2025.12.24

History of Luxury Trains: From the Legendary Orient Express to Modern Silk Road Journeys

Luxury trains are more than just a mode of transportation; they are symbols of extravagant travel and cultural exploration. From the aristocratic journeys in late 19th-century Europe to today's global high-end rail experiences, the history of luxury trains has witnessed humanity's pursuit of comfort, adventure, and elegance.

This article will take you on a retrospective journey through the development of several iconic luxury trains, exploring how they defined the concept of a "mobile palace." If you are a travel enthusiast or interested in railway history, this guide will provide you with abundant inspiration to plan your next dream voyage.

Orient Express—1883

The Orient Express, as the starting point of luxury train history, first set sail in 1883, running directly from Paris to Istanbul, connecting the heart of Europe with the mystery of the East. It was not just a train but a symbol of cross-border travel for the aristocratic society in the late 19th century, attracting royalty, diplomats, and adventurers to embark on this legendary journey.

The emergence of the Orient Express established the standards for luxury rail travel, including exquisite carriage designs, private services, and high-end dining, allowing passengers to feel the comfort of a palace. This most legendary international train in Europe is renowned for its luxurious interiors and international routes.

It passes through multiple countries, including France, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and Turkey, with scenery along the way ranging from the Alps to the ancient cities of the Balkan Peninsula, showcasing the diverse cultures of the European continent. The Orient Express symbolizes the aristocratic travel culture from the 19th to the 20th century, and many famous novels and films, such as Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express, have used it as a backdrop, further enhancing its mysterious allure.

Countries and Locations Passed: France (starting in Paris), Germany (Munich), Austria (Vienna), Hungary (Budapest), Romania (Bucharest), Bulgaria (Sofia), Turkey (ending in Istanbul).
Unique Highlights: Private sleeping compartments, silverware dining service, and stops at historic cities along the way, offering cultural immersion experiences.
Historical Impact: It pioneered international long-distance luxury trains, promoting the globalization of rail tourism.

The Blue Train—South Africa, 1946

The Blue Train was born in South Africa in 1946 and quickly became famous worldwide for its iconic royal blue body and high-end services. This train departs from Cape Town, traversing the vast landscapes of South Africa, and arrives in Pretoria, representing a unique interpretation of luxury rail travel on the African continent.

It is not just a means of transport but an early concept of a "mobile luxury hotel," offering five-star accommodations, cuisine, and personalized services, allowing passengers to fully relax during the journey. As the most representative luxury train in Africa, the Blue Train demonstrates the trend of luxury trains expanding from Europe to the world.

It passes through South Africa's diverse terrains, including wine regions, wildlife reserves, and the edges of the majestic Kalahari Desert, with stops at sites like the Kimberley diamond mining area, blending natural and historical explorations. The Blue Train's service standards include private butlers, observation lounge cars, and exquisite South African cuisine, embodying the revival of post-war luxury travel.

Countries and Locations Passed: South Africa (starting in Cape Town, ending in Pretoria, with a stop in Kimberley).
Unique Highlights: Sapphire-like body design, observation bar cars, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Historical Impact: It promoted the development of African tourism, becoming the top choice for global high-end travelers and symbolizing the transition from colonial eras to modern luxury.

Palace on Wheels—India, 1982

The Palace on Wheels set sail in India in 1982, incorporating classic elements of Rajasthan royal culture and becoming a pioneer in culturally themed luxury trains. This train departs from New Delhi and tours the palaces and forts of Rajasthan, offering a week-long immersive journey that allows passengers to experience the glory of India's princely era.

Its decorations are ornate and experiences rich, with strong regional characteristics, including hand-carved wooden interiors and traditional Indian silk fabrics. As the hallmark of luxury rail travel in India, the Palace on Wheels propelled the country's tourism onto the international stage.

It passes through multiple historic cities, such as Jaipur (the Pink City), Jodhpur (the Blue City), and Udaipur (the Lake Palace), showcasing India's rich architectural heritage and cultural festivals along the way. The train's services include royal banquets, yoga sessions, and local guide explanations, perfectly combining luxury with educational experiences.

Countries and Locations Passed: India (starting in New Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Agra (Taj Mahal)).
Unique Highlights: Royal-style compartments, traditional Indian dance performances, and visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Historical Impact: It pioneered themed luxury trains, inspiring more culture-oriented rail travel projects worldwide.

Royal Scotsman—United Kingdom, 1985

The Royal Scotsman was launched in the United Kingdom in 1985, representing the pinnacle of British aristocratic travel style. This train departs from Edinburgh and traverses the Scottish Highlands, offering multi-day slow-paced journeys that emphasize the new concept of "refined + slow travel."

Its wooden decorations, handmade fabrics, and exquisite dining make passengers feel as if they are in a Victorian-era aristocratic manor. As a typical Scottish Highlands experience, the Royal Scotsman passes through magnificent natural landscapes, including Loch Lomond, the Cairngorms mountain range, and the Glenfinnan Viaduct (a filming location for Harry Potter).

The train's services include whiskey tastings, private guides, and outdoor activities such as golf or fishing, blending the essence of British countryside life.

Countries and Locations Passed: United Kingdom (starting in Edinburgh, Inverness, Dundee, various towns in the Scottish Highlands).
Unique Highlights: Edwardian-style compartments, Michelin-level dining, and exclusive observation platforms.
Historical Impact: It promoted luxury travel combining ecology and culture, driving the rise of slow tourism trends in Europe.

Contemporary Luxury Trains: Train of Glamour's Silk Road Express and Hulunbuir Express

In the field of contemporary luxury trains, Train of Glamour with its innovative design and cultural depth, extends the legend of luxury rail travel to the eastern lands of China. These two trains not only inherit the luxurious standards of historical classics but also incorporate modern technology and sustainable concepts, providing global travelers with unique Asian adventure experiences.

Silk Road Express

The Silk Road Express travels along the ancient Silk Road through northwest China, passing through historical landmarks such as the Dunhuang Mogao Caves, Jiayuguan, and Turpan, offering a luxurious experience that fuses Chinese and Western elements. Passengers can enjoy Silk Road cultural lectures, high-end Chinese cuisine, and private butler services, while the train is equipped with intelligent carriage systems to ensure a comfortable and worry-free journey.

It is not just a trip, but a mobile museum that relives the thousand-year-old Silk Road civilization, allowing you to explore the mysteries of the East in a comfortable environment. The design inspiration for this train comes from the trade and cultural exchanges of the historical Silk Road. The carriage interiors use silk elements and ancient art patterns to create a strong cultural atmosphere.

Route Highlights:

Key regions & cities: Xining, Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, Turpan, Xinjiang Silk Road cities
Key destinations & attractions: Mogao Caves, Jiayuguan Pass, Flaming Mountains, ancient oasis towns along the Silk Road, etc.

Hulunbuir Express

The Hulunbuir Express is another luxury train under Train of Glamour that explores the northern scenery, passing through the Hulunbuir Grassland, Hailar, Harbin, and China's northernmost point Mohe, emphasizing ecological adventures and ethnic customs. The train offers unique activities such as horseback riding, yurt accommodations, and local folk performances, combined with five-star accommodations and observation carriages, immersing passengers in the vast nature and culture.

It represents the pinnacle of luxury travel in northern China, blending nomadic culture with modern luxury. The highlight of this train lies in its ecology-oriented design, with carriage windows using large-area viewing glass for easy appreciation of grassland sunrises, sunsets, and wildlife.