Frequently Asked Questions

Todd Powell, inspired by his adoration for rail travel, and Cole Dannewitz, desiring to make it easier for travelers to experience the world by train, founded Vacations By Rail in 2004. The company celebrates its 20th anniversary of bringing railway dreams to life in 2024.

Vacations By Rail built a remarkable legacy since its founding in 2004, guided by the vision and leadership of co-founders Todd Powell and Cole Dannewitz. Over 15 years, the company established itself as a trusted name in rail travel, crafting unforgettable journeys for travelers exploring North America and Europe.

In 2019, this success led to an exciting new chapter when Vacations By Rail was bought by Great Rail Journeys, a York-based company renowned for its expertise and celebrating more than 50 years of exceptional rail experiences. This partnership brought together two industry leaders united by a shared passion for exploration and a commitment to delivering extraordinary travel experiences.

In 2026, Vacations by rail begins a new chapter undet the banner of Great Rail Journeys. The business is going from strength to strength and is poised to expand its reach, enhance its offerings, and open up even more inspiring journeys around the world-promising travelers a future filled with discovery, connection, and unforgettable adventures by rail.

When you book with Great Rail Journeys, you can feel confident that your vacation is designed by rail travel specialists. Our expertise goes beyond simply mapping routes, we understand the unique character of destinations, rail experiences, and travel styles around the world.

We combine more than 50 years of first-hand travel experience with detailed product knowledge and valuable customer feedback to create thoughtfully designed, memorable itineraries. Our portfolio includes partnerships with local and heritage railways, as well as some of the world's most iconic train journeys, such as the Rocky Mountaineer and Glacier Express, and luxurious Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient Express.

From planning to travel, our team is here to support you every step of the way, handling the details so you can relax and fully enjoy the journey and destinations along the way.

During your research and booking, you'll have access to a dedicated team of rail travel experts who are passionate about what they do. Acting as both advisors and guides, they're here to support you at every step of the process.

They can help you find the right vacation based on your budget, preferred destinations, and ideal trip length, making it easier to narrow down your options. Whether you're just starting to explore or ready to book, our team is available to answer your questions and provide the guidance you need to confidently plan and reserve your perfect rail vacation.

 

Our thoughtfully composed rail tours venture throughout the United States' most scenic regions, including New England, the Deep South, and the colorful deserts of the Southwest. Enjoy the country's spectacular national parks and the East and West coastlines, or venture further north to Alaska to see some of America's last remaining wild landscapes.

But the adventures do not stop at the U.S. border; instead, Great Rail Journeys takes travelers around the globe to destinations wrapped in natural beauty or filled with centuries of fantastic architecture and history. We offer journeys throughout Canada, diving into great cities and exploring the vast and impressive peaks of the Canadian Rockies. In Europe, you can taste your way through culinary epicenters like Italy, France, or Spain or embark on scenic adventures through the Swiss Alps, Ireland, or the Scottish Highlights. Our website also includes tours that extend beyond your wildest dreams, bringing destinations throughout Australia, New Zealand, Africa, Asia, and beyond to life before your very eyes.

Travelling by rail is a great way to experience the world. On a train you can get up and stretch your legs, visit the buffet car for refreshments, or simply sit back in your comfortable, reserved seat and enjoy the spectacular, ever-changing scenery as you speed to your destination. By rail you can experience sights that cannot be seen any other way: from panoramic coastal routes to a journey through majestic Alpine scenery or along spectacular gorges, the train provides the ideal viewpoint.

If you haven't had a vacation by rail before, you will be pleasantly surprised by how little time it takes to reach your destination. Traveling by rail in Europe is faster and easier than most Americans expect-imagine going from Paris to London in just over 2 hours, Rome to Florence in 90 minutes, or Madrid to Barcelona in under 3 hours, all city center to city center.

There is no quick and easy answer regarding the best time to take a rail vacation, as personal preferences weigh heavily on every travel decision. Consider your desired destination and how the seasons affect its weather and the crowds.

• The peak travel season extends from late May through August, aligning with summer in the northern hemisphere. Traveling during this time means there is more to do outside, from hiking in national parks to cruises on beautiful waterways, walking tours of cities, and castle ruin explorations in places like Ireland and Scotland.
• Choosing to vacation during the shoulder seasons - March to May and late August/early September through late October - is a viable option for travelers who hope to skip the extremes of summer and winter and savor the unique appeals only that time of year brings.
• Much of our winter travel offerings are devoted to cold-weather locations like the Swiss Alps, the Canadian Rockies, and Alaska, which are majestic under a layer of snow. Seasonal activities, including skiing and dogsledding, open your eyes to new experiences. And, of course, traveling near the arctic circle during this time of the year brings the chance to see the Aurora Borealis.

