
Customer Highlight: The Northern Lights & Lapland
Aug 01, 2026 · By Kira Whitaker
Explore the stunning features of Scandinavia through the eyes of our customers while reading about Great Rail Journeys’ tour The Northern Lights & Lapland.
Read moreExplore our top escorted vacation packages in Europe





Traveling to Europe offers an exciting blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you dream of exploring iconic cities like Vienna, Budapest and Stockholm, or want to journey through the spectacular landscapes of the Swiss Alps, we're the experts in European travel.
From the romantic canals of Venice to the hidden gems of the British countryside, Europe is filled with diverse experiences. Walk through centuries-old castles, savor world-class cuisine, or unwind and explore on a River Cruise. Our Europe vacations include expert itineraries, carefully selected accommodations and memorable experiences. Start planning your European getaway today and explore the best this incredible continent has to offer.





Majestic lochs and glens await on this Scottish escape as we explore Edinburgh and cross the Highlands. Traveling on the scenic West Highland and Kyle rail lines, we discover historic castles, sail along glistening lochs, and stay in vibrant cities. Admire the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct on the world-famous Jacobite Steam train journey through the...





Fall in love with Switzerland's endless splendors on this escorted tour from Zürich to Lake Lucerne. Marvel at the Swiss Alps from the charming mountain town of Grindelwald and an outstanding viewpoint at the "Top of Europe" after riding the Jungfrau Express. Journey on some of Switzerland's most iconic trains, including the Glacier Express...





Enjoy one of the world's finest rail journeys aboard the legendary Glacier Express to Zermatt and admire Matterhorn views from the charming Gornergrat Railroad. Descending the Alps, set sail on a sensational Rhine cruise, indulging in luxurious amenities and superb service. Enroute, savor incredible vistas of the stunning Rhine Gorge. Wander...





Experience the best of Switzerland on this unforgettable round-trip from Zürich, unveiling a new perspective on this small but stunning European country. Explore iconic cities such as Lucerne and Zürich, cruise across shimmering lakes and enjoy four spectacular journeys on Switzerland's famed trains, including the Glacier Express and Bernina...





Embark on spellbinding Scandinavian rail journeys from the ancient Viking capital of Trondheim to Swedish Lapland, visiting the best places to see the Aurora Borealis, with many opportunities to experience these swirling lights. Travelling by rail through amazing landscapes, cross the Arctic Circle to Bodø to seek the ethereal Northern Lights on...





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





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





Experience the stunning Swiss Alps in ultimate luxury on an all-inclusive vacation based in a beautiful Belle Époque hotel in Interlaken, the gateway to the Swiss Alps. From this refined base, explore the highlights of the beloved Bernese Oberland, including a trip to the "Top of Europe" on the Jungfrau Express. Here, enjoy panoramic views across...





Embrace the storied past of grand empires on a captivating rail-and-cruise vacation. Starting in the German capital of Berlin, uncover the magic of Prague from its sprawling capital and the enchanting Charles Bridge. Absorb panoramic views of Budapest's grand architecture on an illuminated evening cruise before setting sail for the fascinating...





Discover the very best of the Scottish Highlands on a five-day tour while soaking up breathtaking scenery aboard the legendary Jacobite steam train and Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs and emerald forests that make up the Scottish landscape. Delve into Scotland's fascinating...





Feel the holiday spirit 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, including Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz and Rüdesheim. Strolling through the stalls, admire the craftsmanship of local artisans and savor the flavors that define the season. ...





Experience the breathtaking wonders of two countries on one trip during this spectacular exploration of Switzerland and northern Italy. Discover sparkling Lake Lucerne from a lakefront hotel, including a trip to the summit of Mount Rigi on Europe's first mountain railway. Traveling through alpine scenery on the iconic Gotthard Panorama Express,...
From its most prominent cities and brilliant architecture to its quaint medieval villages and historical sights, on European escorted tours by train. These vacations connect must-see destinations and exceptional sightseeing with travel aboard local, regional and high-speed trains, as well as by deluxe motorcoach. Traveling between countries on land offers the chance to fully immerse yourself in the unique culture and history that comes alongside each destination.
Embark on escorted tours in Western Europe to experience places like Paris and the wine regions of France; the fairytale-perfect landscapes of Bavaria in Germany or the vibrant cities of the Iberian Peninsula. Guided tours of Italy often consider the gastronomic and cultural delights of the country. On vacation packages that highlight the United Kingdom, places like London, Bath, Yorkshire and Wales beckon. Venture north in the UK to explore the picturesque Scottish Highlands with train tours on iconic rail lines, including the luxurious Royal Scotsman, or cross the Irish Sea to discover Ireland, including its famous castles and emerald expanses.
Join holidays that venture into Central Europe, and revel in the marvelous scenery that accompanies the Swiss and Austrian Alps. Continue to the far north to see the Northern Lights and dramatic fjords of the Land of the Midnight Sun. The Imperial cities of Vienna, Budapest and Prague are filled with colorful histories and stunning architecture. Travel to this region also presents the opportunity to join a famous rail line, such as the Golden Eagle Danube Express, or to combine your train vacation with a cruise on the Danube. Eastern Europe tours may also utilize Golden Eagle trains to explore Russia and Mongolia or to follow the legendary Silk Road. Ideal for seniors and for families alike, these group tours through Europe offer adventure at every turn.