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Experience the diverse landscapes of Europe

ClassicClassic
Glacier Express
Classic Glacier Express
9 days £2,599 pp
  • Experience the Swiss Alps on the iconic Bernina Express and Glacier Express
  • Discover lakeside Spiez Castle and sail across the glistening Lake Thun
  • Spend 8 nights in 4 star hotels, based in the traditional alpine towns of Chur and Brig
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Roses
Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
8 days £1,349 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
Highlights of Tuscany
Tuscany: Florence, San Gimignano & Pisa
10 days £1,899 pp
  • Experience the unique essence of Tuscany’s celebrated medieval towns
  • Discover the jewel of the Renaissance, Florence, and the stunning sights of Siena
  • Spend 7 nights in a 4-star hotel in beautiful Tuscan spa town Montecatini Terme
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Dreaming of a European holiday in 2026?

Plan ahead with our most popular tours

Available Now

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.

Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.

European Top-selling Holidays

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

LandmarkLandmark
Carcassonne & the Canal du Midi
4.2 stars(198 reviews)
2025JunJulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
7 days from
£1,899 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Desenzano
4.2 stars(293 reviews)
2025JunJulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
10 days from
£1,849 pp
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ClassicClassic
The GoldenPass Express
4.6 stars(42 reviews)
2025JunJulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct
8 days from
£2,749 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Portofino
4.0 stars(312 reviews)
2025JunAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct
9 days from
£1,499 pp
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ClassicClassic
Roses, Cadaques & The Catalan Coast
4.4 stars(135 reviews)
2025JunSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct
9 days from
£2,099 pp
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LandmarkLandmark
Jungfrau Express
4.5 stars(169 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
9 days from
£3,599 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Tuscany
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct
9 days from
£1,599 pp
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ClassicClassic
Lisbon
4.2 stars(86 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct
15 days from
£3,999 pp
View Details

View our 2025 brochure and discover Europe's wonders with the experts

Our exclusive 2025 tours - perfected over more than 50 years - reveal the very best of beautiful Europe, from journeying between the spellbinding peaks of Switzerland on iconic trains to basking beside the white-washed villages of Italy and uncovering the elegance of central Europe's imperial cities. To experience the delights of Portugal, Germany, France and everywhere in between, view our new brochures now!

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186 results matching: European Holidays

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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
RosesRosesRosesRosesRoses
4.2 stars(589 reviews)
2025JunJulAugSepOct

From the charming seaside 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. Experience the delightful Núria Valley Rack Railway on a journey through a peaceful valley and ride the Little Red Train from Rivesaltes to Axat in France's...

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8 days from
£1,349 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
DesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzano
4.2 stars(293 reviews)
2025JunJulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

The historic lakeside town of Desenzano, set on the southern shores of Lake Garda, is our charming base. With a peaceful harbour, a characterful old town and an efficient rail service, we are perfectly placed for exploring. This delightful holiday includes a cruise to enchanting Isola del Garda to visit the opulent Villa Borghese-Cavazza and a...

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10 days from
£1,849 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Glacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier Express
No Single Supplement
4.6 stars(334 reviews)
2025JunJulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Enjoy Switzerland's warm hospitality and astounding landscapes from traditional hotels in historic Chur and idyllic Täsch. Soak up dramatic scenes of soaring mountains and glaciers on journeys aboard two iconic trains. Cross the Alps on the amazing Bernina Express, admiring glacier views enroute, and bask in views of alpine valleys and...

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No Single Supplement
8 days from
£2,099 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Glacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier Express
4.5 stars(338 reviews)
2025JunJulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Experience magnificent mountain landscapes and sparkling alpine lakes on this fantastic holiday to Switzerland. Discover the Swiss Alps on the world-renowned Bernina Express and Glacier Express from our bases in Chur and Brig, traditional alpine towns surrounded by mountains. Enjoy a private aperitif on the terrace of the lakeside 10th-century...

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9 days from
£2,599 pp
per person
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LandmarkLandmark
Jungfrau ExpressJungfrau ExpressJungfrau ExpressJungfrau ExpressJungfrau Express
4.5 stars(169 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct

Experience the best of the Swiss Alps in ultimate luxury, where majestic mountains, picturesque landscapes and unspoiled nature align. On this magnificent all-inclusive holiday, you'll wake up in a delightful five-star hotel in the enchanting village of Grindelwald. Nestled in a green valley beneath the immense Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains...

