From European sleepers to California’s Amtrak: This rail tour takes you around the world in 100 days

If you are looking for a top-drawer travel experience for 2026 - and you have around €130,000 to spare - this epic rail journey awaits.

The trip is billed as a flight-free round-the-world odyssey using only trains and cruises.

Over 100 days, passengers will visit dozens of UNESCO World Heritage sites, partake in one-of-a-kind cultural experiences and feast in Michelin-starred restaurants.

With only 12 spots available, travellers wanting a place on this rail adventure need to be quick.

Travel the world with trains and sea voyages

The world tour, offered by luxury operator Adventures By Train, departs from London St Pancras railway station.

From there, travellers meander around the globe, riding first class on iconic rail routes, including European sleeper trains, Istanbul’s Orient Express-inspired journey, China’s high-speed rail to Xian, and Amtrak’s legendary California Zephyr.

There are also two segments aboard luxury cruises. Passengers will sail the North Pacific on a 23-day voyage from Tokyo to Vancouver, as well as experiencing a classic transatlantic crossing aboard Cunard’s Queen Mary 2.

“This isn't 'travelling', as most people experience it,” the information pack reads. “This is an adventure that earns its place among the most ambitious of bucket lists.”

Round-the-world rail trip: UNESCO sites and Michelin dining

The trip includes plenty of exclusive experiences. Travellers will try out time-honoured traditions like Turkish marbling workshops, wine tastings in Georgia’s Kakheti region, and tea ceremonies in Japan.

There are opportunities to explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, Azerbaijan’s Gobustan rock carvings, and China’s Terracotta Warriors in Xian.

Meals will be eaten at renowned restaurants like Vienna’s Steirereck, Shanghai’s Taian Table, and New York’s Atomix.

Dreamy days are followed by sinking into the sheets of the world's most legendary hotels.

Travellers will sleep where Agatha Christie wrote Murder on the Orient Express in Istanbul's storied Pera Palace.

They will step back in time at Yellowstone's legendary Old Faithful Inn with rocking chair views of pristine wilderness and enjoy five-star luxury at The Langham New York.

‘Your investment in a lifetime of memories’

The trip is a fully guided, small group experience for a maximum of 12 travellers.

It will set you back an eye-watering £112,900 (€132,000) per person for solo travellers (which includes all single-supplement fees) or £89,950 (€105,200) per person for a twin/double share.

Those interested need to secure their place with a 10 per cent deposit, after which there is nothing more to pay until 6 January 2026.

The journey comes with a hefty price tag but the information booklet suggests it’s “your investment in a lifetime of memories”.