Do you know which five countries attract more than 30 million travellers every year? These destinations lead the world in tourism, drawing visitors from every corner of the globe. Find out what makes them the most visited.

5. Mexico

Mexico received around 97 million international tourists in 2025, as reported by the UNWTO. The country’s appeal lies in its heritage sites, unique festivals, food, and beaches. Popular destinations include Cancún, Mexico City, and Yucatán.

4. Spain

Spain welcomes over 126 million visitors annually. People visit for its beaches, music, food, and old towns. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville draw travellers for their architecture, football culture, and traditional festivals. According to UNWTO, Spain remains in the global top three for international arrivals.

3. China

China attracts over 160 million visitors every year. Tourists visit famous sites such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army in Xi’an, and the modern cityscapes of Shanghai and Beijing. Tourism continues to grow with new cultural experiences and historical themes.

2. United States

The United States receives over 165 million international visitors every year. From New York City’s skyline to Florida’s beaches and the national parks of Arizona and Wyoming, visitors come to see both nature and city life. The travel infrastructure and variety of experiences make it a favourite stop.

1. France

France remains one of the most visited countries on Earth. In 2025, it welcomed around 217 million international tourists according to the UNWTO. Paris, Nice, and Bordeaux are among the famous cities that travellers love for their heritage, art, and food.

Discover the world’s most luxurious trains, where comfort meets elegance and adventure. From the royal charm of India’s Maharajas’ Express to the timeless beauty of Europe’s Orient Express, these journeys redefine travel with breathtaking views, fine dining, and unmatched five-star experiences.

Luxury train travel offers a unique way to explore the world in comfort and style. These trains are not just about transportation — they are moving five-star hotels with elegant interiors, fine dining, and world-class service. From Europe to Asia and Africa, some trains provide unforgettable journeys that combine scenic beauty, culture, and luxury, making them the most expensive trains in the world.

Most Expensive Train in the World

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express currently holds the title of the world’s most expensive train, with its Paris to Istanbul journey costing over $60,000 per cabin.

However, in terms of per-night luxury, Japan’s Train Suite Shiki-shima and India’s Maharajas’ Express are also among the most costly.

Top-7 Most Expensive Trains in the World

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express of Europe, with the price range of $4,000 – $100,000, stands as the most expensive train in the world, followed by Golden Eagle Danube Express and The Palace on Wheels.

Here is the list of top-7 most expensive trains in the world:

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) is the most famous luxury train in the world. With its 1920s-style vintage carriages, it takes passengers on elegant journeys across Europe — from Paris to Venice, London, and even Istanbul.

• Price Range: $4,000 – $100,000+ per person
• Highlights: Glamorous interiors, fine dining, and the famous Bar Car.
• Special Feature: The Grand Suite, with a king-size bed and marble bathroom, is among the most expensive train accommodations globally.

Fun Fact: The Paris–Istanbul route can cost over $60,000 for two people, making it the most expensive train journey in the world.

Golden Eagle Danube Express

The Golden Eagle Danube Express offers a royal experience across Eastern and Central Europe. Travelers explore historic cities like Budapest, Vienna, and Istanbul, while enjoying five-star luxury onboard.

• Price Range: $10,000 – $40,000 per person
• Highlights: Spacious cabins, private bathrooms, and all-inclusive meals.
• Popular Route: The “Balkan Explorer” — a 12-day journey from Venice to Istanbul.

Each trip includes guided city tours, local cultural experiences, and onboard entertainment.

Palace on Wheels

One of India’s most famous luxury trains, the Palace on Wheels reflects the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal heritage. Travelers can visit magnificent forts, palaces, and desert cities in total comfort.

• Price Range: $6,000 – $27,000 per person
• Destinations: Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Agra, and more.
• Features: Deluxe cabins, traditional Indian cuisine, and cultural performances.

Highlight: The train recreates the lifestyle of India’s former kings and queens — a true “palace” on wheels.

Maharajas’ Express

The Maharajas’ Express is often called the most luxurious train in India and one of the most expensive in the world. It offers week-long royal journeys through North and West India.

• Price Range: $3,000 – $25,000+ per person
• Popular Routes: “Heritage of India,” “Treasures of India,” and “Indian Panorama.”
• Top Suite: The Presidential Suite “Navratna” — a two-bedroom cabin with private dining and lounge area.

It has won multiple awards, including “World’s Leading Luxury Train” at the World Travel Awards.

Deccan Odyssey

The Deccan Odyssey gives travelers a chance to explore India’s west coast, royal cities, and beaches in true luxury. It has elegant cabins, a spa, and two gourmet restaurants.

• Price Range: $8,000 – $20,000 per person
• Destinations: Mumbai, Goa, Nashik, Aurangabad, and Rajasthan.
• Facilities: Presidential suites, personal attendants, bar lounge, and wellness center.

Highlight: The train is like a moving five-star hotel, offering fine dining and personalized service throughout the journey.

Rovos Rail – Pride of Africa

Known as the “Pride of Africa,” the Rovos Rail offers one of the most scenic and elegant train journeys in the world. It connects Cape Town to Dar es Salaam and other African destinations.

• Price Range: $3,000 – $20,000+ per person
• Top Journey: 15-day route from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam, covering 5,800 km.
• Luxury Feature: The Royal Suite occupies half a carriage, with a Victorian-style bathroom and private lounge.

Passengers can also enjoy game drives, safaris, and cultural tours during stopovers.

Belmond Royal Scotsman

The Royal Scotsman is the ultimate way to see the Scottish Highlands. It combines elegance, comfort, and breathtaking scenery.

