01904 521 936
Tour Search



Uncover the wonders of Europe in 2025 and save £100pp
Request a free brochure

Dreaming of a European holiday in 2026?

Plan ahead with our most popular tours

Available Now

Experience the diverse landscapes of Europe

ClassicClassic
Glacier Express
Classic Glacier Express
9 days £2,349 pp £2,249 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
Discover More
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Roses
Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
8 days £1,249 pp £1,149 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
Discover More
ClassicClassic
Zell am See
All Inclusive Austria: Alps, Salzburg & Lake Zell
9 days £1,999 pp £1,899 pp
  • Explore the beauty of the Austrian Alps based in an all-inclusive 4-star hotel
  • Experience a steam-hauled journey through the picturesque Ziller Valley
  • Cruise the brilliant-blue waters of Lake Zell to the town of Zell am See
Discover More

Escorted European Holidays

Europe is a beautifully diverse continent, home to the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands 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. Travel with people who share your interests and enjoy similar activities, as we bring to life unique towns and cities from Scandinavia to Sicily, through engrossing excursions, hand-picked hotels, comfortable travel, and meals bursting with local flavour.

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

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!

View Brochure

European Top-selling Holidays

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

LandmarkLandmark
Carcassonne & the Canal du Midi
Save £100pp
4.2 stars(188 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
7 days from
£1,899 pp £1,799 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Sirmione
Save £100pp
4.2 stars(278 reviews)
2025JunJulAugSepOct
10 days from
£1,849 pp £1,749 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro
Save £100pp
4.1 stars(57 reviews)
2025MayJunAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct
13 days from
£3,349 pp £3,249 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Portofino
Save £100pp
4.0 stars(302 reviews)
2025MayJunAugSepOct
9 days from
£1,499 pp £1,399 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
Save £100pp
4.3 stars(138 reviews)
2025JunAugSepOct
7 days from
£1,549 pp £1,449 pp
View Details
LandmarkLandmark
Jungfrau Express
Save £100pp
4.5 stars(160 reviews)
2025MayJunAugSepOct
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
9 days from
£3,599 pp £3,499 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Save £100pp
4.4 stars(60 reviews)
2025MayJunSepOct
2026AprMayJunSepOct
8 days from
£1,349 pp £1,249 pp
View Details

186 results matching: European Holidays

Filters
Any
Reset
Any
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Glacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All Inclusive
Save £100pp
4.3 stars(517 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
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...

View map

Save £100pp
8 days from
£2,099 pp £1,999 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
SirmioneSirmioneSirmioneSirmioneSirmione
Save £100pp
4.2 stars(278 reviews)
2025JunJulAugSepOct

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...

View map

Save £100pp
10 days from
£1,849 pp £1,749 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
RosesRosesRosesRosesRoses
Save £100pp
4.3 stars(542 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct

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...

View map

Save £100pp
8 days from
£1,249 pp £1,149 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Glacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier Express
Save £100pp
4.6 stars(316 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...

View map

Save £100pp
8 days from
£1,949 pp £1,849 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Glacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier Express
Save £100pp
4.5 stars(315 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
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...

View map

Save £100pp
9 days from
£2,349 pp £2,249 pp
per person
View Details
LandmarkLandmark
Jungfrau ExpressJungfrau ExpressJungfrau ExpressJungfrau ExpressJungfrau Express
Save £100pp
4.5 stars(160 reviews)
2025MayJunAugSepOct
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...

View map

Save £100pp
9 days from
£3,599 pp £3,499 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
BariBariBariBariBari
Save £100pp
4.3 stars(503 reviews)
2025MayJunSepOct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct

Experience traditional Italy on a relaxing all-inclusive, fly-rail holiday to the unspoilt heel of southern Italy. Based in a spa hotel overlooking the beautiful coast of Monopoli, just 50 meters from a gorgeous white sandy beach, we explore the undiscovered region of Puglia, dotted with historic ports, white-washed villages and unique ancient...

