Around the World by Train in 100 Days: Flight-Free Luxury Rail Tour

Imagine circling the globe without stepping foot on an airplane, savoring breathtaking landscapes from panoramic train windows, and immersing yourself in diverse cultures along the way. The Around the World by Train in 100 Days tour by Adventures by Train makes this dream a reality. This exclusive journey, limited to just 12 participants, combines legendary rail lines with opulent sea voyages, offering a seamless, eco-friendly exploration of 14 countries over 100 days.

Why Choose a Flight-Free World Tour?

In an era where sustainable travel is paramount, this tour stands out by eliminating flights entirely. Travelers glide through continents on iconic trains, fostering deeper connections to the landscapes and communities they pass. Organized by UK-based Adventures by Train, founded by rail enthusiast Jim Louth, the itinerary prioritizes luxury, comfort, and unforgettable experiences. Departing March 17, 2026, from London (with some sources noting Southampton), it promises world-class rail travel paired with handpicked cultural activities.

The appeal lies in its intimacy: with only 12 spots, the escorted small-group format ensures personalized attention from a dedicated tour leader. Pricing starts at £112,900 per person solo or £89,950 per person for couples (approximately $146,000 USD solo or $116,225 double occupancy), covering all accommodations, most meals, first-class rail tickets, two luxury cruises, transfers, and entry fees.

Detailed Itinerary: A Continent-Spanning Adventure

The 100-day epic unfolds across Europe, Asia, and North America, weaving through mountains, steppes, and urban marvels. Here’s a breakdown of the key phases:

• Europe: Alpine Splendor and Eastern Charms (Days 1-20)
  Begin in London or Southampton, ferrying to Paris. Traverse the Swiss Alps to Zurich, then Austria’s stunning passes to Vienna. Continue to Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and Turkey, arriving in Istanbul via scenic routes reminiscent of the Orient Express.
• Caucasus and Central Asia: Sleeper Trains and Silk Road Echoes (Days 21-45)
  From Istanbul to Ankara, then Georgia’s Tbilisi and Azerbaijan’s Baku. Cross the Caspian Sea by ferry to Kazakhstan’s Aktau, riding sleeper trains through Uzbekistan (including UNESCO-listed Khiva) and into China. High-speed rails whisk you from the ‘Stans to Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors.
• East Asia: Bullet Trains and Island Hops (Days 46-70)
  Proceed to Shanghai, then overnight ferry to Japan’s Osaka. Experience the Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto and Hiroshima, culminating in Tokyo’s vibrant energy.
• Pacific Crossing and North America: Oceans and Rockies (Days 71-95)
  Board Viking Venus for a 23-day North Pacific Passage cruise from Tokyo to Vancouver, exploring Alaska’s glaciers. Trains like Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer, Amtrak’s California Zephyr through the Rockies, and routes via Seattle, Yellowstone, Montana, South Dakota, Chicago, and New York follow.
• Atlantic Finale: Elegant Return (Days 96-100)
  Conclude with a 7-night transatlantic crossing on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 from New York to Southampton, arriving back in the UK in style.

Iconic Rail Routes That Define the Journey

This tour showcases some of the planet’s most celebrated trains:

These rails offer more than transport—they’re windows to history and nature.

Cultural Immersions: Beyond the Tracks

Adventures by Train elevates the journey with curated experiences:

• Wine tastings in Georgia’s ancient cellars.
• Turkish marbling art workshops in Istanbul.
• Street food tours and temple visits in Kyoto.
• UNESCO walking tours in Uzbekistan’s Khiva, the ‘city of a thousand minarets’.
• Classical concerts in Vienna’s gilded halls.

Luxury stays enhance the adventure: historic gems like Istanbul’s Pera Palace Hotel and New York’s The Langham provide five-star comfort. All this in private cabins, with most meals featuring local cuisines.

Luxury Cruises: Seamless Ocean Legs

Two sea voyages break up the rails perfectly:

• 23-Day North Pacific Passage (Viking Venus): From Tokyo to Vancouver, spotting whales and glaciers en route to Alaska.
• 7-Night Transatlantic (Queen Mary 2): New York to Southampton, with ballroom dancing and gourmet dining.

These aren’t mere transfers—they’re floating resorts with private cabins and immersive ports.

Practical Details and Booking Essentials

Duration: 100 days, solo-traveler friendly.
Group Size: Maximum 12, fully escorted.
Price: £112,900 pp solo; couples discount to £89,950 pp. Includes everything except flights home if needed, visas, and tips.
Departures: Inaugural March 17, 2026; future dates like March 2027.
Bookings are open, but spots fill fast—demand is high for this flagship offering.

Sustainability and Rail Travel Benefits

Opting for rails reduces carbon footprints dramatically compared to flying. Trains emit far less CO2 per passenger, allowing travelers to explore responsibly while enjoying slower, scenic paces that reveal hidden gems. This tour avoids geopolitically tricky areas like Russia and Iran, ensuring smooth passage through stable routes.

Who Is This Tour For?

Ideal for affluent rail aficionados, retirees with time, or couples seeking a once-in-a-lifetime bonding experience. It demands 100 days off and significant investment but delivers unparalleled value in memories and luxury. Jim Louth emphasizes: “These journeys are about connection—to landscapes, cultures, and people”.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Plan Your Epic Rail Journey Today

This isn’t just travel; it’s a transformative odyssey redefining global exploration. Secure your place on this groundbreaking tour and let the rails carry you around the world.