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Experience the diverse landscapes of Europe

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Sirmione on Lake Garda
First-Class Lake Garda: Sirmione, Venice & Verona
10 days from £2,299 pp
  • Journey to and from Italy in comfort with First-Class rail travel throughout
  • Enjoy 7 nights' 4-Star accommodation at a lakeside spa hotel in Sirmione
  • Discover Venice's canals, Shakespeare's Verona, and picturesque Malcesine
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Roses
Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
8 days from £999 pp
  • Stay in the seaside town of Roses on the shimmering Catalan coast
  • Journey on France's 100-year-old Little Red Train through the Pyrenean foothills
  • Travel through beautiful gorges on the scenic Núria Valley Rack Railway
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ClassicClassic
Glacier Express & St Moritz
First-Class Glacier Express, Zermatt & Matterhorn
9 days from £3,299 pp
  • Experience the iconic Glacier Express and Bernina Express in First Class
  • See unparalleled vistas of the Matterhorn from the Gornergrat Mountain Railway
  • Stay in 4-Star Swiss hotels, enjoying spectacular lake and mountain views
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Escorted European Holidays

Europe is a beautifully diverse continent, home to the magical landscapes of Switzerland as well as the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. And with train lines connecting much of what's in between, an escorted holiday with Great Rail Journeys offers a relaxing and scenic way of exploring its different countries. Look forward to discovering new destinations with us in 2026, from the ancient wonders and timeless beauty of Greece's islands, to the colourful coastlines of Malta and cultural treasures of Poland.

Travel with like-minded people as we bring to life unique towns and cities from the fjords of Scandinavia to the vibrant streets of Sicily. Our holidays include enriching excursions, hand-picked hotels, comfortable travel and meals that celebrate authentic local flavours. Wherever you go, experience the continent the way it was meant to be seen - by rail.

Excellent5 stars18,200 reviews on

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European Top-selling Holidays

Here are some of our customer favourites for experiencing Europe by Rail

DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Bari
GRJ All Inclusive Puglia: Bari, Matera & Alberobello
4.2 stars(694 reviews)
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct
8 days from
£1,299 pp
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ClassicClassic
Rocamadour
Flavours of the Dordogne
2026AprJunAugSepOct
7 days from
£1,999 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Highlights of the Basque Country
4.4 stars(113 reviews)
2026AprMayJunSepOct
8 days from
£1,299 pp
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ClassicClassic
Andalucian Explorer
Historic Cities of Spain
4.4 stars(73 reviews)
2026AprMayJunSep
10-11 days from
£2,999 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Acropolis, Athens
Highlights of Ancient Greece
2026AprMayJunSepOct
8 days from
£1,499 pp
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ClassicClassic
Grand Imperial Cities
Grand Imperial Cities
4.6 stars(232 reviews)
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
12 days from
£2,499 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake Garda
GRJ All Inclusive Lake Garda
4.0 stars(275 reviews)
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct
10 days from
£1,499 pp
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ClassicClassic
The Italian Riviera
First-Class Italian Riviera & Portofino
4.1 stars(249 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
10 days from
£2,299 pp
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Discover by Destination
Lake Brienz, Switzerland
SwitzerlandView more
Avignon, France
France & BeneluxView more
ItalyView more
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Charles Bridge, Prague
Eastern EuropeView more
Scandinavia & The BalticsView more
GreeceView more

209 results matching: European Holidays

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BariBariBariBariBari
GRJ All Inclusive Puglia: Bari, Matera & Alberobello
4.2 stars(694 reviews)
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct

Arriving by plane, enjoy our scenic base in a hotel overlooking the coast of Monopoli. From here, experience the incredible sights and traditions of Puglia, a place untouched by the hands of time. Rich with UNESCO World Heritage sites, discover the spectacular trulli homes of Alberobello and the sassi cave dwellings in the cliffside town...

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8 days from
£1,299 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Glacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier Express
No Single Supplement
Classic Glacier Express
4.6 stars(421 reviews)
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Experience epic mountain landscapes and shimmering alpine lakes on this fantastic holiday to Switzerland. Discover the Swiss Alps on the world-acclaimed Bernina Express and Glacier Express from our popular bases in Chur and Brig, traditional towns surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Enjoy a private aperitif on the terrace of the 10th-century ...

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No Single Supplement
9 days from
£2,499 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Sirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake Garda
First-Class Lake Garda: Sirmione, Venice & Verona
4.4 stars(401 reviews)
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Staying in a spa hotel in the fortress town of Sirmione, set on a picturesque peninsula overlooking Lake Garda, this captivating holiday includes many unforgettable experiences. Join us to uncover the elegance and treasures of northern Italy. Glide along Venice's turquoise canals on a gondola ride - passing Venetian palazzos, intriguing...

