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

Our Top Selling Escorted Tours

Durango & Silverton Train
Colorado Rail Experience
8 days from $3,699 pp $3,199 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 $4,199 pp $3,699 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 First-Class Rail: London to Rome
13 days from $6,199 pp $5,699 pp
  • Explore the iconic capital cities of London and Paris, traveling by First Class rail
  • 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 stars29,888 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.

189 results matching: Escorted Rail Tours

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Albuquerque Balloon FiestaAlbuquerque Balloon FiestaAlbuquerque Balloon FiestaAlbuquerque Balloon FiestaAlbuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Save up to $500pp
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta ft. California Zephyr
4.3 stars(68 reviews)
Escorted
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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Save up to $500pp
9 days from
$4,799 pp $4,299 pp
per person
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Jacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam Train
Save up to $500pp
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
4.4 stars(1333 reviews)
Escorted
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
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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Save up to $500pp
9 days from
$3,199 pp $2,699 pp
per person
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Glacier Express Landwasser ViaductGlacier Express Landwasser ViaductGlacier Express Landwasser ViaductGlacier Express Landwasser ViaductGlacier Express Landwasser Viaduct
Save up to $500pp
Grand Train Tour of Switzerland: An Escorted Experience
4.5 stars(128 reviews)
Escorted
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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Save up to $500pp
11 days from
$4,499 pp $3,999 pp
per person
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Fraumunster ChurchFraumunster ChurchFraumunster ChurchFraumunster ChurchFraumunster Church
Save up to $500pp
Best of Switzerland by Rail
4.6 stars(107 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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Save up to $500pp
10 days from
$4,199 pp $3,699 pp
per person
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Durango & Silverton TrainDurango & Silverton TrainDurango & Silverton TrainDurango & Silverton TrainDurango & Silverton Train
Save up to $500pp
Colorado Rail Experience
4.6 stars(510 reviews)
Escorted
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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Save up to $500pp
8 days from
$3,699 pp $3,199 pp
per person
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Northern Lights, AlaskaNorthern Lights, AlaskaNorthern Lights, AlaskaNorthern Lights, AlaskaNorthern Lights, Alaska
Save up to $500pp
Alaska Northern Lights & Winter Nights – An Escorted Journey
4.7 stars(67 reviews)
Escorted
2027Mar
Escorted

Seek the magical aurora borealis on a sensational winter journey from Fairbanks to Anchorage, riding the amazing Aurora Winter Train in the shadow of Denali. An evening in the wilderness provides a great chance to catch the Northern Lights, while an exciting dog-sled ride through the snow-covered tundra and a curling lesson help uncover the...

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Save up to $500pp
7 days from
$3,699 pp $3,199 pp
per person
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Alaska RailroadAlaska RailroadAlaska RailroadAlaska RailroadAlaska Railroad
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Alaska the Greatland
4.6 stars(168 reviews)
Escorted
2027MayJunJulAugSep
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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Save up to $500pp
9 days from
$5,699 pp $5,199 pp
per person
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Mount RushmoreMount RushmoreMount RushmoreMount RushmoreMount Rushmore
Save up to $500pp
Mt. Rushmore, the Badlands, & Yellowstone
4.5 stars(126 reviews)
Escorted
2027MayJunJulAugSep
Escorted

Embark on an 11-day escorted tour of the Old West's rugged frontier towns, majestic landscapes and renowned national historic sites. Journey across America's Western frontier on Amtrak's legendary California Zephyr from Chicago to Provo, Utah. Cross the Rocky Mountains, discovering hidden landscapes where the region's beauty comes to life...

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Save up to $500pp
11 days from
$5,899 pp $5,399 pp
per person
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Rocky Mountaineer Rainforest to Gold RushRocky Mountaineer Rainforest to Gold RushRocky Mountaineer Rainforest to Gold RushRocky Mountaineer Rainforest to Gold RushRocky Mountaineer Rainforest to Gold Rush
GoldLeaf Available
Save up to $500pp
Canadian Rockies & Rocky Mountaineer
4.6 stars(83 reviews)
Escorted
2027MayJunJulAugSepOct
Escorted

All aboard the storied rails of the Rocky Mountaineer for a journey into Canada's picturesque Rocky Mountains. Beginning in the coastal metropolis of Vancouver, discover the sights of the city before boarding the panoramic carriages of the Rocky Mountaineer to Kamloops. Wind through mountain landscapes enroute to Jasper, for an excursion to...

