulent dining cars adorned with vintage details. The train glides through the European countryside, offering stunning views of snow-capped mountains, rolling fields, and quaint villages.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express isn’t just a journey; it’s an experience of unparalleled elegance and refinement, making it a bucket-list item for train enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike.
2. The Caledonian Sleeper (Scotland)
The Caledonian Sleeper connects London to Scotland, offering travelers a serene overnight journey through the United Kingdom’s scenic landscapes. With destinations like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness, this train is an excellent gateway to the Highlands.
The train features a range of accommodations, from cozy seats to private en-suite rooms in the Club class. Travelers can enjoy locally sourced Scottish cuisine in the onboard dining car, making the experience both comfortable and authentic.
Waking up to the sight of misty mountains and rolling hills is a highlight of the Caledonian Sleeper, offering a tranquil escape from city life and a perfect start to a Scottish adventure.
3. The Glacier Express Excellence Class (Switzerland)
While not a traditional overnight train, the Glacier Express offers a luxurious evening service for those seeking a slightly shorter night journey. This Swiss train is known for its panoramic windows, which provide breathtaking views of the Alps as the train glides between Zermatt and St. Moritz.
In the Excellence Class, passengers enjoy fine dining with curated wine pairings, plush seating, and personalized service. The slow pace of the Glacier Express ensures that travelers can fully appreciate the beauty of alpine peaks, charming villages, and lush valleys.
For a truly enchanting journey, consider pairing the Glacier Express with an overnight stay at one of Switzerland’s many luxurious mountain lodges.
4. The Trenhotel Lusitania (Spain–Portugal)
The Trenhotel Lusitania connects Madrid, Spain, to Lisbon, Portugal, providing an overnight journey between two of Europe’s most vibrant capitals. The train’s sleeper cabins are designed for comfort, with options ranging from reclining seats to private rooms with en-suite bathrooms.
Passengers can enjoy a meal in the dining car before retiring to their cabins for the night. The train passes through picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills and charming towns, offering glimpses of the Iberian countryside.
Arriving in Lisbon as the city awakens is a magical experience, making the Trenhotel Lusitania a favorite among travelers exploring the Iberian Peninsula.
5. The Canadian (Canada)
The Canadian, operated by VIA Rail, offers an epic journey across Canada, running between Toronto and Vancouver. This four-night train adventure is perfect for those seeking a leisurely exploration of the country’s diverse landscapes, from prairies and forests to the majestic Rockies.
The train features a variety of accommodations, including cozy cabins and luxurious Prestige Class suites with private bathrooms and access to exclusive lounges. The dining car serves gourmet meals inspired by regional Canadian cuisine.
The Canadian is more than just transportation—it’s a voyage through some of North America’s most stunning scenery, offering a chance to connect with fellow travelers while enjoying unparalleled views.
6. The Night Riviera (England)
The Night Riviera connects London with Cornwall, offering a convenient and charming way to reach England’s scenic southwestern coast. With comfortable sleeper cabins and reclining seats, the train ensures a restful journey for all passengers.
Travelers can enjoy snacks and drinks in the onboard lounge before settling in for the night. As the train winds through the countryside, passengers are treated to glimpses of rolling hills, quaint villages, and the rugged Cornish coastline.
The Night Riviera is ideal for those looking to explore Cornwall’s beaches, historic sites, and artistic communities while enjoying the romance of overnight rail travel.
7. The Eastern & Oriental Express (Southeast Asia)
The Eastern & Oriental Express is a luxurious night train journey through Southeast Asia, offering a blend of comfort, adventure, and cultural immersion. This iconic train travels between Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, showcasing the region’s lush landscapes, vibrant cities, and historical landmarks.
The train’s elegant cabins feature polished wood, fine furnishings, and large windows for scenic views. Passengers can enjoy gourmet meals inspired by Southeast Asian flavors in the dining car and relax in the observation car, which provides panoramic views of rice paddies, jungles, and traditional villages.
Excursions along the route, such as exploring the River Kwai or visiting colonial landmarks in Penang, add to the journey’s appeal. The Eastern & Oriental Express is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those seeking luxury and cultural discovery.
8. The Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia)
The Trans-Siberian Railway is a legendary rail route that spans nearly 6,000 miles across Russia, connecting Moscow to Vladivostok. While the journey can take up to seven days, travelers can enjoy shorter segments aboard night trains that offer unique glimpses into the vast and diverse Russian landscape.
Sleeper cabins range from basic compartments to luxurious private suites, catering to different budgets and preferences. The journey includes iconic sights such as Lake Baikal, the Ural Mountains, and sprawling Siberian forests.
Travelers can immerse themselves in Russian culture onboard, enjoying traditional meals and meeting fellow passengers from around the world. The Trans-Siberian Railway is the ultimate adventure for those seeking an epic, enchanting overnight journey.
9. The Blue Train (South Africa)
The Blue Train, often called a “five-star hotel on wheels,” offers a luxurious overnight journey through South Africa. The train runs between Pretoria and Cape Town, providing breathtaking views of the country’s diverse landscapes, including rolling vineyards, rugged mountains, and vast savannahs.
Each suite is elegantly appointed with en-suite bathrooms, fine linens, and plush seating. Passengers can enjoy gourmet meals paired with South African wines in the dining car and unwind in the lounge car, which exudes old-world charm.
The Blue Train is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s an immersive experience that showcases South Africa’s beauty and hospitality in unparalleled luxury.
10. The Rovaniemi to Helsinki Night Train (Finland)
Travelers seeking an enchanting winter journey should consider the night train from Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, to Helsinki. Known as the “Santa Claus Express,” this train takes passengers from the Arctic Circle to Finland’s bustling capital.
The train features cozy sleeper cabins, including family compartments and private suites. During the winter months, passengers may catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights as the train winds through snow-covered forests and frozen landscapes.
Rovaniemi, often considered Santa Claus’s hometown, offers attractions like Santa Claus Village and the Arctic Circle. Arriving in Helsinki the next morning provides travelers with a seamless transition from the serene north to Finland’s urban charm.
11. The Reunification Express (Vietnam)
The Reunification Express, which connects Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, offers a memorable overnight journey through Vietnam’s diverse landscapes. While the train takes over 30 hours to complete the full route, many travelers opt for shorter overnight segments, such as Hanoi to Hue or Da Nang.
Sleeper cabins are comfortable and affordable, ranging from basic shared compartments to private rooms. The train passes through rice paddies, coastal stretches, and mountainous regions, offering a snapshot of Vietnam’s natural beauty.
Travelers can sample Vietnamese cuisine onboard, making the journey a cultural experience in itself. The Reunification Express is a fantastic way to explore Vietnam’s iconic cities while enjoying the charm of overnight rail travel.
Conclusion
Night trains offer a magical way to travel, blending the romance of rail with the practicality of overnight journeys. From the luxurious Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to the adventurous Trans-Siberian Railway, these 11 night trains showcase the diversity of rail travel, providing unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re seeking opulence, cultural immersion, or stunning landscapes, night trains allow you to wake up in a new destination while savoring the journey itself. These enchanting overnight rides prove that the journey can be just as rewarding as the destination.
