There’s nothing quite like sorting first class tickets for a train journey. You get a luxurious seat, while you watch the scenery rapidly pass you by. Below, we explore what first class looks like on different trains across the world.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express might well be the most luxurious train in the world. This opulent train is dressed in rich 1920s décor and takes you on an elegant journey around Europe’s most famous cities. Any seat on this train feels way above first class, but the best rooms give you access to an ornate marble bathroom.
Japanese bullet train
Japanese bullet trains have a green class which is more or less the equivalent to first class. In these seats you’re treated to plush, leather upholstery; dining services; and regular beverages. And on top of this, you’ll reach your destination at a rapid pace with the famous speed of the bullet train.
Belmond Andean Explorer
The Belmond Andean Explorer is a sleeper train that takes you on various overnight routes across idyllic landscapes in Peru. With stunning views taking you through the old Incan empire across the Andean plains, you’d hardly need to be in a luxurious room. Nevertheless, this train is furnished with decadent rooms and locally sourced, fresh meals from the dining cart.
Belmond Royal Scotsman
The Belmond Royal Scotsman marries a rustic, cosy style of cabin with the wondrous views rural Scotland has to offer. In a similar way to the Andean Explorer, the idea is that you take in the beautiful views while enjoy sublime, locally-sourced meals across a few nights.
The Ghan
The Ghan is a legendary train that passes from Adelaide to Darwin in Australia. This train has been running for 90 years as it carries passengers from the north to the south. As the longest passenger train in the world, there’s the option of gold twin berth sleeper cabins to allow you to move in comfort. Plus, you can always take in the views: in this case it’s the stunning, hazy red and yellows of Australia’s rugged landscape.
First class is a little different all over the world. Many trains can offer you sublime views of the nearby landscape. But some can offer you decadent luxury while you travel first class, while others simply focus on getting to your destination.
