Hop on Board: Discover the Best of Spain with Luxury Trains at Budget-Friendly Prices

Published on December 29, 2025

For travelers seeking a luxury train experience across Europe without the hefty price tag of the famed Orient Express, Spain offers an affordable alternative that delivers a similar level of elegance and scenic beauty. While the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is known for its legendary status and eye-watering fares that start at £3,800+ for cabins, Spain’s luxury train journeys provide an opportunity to indulge in first-class travel at a more accessible price.

Spain’s high-end train services allow travelers to explore the country’s stunning landscapes, historic towns, and picturesque coastlines, all while enjoying top-tier service, gourmet meals, and luxurious amenities. These luxury trains are an ideal way for tourists to experience Spain’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty in comfort, making them a fantastic option for those looking for a rail adventure without the hefty price tag.

Spain’s Luxury Train Options

One of Spain’s standout luxury train experiences is the El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, which offers a luxurious rail experience across the northern regions of Spain. The Transcantábrico takes passengers on an unforgettable journey through the Cantabrian coast, stopping at various historic towns and cities such as Santander, Oviedo, and Gijón. The train’s cabins are equipped with all the modern amenities one might expect from a luxury experience, including spacious suites, private bathrooms, and full-length windows for panoramic views of the countryside.

The Transcantábrico is often considered the Spanish equivalent of the Orient Express, offering a similarly immersive experience but at a much lower cost. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining, spa treatments, and excursions to explore the towns and cultural landmarks of northern Spain. The train journey itself is an experience in comfort and elegance, making it a great option for travelers seeking luxury without the sky-high prices associated with the Orient Express.

Another notable option is the Al Andalus, a luxury train journey that traverses the southern region of Spain, offering a glimpse into Seville, Granada, and Córdoba, known for their rich Moorish heritage. The Al Andalus features restored carriages from the early 20th century, combining old-world charm with modern amenities. Travelers aboard this luxurious train can enjoy regionally inspired cuisine, onboard entertainment, and a selection of excursions to explore some of Spain’s most iconic landmarks, including the Alhambra Palace in Granada and the Mezquita in Córdoba.

Affordable Luxury Train Travel Across Spain

Compared to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, which operates on luxury routes across Europe, including the famous Paris to Venice trip, El Transcantábrico and Al Andalus offer a more affordable yet equally sophisticated experience. Prices for these luxury train journeys typically start from around £2,000 for a 7-day journey, depending on the type of cabin and inclusions, making them a much more accessible option for those wanting to experience luxury rail travel.

These luxury trains are designed to provide an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking relaxation, comfort, and breathtaking views, all while exploring the diverse regions of Spain. The combination of sophisticated interiors, personalized services, and scenic routes ensures a premium experience at a fraction of the cost of the Orient Express.

Exploring Spain’s Rich Culture and Scenic Landscapes

One of the main attractions of Spain’s luxury train journeys is the opportunity to explore the country’s cultural heritage and natural beauty from the comfort of a moving hotel. The trains pass through regions renowned for their historic landmarks, picturesque villages, and lush landscapes.

In northern Spain, the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo offers views of the rugged Cantabrian Mountains and the tranquil Biscay Bay, with stops at medieval towns like Santillana del Mar, which is known for its preserved historical center. Guests can also enjoy excursions to the Picos de Europa National Park, where they can experience Spain’s wild nature and engage in activities such as hiking and wildlife watching.

Meanwhile, the Al Andalus offers the opportunity to explore Spain’s southern region, known for its stunning Moorish architecture and vibrant cultural heritage. Stops include the world-famous Alhambra Palace in Granada, the Generalife Gardens, and the historical Roman Bridge in Córdoba. These excursions provide guests with deeper insights into Spain’s diverse cultures and centuries of history, making the journey both educational and awe-inspiring.

Sustainable Tourism and Eco-Friendly Travel

Sustainability is a growing concern for travelers worldwide, and luxury trains in Spain are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices to meet this demand. By reducing the need for cars or airplanes, these trains provide a more sustainable option for traveling across Spain. The Transcantábrico and Al Andalus use eco-friendly technologies and focus on minimizing their carbon footprints, making them a great option for environmentally conscious travelers.

These eco-conscious practices are becoming an important selling point for tourists seeking to travel responsibly while still enjoying luxury. The combination of comfortable travel, breathtaking views, and sustainable practices ensures that these luxury train journeys align with the values of modern-day tourists who prioritize eco-tourism.

Conclusion

Spain’s luxury train journeys, such as the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo and Al Andalus, provide an affordable alternative to the Orient Express while still offering a premium travel experience. These scenic routes allow visitors to explore Spain’s beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and historic landmarks, all from the comfort of a luxurious train. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, these train journeys offer the perfect way to experience Spain’s diverse regions in style and comfort.

For travelers seeking an affordable yet luxurious way to explore Spain, these trains provide an unmatched combination of beauty, comfort, and affordability. With their focus on luxury, comfort, and eco-friendly travel, Spain’s luxury train journeys are becoming increasingly popular and are set to be a significant part of the country’s growing tourism industry.