The Coolest Train Carriages In The World

There’s no way of getting from A to B more scenic, comfortable or interesting than rail travel. Not only are the views scenic, sometimes even the train carriages themselves offer aesthetic advantages.

From luxury rail carriages and cutting-edge examples of modern transport, to gorgeous steam trains and quirky old locomotives, trains are an endlessly charming method of getting around. Our Rail Trips are efficient, relaxing and allow Culture Trippers to see more of a destination without feeling like it’s all rushed. These are the coolest, most unique and most impressive train carriages you’ll get to experience through our collection of small-group adventures across the globe.

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Jacobite steam train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, as seen in Harry Potter

Jacobite steam train, Scotland

Is there a more romantically joyous image than the steaming sight of a classic train gently chugging through the United Kingdom’s countryside? Nowhere is the accompanying journey more scenic than in the Scottish Highlands, where the old-timey aesthetic of a steam train just seems to blend perfectly with the ruggedly handsome hills, valleys, forests and lakes of rural Scotland. The most famous of the lot is the Jacobite steam train, partly thanks to its role in the Harry Potter series, bringing the Hogwarts Express itself to life. Our Scotland Rail Trip, which starts with the equally cool Caledonian Sleeper train from London, will see you hopping onboard the Jacobite in Fort William and heading all the way to Mallaig on the west coast, crossing the stunning Glenfinnan Viaduct en route. It’s a truly once-in-a-lifetime journey in a gorgeous old carriage – you’ve got to love the gloriously old-fashioned upholstery – especially for Potter fans. Just, for goodness sake, don’t say “We’ll take the lot!” when the dining cart comes through.

From US$2728

Next available from 27th May 2024

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Trip highlights and details

STARTS AT

London, England

ENDS AT

Edinburgh, Scotland

DURATION

7

GROUP SIZE

18

PHYSICAL RATING

Moderate

STYLE

Discovery

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Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.