Forget flying by private jet or cruising the world on a superyacht: luxury rail travel is fast becoming the most desirable mode of transport for the richest 1%. Enticed by its eco credentials, not to mention the promise of romance, opulence, and the adventure that travelling by train offers, the mega-moneyed are going all out for going all aboard.

From splurging on trips on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to chartering whole trains, read on to explore the most wildly expensive rail experiences, charters, and private trains – including the jaw-dropping "palace on rails" that's worth $350 million (£275m). 

We've ranked these rail experiences by cost per night per person based on double occupancy where data is available. All dollar amounts in US dollars.