For help deciding when to travel, call a Great Rail Specialist on 1-877-929-7245 - they'll help you find a departure date that best meets your travel goals.

Children aged 12 and older are welcome to join nearly any escorted vacation with Great Rail Journeys; however, our rail packages are not created with young travelers in mind. Many tours feature overnight train travel or long train journeys. Other itineraries include extensive motorcoach transportation between cities or national parks. Throughout the tours, the sightseeing and excursion options may not pique the interest of kids, and there will be minimal opportunities to interact with other children during the trip.

Our independent tour options, which allow for more flexibility and individualization, are often better suited for families. 

Absolutely not! The main point to consider is not your age but your ability to enjoy the experience. While many of the trains we utilize are wheelchair-accessible and mobility friendly, this may not be the case for all trains. You must be able to manage and tote your baggage at certain points throughout the trip. Extensive periods of sitting or standing may be required during travel or sightseeing. Consider also that some of the itineraries are packed with excitement, leaving little downtime for relaxation. If you have read through your tour's inclusions and our policies and think it's suitable, we would love to have you.

While our group size varies between vacation packages, our escorted tours generally accommodate between 24 and 44 travelers. Sticking to this count ensures that each guest has a fulfilling travel experience with a dedicated Tour Manager, excellent camaraderie and excursions. Joining a small group tour provides an even more intimate environment with a maximum of 24 travelers.

Because we cannot ensure that all trains, hotels, and excursions are pet-friendly, we do not allow dogs or cats to join our rail vacations. The exception to this rule is licensed service animals. Contact a Rail Specialist using our website or by calling 1-877-929-7245 for more information.

Vacations By Rail welcomes solo travelers and specializes in creating rewarding journeys designed with independence and confidence in mind. All of our tours offer single-occupancy options, giving you the flexibility to travel your way without compromise.

If you enjoy the social side of travel, our escorted tours make it easy to connect with like-minded travelers-sharing experiences, meals, and memorable moments along the way, with a knowledgeable Tour Manager always on hand to support you.

Prefer to explore at your own pace? Our independent packages provide the perfect balance of structure and freedom, allowing you to enjoy incredible destinations on your terms, with every detail thoughtfully arranged in advance.

However you choose to travel, you can feel assured that you're never truly alone-we're with you every step of the journey.

When you book a vacation with Great Rail Journeys, all the logistics are handled for you. We compose itineraries that connect wonderful locations throughout the world. Enjoy included rail travel on long-distance and scenic trains and select transfers when appropriate. If your itinerary features stretches on the road, deluxe motorcoaches ensure each mile is comfortable.

Our travel planners select hotels in fantastic locations and arrange for enriching experiences, ranging from city tours and guided visits to points of interest to thrilling excursions that exemplify the world's beauty. Select journeys provide group meals or tasting opportunities. Each tour package specifies precisely what type of tour it is and what is included, so there are no surprises or hidden extra costs.

Continue reading about the perks of both Independent and Escorted Tours.

Continue reading to learn more ways to fill your vacation with luxury.

There are two easy ways to inquire about the remaining availability of any rail vacation package. First and foremost, contact one of our Rail Specialists by calling 1-877-929-7245 from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturdays. By giving the tour name and the year you hope to go, our Rail Specialists can assist you in selecting the departure date with availability to suit your needs.

Alternatively, you can check if space is available on your chosen escorted tour on our website. Click on any tour's yellow View Dates and Pricing button to discover the options. Most tours feature several departure dates; if space is available, a yellow Book Online or View Options button shows on the right side of the screen. Your chosen dates may also indicate that you must call to book due to the booking window closing or limited spaces remaining. If a date or tour is sold out, there will be no option to book. You may then call the number above to see what options are available.

Yes! You may be added to our waitlist if you have found your ideal rail vacation package and discover it is sold out for your selected departure date. Contact us at 1-877-929-7245 with the name of your chosen tour and the preferred departure date. We will then gather all the relevant traveler information for all guests in your party to complete your waitlist reservation. We will contact you if enough spaces open up for your travel party.

Rail and cruise vacations invite you to experience the journey as part of the adventure, bringing together two of the world's most iconic ways to travel in one unforgettable trip. Rather than rushing from place to place, these thoughtfully designed vacations let you savor every mile, from scenic rail routes linking vibrant cities to relaxing days on the water, whether along legendary rivers or across open seas.

Along the way, you'll experience breathtaking landscapes, immersive excursions that connect you to local culture, and the comfort of premium accommodations both on board and on land. With a slower, more relaxed pace, there's time to truly take it all in-turning every moment into part of the story and every destination into something you'll never forget.

