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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Young woman traveling by the train from sitting near the window and looking mountain Fuji

Shinkansen (Bullet Train), Japan

Less unique, more impressive. We just had to mention Japan’s world-renowned high-speed trains on this list. Even the thought of catching the Shinkansen is thrilling, such is the fame of the so-called Bullet Trains. Interiors are ultra modern, quietly comfortable and often embellished with touches of high-tech playfulness. Perhaps the coolest part of spending an hour or two onboard is simply the effortless speed of the thing. You know you’re travelling at 320kmh (199mph), you can see the beautiful Japanese countryside whizzing by your window, and yet there is a gloriously soothing sense of gentle motion on board. There’s barely a wobble, barely a sound. The only time you really get a feel for the speed of things is when you feel another Shinkansen passing the other way – exhilirating. Our 12-day Japan Rail Trip takes full advantage of this extraordinarily efficient service to show you Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Hakone and Tokyo in one holiday, not to mention excursions to Miyajima Island, Lake Ashi and a mesmerising bamboo forest – thank you, Shinkansen!

From US$4045

Next available from 2nd Sep 2024

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Trip highlights and details

STARTS AT

Osaka, Japan

ENDS AT

Tokyo, Japan

DURATION

12

GROUP SIZE

16

PHYSICAL RATING

Moderate

STYLE

Discovery

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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

Secure your spot with a low deposit

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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Culture Trips 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. 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 places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

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