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10 days from
£2,299 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Glacier Express & St MoritzGlacier Express & St MoritzGlacier Express & St MoritzGlacier Express & St MoritzGlacier Express & St Moritz
First-Class Glacier Express, Zermatt & Matterhorn
4.1 stars(190 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAugSep

Staggering mountain peaks and serene alpine lakes provide the extraordinary setting for this holiday as we travel in First Class all the way, including on the iconic Bernina Express and Glacier Express. Staying in the Engadine Valley and the popular mountain resort of Zermatt provides idyllic bases from which to explore the Swiss Alps by rail...

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9 days from
£3,299 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Fjords of Norway rail tourFjords of Norway rail tourFjords of Norway rail tourFjords of Norway rail tourFjords of Norway rail tour
Highlights of Norway’s Fjords & Cities
4.4 stars(179 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Experience the beauty of Norway from its natural wonders to charming cities on this tour across stunning landscapes. Journey through an impressive wilderness of plateaus and waterfalls on two of the world's most famous train journeys: the spectacular Bergen Railway and the cherished Flåm Railway. Marvel at towering cliff faces on a...

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8 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
The Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & Lapland
No Single Supplement
The Northern Lights & Lapland
4.3 stars(275 reviews)
2026JanFebMar

Beautifully scenic Scandinavian rail journeys take us from the ancient Viking capital of Trondheim to wintry Kiruna in Swedish Lapland, enjoying many opportunities to be dazzled by the ethereal Northern Lights. Travelling through amazing landscapes by rail, cross to the Arctic Circle to Bodø. From here, seek the ethereal Northern Lights on...

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No Single Supplement
10 days from
£2,499 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Glacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier Express
No Single Supplement
Classic Glacier Express in Winter
4.6 stars(153 reviews)
2026JanFebMar

Snow-bound views and enchanting seasonal scenery have made the Glacier Express famous at this time of year as the glistening peaks and sugar-frosted forests of the Swiss Alps provides picture-postcard backdrops. On this memorable holiday, pass icy lakes and the ethereal Palü Glacier on the UNESCO-listed route of the Bernina Express. Later, ...

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No Single Supplement
9 days from
£2,799 pp
per person
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RosesRosesRosesRosesRoses
Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
4.3 stars(707 reviews)
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

From the coastal town of Roses, discover the glistening Catalan coast and ride into the Pyrenees, taking in the stunning scenery of France and Spain on this relaxing holiday. Journey through peaceful landscapes on the Núria Valley Rack Railway and ride the Little Red Train from Rivesaltes to Axat in France's Pyrenean foothills. Explore...

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8 days from
£999 pp
per person
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Glacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All Inclusive
GRJ All Inclusive Glacier Express
4.3 stars(644 reviews)
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Experience Switzerland's most spectacular train journeys from a family-run hotel in the heart of the forested Albula Valley, including drinks with dinner each evening. Travel across the Swiss Alps and past enchanting glaciers to Italy on an UNESCO-listed line aboard the Bernina Express, before viewing the 'Swiss Grand Canyon' and incredible...

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8 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Tulips CruiseTulips CruiseTulips CruiseTulips CruiseTulips Cruise
Springtime Tulips & Keukenhof Gardens
4.5 stars(301 reviews)
2026Apr
2027Apr

Embrace the stunning scents and colours on this flower-filled cruise through Belgium and the Netherlands. Walk among incredible floral displays at Keukenhof Gardens, visit poignant war sites and explore the quaint streets of Amsterdam, Bruges and Ghent. Cruising aboard a luxurious ship, step ashore at ports along the way to visit Ypres...

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8 days from
£2,199 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Glacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier Express
Highlights of the Glacier Express
4.5 stars(379 reviews)
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Enjoy Switzerland's warm hospitality and astounding landscapes from traditional hotels in historic Chur and idyllic Täsch, soaking up dramatic scenes of soaring mountains and glaciers aboard two iconic trains. Cross the Alps on the Bernina Express, admiring glacier views enroute to Poschiavo. The show continues as you bask in the alpine ...

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8 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
The Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian Riviera
First-Class Italian Riviera & Portofino
4.1 stars(249 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Discover the towns and villages of the Italian Riviera which sparkle beside the Mediterranean Sea, as we explore the Cinque Terre and the harbour town of Portofino. Explore the pastel-hued fishing village of Camogli, a hidden gem, and relax in Sestri Levante - a town between two bays. Sail to San Fruttuoso abbey, set in a secluded cove and...