Great Rail Journeys offers an array of rail and cruise vacations throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. Joining a U.S. rail and cruise vacation offers the chance to travel on Amtrak's long-distance trains or the famous Alaska Railroad and to cruise the waters of Alaska's Inside Passage. Canadian rail and cruise vacations may offer time in the beautiful Canadian Rockies before taking to Alaska's Inside Passage or exploring Eastern Canada and the St. Lawrence River. Europe's river cruise tours present classic cities and spectacular ports of call while navigating rivers like the Danube, Seine, Rhine, or Rhone.

European River Cruises offer all the allures of traveling by water without the hundreds of fellow travelers and long days without land in sight. These vacations enjoy a more intimate scale than their ocean-faring cousins, accommodating 175 passengers or less in most cases. Great Rail Journeys partners with luxurious river cruise lines, such as Amadeus, whose modern ships are less than ten years old - many of which are five years old or less. The narrow vessels are ideal for meandering down Europe's serpentine waterways, unveiling new destinations daily. In each port of call, enthralling shore excursions allow you to soak in the ambiance of your chosen waterway one magnificent stop at a time.

When considering why European River Cruises are the ideal way to explore, you must also think about the onboard offerings. Savor exquisite multi-course meals on the ship, as well as snacks and desserts, and appetizers. Free-flowing drinks are available throughout the day, with wine and beer at dinner. And all of this is included in the price - no surprises.

Our Rail and Drive Tours are another option for travelers seeking an unconventional vacation experience. These independent trips combine the best elements of the classic road trip with travel on local and long-distance railways to create one memorable package. Typically, the bulk of the journey takes place by train, taking travelers across the country or through specific regions. The rail portion of the vacation may occur all at once or be split within the itinerary. Overnight accommodations are provided either on the train or in hotels as needed along the course before arriving at the focal point of the tour. It is there that you pick up your rental car and take the reins.

While each day on the ground brings a suggested itinerary, including your destination for the evening with hotel accommodations, you are free to get from place to place however you see fit. Each rental car has GPS and unlimited mileage, so you can go wherever the spirit of adventure takes you. Return your rental car at the end of the driving portion of the trip and continue to your final destination or head home as laid out by your itinerary.

No, as part of the package inclusions for each Rail and Drive Tour, travelers are provided with a well-equipped rental car for use during a specific period. Great Rail Journeys takes care of all the orchestrating; all you have to do is pick up your vehicle at the specified location, enjoy the drive, and then return it at the appropriate time.

Most Rail and Drive Vacation packages provide a full-size rental car as a standard, allowing guests to travel comfortably for the duration of their trip's driving portion. Upgrades may be available if you prefer a larger or more luxurious vehicle. For the most options, contact a Rail Specialist at 1-877-929-7245 at your earliest convenience to discuss the upgrades available for your chosen tour package.

Yes, all the pricing on the Great Rail Journeys website and those provided by our agents are in USA dollars.

Single occupancy pricing is available on all of our tours. To price your preferred vacation, press the yellow Views Dates & Pricing button on your selected tour or call us at 1-877-929-7245 to get a quote from a Rail Specialist.

Great Rail Journeys offers various promotions throughout the year that reduce the per-person costs for select tours. Visit our Deals page to see our current discounts and promotions. Note that terms and conditions will apply. 

Once you've made your reservation and paid your deposit, you'll receive a confirmation that includes your final payment deadline - typically 90 days before your departure date.

In addition to paying by phone, you can also use our secure online payment portal. It's available 24/7, so you can make a payment anytime it's convenient for you-whether during business hours or after.

Absolutely. All checks should be payable to Great Rail Journeys LLC and mailed to 309 West Washington Street, Suite 1100, Chicago, IL 60606. While personal checks are accepted, money orders and cashier's checks are preferred. Any last-minute bookings made within 21 days of travel should mail their payment using USPS's Priority Mail Express Shipping with tracking.

You may use any major credit card to make a payment on your account, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Debit card payments are also accepted, though some banks impose a daily limit. Please contact your bank or debit card provider to inform them of the amount of your purchase to ensure your payment is accepted.

In general, our tour prices do not include gratuities for baggage handling, housekeeping, the Tour Manager, drivers, step-on guides, or any meals and beverages not specifically listed in your itinerary, as well as optional extras. While tipping is not required, it is appreciated when you receive exceptional service.

Occasionally our tour packages will be subject to price changes that we must pass along to our travelers. The sooner your balance is paid in full, the sooner your purchase price is locked in and guaranteed.

