Europe is a beautifully diverse continent, home to some of the world's most influential cities and dramatic landscapes ranging from the staggering peaks of the Swiss Alps to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. It is these contrasts and the railways that connect them that sparked our founding more than 20 years ago and continue to inspire our itineraries across Europe.
With hand-chosen routes to countries where history, culture, cuisine and scenery collide, our vacations offer a true immersion into your chosen region through exciting excursions and meals that celebrate local flavors. See the highlights of the Emerald Isle, explore Italy from Top to Toe or savor the artistic landscapes of France. Set your sights on Eastern Europe's Imperial Cities or find yourself surrounded by Bavaria's fairytale scenery.
Connect destinations by rail, uncovering more of the continent while traveling on acclaimed railways like Norway's Bergen Railway, or drift along Europe's scenic waterways on a luxurious river cruise. Whether on an escorted tour or traveling solo with an independent itinerary, enjoy an unforgettable glimpse at Europe with the experts.
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quote to pair with your vacation.Explore our top escorted and independent vacation packages in Europe
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With so many incredible destinations across Europe, choosing just one can be the hardest part. Our multi-country vacations offer the chance to experience more in a single trip, from iconic cities and rich history to breathtaking scenery and culinary highlights. Designed to take you seamlessly from one destination to the next, they're the perfect way to see more of Europe with ease.
Vacations By Rail is now Great Rail Journeys. We continue to
offer the same trusted vacations, and expert customer support
you've come to expect.
Join thousands of travelers who have trusted us to plan
unforgettable vacations by rail around the world.
(1096 reviews)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...
(256 reviews)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...
River Cruise
(131 reviews)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...
(181 reviews)Experience three of the British Isles' most scenic countries on a vacation showcasing Celtic culture and breathtaking destinations. Beginning in Scotland, explore the majestic Highlands while traveling on the scenic West Highland and Kyle Lines, and discovering the ancient nation's historic castles, glistening lochs and traditional flavors -...
(184 reviews)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...
(57 reviews)From the alpine foothills to Sicily and all that lies between, uncover Italy's rich culture on an expertly crafted itinerary. See the highlights of Italy while traveling the country's length, delving into remarkable destinations, including Venice, Florence and Rome. Bask in the beauty of the Amalfi Coast and marvel at the remains of...
(410 reviews)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...
Embark on an inspiring tour of two of the world's most recognizable cities. Beginning in London, encounter famous landmarks like Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Walk the historic streets, cruise the mighty Thames and witness British heritage at the opening ceremony of the Tower of London. Traveling in Eurostar...
(56 reviews)From Europe's exciting cityscapes to the stunning heights of the Swiss Alps and the idyllic Tuscan countryside, this 13-day exploration opens the doors to Europe's rich history, culture and traditions. Uncover iconic landmarks in London, sail along the romantic Seine in Paris and marvel at Switzerland's stunning Alps during a lake cruise and...
River Cruise
A discovery of world-famous cuisine, elegant cities and unbelievable landscapes beckons in France. Come along for a route filled with intrigue, which presents the many sides of this nation, beginning with its most famous city. Spend three days in Paris, wandering through its streets in search of beloved landmarks and visiting the Palace of...
Discover landmark-lined rivers, alpine peaks and iconic cities while delving into the heart of Europe, relishing its best features from many perspectives. This vacation is a showcase of culture, with something new in each destination. Begin under the Eiffel Tower in Paris, cruising the Seine and touring its sites before venturing into the...
River Cruise
(23 reviews)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...
Oct 20, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
Embrace the spooky spirit of Halloween by joining an expertly curated vacation to some of the most legendary and lore-filled destinations around the globe.
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Oct 10, 2025 · By Great Rail Journeys
Follow in the footsteps of travel influencer Michael Downie as you uncover Switzerland on a 15-day vacation featuring the convenience of a Swiss Travel Pass.
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Sep 05, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
Step into the pages of history while unveiling Europe’s best examples of ancient palaces, showcasing a range of architectural styles in spellbinding locations.
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Sep 03, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
If you crave a change of scenery this winter, join a well-planned seasonal vacation featuring one of these three top destinations to spend the holidays.
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