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Save up to $500pp
8 days from
$5,699 pp $5,199 pp
per person
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Glacier National ParkGlacier National ParkGlacier National ParkGlacier National ParkGlacier National Park
Save up to $500pp
America's Great National Parks
4.6 stars(220 reviews)
Escorted
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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Save up to $500pp
13 days from
$6,199 pp $5,699 pp
per person
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Mount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog Railway
New England in a Nutshell
4.3 stars(78 reviews)
Escorted
2027SepOct
Escorted

Bask in hues of gold, russet and crimson on this escorted tour of New England, visiting leaf-peeping hotspots across three of its beautiful states. Visit significant landmarks of American history on a guided tour of Boston, before traveling through the famous foliage of Kancamagus Highway. Admire the atmospheric White Mountains in North ...

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6 days from
$3,399 pp $2,899 pp
per person
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Grand Alpine ExplorerGrand Alpine ExplorerGrand Alpine ExplorerGrand Alpine ExplorerGrand Alpine Explorer
Save up to $500pp
First-Class Grand Alpine Explorer
4.5 stars(93 reviews)
Escorted
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep
Escorted

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...

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Save up to $500pp
14 days from
$5,399 pp $4,899 pp
per person
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Show all 189 tours

Our customers love our Escorted Tours tours
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
22/Oct
Eugene Smolens
5 stars
“The trip was wonderful but it left very little down time for rest between wakeup, meals, travel arrangements and special events. Excellent transportation of luggage from start to end. Caring and efficient tour manager. Excellent lodging except for one place which I can identify.
Collected by Trustpilot
New England in a Nutshell
22/Oct
Ed
5 stars
“Scott Hurd did a fantastic job keeping everything running smoothly and very informative. The places we stayed were top notch. ENJOYED the whole experience . HIGHLY recommend.
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Train Tour of Switzerland: An Escorted Experience
22/Oct
Maureen Johnson
5 stars
“Loved our guide, Alan. Everything was terrific, even when there were problems with a rail line. My husband and I loved every minute
Collected by Trustpilot
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta ft. California Zephyr
22/Oct
Brian Hermes
5 stars
“The Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque was amazing. This trip is one my wife and I will remember for a long time. If you have not experienced the Balloon Fiesta, I highly recommend you experience it. For it is truly an experience.
Collected by Trustpilot
Best of Switzerland by Rail
19/Oct
Frank Settle
5 stars
“Great trip. Aha was an excellent guide. Lived up to expectations
Collected by Trustpilot
Alaska the Greatland
5/Oct
Michelle B
5 stars
“This was the most perfect trip I could’ve ever imagined. The accommodations were very nice. The schedule was not too hurried, there was time for rest time for private excursions, and time to see beautiful scenery. I never thought I would be able to cross seeing the northern lights off...
Collected by Trustpilot
First-Class Grand Alpine Explorer
1/Oct
customer
5 stars
“This trip provided so many beautiful views as well as time to experience the towns and get into the culture there. We felt the day to Tirano could have been left out and just provided another “free day” but overall it was well planned and executed. Our tour guide, Howard,...
Collected by Trustpilot
Alaska Northern Lights & Winter Nights – An Escorted Journey
11/Apr
Marcia
5 stars
“This was the truly the trip of a lifetime. It surpassed all my expectations. All of the accommodations, from the planned meals to the bus, were first class. Everyone should experience Alaska like this! (Not to mention, my grandson proposing to his girlfriend under the Northern Lights!)
Collected by Trustpilot
Canadian Rockies & Rocky Mountaineer
21/Oct
SHILPA K
4 stars
“Everything was good. I was disappointed with the Welcome Dinner- it felt like Great Rail Journeys didn’t value their clients.
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.