Top 8 Wine Train Journeys Around the Globe

Embark on a unique adventure that combines the romance of train travel with the delightful experience of wine tasting. These top wine train journeys around the globe offer stunning scenery, gourmet cuisine, and, of course, exceptional wines. Relax and savor the moment as you traverse through picturesque vineyards and breathtaking landscapes.

Napa Valley Wine Train: A Californian Classic

The Napa Valley Wine Train offers a distinctive way to experience the renowned Napa Valley. This vintage train provides a 36-mile round trip from Napa to St. Helena and back, featuring meticulously restored vintage railcars that evoke the golden age of luxury train travel. As you journey through the valley, indulge in gourmet dining experiences with dishes made to order onboard, complemented by the region's hallmark varietals.

For an immersive experience, consider the Legacy Experience, a six-hour excursion that includes stops at celebrated wineries such as Charles Krug and V. Sattui. These wineries boast a combined winemaking history of over 200 years, offering a deep dive into the region's viticultural heritage. The Legacy Experience also features a one-hour wine tasting in an open-air Pullman railcar and a photo stop at the iconic Napa Valley welcome sign in Oakville. To elevate your journey, opt for the Vista Dome dining car, providing a luxurious setting with panoramic views of the vineyards.

The cost for the Napa Valley Wine Train starts around $200, making it a premium, yet accessible, experience for wine enthusiasts. The train offers a variety of curated menus, ensuring a personalized and memorable trip through Napa Valley. The relaxed, intimate setting and the opportunity to explore world-class wineries make this train journey a must-do for anyone visiting the region.

Douro Valley: A Portuguese Paradise by Rail

The Douro Valley line in Portugal offers one of Europe's most scenic railway journeys. The journey typically starts at the São Bento train station in Porto, a historic station renowned for its stunning azulejo-tiled walls depicting scenes from Portugal's history. From there, the train travels to Pocinho, winding through the heart of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As the train meanders along the Douro River, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of terraced vineyards clinging to steep hillsides. Popular stops along the route include Pinhão and Régua, offering opportunities for wine tours and tastings at local quintas (wine estates). The journey from Porto to Pocinho takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, providing ample time to soak in the picturesque landscapes.

Tickets are affordable, with prices for a single ticket from Porto to Pinhão typically costing under €15. For the best views, sit on the right side of the train leaving Porto, and then switch to the left from Ferradosa to Pocinho. This train journey is perfect for those looking to experience the beauty of the Douro Valley without the need for a car, offering a relaxing and scenic way to explore the region.

British Pullman: A Quintessential English Experience

The British Pullman offers a luxurious and elegant way to experience the English countryside, with journeys starting and ending at London's Victoria Station. This beautifully restored Art Deco train provides a unique opportunity to indulge in gourmet dining while traveling through picturesque landscapes. A particularly enchanting experience is the journey to Simpsons Wine Estate in Kent, combining fine wine with the charm of the English countryside.

On the way to Simpsons Wine Estate, guests are treated to a three-course brunch and a Bellini, setting the tone for a day of sparkling adventures. Upon arrival at the estate, a guided tour unveils the secrets of their winemaking process, followed by a tasting of their award-winning wines in the Glass House Tasting Room. Alternatively, some journeys include creating bubbly at Westwell Wine Estate. The return journey features a sensational three-course dinner with wine pairings, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

The British Pullman's attention to detail, from the iconic uniforms of the stewards to the exquisite craftsmanship of the carriages, creates an unforgettable atmosphere. This experience offers a perfect blend of luxury, gastronomy, and viticulture, making it an ideal day trip for those seeking a quintessential English adventure. Prices for these journeys start from £615 per person.

Glacier Express: Swiss Alps and Exquisite Wines

The Glacier Express in Switzerland is renowned for its breathtaking journey through the Swiss Alps, connecting the resort towns of St. Moritz and Zermatt. This iconic train traverses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, verdant meadows, and dramatic gorges. The Excellence Class elevates this experience to new heights, combining unparalleled luxury with the stunning alpine scenery.

In Excellence Class, passengers are guaranteed a window seat and enjoy a five-course meal expertly paired with Swiss wines. The dedicated concierge attends to every need, providing insightful anecdotes about the landscapes and culture. The journey includes a welcome glass of champagne and access to the exclusive Glacier Bar, complete with a gold-plated compass dome. Swiss wines such as Pinot Blanc, sparkling rosé, and dessert wine perfectly complement the culinary offerings.

