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Escorted Train Tours
Discover new places and cultures with expertly guided tours
Vacation Types

Our Top Selling Escorted Tours

Durango & Silverton Train
Colorado Rail Experience
8 days from $3,799 pp
  • Experience unforgettable journeys on six of Colorado’s most scenic heritage railways
  • Travel in First Class aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad with a three-course lunch
  • Enjoy a drive through the National Natural Landmark site of the Garden of the Gods
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Fraumunster Church
Best of Switzerland by Rail
10 days from $4,499 pp
  • Travel between Switzerland’s stunning towns onboard world-renowned railways
  • Experience the full route of the iconic Glacier Express from Zermatt to St Moritz
  • Visit some of Switzerland’s most charming cities including Zürich and lakeside Lucerne
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Piazza Navona, Rome
Scenic Europe By Rail: London to Rome
13 days from $6,899 pp
  • Explore the iconic capital cities of London and Paris, with a dinner cruise on the Seine
  • Gaze at the awe-inspiring Swiss Alps from Lake Lucerne and the top of Mount Pilatus
  • Discover the treasures of Venice, Florence and Rome on tours of Italy’s iconic cities
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Escorted Rail Tours & Vacations

An escorted tour offers so much more than an ordinary vacation. You can fully immerse yourself in a destination as our carefully curated itineraries show you the iconic sights and hidden gems, revealing the area's history, culture, and local flavors. So, whether you're dreaming of riding iconic trains in the Swiss Alps, uncovering Italy's historic cities, being awestruck by the palaces of India, exploring Canada on a cross-country journey, or embracing the wonders of our national parks, we'll make sure your vacation is filled with moments of great connection.

Every detail is taken care of, from travel and accommodations to selected meals, visits and excursions. For more than two decades, we've been crafting itineraries to destinations around the world and our award-winning vacations take the hassle out of travel. With us, you are free to simply sit back, relax, and enjoy a journey planned by our destination experts.

Wherever in the world you go, each escorted tour includes travel aboard iconic trains and by deluxe motorcoach as well as the perfect blend of comprehensive sightseeing and time at leisure. 

Curious About the Benefits of Escorted Travel?

There are many advantages to booking escorted tours:

  • Guidance of professional Tour Manager
  • Explore along with a group of fellow travelers
  • Includes travel aboard iconic trains and by deluxe motorcoach as needed
  • Includes hotel accommodations and some group meals
  • Baggage handling included on many tours
  • Curated itineraries that balance sightseeing and free time to explore
Excellent5 stars21,292 reviews on

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Call to Book:  1-877-929-7245

Why choose an escorted tour?

As a leading and trusted provider of escorted vacations, we sort out all the logistics so you can enjoy your experience - but there's even more…

Expertly guided by a professional Tour Manager

A dedicated Tour Manager is on hand from your meeting point to the tour conclusion. They are there to take the hassle out of travel and guide you through your vacation - letting you enjoy it to the fullest.

Explore along with a group of like-minded travelers

Our sociable groups are a great way to travel and even make new friends. Plus, with group sizes as low as 16 people on our small group tours, you enjoy a more personal way of exploring your chosen destination.

Travel by iconic train and deluxe motorcoach

With Great Rail Journeys, everything is taken care of, so you can relax. From world-famous rail journeys to luxury coach travel to off-the-track locations, all transfers throughout your tour are included in the price.

Curated itineraries that mix sightseeing and free time

With a selection of excursions included, you are fully immersed in your destination. From city tours to iconic rail journeys, discover the best of each location through guided sightseeing and ample free time.

174 results matching: Escorted Rail Tours

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Albuquerque Balloon FiestaAlbuquerque Balloon FiestaAlbuquerque Balloon FiestaAlbuquerque Balloon FiestaAlbuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta ft. California Zephyr
4.6 stars(67 reviews)
Escorted
2026SepOct
2027SepOct
Escorted

Discover the beauty of the Southwest in autumn on this memorable vacation featuring national parks, historic rail journeys and the world-famous International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. Travel on the iconic California Zephyr to Grand Junction and view the breathtaking landscapes of Arches and Mesa Verde National Parks, before riding the...

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9 days from
$4,699 pp
per person
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Conway Scenic RailroadConway Scenic RailroadConway Scenic RailroadConway Scenic RailroadConway Scenic Railroad
Last Spaces
New England in the Fall
Escorted
2026SepOct
2027SepOct
Escorted

On this new itinerary for 2026, experience scenic railways on an unforgettable tour of New England in the Fall. Travel through spectacular mountain scenery lit up with vivid colors on this autumn tour along America's scenic East Coast. Stay in Boston with time to explore its history and culture, then journey by boat to fascinating Salem. ...