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10 days from
£2,299 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Europe tours
Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
2/Nov
Professor Peter Toyne
5 stars
“From beginning to end everything was excellent - even when there was a problem when our TGV to Paris was held up because of a person having jumped under the train in front of us! Our Tour Manager was outstanding. The hotel accommodation was among the best we've ever had, and...
Collected by Trustpilot
Highlights of the Glacier Express
26/Oct
JOHN CASHEN
5 stars
“A great holiday made seamless and more enjoyable by the Tour Manager always for available for tips and advice ensured the smooth passage between trains and hotels.The scenery was amazing as the trains passed through thd mountains and glaciers.
Collected by Trustpilot
First-Class Glacier Express, Zermatt & Matterhorn
26/Oct
glen fisher
5 stars
“Absolutely fantastic experience
Collected by Trustpilot
Highlights of Norway’s Fjords & Cities
23/Oct
Hilary Grant
5 stars
“Our tour manager Rachel, made this holiday. She was excellent, ensuring everyone got the most out of their holiday. We all started feeling let down that we had to travel by coach, but Rachel made sure we all were comfortable. The hotels were excellent. Norway is beautiful & the people...
Collected by Trustpilot
First-Class Italian Riviera & Portofino
21/Oct
Terence Jehan
5 stars
“On the whole, this was a good holiday. However, our bedroom & bathroom needed updating. The room was small, not enough hooks or rails or surfaces on which to put our stuff, only one chair. No English stations on TV. Floor not cleaned. Pool freezing - not tempted to use...
Collected by Trustpilot
Springtime Tulips & Keukenhof Gardens
27/May
SPUD
5 stars
“WONDERFUL CRUISE WITH WITH EXCELLENT ATTENTION TO DETAIL, COULDN'T FAULT IT!!
Collected by Trustpilot
Classic Glacier Express in Winter
9/Apr
A Bignell
5 stars
“All good apart from bed bug in my room, in Brig. Tour leader Debbie was brilliant! Arlene
Collected by Trustpilot
First-Class Lake Garda: Sirmione, Venice & Verona
4/Nov
Jeremy Spindlow
4 stars
“Good value holiday, bad start first tarin Eurostar cancellec in curred £300.00 cost not recovered from GRJ. Dis well to book flights to Geneva for 32 people saving GRJ £1000,s. First night in Chambery very good nice hotel and meal, met travellers, good fin. Off to Milan next day . Excellent hotel In...
Collected by Trustpilot
GRJ All Inclusive Puglia: Bari, Matera & Alberobello
4/Nov
Trudy Cook
4 stars
“Excursions certainly showed us Puglia. Tour Manager excellent. However hotel was disappointing.
Collected by Trustpilot

The Wonder of Rail

The adventure often starts as we depart London St Pancras, beginning our journey towards mainland Europe. Travelling by rail has always had romantic connotations, and as we pass rural villages that seemingly haven't changed in centuries and coast through cosmopolitan cities, it's hard to deny that trains offer a different perspective.

With freedom to move around the carriages as you please, make new friends or just wallow in the luxury of time to sit back and read a book, feel yourself unwind a little more with each passing mile before arriving in the heart of your destination, relaxed and ready to explore.

Great Rail Journeys by name, Great Rail Journeys by nature. On nearly every holiday we run, relaxing, impressive or once-in-a-lifetime rail journeys are par for the course. Whether it's the 180-mile trip the Glacier Express makes through the mountains of Switzerland, an experience aboard the steepest railway line in the world - the Flåm Railway in Norway, or a beautifully-restored journey on the Jacobite Steam Train through the Scottish Highlands, we know all of the best rail experiences to be had across Europe.

Jungrau Express train
Jungfrau ExpressView more
Glacier Express train
Glacier ExpressView more
Fläm Railway
Fläm RailwayView more
jacobite train
Jacobite Steam TrainView more

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of travel options do you offer for European holidays?

We provide a variety of travel options tailored to your preferences, including escorted rail tours, flight-inclusive packages, and combinations of both. Whether you prefer the scenic journey by train or the convenience of air travel, we have options to suit your needs.

Do I need travel insurance for Europe?

Yes. While the GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) provides some medical coverage in the EU, it does not cover private healthcare, repatriation, or lost belongings. We strongly recommend travel insurance.

Do I need an adapter for my electronics?

Yes, most European countries use Type C, E, or F plugs (two-round-pin sockets). The UK uses Type G, so you'll need an adapter.

What are some must-visit destinations in Europe?

Europe offers something for everyone. Some popular choices are:

  • Cultural cities: Rome, Vienna, Prague
  • Golden beaches: Amalfi Coast, The Basque Country, The French Riviera
  • Stunning landscapes: Swiss Alps, Italian Lakes, Austrian Alps
  • Hidden gems: Slovenia, the Baltics

How many people go on one of your holidays?

Great Rail Journeys is a market leader when it comes to small group tours. We're proud of being pioneers in our approach to group sizes and have become the leading operator for escorted holidays. Our group sizes vary between tours, but are our ranges are usually a good indicator of what to expect.

For our Discoveries range, you'll be in groups with an average of 30-35 travellers and a maximum of 40. If opting for our Classic collection, you'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. Our Landmark holidays are where you'll find our smallest group sizes, starting from as low as 16 travellers and an average of 22, to a maximum of 30.

*Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

What are GRJ walking holidays like?

Our exciting itineraries have been designed to offer the perfect blend of walking and exploring in our signature escorted format.

Each walking day will have two options, and we curated routes with varied levels of activity to give you the opportunities to explore the destinations your way. While walking provides the chance to embrace the joy of slow travel and uncover hidden gems, excursion days take us to some of the must-see sights in the region.

With First Class rail travel and 4-Star hotels, we aim to strike the ideal balance between relaxation and exploration.

To find out more about our walking holidays, click here.

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