Full payment is due by your provided final payment day or 90 days prior to travel. You may make these payments all at once or intermittently between the booking and final payment dates using any of the above methods. Should you fail to pay your invoice in full by the final payment date, your reservation and all services accompanying it are subject to cancellation. Furthermore, all monies collected to that point will be forfeited.

We make every effort to keep the itinerary as it is published on our website and provided to you in your travel documents. Sometimes, supplier schedules, tour availability, and factors beyond our control necessitate alterations to the final itinerary; however, all of this information will be available to you ahead of your travels. Great Rail Journeys has the sole discretion to substitute services of a similar quality for any service stated in the itinerary.

Because our vacation packages utilize train travel and other forms of transportation that are subject to delays and service disruptions, trip delays occasionally occur. These instances are out of our control. As such, Great Rail Journeys is not responsible in whole or in part for any delays, delayed departures or arrivals, missed carrier connections, or losses of purchased services resulting from delays or disruptions. The tour will press forth with the proposed itinerary once service resumes. We strongly encourage you to purchase travel insurance to protect your travel investment and ensure you are compensated for any trip delays or disruptions. Our Rail Specialists can arrange trip insurance quotes for you before you submit your final payment, or you can purchase travel insurance independently.

Once you have booked your rail vacation, paid your $700 (or $750) deposit, and received confirmation of your booking, your deposit is non-refundable. Should you choose to cancel your reservation after this time, we require written notice sent via certified mail, overnight courier, or e-mail to a Rail Specialist. A confirmation of receipt from us is necessary to ensure your cancellation is processed. The following cancellation and supplier fees apply:

• 89 - 61 days prior to departure: 25% of the package price plus supplier fees
• 60 - 46 days prior to departure: 50% of the package price plus supplier fees
• 45 - day of departure: 100% non-refundable

No-shows and those travelers that cancel their reservations after travel begins forfeit 100% of the package price and supplier fees paid. Cancellations may also be subject to additional supplier cancellation fees and forfeiture of deposits as required by any third-party services or privately owned trains featured on your vacation. Should a flight, train, or other delay prevent you from joining your tour, you may join the tour late; however, you will not receive a full or partial refund nor a credit toward a future vacation to compensate for your lost day(s).

To read our cancellation policy, please see the Terms and Conditions on the Great Rail Journeys website or contact a Rail Specialist at 1-877-929-7245 for more information.

Once full payment has been received for your tour package, Great Rail Journeys does not allow date changes or name changes. Both instances will be considered a cancellation and rebooking and are subject to any fees associated with the process. A fee of $50 per person, plus any supplier fees and relevant price increases, is applied to all other changes made after full payment is received. Supplier fees may sometimes be up to 100% of the services provided.

Your finalized travel documents will be prepared by Great Rail Jouorneys and sent to you or your travel agent two weeks before your departure date.

We will take care of all the details. We take all the hassle out of planning your vacation, aiming to keep you well-informed, prepared and excited for your upcoming trip. Here's an overview of what you can expect to receive from us, from the point you book your vacation until you return home.

Welcome Pack

Your personalized Welcome Pack is a wealth of useful information. In it, you will find details of your booking, including your itinerary, as well as any documentation you will need.

Reminders

In the days and weeks leading up to your departure, we'll check in with you by email to make sure everything is on track for your vacation. This may include finalizing payments, updating passport details, confirming visa arrangements, and choosing any optional excursions.

Vacation Update

As you start to countdown the last few months before your departure, we will send you an email to confirm travel times and locations, accommodation details and other arrangements.

Final Itinerary

We'll provide you with essential information about hotels, travel times, itinerary alterations, and anything else crucial for ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Travel Tickets

Travel tickets or vouchers for your outbound and inbound journeys will arrive by email prior to your departure. Any additional tickets, vouchers for travel and excursions will be managed by your Tour Manager throughout the tour.

Tour Manager Introduction

Your friendly Tour Manager is on hand throughout your entire vacation to ensure every detail of the trip is expertly handled, giving you all the time to enjoy your time away. Your Tour Manager will introduce themselves to you by email about one week before your trip and you can look forward to a warm greeting at your meeting point.

If you are not a citizen of the country - or countries - featured on your rail vacation, it is essential you travel with your passport. An invalid or expired passport will exclude you from entering nations outside your home country. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the necessary documentation before crossing the border on your international tour and understand the requirements of the country you are visiting. For example, some nations require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your visit or will not allow visitors with criminal records.

If you need a passport, or if yours needs to be renewed, click here to be redirected to the U.S. State Department website for all your application needs. Please allow a minimum of 6 months between the time of your application submission and your tour departure date to ensure you receive your passport in time. Passports may take up to 12 weeks to process and ship, and you must submit your passport information to Great Rail Journeys no less than 90 days before your tour.

