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To get to Machu Picchu, you could endure a 4-day trek up the Inca Trail, or take the bare-bones, crowded Backpacker or Vistadome trains. But the Hiram Bingham, its blue and gold cars modeled on classic Pullmans, offers a comfortable trip up the switchbacks, a sumptuous brunch, expert-led tours of the citadel, tea, and a four-course gourmet dinner. With a cocktail in hand as you start your trip back to Cuzco, you’ll marvel that anyone would want to travel any other way. $588/round-trip, with food, beverages, tour; closed Sundays; best season for value: spring/fall; www.orient-express.com. Great Value Alternative: The Napa Valley Wine Train offers vintage cars, Napa-sourced meals, and local wines. From $119/round-trip; www.winetrain.com. 2008 SMART LUXURY WINNER