The Glacier Express offers a unique opportunity to savor Swiss wines while immersed in the beauty of the Swiss Alps. Though the Excellence Class comes with a premium price tag (approximately CHF 490 for the seat reservation in addition to a 1st class ticket), the luxurious amenities and breathtaking views make it a worthwhile splurge for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Koshino Shu*Kura: Sake Journey in Japan

The Koshino Shu*Kura train in Japan offers a unique journey through Niigata Prefecture, a region renowned for its rice and sake. This special train, operated by JR East, is designed for pure enjoyment, combining scenic views with sake tastings. The train runs on three routes, each offering its own distinct charm, connecting stations such as Jōetsumyōkō, Tōkamachi, Echigo-Yuzawa, and Niigata.

Onboard, passengers can sample five carefully selected brews from the region, known for its high-quality rice and water. The train features special interiors, including an observation deck with wide windows and an event space with standing tables for sake tasting. Bento box snacks made from local ingredients complement the sake, and live music adds to the festive atmosphere. The Koshino Shu*Kura also offers its own exclusive sake, the Koshino Shu*Kura Original Daiginjo, a unique souvenir brewed using traditional methods.

The cost for a journey on the Koshino Shu*Kura ranges from 8,200 to 9,400 yen per adult. This joyful train ride provides an immersive experience into the culture of sake, making it a must-try for enthusiasts visiting Japan.

The Presidential: A Royal Portuguese Experience

The Presidential Train in Portugal offers a luxurious and historical journey through the Douro Valley. Originally built in 1890 as the Portuguese Royal Train, it transported heads of state, kings, and popes, including Queen Elizabeth II and Pope Paul VI. Recommissioned in 2010 after a meticulous restoration, the train now offers a unique gastronomic experience.

The nine-hour round trip from Porto includes gourmet meals prepared by Michelin-starred chefs, paired with an extensive selection of Douro wines. The train often journeys to the Quinta de Vargellas winery, where guests can tour the vineyards and taste the estate's wines. The journey also features live music and local delicacies such as cheeses and sausages, creating a festive atmosphere.

A ride on The Presidential Train is an exclusive experience, offering a glimpse into Portugal's history and culinary excellence. With limited seating and a focus on luxury, this train journey is a bucket-list item for those seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure through the Douro Valley.

Indian Pacific: An Australian Transcontinental Adventure

The Indian Pacific train offers an epic transcontinental journey from Sydney to Perth, traversing the vast landscapes of Australia. This all-inclusive experience combines comfortable accommodations, world-class food and wine, and unique off-train excursions. One of the highlights is the stop for wine tasting in the Barossa Valley, one of Australia's premier wine regions.

During the Barossa Valley experience, guests often visit iconic wineries such as Seppeltsfield Estate, where they can indulge in a signature dining experience and taste award-winning wines. The Barossa Valley dining experience includes a food and wine pairing curated by an Executive Chef, highlighting regional produce and traditional methods. The Indian Pacific also offers other off-train experiences, such as exploring the mining town of Broken Hill and the ghost town of Cook.

The Indian Pacific provides a luxurious and immersive way to experience the diverse landscapes of Australia, with prices varying depending on the service and cabin. The journey combines comfort, gastronomy, and cultural exploration, making it an unforgettable adventure.

Tren Sabores del Valle: Chilean Wine Discovery

The Tren Sabores del Valle in Chile offers a full-day wine journey to the Colchagua Valley, one of Chile's most renowned wine regions. This unique experience combines a train ride with live music and wine tastings on board, followed by a bus transfer to explore the wineries and vineyards. The journey begins at the Central Station in Santiago, where passengers receive a map and guide to the Colchagua Valley.

Upon arrival in the Colchagua Valley, guests visit the Colchagua Museum and have the opportunity to tour various vineyards, such as Montesvineyard, Viu Manent vineyard, Montgras, and Casa Silva. Wine tastings showcase local Rosés, Carménères, and Merlots, providing a comprehensive introduction to Chilean wines. The Tren Sabores del Valle provides a unique and immersive way to explore the Colchagua Valley, combining transportation, culture, and wine in one memorable experience.

This journey offers a delightful blend of scenic travel and wine appreciation, making it a must-do for wine enthusiasts visiting Chile.