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9 days from
$3,699 pp $3,399 pp
per person
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Mount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog Railway
Last Spaces
New England in a Nutshell
4.4 stars(75 reviews)
Escorted
2026SepOct
2027SepOct
Escorted

Behold the brilliance of nature's seasonal finale in New England this fall. For 6 days, find yourself surrounded by sights of gold, rust and crimson as you travel through leaf-peeping hotspots in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont. Begin with time in Boston, where a guided tour acquaints you with the most historically significant sites...

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6 days from
$2,999 pp $2,699 pp
per person
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Jacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam Train
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
4.4 stars(1072 reviews)
Escorted
2026AugSepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...
Escorted

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...

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9 days from
$3,399 pp
per person
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Kleine Scheddeg to the JungraujochKleine Scheddeg to the JungraujochKleine Scheddeg to the JungraujochKleine Scheddeg to the JungraujochKleine Scheddeg to the Jungraujoch
Grand Train Tour of Switzerland: An Escorted Experience
4.6 stars(256 reviews)
Escorted
2026Sep
2027MarAprMayJunJul...
Escorted

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...

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11 days from
$4,999 pp
per person
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Bryce CanyonBryce CanyonBryce CanyonBryce CanyonBryce Canyon
Last Spaces
Great Parks of the Southwest featuring the Grand Canyon
4.7 stars(119 reviews)
Escorted
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunSepOct
Escorted

Discover the natural wonders and rugged wilderness of the Southwest on this scenic rail tour through Canyon Country. This tour has it all: amazing national parks, classic train journeys, and spectacular sightseeing and excursions. Your adventure begins in Chicago with a classic rail journey aboard the legendary California Zephyr to Grand...

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10 days from
$3,999 pp
per person
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Conway Scenic Railroad Conway Scenic Railroad Conway Scenic Railroad Conway Scenic Railroad Conway Scenic Railroad
Last Spaces
Fall Colors, Scenic Trains & Martha's Vineyard
Escorted
2026SepOct
2027SepOct
Escorted

 The sites of yesteryear, iconic towns and delightful fall scenery set the backdrop for this New England adventure. Following an itinerary through Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island, this journey presents some of the nation's best autumnal foliage in unforgettable settings. Explore by rail on the Conway Scenic...

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10 days from
$3,799 pp $3,499 pp
per person
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Montmorency Falls, CanadaMontmorency Falls, CanadaMontmorency Falls, CanadaMontmorency Falls, CanadaMontmorency Falls, Canada
Last Spaces
Highlights of French Canada and Nova Scotia
Escorted
2026Oct
2027MayJunSepOct
Escorted

Eastern Canada's provinces draw the eye and capture the soul. Some of their best elements lie ahead as you explore French Canada's cities and the coastlines of Nova Scotia. In autumn, Canada's fiery fall foliage stands out against a bright blue sky, giving each destination a blazing backdrop. Spend time sightseeing and tasting your way...

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8 days from
$3,599 pp $3,299 pp
per person
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Glacier National ParkGlacier National ParkGlacier National ParkGlacier National ParkGlacier National Park
America's Great National Parks
4.6 stars(89 reviews)
Escorted
2026Aug
2027JunJulAugSep
Escorted

Discover five beloved national parks on this 13-day escorted tour through the West. Start with a classic overnight rail journey aboard the Empire Builder, following the pioneer route into Big Sky Country. Experience a float trip down a winding river, drive through Glacier National Park on an open-top Red Jammer bus and cruise across a...

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13 days from
$5,999 pp
per person
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Durango & Silverton TrainDurango & Silverton TrainDurango & Silverton TrainDurango & Silverton TrainDurango & Silverton Train
Colorado Rail Experience
4.6 stars(219 reviews)
Escorted
2026JulAugSepOct
2027MayJunJulAugSepOct
Escorted

From soaring peaks to deep gorges and iconic sites, including the Garden of the Gods, relish untamed Colorado on this remarkable rail vacation featuring six heritage trains. Delve into the Colorado Rockies' mining history on the Georgetown Loop Railroad and the Leadville Railroad, and skirt the San Juan Mountains on the Durango & Silverton...

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8 days from
$3,799 pp
per person
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Alaska RailroadAlaska RailroadAlaska RailroadAlaska RailroadAlaska Railroad
Alaska the Greatland
4.5 stars(151 reviews)
Escorted
2026AugSep
2027MayJunJulAug
Escorted

Nine unforgettable days showcase the Last Frontier's wild beauty on this expertly guided vacation. Uncover Fairbanks on a riverboat trip and meet sledding dogs, then ride Alaska Railroad's legendary Denali Star. Marvel at North America's tallest mountain and its incredible wildlife in Denali National Park and Talkeetna, before continuing...

