Train Stays Around the World

Unique Railway Hotels, Carriages & Sleeper Experiences

Staying in a converted train or rail-themed lodge is one of the most magical forms of accommodation available for travelers today. These stays combine nostalgia, adventure, storytelling, and comfort—while honoring a rich tradition of railway history. What once transported people across continents is now transformed into boutique hotels, luxury lodges, and unforgettable stays positioned in scenic valleys, forests, and deserts worldwide.

From remote African lodges perched above wildlife reserves to beautifully restored vintage carriages in the English countryside, train stays come in astonishing variations. Each location offers guests a chance to disconnect from the modern rush, sleep inside history, and enjoy cozy interiors that often retain original mechanical elements such as steel frames, wooden panels, wheels, and windows.

Whether romantic or adventurous, rustic or luxurious—train stays connect the past with the present. Below is a global overview of remarkable railway-inspired accommodations worth adding to any bucket list.

Why Stay in a Train Hotel?

1. Unique Experience

Few accommodations blend historic character and creative design like converted train carriages—perfect for curious or nostalgic travelers.

2. Immersive Atmosphere

Original windows, compartments, and details create an atmosphere that is both cozy and adventurous.

3. Incredible Locations

Many train stays sit in valleys, desert landscapes, forests, or near wildlife—often more scenic than cities.

4. Sustainability

Repurposing old trains is a beautiful example of upcycling transportation heritage.

5. Versatile Styles

• Luxurious suites

• Boutique cabins

• Nature lodges

• Family-friendly setups

…there is a train stay for every traveler.

Best Train Stays Around the World

Africa

Africa offers some of the most dramatic and remote railway lodges on earth. Here, trains are often positioned overlooking wildlife reserves, canyons, or restored on historic bridges.

South Africa – Kruger National Park

One of the world’s most iconic train stays is located on a bridge above the Sabie River inside Kruger National Park. The carriages have been transformed into luxurious suites suspended above the water with views of bathing elephants and roaming lions. Dining is often served outdoors, and nights are filled with wildlife sounds.

Karoo & Country Locations

In rural regions, old locomotives have been converted into simple lodgings for travelers road-tripping through remote desert landscapes. Expect stargazing, rustic comforts, and total serenity.

Europe

Europe is deeply linked to railway heritage, making it a natural home for many restored carriages and luxury rail-themed hotels.

United Kingdom

In the UK countryside, old sleeping cars have been transformed into tiny hotels near coastal villages, farmland, or scenic railway tracks. Many retain charming Victorian-era interiors, including brass fixtures and vintage woodwork. Some are located directly next to functioning railways, letting guests watch modern trains glide by.

France

In rural France, beautifully restored wagons offer romantic escapes, often surrounded by vineyards or old rural stations. Interiors blend rustic woodwork and contemporary touches.

Portugal

Portugal has several boutique train conversions, especially in wine regions, where travelers can enjoy refined yet alternative experiences.

The Netherlands

Even the Netherlands has creative train hotels, often repurposing old compartments into tiny, fun rooms—great for weekend adventures.

Asia

Asia blends tradition, luxury, and dramatic landscapes—perfect for rail-themed stays.

India

Sleeping in a stationary train carriage offers a blend of royal heritage and railway nostalgia. Some lodges mimic Maharaja-style luxury with opulent décor and antique finishes.

Japan

Japan has themed train hotels reviving retired carriages for rail enthusiasts. The minimalist interiors reflect Japanese style—clean, compact, and marvelously designed.

Indonesia

Jungle retreats occasionally feature train-inspired rooms or antique rail culture repurposed for eco-friendly lodging.

North America

North America has a rich history of railway expansion—and many train stays pay homage to its legacy.

United States

Across the United States, cabooses and vintage passenger cars have been turned into accommodations near national parks, lakes, forests, and deserts.

Popular themes:

Wild West heritage
Art-deco sleeper cars
Forest retreats
Train-station hotels

These stays are perfect for families and nostalgia seekers.

Canada

Canada’s rugged wilderness enhances the romance of sleeping in a train car. Many of these accommodations appear along old mountain lines or near quiet lakes, offering nature escapes mixed with history.

South America

South America hosts several iconic train stays, blending wild landscapes with imaginative architecture.

Costa Rica

A standout example is a vintage aircraft-style lodge, but nearby forest lodges also include converted train-like cabins, blending jungle scenery with reclaimed industrial design.

Peru

Peru is famed for its railway trips to Machu Picchu, and although most accommodations aren’t on tracks, some incorporate train themes—perfect for adventurous travelers.

What to Expect Inside a Train Stay

Train accommodations vary, but common characteristics include:

Design & Atmosphere

Original window frames
Wooden or metal paneling
Cozy compartments
Narrow hallways
Unique sleeping corners

Comfort

Though compact, train suites can be surprisingly luxurious—some feature king beds, modern bathrooms, air-conditioning, and private decks.

Scenic Settings

Train stays often sit in:

Wildlife areas
Forests
Wine regions
Lakesides
Mountain valleys

The setting is a major part of the experience.

Types of Train Stays

Luxury Railway Lodges
- High-end interiors
- Gourmet dining
- Private decks
Historic Heritage Cars
- Preserved vintage décor
- Traditional compartments
Eco-Train Cabins
- Upcycled designs
- Low-impact builds
Train-Station Hotels
- Set inside restored stations
Family Caboose Stays
- Quirky & fun
- Often near nature

Activities Available

Depending on location:

Wildlife viewing
Stargazing
Hiking
Guided safaris
Farm visits
Cycling
Cultural excursions

Most remote lodges offer nature-driven experiences, while European train stays lend themselves to village explorations and wine tastings.

Who Are Train Stays For?

Couples

Families

Photographers

Railway lovers

Nature travelers

Eco-travelers

Adventure seekers

From romantic getaways to bucket-list trips, train stays offer a refreshing twist on travel.

Tips for Booking

Choose your preferred style

Modern luxury? Rustic heritage? Family-focused?

Consider location

Remote wildlife or countryside comfort?

Check accessibility

Some carriages require stairs and narrow spaces.

Look at included activities

Meals, tours, wildlife safaris, wine tastings—varies per property.

Book early

Unique stays often have limited availability.

Final Thoughts

Train accommodations are far more than themed lodging—they are a bridge between past and present. Rich railway heritage comes alive through beautifully restored carriages transformed into cozy nature-focused or luxury escapes. Whether perched above an African river teeming with wildlife, surrounded by Canadian forests, or tucked inside the European countryside, each train stay offers something deeply personal and enchanting.

These hotels symbolize creativity and nostalgia while promoting sustainability by repurposing old locomotives. They are ideal for travelers who seek meaningful experiences, storytelling, and the perfect blend of history and comfort.

Sleeping in a train car invites you to slow down, reconnect with nature, and embrace an adventure unlike any traditional hotel. It’s charming, poetic, and unforgettable—an experience everyone should try at least once.

Train Stays