• Price Range: $7,000 – $15,000+ per person
• Route: 4 to 8-day tours through scenic Scotland.
• Special Feature: The Grand Suites, with full-sized beds and luxury bathrooms.

Guests can enjoy traditional Scottish food, private excursions to castles, and even onboard spa treatments.

Why are these Trains So Expensive?

Here’s why these luxury trains cost so much:

• Exclusive Suites: Private rooms with king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms.
• Gourmet Dining: Multi-course meals by top chefs.
• Personal Service: Butler-style attendants for every guest.
• Limited Passengers: Usually only 30–50 people onboard.
• All-Inclusive Packages: Meals, drinks, excursions, and tours included.
• Cultural Experience: Each train reflects its country’s art, food, and traditions.

Controlled-access highway or expressway is a kind that is designed for high-speed vehicular traffic with no interruptions; entry and exits are also regulated. Here are the top 10 countries with the longest controlled-access highways and expressway networks in the world.

China

China has by far the most expensive expressway network, with 190,700 km as of 2024. It is rapidly expanding and comprises of National Expressway Network, which connects all the cities and provincial capitals. Only 3 per cent of China’s vast road network is a controlled-access highway or expressway.

United States

The United States has the second-largest expressway network, nearing around 76,334 km. It forms the backbone of domestic travel and commerce. While the majority of it is state and federally owned, some parts are corporate-owned.

Japan

Japan has a high-quality, efficient network of expressways totalling 30,469 km as of 2021, connecting across mountainous terrain, high population density urban centres, and islands.

Spain

Spain’s autovias and autopistas account for 17,228 km as of 2020. They are essentially part of the longest European road network with significant investment in infrastructure, particularly with support from European funds.

Canada

Canada’s controlled-access highways extend for about 17,041 kilometers, connecting the country’s vast expanse and major population centers. Given its low population density, this network, which includes sections of the Trans-Canada Highway, is vital for long-distance travel and trade.

Brazil

Brazil’s expressway expands to 17,000 km, which is less than 1 per cent of its total road network. In a developing country like Brazil, these expressways serve as veins for the proper connectivity with urban centres and moving freight.

Germany

Germany has an almost 16,365 km long expressway network. It is also an European hub for trade and connectivity. It is one of the densest and most technologically advanced networks in the world.

France

France’s autoroute system, a network of controlled-access highways, comprises around 11,671km. These routes are mostly operated by a private company through a toll system and are responsible for the maintenance and repairs.

Mexico

Mexico has added to its already existing motorway network. Critical for trade and travel, this system comprises nearly 11,094 km.

Italy

Italy’s autostrada network stands as one of Europe’s oldest and iconic controlled access highways, stretching over 6,600 km, last updated in 2007. These are primarily managed by Autostrade per l’Italia; these are toll-based expressways and connect all the major cities like Rome, Milan, Naples, and Florence.

Staying healthy on the go isn’t about rigid rules or perfect meals, says Luke Coutinho. It’s about how you eat, not just what you eat.

If you are a frequent traveller, you know the struggle: long flights, hotel food, street eats, and suddenly your “healthy routine” feels like a distant memory. Wellness coach Luke Coutinho gets it. On Instagram, he admits, “Hey look, I travel too much and I can’t keep up with a healthy diet. I’m eating outside food on the plane, I’m eating food in hotels. How do you manage your diet when you travel? It’s important.”

But here’s the thing. Staying healthy on the go isn’t about rigid rules or perfect meals. It’s about how you eat, not just what you eat. According to Luke:

Slow Down And Chew

Luke’s first golden rule? Chew your food properly. He explains that whether your meal is healthy or not, slowing down and chewing well makes a huge difference in digestion and nutrient absorption. Basically, your body will thank you for it.

Eat Mindfully

Don’t eat until you are stuffed, says Luke. Stop just before fullness and give your body a moment to catch up. You will often find that’s enough to feel satisfied.

Reduce Portions, Focus On Protein And Veggies

When outside food becomes your norm, smaller portions help. Fill your plate with protein and vegetables, they keep you full longer, letting you cut back on carbs without feeling deprived, Luke advises.

Never Eat With Guilt

If all you have is a samosa, enjoy it without guilt. Luke says that guilt activates your sympathetic nervous system, making digestion inefficient. Eat joyfully, and save healthier choices for your next meal.

Listen to Your Emotions

Ask yourself: are you eating because you’re hungry, or because you’re bored, sad, or stressed? Bringing awareness to emotional eating can be a game-changer, especially when travelling, says Luke.

Luke’s Practical Travel Tips

He has also shared some travel-friendly hacks to stay nourished without overthinking:

Support Digestion Naturally:

• Carry digestive aids like fennel seeds, ginger, or a probiotic capsule.
• Stay hydrated. Air travel and hotel food can dehydrate you. Add a pinch of rock salt or lemon for electrolytes.
• Include fibre through salads, fruits, or simple sides like sauteed vegetables to prevent bloating.

Plan Smarter, Not Harder:

• Pack travel-friendly snacks: nuts, seeds, roasted chana, or protein bars (watch for hidden sugars).
• Opt for simpler meals. Grilled, steamed, or baked dishes digest better than fried or creamy options.
• Avoid skipping meals; erratic eating can spike stress hormones, slowing digestion and metabolism.

Mind-Body Connection

Your environment affects how your body absorbs nutrients. Jet lag, stress, or lack of sleep can alter gut microbiota. Luke suggests maintaining consistent sleep, taking deep breaths before meals, and staying relaxed while eating.