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Experience the diverse landscapes of Europe

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Corboda
Highlights of Andalucia
7 days from £1,199 pp
  • Discover the Moorish cities and rich culture of Spain's Andalucía region
  • Explore three of the region's most vibrant cities: Granada, Córdoba, Seville
  • Stay in a 4-Star hotel in the traditional Spanish town of Antequera
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Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
7 days from £1,599 pp £1,499 pp
  • Explore Provence with guided tours of Avignon, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, and Gordes
  • Enjoy a Rhône River cruise, a wine tasting, and visit the Pont du Gard
  • Savour Avignon's culinary delights with First Class rail travel
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Lake Garda
GRJ All Inclusive Lake Garda
10 days from £1,299 pp
  • Sail to the lakeside towns of Sirmione and Malcesine, on a GRJ all inclusive holiday
  • Experience the ‘floating city’ of Venice and Shakespeare's historic Verona
  • Enjoy 4-Star accommodation, based in the charming lakeside town of Garda
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Dreaming of a European holiday in 2026?

Plan ahead with our most popular tours

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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 stars17,198 reviews on

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European Top-selling Holidays

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

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Tuscany
Save £100pp
Simply Tuscany
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct
9 days from
£1,599 pp £1,499 pp
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ClassicClassic
The GoldenPass Express
GoldenPass, Mont Blanc & Jungfrau Express
4.5 stars(61 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct
8 days from
£2,699 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Desenzano
Simply Lake Garda
4.2 stars(317 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
10 days from
£1,699 pp
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ClassicClassic
Roses, Cadaques & The Catalan Coast
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Roses, Cadaqués & the Catalan Coast
4.4 stars(140 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct
9 days from
£2,099 pp £1,999 pp
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Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
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Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
4.3 stars(150 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MayJunAugSepOct
7 days from
£1,599 pp £1,499 pp
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ClassicClassic
Jungfrau Express
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GRJ All Inclusive Five-Star Jungfrau Express
4.5 stars(178 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
9 days from
£3,499 pp £3,399 pp
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Nice
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Nice & the French Riviera
4.2 stars(85 reviews)
2025SepOct
7 days from
£1,349 pp £1,249 pp
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ClassicClassic
Lake Geneva
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Lake Geneva, Chamonix & Mont Blanc
4.4 stars(132 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
7 days from
£1,799 pp £1,699 pp
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Lake Brienz, Switzerland
SwitzerlandView more
Avignon, France
France & BeneluxView more
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Charles Bridge, Prague
Eastern EuropeView more
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192 results matching: European Holidays

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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(376 reviews)
2025SepOct
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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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Trier, GermanyTrier, GermanyTrier, GermanyTrier, GermanyTrier, Germany
Autumnal Colours of the Moselle & Rhine
4.7 stars(35 reviews)
2025Oct
2026Oct

Join us as we uncover the Moselle and Rhine, where every bend of the river reveals breathtaking autumnal hues and every port beckons a new discovery. Ancient castles and Roman ruins sprinkle the red, gold, and orange landscape on this leisurely cruise as we sail by sloped vineyards and rolling hills ready for harvest. Visit charming towns like...

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8 days from
£2,299 pp
per person
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BariBariBariBariBari
GRJ All Inclusive Puglia: Bari, Matera & Alberobello
4.2 stars(601 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct

Experience Italian traditions on a relaxing, GRJ all-inclusive holiday to the unspoilt heel of southern Italy. Arriving by plane, enjoy a scenic base in a hotel overlooking the coast of Monopoli, a short distance from a white sandy beach. From here, we explore Puglia, a place untouched by the hands of time.  Discover the spectacular trulli homes...

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8 days from
£1,299 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
£1,999 pp
per person
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Zell am SeeZell am SeeZell am SeeZell am SeeZell am See
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GRJ All Inclusive Austria: Alps, Salzburg & Lake Zell
4.2 stars(219 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct

Explore the beautiful towns and landscapes of the Austrian Alps based in an all-inclusive hotel in St Johann, where dinner and drinks are included each evening. Marvel at views of Austria's tallest mountain on a journey across the Grossglockner High Alpine Road and discover Mozart's hometown of Salzburg. Travel through the stunning Ziller Valley...

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9 days from
£2,549 pp £2,449 pp
per person
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Jungfrau ExpressJungfrau ExpressJungfrau ExpressJungfrau ExpressJungfrau Express
GRJ All Inclusive Jungfrau Express
4.4 stars(348 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Embark on an all-inclusive tour of the Swiss Alps, based in the chocolate-box village of Wilderswil, where all meals and drinks with dinner are provided each evening. From this picture-perfect location, enjoy a jaw-dropping trip to Europe's highest railway station on the iconic Jungfrau Express to marvel at snow-capped peaks and the stunning...

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8 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Lofoten Islands, NorwayLofoten Islands, NorwayLofoten Islands, NorwayLofoten Islands, NorwayLofoten Islands, Norway
Save £200pp
Northern Lights on a Winter Arctic Cruise
4.4 stars(16 reviews)
2026JanFebMar

Experience Norway in magical winter, exploring Oslo and Bergen with an epic journey on the stunningly scenic Bergen Railway, before embarking on a six-night cruise into the Arctic wilderness. Our northbound sea voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes passes beautiful fjords, and crosses the Arctic Circle, before a husky sled ride into winter wonderland...