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9 days from
$5,499 pp
per person
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Fraumunster ChurchFraumunster ChurchFraumunster ChurchFraumunster ChurchFraumunster Church
Best of Switzerland by Rail
4.4 stars(184 reviews)
Escorted
2027MarAprMayJunJul...
Escorted

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 ...

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10 days from
$4,499 pp
per person
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Show all 174 tours

Our customers love our Escorted Tours tours
Colorado Rail Experience
23/Jun
JillRoy
5 stars
“Sherry Moon did a fantastic job as did our driver, Jess. The whole trip was marvelous and far exceeded our expectations. We would definitely travel with Vacations by Rail in the future.
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Train Tour of Switzerland: An Escorted Experience
22/Jun
customer
5 stars
“We were able to experience much of Switzerland as we rode the different trains and spend time exploring different cities. Our tour manager Alan worked hard to make sure we all had an exceptional experience.
Collected by Trustpilot
Great Parks of the Southwest featuring the Grand Canyon
11/Jun
Harry Gregori
5 stars
“Great trip, staff and arrangements all excellent.
Collected by Trustpilot
New England in a Nutshell
06 Nov 2025
Suzanne Howze
5 stars
“Our tour guide was great! Also the trip was well thought out and well-organized. My only suggestion; please have people wear name tags. Please, please.
Collected by Trustpilot
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta ft. California Zephyr
27 Oct 2025
Michael Mefferd Jr
5 stars
“This was our first vacation out west and we found it very enjoyable. The scenery was spectacular and the towns were interesting. I loved Santa Fe and would like to visit again. The tour manager, bus driver and all the people on the bus were very friendly. There were some...
Collected by Trustpilot
America's Great National Parks
23 Sep 2025
Mary Cross
5 stars
“Our guide, Sherry Moon, made our trip amazing! She had so much info to go with all of our breathtaking stops. We saw so many things. They really packed a lot in for 13 days!
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
12/Jul
Avril
4 stars
“Very well organized tour and Martin our tour manager was excellent. Hotels services were good and the rooma in the main spacious. We would have liked air conditioning in some of the inner city hotels as the rooms were very stuffy. Choice of meals throughout the tour...
Collected by Trustpilot
Best of Switzerland by Rail
23/Jun
Stephen Way
4 stars
“it was very nice. left a review earlier and rated our tour director
Collected by Trustpilot
Alaska the Greatland
23/Jun
LYNN BALLENTINE
4 stars
“Thought Trip would be daily train trips , not 1/2 buses … lodging good , but transportation needed for meals not provided .. added own day trips for down time
Collected by Trustpilot

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in an escorted vacation?

To give you the best value, each of the following is included in the price of your escorted tour:

  • Guidance and expertise of a professional Tour Manager
  • All guided tours and excursions
  • All rail and motorcoach travel throughout your tour
  • Hand-picked hotels and some group meals
  • Curated itineraries that balance sightseeing and free time to explore

How do I choose a suitably paced vacation?

To make sure you have the best experience possible, each of our tours is rated from 1 to 4 based on the level of physical activity.

  • Level 1 - Leisurely Tourist
  • Level 2 - Everyday Traveler
  • Level 3 - Comfortable Explorer
  • Level 4 - Active Adventurer

We understand that everyone has different abilities and concerns, so if you're not sure if a tour is for you after doing your research, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us. View the full Mobility Rating Scale.

How many people go on one of your tours?

Our group sizes vary between tours, but you can expect to travel with around 20-35 other customers, with a maximum of 40.

Great Rail Journeys is a market leader when it comes to small group tours. We're proud of being pioneers in our approach to group sizes and have become the leading operator for escorted vacations. On these tours, the size can be as low as 16 travelers and an average of 22, to a maximum of 30.

What are the excursions like?

Excursions are included in the price of your vacation. They are designed to give a balance of cultural, historical, and social interest, and to give you insight into the areas we visit. We try to use trains for excursions, however we sometimes utilize deluxe motorcoaches or boats to get to places of interest. Where motorcoaches are used, these are of high quality and we aim to keep coach journeys to a maximum of two hours between stops. On most excursions, in addition to your Tour Manager, we are accompanied by a local guide to impart specialist knowledge of the sights being visited. Some excursions are to off-the-beaten-track destinations that simply would not be visited without this local knowledge.

Do we have to join in?

Traveling with Great Rail Journeys, you will never feel as if you are just part of a "herd". Customers sometimes break away from the group to explore independently and there is plenty of flexibility within the itineraries to explore and dine on your own. Many of our excursions will feature free time at a destination to explore it at your own pace. There are also those who prefer to forego a particular excursion to relax at the hotel - it is your vacation after all.

Your Tour Manager is there to provide help when you need it or to discreetly "disappear" when you don't. The itinerary is comprehensive, but not compulsory - it is very easy to opt in or out as one pleases. There is time to yourself and freedom to indulge your own interests.