
From the scenic panoramas of Australia’s Red Centre to the pristine Canadian wilderness, get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime journey onboard the world’s most luxurious trains where fine dining and impeccable service are as abundant as the photos you’ll take onboard! Don’t go off the rails – chat to one of our travel experts to book now!
Australia
Australia’s rail journeys are the ultimate antidote to holiday hectic. From the serene horizons of the Red Centre on The Ghan to the vast, shimmering Nullarbor on the Indian Pacific, these tracks give you a wide window on the rugged, sun-drenched soul of the continent—all with a glass of something cool in hand.
The Ghan



This outback journey from Adelaide to Darwin cuts a copper-coloured path through the Red Centre, offering an iconic rail experience on a luxury train. Enjoy all-inclusive travel at its best, with chilled sparkling whites and fiery Northern Territory sunsets thrown into the bargain.
Spirit of the Outback



Swap the coastline for the rugged heart of the Sunshine State on this premier Queensland rail adventure. The Brisbane to Longreach line is the gold standard for outback travel, transforming a simple regional rail trip into a truly scenic train experience giving you a heritage-soaked journey into the bold spirit of the Australian interior.
Indian Pacific



Experience the ultimate cross-country journey aboard this iconic train. As a premier luxury rail experience, the Indian Pacific offers a spectacular transcontinental train adventure taking you from Sydney to Perth. Watch the landscape transform from the lush Blue Mountains to the endless horizons of the Nullarbor Plain in unparalleled style.
UK & Europe
Nowhere does the "city-centre to city-centre" magic quite like Europe. Ditch the airport stress for a high-speed dash through the French countryside or a scenic climb through the Swiss Alps. With iconic tracks connecting historic capitals, it’s the most romantic, efficient, and sophisticated way to tick off your bucket list.
Eurail



Unlock the freedom of the continent with a Eurail rail pass that makes European train travel super easy with seamless multi-country travel across 33 nations. Whether you’re embarking on Europe train travel to chase sun or snow, enjoy flexible journeys for the most romantic and efficient way to explore every hidden corner.
Eurostar



Revolutionising city rail travel, Eurostar is the world’s most famous cross-border high-speed train, connecting London to Paris and London to Europe in record time. Best of all, longer legroom and wider seats than flying economy are standard, turning your international train trip into a hassle-free hop across the channel. Arrive city-centre to city-centre, skipping the airport queues and heading straight for the croissants.
Britrail



Discover the majestic beauty of England, Scotland, and Wales with a UK rail pass. Tailored for flexible travel, BritRail allows you to curate your own rail journeys through historic villages and rugged highlands. It’s the quintessential way to experience train travel in Britain, offering the liberty to hop on and off as you please.
USA & Canada
Whether you’re carving through the snow-capped Canadian Rockies on the glass-domed Rocky Mountaineer or tracing the Mid-west's ever-changing landscapes with Amtrak, North America by rail is all about scale. Experience the untamed wilderness and soaring peaks from the comfort of a lounge car, where every turn reveals a new take on epic.
Amtrak



Embrace the spirit of adventure with Amtrak, the heartbeat of US train travel. Offering famous long-distance trains and breathtaking scenic routes, these rail journeys connect the towering skyscrapers of the East Coast to the Pacific sunsets. It’s intercity rail with a front-row seat to the vivid American landscape.
Rocky Mountaineer



Perhaps the world’s premier luxury train, this is how you do the Canadian Rockies justice. Designed specifically as daylight journeys, you’ll never miss a peak or a grizzly sighting to the darkness. Instead, you’ll spend your nights in high-end hotels and your days surrounded by scenic rail views through custom glass-domed carriages. The Rocky Mountaineer is the pinnacle of rail holidays, where the silver service is only outshone by the glaciers outside your window.
VIA Rail Canada



From the Atlantic to the Pacific, VIA Rail Canada defines the art of the cross-country rail expedition. Weaving through the Rockies and vast prairies, these scenic routes offer a window into the wild heart of the north. Whether on intercity trains or epic rail journeys, this is the definitive way to experience Canada train travel.
Asia
Asia’s rail scene offers a thrilling contrast between the future and the past. You can zip across Japan at 320km/h on a legendary Bullet Train or slow things down with the timeless, all-inclusive luxury of the Eastern & Oriental Express. It’s cultural immersion at its best, where the scenery is as vibrant as the service.
Eastern & Oriental Express