Travelers are responsible for verifying the visa requirements for connection points and destinations included on their rail vacations.

The type of currency you need for your vacation depends on your destination. Venturing north into Canada may still provide some opportunities to use the U.S. dollar, but most places require Canadian dollars. While there are exceptions, many countries throughout Europe now use the Euro. Travel in places that do not use the Euro or other parts of the world brings other currency needs. Please refer to the chart below for more information.

Country	Currency	Country	Currency
Austria	Euro	Monaco	Euro
Australia	Australian Dollar	Mongolia	Tögrög
Belarus	Belarusian Rouble	Morocco*	Moroccan Dirham
Belgium	Euro	Namibia	Namibian Dollar
Bhutan	Bhutanese ngultrum	Nepal	Nepalese Rupee
Botswana	Pula	Netherlands	Euro
Burma	Burmese Kyat	New Zealand	New Zealand Dollar
Cambodia	Cambodian Riel	Norway	Norwegian Krone
Canada	Canadian Dollar	Peru	Nuevo Sol
China	Chinese Renminbi	Poland	Zloty
Croatia	Kuna and Croatian Dinar	Romania	Romanian Leu
Czech Republic	Czech Koruna	Russia	Russian Rouble
Denmark	Danish Krone	Singapore	Singapore Dollar
Ecuador	US Dollar	Slovakia	Euro
Estonia	Euro	Slovenia	Euro
Finland	Euro	South Africa	South African Rand
France	Euro	Spain	Euro
Germany	Euro	Sri Lanka	Sri Lankan Rupee
Greece	Euro	Sweden	Swedish Krona
Hong Kong	Hong Kong Dollar	Switzerland	Swiss Franc
Hungary	Forint	Tanzania	Tanzanian shilling
Ireland	Euro	Thailand	Thai Baht
Italy	Euro	Turkey	Turkish Lira
India*	Indian Rupee	Ukraine	Ukrainian Hryvnia
Japan	Japanese Yen	USA	US Dollar
Latvia	Euro	Vietnam	Vietnamese Dong
Luxembourg	Euro	Zambia	Zambian Kwacha
Malaysia	Malaysian Ringgit

If you plan to exchange currency before your trip, it's usually best to do so through your local bank or credit union, as they tend to offer better exchange rates and lower fees than airport kiosks or independent exchange services. While there will always be some cost to converting currency, banks generally provide a more cost-effective option.

If you prefer to wait until you arrive, using ATMs at airports or train stations is often a convenient and reliable choice. These typically offer more competitive rates than currency exchange counters, which can carry higher markups and service fees. Before you travel, check with your bank about international ATM fees, daily withdrawal limits, and whether your debit card will work abroad.

Many U.S. travelers also find it convenient to use a credit card while traveling internationally. Cards that waive foreign transaction fees can help you avoid extra charges, and paying by card reduces the need to carry large amounts of cash. Just be sure to notify your bank or card provider of your travel plans in advance to help prevent any issues with your account while you're away.

Baggage guidelines vary by tour and are subject to the restrictions of the trains and or cruise ships featured on the itinerary. In general, we recommend sticking to smaller suitcases for tours that do not include luggage transfer between stations or hotels. Bags with dimensions of 24"x 15" x 9" and a maximum weight of no more than 34 pounds are easier to transport on your own without the help of porters. For ease of transport, consider rolling bags with four 360-degree wheels.

If you are joining an escorted tour, refer to your chosen rail vacation's online itinerary or provided travel documentation to see if baggage handling is included and what requirements are outlined. Remember, baggage handling is not available for our independent itineraries, but your train may have specific luggage guidelines.

Most trains, restaurants, excursions, and tours included on Great Rail Journey's trips do not have specific dress codes. Travelers are encouraged to dress in casual clothing that is comfortable for extended wear yet is appropriate for the places on the day's itinerary. Each day brings a new adventure, which may mean sitting or standing for extended periods or walking in the elements. If your vacation includes transit on a luxury train or a river cruise ship, there may be further wardrobe requirements, including formal wear for gala dinners. Any specific wardrobe requirements will be outlined in your travel documentation.

Think casual and comfortable when considering your wardrobe choices for your rail vacation. Choose versatile pieces in neutral colors that are easy to mix, match, and layer, allowing you to make many ensembles from fewer clothing items. Pack outer layers like sweaters, cardigans, and waterproof jackets no matter the season. Remember, less is more, and as long as you can dress your chosen pieces up or down as needed, you can get by with fewer items in your suitcase.