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12 days from
£3,099 pp £2,899 pp
per person
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LindauLindauLindauLindauLindau
GRJ All Inclusive Bavaria’s Romantic Road
4.2 stars(193 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct

Discover beautiful Bavaria on a GRJ All Inclusive tour of southern Germany's wonderful Romantic Road, featuring excursions to stunning locations, including the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle - a fairytale fortress of piercing towers clinging to densely forested hills. On an exploration of one of Germany's most picturesque regions, stroll amid...

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8 days from
£1,099 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Cologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas Markets
Save £200pp
German Christmas Markets of the Rhine
4.5 stars(138 reviews)
2025NovDec
2026NovDec

Feel the spirit of Christmas on this cruise along the beautiful Rhine. Discovering Germany at the most magical time of the year we stop at traditional Christmas markets along the way. Strolling through the stalls, admire the craftsmanship of local artisans and savour the flavours that define the season. On board, soak up the natural beauty of the...

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5 days from
£1,399 pp
per person
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Glacier Express All Inclusive in WinterGlacier Express All Inclusive in WinterGlacier Express All Inclusive in WinterGlacier Express All Inclusive in WinterGlacier Express All Inclusive in Winter
Save £200pp
GRJ All Inclusive Glacier Express in Winter
4.7 stars(140 reviews)
2026JanFebMar

Discover the magic of a Swiss winter on this GRJ All Inclusive seasonal holiday based in the scenic Albula Valley. Experience Switzerland's most spectacular train journeys from a family-run hotel, including drinks with dinner each evening. Travel across the Swiss Alps and past enchanting glaciers to Italy on the UNESCO-listed route of the Bernina...

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8 days from
£1,999 pp £1,799 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
The GoldenPass ExpressThe GoldenPass ExpressThe GoldenPass ExpressThe GoldenPass ExpressThe GoldenPass Express
GoldenPass, Mont Blanc & Jungfrau Express
4.5 stars(61 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct

On this sensational holiday, travel from Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva to the mountainous surroundings of the Jungfrau Massif. Explore Château de Chillon, sail on Lake Geneva and cross the Alps to the French mountain town of Chamonix on the Mont Blanc Express. Boarding the GoldenPass Express, admire views of the Bernese Alps enroute to...

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8 days from
£2,699 pp
per person
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DesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzano
Simply Lake Garda
4.2 stars(317 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

A family-run hotel in the lakeside town of Desenzano is our charming base. With a panoramic terrace providing beautiful views of the lake, the hotel is perfectly positioned near to the characterful Old Town and train station. This holiday includes a cruise to enchanting Isola del Garda to explore the renowned Venetian Villa Borghese-Cavazza and...

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10 days from
£1,699 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Europe tours
Simply Lake Garda
16/Aug
K Lyon
5 stars
“All the hotels on the tour were clean and comfortable and the food was excellent! The trips were all very interesting and enjoyable with very knowledgeable local guides. We enjoyed the free time which gave us a chance to explore the local area. Our group was a good size and...
Collected by Trustpilot
GRJ All Inclusive Austria: Alps, Salzburg & Lake Zell
14/Aug
Peter Wall
5 stars
“Great holiday very enjoyable
Collected by Trustpilot
GRJ All Inclusive Puglia: Bari, Matera & Alberobello
15/Jul
TW Davies
5 stars
“Wonderful holiday. The itinerary achieves a balanced mix of activities / visits by rail and coach to different locations within and outside the Puglia region, with sufficient time given to each, with personal downtime to relax. Brenda Stephenson our Tour Manager made the experience better through her insightful knowledge of...
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
GRJ All Inclusive Glacier Express in Winter
3/Apr
Mick Uttley
5 stars
“A wonderful experience; great views, comfortable hotels, seamless journeys. Very well planned with professional management by Paul Parmenter.
Collected by Trustpilot
Autumnal Colours of the Moselle & Rhine
20 Oct 2024
Nigel Pearce
5 stars
“Let’s start at the top. The Captain of the Amadeus Imperial was a brilliant, experienced 4th generation Dutch Sea Captain. With such good leadership, the whole holiday followed. The GRJ team of Andrew and Lucile were both lovely personalities and very effective at their jobs. The cabin, delicious food, great...
Collected by Trustpilot
GRJ All Inclusive Bavaria’s Romantic Road
7/Aug
Frank Hoeksma
4 stars
“Excellent value, hotel, food and tour manager, David Morrisoe. Having 2 free days and lots of free time in the places we visited worked really well. Not having guided tours all the time was a relief, although the one we had in Rothenburg was highly unusual and most enjoyable....
Collected by Trustpilot
First-Class Lake Garda: Sirmione, Venice & Verona
29/Jul
val horsfall
4 stars
“I felt the journey to and from Sirmione seemed to take a long time even with the overnight stays The actual experience in Sirmione with Venice and Verona was interesting
Collected by Trustpilot
GoldenPass, Mont Blanc & Jungfrau Express
26/Jul
Arun
4 stars
“Amazing adventure but it does need to be organised a bit better.
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.

Glacier Express train
Glacier ExpressView more
Jungrau Express train
Jungfrau ExpressView more
Fläm Railway
Fläm RailwayView more
jacobite train
West Highland LineView 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.

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