View map

Save £100pp
8 days from
£1,449 pp £1,349 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Sirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake Garda
Save £100pp
4.4 stars(332 reviews)
2025JunJulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

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

View map

Save £100pp
10 days from
£2,299 pp £2,199 pp
per person
View Details
River CruiseRiver Cruise
BaselBaselBaselBaselBasel
Flash Sale
4.4 stars(65 reviews)
2025JunJul
2026MayJunJul

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Romantic Rhine River from the North Sea to the Swiss Alps. As we cruise through France, Germany, and the Netherlands bound for Switzerland, we admire stunning forested valleys, charming half-timbered towns, and incredible cities along the enchanting riverbanks. Sail through the spectacular scenery of the...

View map

Flash Sale
8 days from
£2,499 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Zell am SeeZell am SeeZell am SeeZell am SeeZell am See
Save £100pp
4.1 stars(173 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct

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 with a singing tour guide. Travel through...

View map

Save £100pp
9 days from
£1,999 pp £1,899 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming Dordogne
Save £100pp
4.1 stars(286 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
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...

View map

Save £100pp
7 days from
£1,049 pp £949 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
PortofinoPortofinoPortofinoPortofinoPortofino
Save £100pp
4.0 stars(302 reviews)
2025MayJunAugSepOct

Explore the delightful Italian Riviera from a base in Chiavari and view the colourful cliffside Cinque Terre villages on a cruise. Relax on a cruise to glamorous Portofino, a popular village set within a natural harbour, before uncovering San Fruttuoso abbey, located on a beach in a peaceful cove. Delve into the history of Genoa, the former city...

View map

Save £100pp
9 days from
£1,499 pp £1,399 pp
per person
View Details
Our customers love our Europe tours
Springtime Tulips & Keukenhof Gardens
4/May
Lesley May Langer
5 stars
“Great trip from start to finish
Collected by Trustpilot
Highlights of the Glacier Express
4/May
S Barron
5 stars
“It was a brilliant journey from start to finish. The train connections worked like clockwork and the hotels very comfortable. Every view was breathtaking and a feast for the eyes. It was my first Great Rail Journey but it won't be my last !
Collected by Trustpilot
All Inclusive Glacier Express
4/May
Ian SEDDON
5 stars
“Being the very first ‘group’ holiday at our ripe old age, we were pleasantly captivated by the whole experience from start to finish. Every day was full on with a varied programme of rail excursions all beautifully researched and choreographed by Gordon Barr. An absolute maestro!
Collected by Trustpilot
Valleys & Railways of Mid Wales
4/May
Norman D Landing
5 stars
“It was excellent apart from two or three minor points. Presumably to follow in this survey. Oops, there is no more. My main gripe is that there were no bottles of water in our (Superior) room. Not good for a 4-Star hotel.
Collected by Trustpilot
First Class Lake Iseo: Italy's Secret Lake
4/May
J Hex
5 stars
“Lovely restful location with good access to Brescia and Bergamo. Plenty of lake steamers to different parts of the lake. Excellent rail service. Interesting island to visit in the centre of the Lake. Very Italian and not too busy. The Franciacorta vineyard is a must to visit. Fascinating tour and...
Collected by Trustpilot
The Charms of the Channel Islands
4/May
Robert Drake
5 stars
“Wonderful holiday well run by great rail good service from the hotels.
Collected by Trustpilot
Beautiful Basque Country: San Sebastian & Bilbao
3/May
Howarth
5 stars
“An excellent experience in a hitherto, for me, unknown part of Europe. A First Class holiday in every sense of the word from the moment of meeting at St Pancras to our return. An interesting and varied programme at a good pace with an exceptional Tour Manager. The weather was...
Collected by Trustpilot
All Inclusive Puglia: Undiscovered Southern Italy
2/May
J Ballard
5 stars
“Well organised tour, visited many lovely places but with enough free time to feel relaxing. Have already recommended to friends.
Collected by Trustpilot
Classic Glacier Express
2/May
D West.
5 stars
“Beautiful views, smooth journey. Lovely meal
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.

Latest articles from our journey blog