12 Vintage Trains That Are Still Running Today

There’s something magical about vintage trains—the rhythmic clatter of the wheels, the gleaming brass fixtures, and the panoramic views that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a bygone era of travel. While high-speed rail dominates modern transportation, some legendary trains have stood the test of time, continuing to carry passengers in style.

From luxurious European carriages to rugged steam locomotives chugging through the mountains, these 12 historic trains still offer unforgettable journeys across breathtaking landscapes.

1. The Orient Express

Once the epitome of luxury travel, the Orient Express has been whisking passengers through Europe since 1883. Originally linking Paris to Istanbul, this train became synonymous with elegance, fine dining, and intrigue (Agatha Christie fans know exactly what we mean!).

Today, travelers can still indulge in the grandeur of this historic train, with exquisitely restored carriages and an itinerary that winds through scenic European landscapes. Think of it as time travel—but with champagne and five-star service.

2. The Glacier Express

Dubbed the “slowest express train in the world”, Switzerland’s Glacier Express proves that good things come to those who wait. Since 1930, it has carried passengers on a mesmerizing journey through the Swiss Alps, connecting Zermatt and St. Moritz.

With floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, this train offers uninterrupted views of snow-covered peaks, deep valleys, and picturesque villages. Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate or capturing Instagram-worthy snapshots, the Glacier Express is all about slow travel at its most spectacular.

3. The Ghan

If you’ve ever wanted to cross the Australian Outback in style, then The Ghan is your dream ride. Named after Afghan cameleers who helped explore Australia’s interior, this train has been chugging across the continent since 1929, linking Adelaide and Darwin.

Expect dramatic desert landscapes, red-hued mountains, and vast open plains—all viewed from the comfort of a luxurious, vintage-style carriage. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail or watching kangaroos hop by, The Ghan offers a front-row seat to Australia’s raw beauty.

4. The Royal Scotsman

Imagine a five-star country manor—on wheels. That’s the Royal Scotsman, an intimate 36-passenger train that winds through Scotland’s stunning Highlands.

Since 1985, this rolling luxury hotel has treated guests to mahogany-paneled carriages, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of lochs, castles, and misty glens. If you want to feel like Scottish royalty while enjoying the finest whiskey, this is your ticket to an unforgettable ride.

5. The Blue Train

Nicknamed the “Blue Jewel of the Rails,” this legendary train has been cruising through South Africa since 1946. With lavish suites, elegant lounges, and floor-to-ceiling windows, it’s less of a train and more of a five-star hotel on tracks.

The journey from Pretoria to Cape Town takes passengers through rolling vineyards, rugged mountain ranges, and golden savannahs. If you’re looking for a ride that combines luxury and adventure, the Blue Train remains one of the most sophisticated ways to explore Africa.

6. The Trans-Siberian Railway

Spanning over 9,000 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok, the Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the longest and most legendary train journeys in the world.

Since its inception in 1891, this train has carried adventurers, traders, and dreamers across the vast Russian landscape. Along the way, you’ll pass through snow-covered forests, remote villages, and some of the most breathtaking wilderness in the world.

Aboard the Trans-Siberian, every mile is an adventure, making it the ultimate bucket-list experience for true rail enthusiasts.

7. The Rocky Mountaineer

Want to experience Canada’s stunning Rocky Mountains without hiking up a peak? Enter the Rocky Mountaineer, a train that’s been delivering jaw-dropping views since 1990.

This glass-domed beauty carries passengers through towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and lush evergreen forests on routes between Vancouver, Banff, and Jasper. With exceptional service and gourmet meals served onboard, the Rocky Mountaineer proves that sometimes, the journey is even better than the destination.

8. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Nicknamed the “Toy Train”, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway has been winding its way through India’s tea plantations since 1881.

This narrow-gauge steam train is a marvel of engineering, climbing through the lush, misty hills of Darjeeling while offering stunning views of the Himalayas. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this train is a piece of history you can still ride today—and trust us, the scenery is as magical as the journey itself.

9. The Belmond Andean Explorer

Peru’s Belmond Andean Explorer takes passengers on one of the highest rail journeys in the world, traversing the breathtaking Peruvian Andes.

This train, decked out in vintage elegance, winds its way from Cusco to Arequipa, passing through rugged mountains, ancient ruins, and the serene waters of Lake Titicaca.

If you’re craving luxury, adventure, and unforgettable landscapes, this is the South American train journey of your dreams.

10. The Jacobite Steam Train

For Harry Potter fans, this one’s a must! The Jacobite Steam Train is the real-life Hogwarts Express, running through the Scottish Highlands and crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct (yep, the same bridge from the movies!).

This charming vintage steam train has been operating since the early 1900s, offering one of the most scenic rides in the world. Whether you’re a train lover or a Potterhead, this ride is pure magic.

11. The Rovos Rail

Dubbed the “Pride of Africa,” Rovos Rail takes vintage train travel to a whole new level. Since 1989, this ultra-luxurious train has offered journeys across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, passing through wild savannahs, deserts, and game reserves.

With its vintage-style carriages, gourmet cuisine, and open-air observation deck, Rovos Rail redefines elegance on the rails.

12. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

When it comes to glamorous train travel, nothing beats the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. With its art deco carriages, white-glove service, and romantic European routes, this train brings the golden age of travel to life.

Since 1982, it has carried passengers through Paris, Venice, and beyond, offering a once-in-a-lifetime journey for those who love luxury and history.