Looking for the ultimate Christmas trip this year? Forget the standard lighting displays because Southeast Asia’s iconic luxury train is delivering a whole new festive experience. The Eastern & Oriental Express is trading traditional winter chills for lush tropical landscapes with two festive journeys through Malaysia from Singapore this December. Guests are treated to the glamorous green carriages, 24-hour steward service, and the first Dior Spa on rails in the region on this sleeper train, alongside plenty of tropical holiday magic. Learn more about this train.
Instead of artificial snow and crowded winter markets, guests can enjoy the popular vintage train complete with a luxury makeover on December 23 and December 31. It features festive cheer as you ride along the track with special Christmas drinks, live carols, fine dining, and fun parties such as New Year’s Eve. Here’s more of what to expect.
What to expect onboard
The vintage carriages undergo a festive transformation without losing their signature Malayan elegance. Expect holiday decorations, free-flowing mulled wine, classic Christmas crackers and warm carol shows alongside live piano sets and singers in the Piano Bar Car.
Meanwhile, renowned culinary curator Chef André Chiang offers special gala menus that blend world-class technique with regional Asian flavours.
The Christmas train journey is a round-trip that departs from Singapore’s Woodlands Station. Travellers are then whisked through Malaysia’s emerald jungles, rice paddies, ancient towns, and coastal destinations.
The two festive journeys
1. Festive Celebrations in Malaysia
- Departure: December 23, 2026
- Highlights: A 3-night journey where passengers get to attend a traditional Christmas Mass on Christmas Day in the historic, UNESCO-listed George Town in Penang, Plus, there’ll be a gourmet gala dinner by Chef Chiang and a sweet gingerbread farewell gift before returning to Singapore.
2. New Year Celebration in Malaysia
- Departure: December 31, 2026
- Highlights: Ring in 2027 with a stylish gala dinner by Chef Chiang featuring live entertainment, a champagne countdown, and train pauses at Kuala Lumpur station for an exclusive traditional platform performance. Plus, there’ll be late night celebrations at the Observation Car and music stretching well into the early hours of New Year’s Day.
How to book
Travellers can book the round-trip route from Singapore through Malaysia now. Each Christmas trip includes a three night stay in private air-conditioned sleeper cabins, all meals and beverages, curated off-board excursions, and live entertainment. Prices begin at $5,800. Book here.