In addition to clothing, you will need a couple of pairs of comfortable walking shoes that are compatible with the climate you visit. Think snow boots or waterproof hiking boots for winter trips in snowy locales and supportive walking sandals in the summer. Consider onboard entertainment items and all suitable chargers. All medication you need for your journey, sunglasses, an umbrella, a hat, sunscreen, and a bag to carry during excursions are other essentials to put on your packing list.

The best time to book your next trip with Great Rail Journeys is now. Each of our tours has a maximum group size to ensure our guests have a memorable expedition, and many tours fill quickly. Furthermore, our rail vacations feature a set number of departures each travel season, and once they sell out, no more will be added. There are no discounts for last-minute bookings or benefits to waiting. To reserve your spot, please provide all the required traveler information and pay your non-refundable deposit of $700 ($750 for packages including travel on Rocky Mountaineer).

Great Rail Journeys partners with a variety of third-party travel insurance providers. Coverages and policies vary, as do prices, allowing travelers to secure the package that best aligns with their needs. Insurance policies may cover illnesses, travel delays, lost luggage, severe weather resulting in vacation cancellation, and emergency medical situations. Some also offer cancel-for-any-reason service, so when the unexpected happens, you are covered. For more information about how travel insurance can protect your vacation investment, continue reading here or contact a Rail Specialist at 1-877-929-7245 for a quote. You can book travel insurance any time before your balance is paid in full; however, secure your policy within two weeks of making your vacation reservation to ensure the greatest scope of coverage.

Once you have made your initial deposit, we can begin confirming the services. You will receive an email invoice detailing your payment at that time.

Once services have been confirmed, you will receive an additional email guaranteeing your departure. At this point, you can feel free to purchase your airfare.

Although we don't directly book flights, we've partnered with a top provider to offer you exclusive quotes tailored to your preferences. Simply call the dedicated rail specialist for your vacation to inquire, and we'll connect you with our trusted flight partner for a quote. You have the flexibility to book at your convenience using the exclusive quotes provided. Let us make your journey memorable from start to finish.

Your provided tour documents will indicate the date, time, and location where your journey officially begins. If your rail vacation starts with a train ride or a flight, as included in the itinerary, ensure your arrival allows plenty of time for check-in and boarding. Account for any delays that may occur in your travel.

Our escorted tours have a designated meeting point for the travel group and Tour Manager (indicated in your final travel documents), and you may be required to check in with the group before your flight or train departure time. Consider booking pre-night arrangements to ensure you arrive in time for your tour's commencement. Our Rail Specialists can help you arrange all the hotel accommodations, sightseeing, and transfers needed for pre-trip extensions. Call us at 1-877-929-7245 to discover what options are available for your vacation.

The final documents provided to you or your travel agent indicate an exact time and location for meeting your group and Tour Manager. There will be a quick briefing on the first day to present the adventures to come and answer any questions you or your fellow travelers have.

Airport transfers are available on select escorted and independent tours. Please refer to your itinerary or call a Rail Specialist to determine if your rail vacation applies. When the service is available but is not included in your tour, we may be able to arrange a private airport transfer at an additional cost. Our Rail Specialists are also happy to help you upgrade from group to private transfers on escorted vacations where it is available.

Baggage handling depends on the type of tour you book. Many of our escorted tours include baggage handling as a courtesy, helping ensure your luggage is transferred smoothly between hotels and destinations. However, there may be times when you'll need to handle your own bags, so we recommend bringing luggage you're comfortable carrying on your own when needed.

For independent rail vacations, baggage handling is not included, and you'll be responsible for managing your luggage throughout your trip.

On escorted tours that include travel by road, Great Rail Journeys uses comfortable, modern motorcoaches designed with your comfort in mind. These spacious coaches typically accommodate fewer than 60 guests, creating a more relaxed and enjoyable group experience. In certain destinations, smaller vehicles may be used to access scenic or historic areas where larger buses cannot go.

Along the way, you'll enjoy cushioned seating, climate control, and a smooth ride as you take in the scenery. Travel days are thoughtfully planned, with regular rest stops scheduled every 90 minutes to 2 hours, plus convenient breaks in locations where you can stretch your legs or grab a meal on your own if one isn't included. It's all part of ensuring your journey is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible from start to finish.

Excursions are your chance to dive into the unique cultural, historical, and social aspects of your itinerary's destinations while on our independent and escorted tours. These immersive experiences come in many shapes and sizes and can include guided city tours or visits to points of interest. Urban-focused trips may include visits to famous buildings, castles, museums, or parks. Natural park vacations look to nature for inspiration and offer excursions that explore their incredible lakes and landscapes or drive along scenic passages throughout the park. Traveling to places like the Swiss Alps or the Colorado Rockies can bring rides on scenic railways and climbs to soaring summits. Regardless of your destination, Vacation By Rail's expertise makes it easy to explore.

