Bringing European destinations to life, through the wonder of rail

Holidays are a time for new discoveries and relaxation, and our itineraries perfectly balance excursions to must-see landmarks, tours with local guides who help uncover the secrets of our destinations, authentic food and wine tastings, and free time to sightsee in a way that suits you. New for 2020, we've introduced a whole host of unique experiences to get you better acquainted with deep-rooted cultures and traditions of the places you visit. Feast on Andalucían specialities while admiring the mystical Alhambra, savour the sounds of a private music recital in the Baroque surrounds of Salzburg's Mirabell Palace, or visit the oldest gelateria in Rome.

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.

New for 2020! You told us luggage can be tricky sometimes when travelling by train, so we've introduced our new luggage transfer service, included as standard on the majority of our escorted rail holidays in Europe. When you see this symbol on a holiday page, then you know this particular tour comes with inclusive luggage transfers.

It's no secret that we're huge rail fans; quintessential elegance, soothing rhythms and views you'd miss travelling by any other mode of transport. Exploring the world by rail is a tradition that's been around since the 19th century, when young aristocrats would be sent off to Europe to gain some much-needed perspective on life before beginning their adult lives, and is one which we endeavour to keep alive as long as there's coal in the engine and new destinations to explore. So whether you're looking to escape the pressures of everyday life or try something new, we're guaranteed to have the ideal rail journey for you.

Extra leg room, a bar car open for the duration of your journey, the option to stretch your legs anytime you like without having to wait for the seatbelt sign to turn off, avoiding airport security; these are just some of the quantifiable benefits of rail travel, and alongside all this, you can also relax knowing that you're keeping your carbon footprint in check too.