Step into a world of timeless glamour aboard an iconic train. This premier luxury train offers an unmatched Asia rail journey, winding through emerald jungles and ancient towns. With an all-inclusive experience and world-class service, the Eastern and Oriental Express turns scenic travel into a sophisticated celebration of Southeast Asian culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Japan Rail (JR)



Navigate the Land of the Rising Sun with the ultimate Japan Rail Pass. As the backbone of train travel Japan, it grants you unlimited access to the national rail network and those iconic, lightning-fast bullet trains. Whether you're chasing cherry blossoms or neon lights, it’s the key to seamless, flexible travel throughout the country's major islands.
Ready to swap the middle seat for a window on the world?
Our travel experts know these tracks like the back of their hands—from the best cabins to the secret stops you won't find in Street View. Locate your closest Flight Centre Travel Expert or contact us today to plan your dream rail journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a rail holiday?
The joy of a rail holiday, like a cruise, is part scenic journey, part novel mode of transport and (to a lesser extent) part anticipating your destination. Unlike a standard commute, for many the train is the event. It’s a curated experience where the transport, scenery, and often your dining and sleeping arrangements are seamlessly blended into one stress-free, spectacular itinerary.
What rail journeys are available for a rail holiday?
Basically, a train holiday awaits anywhere there's a railway line. You can cross the Australian Outback on The Ghan, weave through the Swiss Alps, conquer the Canadian Rockies, or zip between Japanese cities on a Bullet Train. From Egypt to New Zealand, luxury sleepers to regional explorers, there’s a track for every bucket list.
How do I book a rail holiday through a travel agent?
It’s as easy as a platform transfer. Simply chat with a Flight Centre expert in-store or online. We handle the complex logistics like connecting rail passes, reserving specific seats, and syncing your train times with flights and hotels so you don't have to decode foreign timetables yourself.
Can a rail holiday be customised to suit my travel plans?
Absolutely. Rail travel is incredibly flexible. Your travel expert can add extra nights in your favourite cities, book specific excursions at each stop, or even combine multiple iconic journeys. Whether you want to start in London and end in Istanbul or vice versa, we build the trip around you.
Do I need to book trains and accommodation together?
While you can book them separately, bundling them into a Flight Centre package is the smart move. It ensures your hotel is close to the station (crucial for early departures!) and provides "travel shark" protection—if a train is delayed, your whole itinerary stays protected and synced.
Are rail holidays suitable for first-time rail travellers?
Of course! Rail holidays are perfect for beginners. Rail travel skips the "airport anxiety" of long security lines and liquid restrictions. With centrally located stations and clear boarding processes, it’s a gentle, intuitive way to see the world without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads or airport hustle.
Can rail holidays be tailored for couples, families or solo travellers?
Definitely. Couples love the romance of private cabins and fine dining; families enjoy the space to move around and "I-spy" scenery; and solo travellers benefit from the safety and social vibes of lounge cars. We match the carriage style and cabin type to suit how you're travelling, from solo travel to group holidays.
What types of train journeys can be included in a rail holiday?
Everything from high-speed dashers (like the Eurostar) to scenic day-trippers and ultra-luxury sleepers. You can mix and match a "commuter-style" Eurail pass for flexibility with a "once-in-a-lifetime" luxury experience like the Rocky Mountaineer to get the best of both worlds.
Can rail holidays be combined with other travel experiences?
Yes. We frequently pair rail journeys with ocean or river cruises, self-drive road trips, or guided coach tours. Imagine cruising the Mediterranean and then catching a high-speed train through the Italian countryside to finish—it’s a great way to maximise your experience.
When is the best time to plan a rail holiday?
Right now. Iconic journeys like The Ghan or the Rocky Mountaineer often book out 6 to 12 months in advance. Planning early secures the best "Earlybird" rates and, more importantly, ensures you snag that coveted window seat or cabin during peak blossom or snow seasons.
Are rail holidays suitable for different budgets?
Yes. The most affordable train holidays are usually ones associated with "Pass" ticketing such as Eurail, BritRail and Japan Rail journeys. Your seating will be a little more comfortable than flying economy and you have the option of booking a cabin for overnight travel. These rail companies also offer First Class seating if you want to pay a little extra for things like wider seats, more leg-room and snacks. At the other end of the price spectrum, you can go all-out with all-inclusive luxury rail experiences where your gold-class cabin, fine wines, and off-train excursions are all part of the ticket. Think the Ghan and the Eastern-Oriental Express.