The activity level required for excursions varies between tours. Refer to your chosen tour's page on our website for a breakdown of the included excursions, or contact a Rail Specialist, to ensure the itinerary is a good fit for you. Also, consider whether it is important for you to have a guide along for excursions. Our independent tour excursions, while a local expert may guide them, do not feature the services of a Tour Manager. On the other hand, a Tour Manager and your fellow travelers will join all the excursions with you on an escorted tour.

You are welcome to join as many or as few excursions as you would prefer on your chosen itinerary. The exception to this comes with those excursions that are used as transportation between trip destinations. Refer to your itinerary, or consult your Tour Manager on an escorted tour, to see how excursions are being utilized before making your decision whether or not to participate. Keep in mind that just because you decide to forgo the experience does not mean that its cost will be deducted from your package price or that Vacations By Rail will refund you at the end of the tour. Escorted tour travelers may get their Tour Manager's recommendations for independent sightseeing options in lieu of excursions if needed.

Each tour page on our website clearly lists the hotel accommodations included with your trip, so you know exactly where you'll be staying. In some cases, you may have the option to upgrade to premium or deluxe hotels for an enhanced experience. If you choose an upgrade, we'll provide the details of your upgraded accommodations in advance, and your final travel documents will include the confirmed hotels and their locations for your journey.

The differences in the different hotel types come down to their amenities, accommodations, and star rating. While there is some variation based on the tour package and destination, in general the hotels utilized by Great Rail Journeys can be categorized as:

• Moderate - Establishments with a 3 1/2 to 4-star rating that provide quality service and comfortable accommodations.
• Superior - Hotels with a 4 to 4 1/2-star rating and upscale accommodations to provide exceptional relaxation.
• Deluxe - These hotels feature a 4 1/2 to 5-star rating and provide guests with a high-end experience filled with luxury and convenience.

Upgrading or changing your hotel accommodations to include specific bedding arrangements, such as a king bed rather than two queens, may be subject to additional fees. This information is available through our online booking platform on each tour and by contacting a Rail Specialist.

Most intercity and long-distance trains have outlets available, though they will be limited. Heritage trains or scenic routes may not provide outlets at all. We recommend charging your devices at the hotel and/or carrying a portable power bank if an outlet is unavailable.

Smoking is not permitted onboard most trains.

Part of the romance of train travel is disconnecting. Internet access is unavailable on many trains, and cell phone reception is not guaranteed or reliable, especially in the mountains or traversing rural expanses.

Travelers who wish for a more private or luxurious experience while traveling by train may upgrade their accommodations at an additional cost. Upgrades may be available on Amtrak, VIA Rail, Rocky Mountaineer, and select scenic routes. Contact a Rail Specialist to see which trains on your chosen itinerary qualify.

Coach: Wide, reclining seats allow each guest to travel comfortably in Coach. Each comfortable seat includes a fold-down tray, an individual reading light, and a personal outlet for charging electronics. Shared toilets are located in each car.

Roomettes: The smallest of the Sleeper Car options, Roomettes provide upper and lower berth sleeping accommodations for two adults. These quaint rooms have locking doors, a pull-down table, a sizable private window, individual climate controls, and electrical outlets. Roomette guests share shower and restroom facilities with other passengers in their car.

Bedrooms: Enjoy more spacious private accommodations by upgrading to a Bedroom. These rooms are more spacious than Roomettes and feature upper and lower berth beds and a comfortable armchair for lounging. Furthermore, each Bedroom includes an en suite bathroom featuring a sink, vanity, enclosed toilet, and shower. Guests may request two adjoining Bedrooms to create a Bedroom Suite ideal for a group of four travelers.

Read more information about your options while traveling Amtrak.

Berth: Semi-private Berths include two couch-style seats facing one another by day and convert to upper and lower bunks at night. Each Berth includes pillows, sheets, blankets, and a heavy privacy curtain. There is a small storage area for personal effects that you do not want in the luggage compartment. Guests of this class have access to public restroom and shower facilities in the car and enjoy included meals in the Dining Car. Please note that Berths do not have electrical outlets.

Cabins for One: Sleeper Plus Cabins for One feature more privacy and floor space in a compact package. These cabins feature a sofa chair, which is removed at night and replaced with a comfortable single bed adorned with fresh sheets, pillows, and blankets. There is a small storage space in the cabin and a private toilet, sink, and mirror. Because lower-level beds extend over the toilets at night, guests of these cabins have easy access to the car's restroom and shower facilities. Other amenities include interior locking doors, a fan, drinking water, towels, a private window with blinds, and an outlet.

