Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Answering common questions regarding luxury train journeys

Our friendly experts and our specialist concierge team are always on hand to answer any questions you may have. You can contact our knowledgeable team by email, live chat or telephone and we always aim to respond within a day or two, usually much sooner.

A luxury train journey is something very special indeed, so it is natural to have questions about how the process works. Throughout our years of offering luxury train journeys all over the world, we have been asked a few particular questions more often than others, which we have answered below. However if you have a completely different question or simply wish for clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Booking through LuxuryTrainTickets.com

Is it cheaper to book through LuxuryTrainTickets.com than direct with the operator?

Prices through LuxuryTrainTickets.com are the same as booking direct, we are an authorised ticketing agent and official partner of every operator we sell. Where we differ: we offer a price match guarantee, so if you find a lower price anywhere, we will match or beat it where possible. You also benefit from our complimentary concierge service, flexible deposit options, and a UK-based team of specialists available to assist before and after your journey

Why book through a luxury train agent rather than direct?

Booking through LuxuryTrainTickets.com gives you access to the same tickets at the same prices as the operators, with added benefits: a low deposit to secure your booking, a dedicated concierge service to help plan transfers, hotels and bespoke extras, and expert advice from a team who specialise exclusively in luxury train travel.

Can I reserve my place with a deposit?

Yes. Most journeys can be reserved with a deposit, with the balance due closer to departure. The deposit amount varies by operator and journey, some require a higher deposit for peak dates or longer routes. Contact our team before booking and we will confirm the exact deposit terms for your specific journey.

What happens if I need to cancel?

Cancellation terms vary by operator and mirror the terms you would receive booking direct. You are protected by exactly the same conditions as if you booked directly with the accredited luxury train operator. Our full cancellation policy is available on our website and our team can walk you through the specific terms for your journey before you commit.

Can I book a luxury train journey as a gift?

Yes. LuxuryTrainTickets.com offers digital gift vouchers for individual trains, including the British Pullman, Royal Scotsman and Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, as well as open vouchers redeemable against any journey on the site. Vouchers under £1,000 are delivered by email and are ideal for last-minute gifts. Our concierge team can also create custom values on request.

What to expect on board

What is the dress code on a luxury train?

Dress codes vary by train. On the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, smart casual is expected during the day and formal or black-tie attire for dinner, many guests dress in 1920s or 1930s style. The British Pullman and Northern Belle request smart dress throughout. The Royal Scotsman leans towards smart casual with the option to dress up for evening meals. As a general rule: when in doubt, dress up rather than down.

What is included in the ticket price?

On sleeper trains such as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Royal Scotsman and Eastern & Oriental Express, the ticket price includes your private cabin, all meals and drinks with meals, and any excursions or destination visits listed in the itinerary. On day trips such as the British Pullman and Northern Belle, the price includes your seat and a multi-course meal. Drinks packages and extras may be available to add on.

Can children travel on luxury trains?

This depends on the train. Day trips aboard the Northern Belle welcome children. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express permits children but has no dedicated children's facilities, the atmosphere is primarily designed for adult guests. The Royal Scotsman does not accept children under 10. We recommend contacting our team before booking to confirm suitability for the specific journey and age group.

Is Wi-Fi available on luxury trains?

Most luxury trains do not offer Wi-Fi, this is deliberate. The experience is designed to be immersive and unhurried, encouraging guests to disconnect. Some trains, including the Royal Scotsman, have mobile signal in parts of the journey. If connectivity is important to you, our team can advise on specific trains and routes.

Are dietary requirements catered for?

Yes. All luxury trains we work with accommodate dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and common allergies. Requirements should be communicated at the time of booking so the kitchen can prepare accordingly. On the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a seasonal fish option can be requested on the day.

Planning your journey

How far in advance should I book a luxury train journey?

As early as possible. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Royal Scotsman and Britannic Explorer sell out months, sometimes over a year, in advance, particularly for peak summer departures and special routes such as Paris to Istanbul. We recommend booking 6–12 months ahead for the best choice of dates and cabins. 2027 departures for the VSOE are already selling.

Are you a train operator?

LuxuryTrainTickets.com is an authorised ticketing agent. We compile luxury train journeys from multiple operators to offer you the very best choice of luxury trains. By booking through LuxuryTrainTickets.com, you benefit from more flexible bookings, additional extras such as our complimentary concierge service. We are official partners with the luxury train operators we choose and therefore we are able to pass on the savings they offer us on to our customers.

What is the most luxurious train in the UK?

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is widely considered the pinnacle of luxury train travel globally, with journeys starting from £3,800 per person. Within the UK, the Britannic Explorer, Belmond's newest British sleeper train, and the Royal Scotsman (which traverses the Scottish Highlands) are among the most prestigious overnight experiences. For day trips, the British Pullman is regarded as one of the finest in the world.

What is the difference between the Orient Express and the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?

The original Orient Express service no longer operates as a public train. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) is the modern successor, operated by Belmond using authentic restored 1920s and 1930s carriages. It runs routes across Europe including Paris to Venice, Paris to Istanbul, and various seasonal special departures. When people refer to "the Orient Express" today, they almost always mean the VSOE.

Do I need a passport for a luxury train journey?

For UK domestic journeys, such as the British Pullman, Northern Belle, Royal Scotsman and Britannic Explorer, no passport is required. For European journeys on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a valid passport is required as the train crosses multiple international borders. From 2025, UK citizens travelling to continental Europe also require an ETIAS travel authorisation.

Groups and special occasions

Can I book a luxury train for a private group or special occasion?

Yes. LuxuryTrainTickets.com can arrange group bookings, private dining cars, exclusive carriage hire and full charter of certain trains for weddings, anniversaries, corporate events and milestone birthdays. Our concierge team handles all logistics. Contact us directly for group enquiries as these are tailored to your requirements and not available to book online.

Which luxury train is best for a honeymoon or anniversary?

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the most popular choice for romantic occasions, the iconic carriages, candlelit dinners, and overnight journey through Europe create an unmatched atmosphere. The Royal Scotsman through the Scottish Highlands is a close second, with its intimate setting and multi-day format. For a shorter UK experience, the British Pullman offers a supremely elegant day trip. Our concierge team can help match the journey to your occasion and budget.

We're here to advise on your luxury train journey

If you require assistance finding your perfect luxury train journey or would like to contact our friendly and knowledgeable team for any other reason, please call us directly on 020 3640 8887 or send us an email below.
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