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9 days from
£3,599 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Sirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake Garda
4.4 stars(349 reviews)
2025JulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Based in the fortress town of Sirmione, set on a picturesque peninsula overlooking Lake Garda, and staying in an elegant spa hotel, this captivating holiday includes unforgettable experiences. Join us as we glide through Venice's turquoise canals on a gondola ride - passing Venetian palazzos, intriguing architecture and Byzantine churches -...

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10 days from
£2,299 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming Dordogne
4.1 stars(302 reviews)
2025JulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Based in charming Les Eyzies, explore this beautiful region renowned for picturesque villages, ancient history and excellent cuisine. Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Dordogne from the village of La Roque-Gageac and discover the spectacular cliff-side pilgrimage site of Rocamadour. Delight in the sights and smells of fresh produce on market day...

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7 days from
£999 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
BaselBaselBaselBaselBasel
Save up to £500pp
4.5 stars(81 reviews)
2025Jul
2026MayJunJul

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Netherlands to Switzerland on a luxury river cruise. Sail through four countries, admiring stunning forested valleys, charming half-timbered towns and historic cities lining the picturesque banks of this incredible river. Marvel at the spectacular scenery of the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site...

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Save up to £500pp
8 days from
£2,099 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Zell am SeeZell am SeeZell am SeeZell am SeeZell am See
4.1 stars(181 reviews)
2025JunJulAugSepOct

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
£2,199 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Ardeche GorgeArdeche GorgeArdeche GorgeArdeche GorgeArdeche Gorge
No Single Supplement
4.5 stars(107 reviews)
2025JulAug
2026AprJunJulAugSep

Discover the timeless elegance of France's beautiful Rhône. Join our exclusive cruise aboard the MS Amadeus Provence, where you'll uncover a rich tapestry of experiences, with a unique focus on the region's culinary prowess. Indulge in the finest Burgundy wines in Beaune, savor the gastronomic delights of Lyon, and explore the City of Popes,...

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No Single Supplement
8 days from
£2,199 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Glacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All Inclusive
4.3 stars(540 reviews)
2025JunJulAugSepOct
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 the UNESCO-listed Bernina Express, before viewing the 'Swiss Grand Canyon' and incredible alpine scenery from...

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8 days from
£1,899 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
BariBariBariBariBari
4.2 stars(561 reviews)
2025JunSepOct
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, just 50 metres from a white sandy beach. From here, we explore Puglia, a place untouched by the hands of time. Discover the spectacular trulli homes of...

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8 days from
£1,299 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Europe tours
Five-Star All Inclusive Jungfrau Express
2/Jun
Miss Tarnowski
5 stars
“Fantastic organisation, superb holiday, first class hotel andd tour guide.
Collected by Trustpilot
Highlights of the Glacier Express
2/Jun
julie
5 stars
“Our first group tour and it was brilliant. Our guide Neil worked tirelessly to ensure every person in our group had a wonderful holiday.
Collected by Trustpilot
Tuscany: Florence, San Gimignano & Pisa
2/Jun
Julia
5 stars
“Wonderful cities to visit. Excellent guides. Couple of days to do your own thing. Good hotel with excellent food and a choice of menu.
Collected by Trustpilot
GoldenPass, Mont Blanc & Jungfrau Express
2/Jun
helen
5 stars
“Scenery was amazing and a very relaxing and interesting trip.
Collected by Trustpilot
Classic Glacier Express
2/Jun
Judith Pentith
5 stars
“Very well organised, fantastic scenery, friendly and efficient tour manager, good weather - as a surprise 50th birthday treat for my husband, it couldn't have been better.
Collected by Trustpilot
Beautiful Basque Country: San Sebastian & Bilbao
2/Jun
K Wales
5 stars
“A brilliant trip, great location and accommodation [a Spanish medieval castle!] and good trips, especially to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Majestic Rhine: Basel to Amsterdam
2/Jun
Gerrard
5 stars
“What a fantastic trip. Rail journeys were great and on time, it's always great to travel across France at 200mph + on the TGV. The ship was a floating 5 star hotel and the staff were first class. I have a special dietary requirement at the moment and the Maître...
Collected by Trustpilot
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
1/Jun
Peter Spasov
5 stars
“wonderful trip
Collected by Trustpilot
All Inclusive Bavaria’s Romantic Road
1/Jun
Janet Howard
5 stars
“Southern Germany is lovely and your itinerary allowed us to see some of this. Your tour leader worked so hard to ensure we were aware of the most interesting, and historic areas, I really enjoyed the tour
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.

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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