Cabins for Two: With two sofa-style chairs by day and upper and lower berth beds at night, Cabins for Two are ideal for a pair traveling together. Private water closets are in each Cabin for Two, as are sinks with mirrors and razor outlets. Other amenities passengers enjoy include large picture windows with blinds, individualized climate controls, baggage storage, shower towels, toiletries, drinking water, interior locking doors, and comfortable bedding. Shared shower facilities are located in each car.

Prestige Class: The ultimate in railway luxury awaits when you choose Prestige Class on the Canadian. This new service class includes all the amenities of a high-end hotel in a tidy private cabin. Look out the oversized picture window from a leather L-shaped modular sofa by day, and sink into the comfort of quality linens in your pull-down full-sized Murphy bed at night. Each Prestige cabin includes a full en suite bathroom with a shower and plenty of outlets for your electronics. Other in-room amenities include a flat-screen T.V. with a video selection, a fully stocked mini-bar, and the services of an around-the-clock concierge. Guests also enjoy complimentary appetizers before meals and all-you-care-to-enjoy drinks and snacks.

Continue reading about the Canadian's accommodation choices.

Cabins for Two: With two sofa-style chairs by day and upper and lower berth beds at night, Cabins for Two are ideal for a pair traveling together. Private water closets are in each Cabin for Two, as are sinks with mirrors and razor outlets. Other amenities passengers enjoy include large picture windows with blinds, individualized climate controls, baggage storage, shower towels, toiletries, drinking water, interior locking doors, and comfortable bedding. Shared shower facilities are located in each car.

Economy: Passengers are seated with two seats on either side of the aisle in Economy. Each oversized chair provides ample leg room and reclines for comfort. Fold-down trays, seat-back storage pouches for reading material, outlets, and large windows are other amenities passengers enjoy. Each Economy car shared restroom facilities. Please note that onboard meals are not included for Economy travelers and can be purchased separately throughout the journey.

Business: Business Class travelers can enjoy the privileges of the Business Lounge at stations along the route before boarding the train and have more space, thanks to a two-by-one seating arrangement, in the Business Class carriage. The plush leather seats recline and have plenty of legroom. Small side tables and fold-down tray tables pair with electrical outlets, and oversized windows with curtains are just some amenities. The refreshments may be the most significant difference between Economy and Business seating. A hot meal and drink service, including beer, wine, spirits, and soft drinks, are included in the price of a ticket.

Rocky Mountaineer offers three district routes in Western Canada, each wrapped in stunning views of forests and mountains. Regardless of the route you choose, there are two distinct service levels from which to choose:

SilverLeaf: Seated in plush, reclining leather seats, guests are treated to picturesque scenes from a single-level domed-glass coach. Attendants serve delicious hot breakfasts and lunches at your seat, and complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and snacks are available throughout the journey. Between SilverLeaf cars is a vestibule with opening windows allowing travelers to take unobstructed pictures of the passing beauty.

GoldLeaf: Each GoldLeaf Car features two levels of luxury. The upper level includes reclining, rotating seats surrounded by full-length windows that extend onto the ceiling. Guests who wish to connect with nature more intimately can step out onto the private open-air vestibule on the lower level of the car. Also on the lower level, guests savor incredible, chef-prepared meals in the GoldLeaf Dining Car. The menu is more extensive in GoldLeaf and also features complimentary snacks and drinks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, throughout the journey.

Learn more about what sets these service levels apart.

While there is no option for GoldLeaf Service on the Rocky Mountaineer's Rockies to the Red Rocks route through Colorado and Utah, passengers can choose from two fantastic levels of service, both of which provide a spectacular perspective on the changing surroundings.

SilverLeaf: Seated in plush, reclining leather seats, guests are treated to picturesque scenes from a single-level domed-glass coach. Attendants serve delicious hot breakfasts and lunches at your seat, and complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and snacks are available throughout the journey. Between SilverLeaf cars is a vestibule with opening windows allowing travelers to take unobstructed pictures of the passing beauty.

SilverLeaf Plus: In addition to all of the amenities of SilverLeaf, SilverLeaf Plus guests can watch the impressive Southwestern scenery unfold from a fully renovated lounge with an open-air viewing platform. Another perk comes at mealtimes, during which SilverLeaf Plus travelers enjoy an additional course with their meals.

Discover more information about the Rocky Mountaineer's maiden voyage in the United States and your choices while riding.