Long-Distance Rail Travel: The Rise of ‘Land Cruises’

They say getting there is half the fun, but for some, the journey is the destination. Long-distance rail travel is quickly becoming a popular way to vacation. According to Euromonitor International, rail travel is the fastest growing travel category worldwide, rapidly increasing in popularity from 2023 to 2024.

Long-distance rail vacations, or ‘land cruises,’ aren’t just about getting from point A to point B as quickly as possible. Traveling by train can be a nostalgic and relaxing way to experience the world—enjoying breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and landmarks—all while exploring several destinations along the way.

Traveling by train is safe and efficient, is an excellent alternative for those prone to motion sickness, and is more environmentally friendly than airplane travel. While it may not be the fastest mode of transportation, it’s certainly unforgettable—perfect for travelers looking to take in as many sights and experiences as possible on their way to a new destination. All aboard!

U.S. Cross-Country Train Vacations

Amtrak, the national passenger railroad company of the United States, offers several long-distance rail vacations through some of North America’s national parks and remote areas not accessible by car or plane.

Passengers taking a long-distance train vacation typically spend some nights sleeping on board the train and the others in hotels along the route. Amtrak trains have several options for private sleeping accommodations: roomettes, bedrooms, and suites—some with private restrooms and showers. Each cabin has electrical outlets, a small closet, and fold-down tables for included meals. When not in their cabins, passengers can enjoy incredible views along the journey from the Observation Car with floor-to-ceiling windows.

A sightseer’s dream, the Grand National Parks Tour is a 13-day journey across the Great Plains and through the Rocky Mountains. Passengers board in Chicago and venture through Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park, and the Grand Canyon with additional stops in Salt Lake City, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Standard roundtrip tickets start at $4,899 per passenger, costs varying by season and sleeping accommodations.

A true cross-country adventure, the Grand Rail Experience departs from Washington DC and takes passengers on a 14-day trip to Chicago, Seattle, Los Angeles, and New Orleans. Seven nights are spent aboard the train, while six nights are spent in hotels along the route for plenty of time to explore the countryside. Standard roundtrip fares start at $3,349 per passenger and include admission to attractions and activities like the Seattle Aquarium and Space Needle, sightseeing tours in Los Angeles and New Orleans, and more.

A shorter five-day trip, the Niagara Falls Getaway, takes passengers from Chicago to Niagara Falls, spending two nights on the train and two nights in a Niagara Falls hotel. Roundtrip fares start at $429 per passenger and include a Maid of the Mist boat tour of the Falls (seasonal; operates June – October).

Luxury European Rail Travel

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express by Belmond is the epitome of luxury rail travel. Beautifully restored historic carriages take passengers on breathtaking journeys across Europe for a five-star rail experience.

The longest trip offered aboard this iconic train takes passengers on an unforgettable five-day journey from Istanbul to Paris, through Hungary, Romania, and Switzerland. Guests spend three nights on the train, one night in Bucharest, and one night in Budapest.

Passengers are treated like royalty with French breakfasts, black-tie dinners, dedicated steward service, and luxurious accommodations. The extravagant Grand Suites include 24-hour butler service, free-flowing champagne, private in-cabin dining, and marble en suite restrooms.

This experience of a lifetime doesn’t come cheap. A “standard” Historic Cabin starts at $22,490 per passenger—and you’ll need to purchase an elegant wardrobe as formal evening attire is required for dinner, and jeans are inappropriate at any time while on board.

Affordable African Train Adventure

Tazara Railway’s Mukuba Express provides an affordable—yet memorable—adventure from Tanzania to Zambia.