Experiencing Switzerland’s iconic panoramic trains
Aug 27, 2026 · By Rob Payne
Soak in jaw-dropping alpine views at the Top of Europe and cross from Interlaken to Montreux on Switzerland’s GoldenPass Express with Great Rail Journeys.
Read more



Thinking of Germany evokes visions of steins of beer and delicious sausages; however, there is a cornucopia of offerings beneath the surface of this dynamic country. From Frankfurt to Berlin, and from the charming cities of Bavaria to the Rhine Valley, Germany is a leading destination for history, art and culture. Join a thoughtfully planned trip to Germany from Great Rail Journeys to explore each facet while traveling between noteworthy destinations throughout the country.
Visit the capital city of Berlin to see the remnants of the Berlin Wall, to peruse art galleries and to discover historic sites, such as the restored Reichstag, Charlottenburg Palace and Brandenburg Gate. Travel along Germany's Romantic Road to the university town of Heidelberg or to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Southern Germany tours that focus on Bavaria offer travel between its picturesque locales by train or with a motorcoach tour. Explore the heart of Bavaria in Munich, known for Nymphenburg Palace and the Marienplatz, which is home to the world-famous Glockenspiel, a well-timed clock that performs several times throughout the day. There are also rail tours that focus on the castles of Bavaria, including Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration for Disney's Cinderella Castle. Vacations may also combine train tours with scenic cruising along the Rhine River, past vineyards and the legendary Lorelei Rock, or on the mighty Danube. Select escorted tours even connect multiple countries, such as Germany and Austria, or Germany with Italy, Switzerland or the Czech Republic, while traveling on some of Europe's most iconic trains.
Explore the best of Deutschland at any time of year, including during the winter months when Germany's traditional Christmas markets make their annual appearance in cities across the country. No matter which Germany tour you choose, prepare to be awed.
Admire it all from mountains to cities by rail & cruise.




Explore the best of Germany on our signature rail & cruise vacations. Combine escorted tours of Berlin and Munich with five-star river cruises on Germany's magnificent Rivers.





Bask in boundless displays of jaw-dropping views on a spectacular First Class vacation through the Alps. Soak up the atmosphere of historic Munich on a beer tour, marvel at the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle and indulge in a Mozart concert dinner in Salzburg after a tour. Enjoy a cruise in the Austrian Lake District and explore charming...





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 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...





Embrace the storied past of grand empires throughout central Europe. Starting amid Vienna's glorious Habsburg palaces and ornate architecture, enjoy a strudel-making show at Schönbrunn Palace with tasting, before savoring the delights of Hungary's dignified capital, Budapest. Absorb panoramic views of the illuminated Parliament and Buda Castle...





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





Embark on a scenic river cruise from Switzerland to the Netherlands, encountering enchanting landscapes throughout your journey. Discover the joys of a luxury Rhine cruise while drifting beside forested valleys and charming riverside villages. Soak up idyllic views of the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, adorned with stunning castles, forests...





Embark on a festive cruise through Europe's most enchanting Christmas destinations on the Rhine river. Scenic landscapes and charming towns come alive with seasonal cheer in Germany and France during the most wonderful time of the year. From the twinkling lights of Koblenz's historic streets to the captivating markets of Rüdesheim, Heidelberg,...





The Harz Mountains' medieval towns and picturesque landscapes are perfect for soaking up the magic of Advent in Germany. Experience the festive atmosphere of three of the region's traditional Christmas markets - Wernigerode, Quedlinburg and Goslar - where twinkling lights and sumptuous aromas delight the senses. Discover the captivating...





Bavaria's enchanting landscapes of castles, forests and mountains create a stunning backdrop to this captivating holiday. While in Füssen, experience the romantic beauty of the region with visits to the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace and Church of Wies, and a journey on the Zugspitze Railway. Uncover the wonders of central...





Explore the beautiful towns and landscapes of the Austrian Alps on an all-inclusive vacation based in the charming town of St. Johann, with dinner and drinks included each evening. Marvel at views of Austria's tallest mountain on a journey across the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, viewing glaciers and gold-mining towns before...





Combine an iconic Swiss rail journey with a cruise along the romantic Rhine. From Interlaken, ride the Jungfrau Express to Europe's highest railway station - an alpine wonderland of glacial ice and snow, set among the mighty Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau Mountains. Next, aboard a luxury ship, visit Heidelberg and Rüdesheim and then cruise into the...





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...