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
(93 reviews)
(148 reviews)
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.
(1342 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...
(128 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...
(107 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...
(93 reviews)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...
(46 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 -...
River Cruise
(211 reviews)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...
(80 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 ancient...
(148 reviews)On this sensational vacation, travel from Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva to the mountainous surroundings of the Jungfrau Massif. Explore Château de Chillon, sail along Lake Geneva and cross the Alps to Chamonix on the Mont Blanc Express. Boarding the GoldenPass Express, admire views of the Bernese Alps while traveling to lakeside...
Travel through centuries of history on this journey of cultural epicenters and romantic views. Staying in four bases, Venice, Montecatini Terme, Rome and Sorrento, uncover Italian wonders from coast to coast with the convenience of well-connected railways. Begin in the "Floating City," discovering its canals before moving onto Tuscany to explore...
(71 reviews)
Uncover otherworldly mountain scenes from charming resort towns and some of the world's most scenic railways on this unforgettable vacation in Switzerland. After arriving in Zürich, stay in two scenic bases in the Alps: the car-free village of Zermatt and the lakeside gem of St. Moritz. Enjoy an unforgettable perspective on the Matterhorn...
(431 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...
Sep 25, 2026 · By Sam Steele
Marvel at the layered history and remarkable cities of Italy on a First-Class vacation with Great Rail Journeys, traveling from Venice to the Amalfi Coast.
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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.
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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.
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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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