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Short Breaks

Short Break Rail Tours & Vacations

A small taste of culture and a sampling of adventure, short breaks are your chance to relax and recharge. These quick getaways, ranging from 2 to 6 days, are ideal for embarking on new travel experiences and soaking in the delights that a change in scenery can bring.

In the United States, short break holidays can take you to stunning protected parklands, including Glacier National Park, or natural wonders of the world, such as the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls. Fans of city breaks appreciate samplers of some of the nation's most extraordinary locales while on getaways that feature New Orleans or Chicago and New York City.

Amtrak's well-connected railway system sets the tone for unforgettable long weekend breaks. Join the California Zephyr in navigating the great American landscape, venturing from Chicago, through the Rockies, to San Francisco. The Coast Starlight's incredible route along the Pacific Seaboard showcases California's beauty while traveling between Seattle and Los Angeles. For one of the more luxurious short breaks by rail, consider joining America's newest luxury train, Rocky Mountaineer, on its epic Rockies to the Red Rocks route from Denver, CO, to Moab, UT.

Imagine discovering Europe's unbelievable history on Euro city breaks. Though it may seem impossible, there are plenty of tour options that introduce the centuries-old architecture, local cuisine, and nuances of regional culture in one charming little package. Venture through the Scottish Highlands, explore Switzerland's charming alpine towns, or visit traditional Christmas Markets along the Rhine. Whether you are looking for short spring break trips or quick retreats into the varied countries that compose the European landscape, the continent's far-reaching railways make it possible. Some of Europe's most luxurious railways also offer a platform for adventure, even on a limited timeline. Consider short holidays that feature the Royal Scotsman or the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for a classic overnight route between Venice and Paris.

Start planning your short break with these imaginative itineraries ideal for a short getaway.

28 results matching: Short Breaks

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Mount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog Railway
4.3 stars(58 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 Conway...

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6 days from
$2,999 pp $2,599 pp
per person
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Grand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand Canyon
Save up to $400pp
4.3 stars(316 reviews)
Independent
2026Dec
2027JanFebMarAprMay...
Independent

The classic ambiance of an overnight rail journey meets the splendors of one of America's top natural attractions on this rail vacation to Arizona. Join Amtrak's Southwest Chief on its cross-country route from Chicago to Flagstaff, and then board the 120-year-old Grand Canyon Railway on its route to the Grand Canyon. Uncover iconic views...

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Save up to $400pp
6 days from
$1,095 pp $995 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Cologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas Markets
Save up to $400pp
Escorted
2026NovDec
2027NovDec
Escorted

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 season. ...

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Save up to $400pp
5 days from
$1,299 pp $899 pp
per person
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Niagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara Falls
4.0 stars(64 reviews)
Independent
2026Oct
Independent

Discover the wonders of Niagara Falls on this 4-day rail adventure. Beginning and ending in New York City, travel aboard Amtrak's Maple Leaf for a full-day journey through upstate New York and into Ontario. Make the most of your two full days in Niagara Falls, enjoying the sights and sounds of the thundering falls and exploring the area's local...

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4 days from
$695 pp
per person
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Matterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, Zermatt
4.4 stars(70 reviews)
Independent
2026Dec
2027JanFebMarAprMay...
Independent

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 from...

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6 days from
$2,195 pp
per person
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Desert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View Watchtower
Save up to $400pp
4.2 stars(28 reviews)
Independent
2026Dec
2027JanFebMarAprMay...
Independent

Beginning in Los Angeles, board Amtrak's Southwest Chief for the overnight journey to Flagstaff, Arizona, where you will catch the historic Grand Canyon Railway for the ride to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. This 4-day rail vacation includes travel aboard two iconic trains, hotel accommodations in Flagstaff and Grand Canyon National Park,...

Save up to $400pp
5 days from
$995 pp $895 pp
per person
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Glacier Parks Lakes and WildflowersGlacier Parks Lakes and WildflowersGlacier Parks Lakes and WildflowersGlacier Parks Lakes and WildflowersGlacier Parks Lakes and Wildflowers
Save up to $400pp
Independent
2027JunJulAugSep
Independent

Your two-night stay is in the heart of the unspoiled natural attractions and stunning beauty Glacier National Park. Wondrous displays of nature, historic lodges, and sightseeing through the forests and valleys of this complex ecosystem are highlights of your stay before returning by train to Chicago.

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Save up to $400pp
5 days from
$1,595 pp $1,495 pp
per person
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Colorful Sky Over Bow FallsColorful Sky Over Bow FallsColorful Sky Over Bow FallsColorful Sky Over Bow FallsColorful Sky Over Bow Falls
Save up to $400pp
4.5 stars(34 reviews)
Independent
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

Combine sightseeing and relaxation in Western Canada on this five-day vacation into the Canadian Rockies. After staying in the vibrant city of Vancouver, join a daylight-only journey on the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer, passing through the Fraser Canyon, riding along the winding Thompson River, and traveling through tunnels to Banff, one of...

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Save up to $400pp
5 days from
$3,095 pp $2,795 pp
per person
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California ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia Zephyr
4.0 stars(59 reviews)
Independent
2026OctNovDec
2027JanFebMarAprMay...
Independent

Before embarking on your 2,300 mile journey to San Francisco, take advantage of your time in Chicago by visiting the city's famed attractions such as the John Hancock Observation Deck, ride the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier or window shop down The Magnificent Mile. The city also offers a rich cultural experience with its several museums and the...

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5 days from
$895 pp
per person
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Pacific Ocean and Big Sur CoastlinePacific Ocean and Big Sur CoastlinePacific Ocean and Big Sur CoastlinePacific Ocean and Big Sur CoastlinePacific Ocean and Big Sur Coastline
4.4 stars(29 reviews)
Independent
2026OctNovDec
Independent

En route daily between Seattle and Los Angeles, the Coast Starlight passes through Portland, Sacramento, the San Francisco Bay Area and Santa Barbara. The scenery along the Coast Starlight route is unsurpassed. The dramatic snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta, lush forests, fertile valleys and long stretches of Pacific...

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4 days from
$795 pp
per person
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Brocken RailwayBrocken RailwayBrocken RailwayBrocken RailwayBrocken Railway
4.2 stars(52 reviews)
Escorted
2026Dec
2027NovDec
Escorted

The Harz Mountains' medieval towns and picturesque landscapes are perfect for soaking up the magic of Advent in Germany. Experience the festive atmosphere of three of the region's traditional Christmas markets - Wernigerode, Quedlinburg and Goslar - where twinkling lights and sumptuous aromas delight the senses. Discover the captivating...

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6 days from
$2,199 pp $1,799 pp
per person
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Arches National ParkArches National ParkArches National ParkArches National ParkArches National Park
Independent
2026OctNov
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

 Find inspiration in the in-between aboard Canyon Spirit, America's premier luxury train. Step aboard for a three-day trip that focuses on the journey, putting sightseeing at the forefront of the adventure. Depart from Salt Lake City, and enjoy delicious meals and expert commentary while traveling into the deserts and canyons of Moab. The...

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3 days from
$2,439 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Short Breaks tours
New England in a Nutshell
30/Sep
customer
5 stars
“The trip was amazing!! The fall colors were so beautiful. We had so many great stops and our guide Linda was outstanding!
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
29/Sep
KURT KRALY
5 stars
“The rep was almost flawless except for the fact that our train had mechanical troubles halfway to the Grand Canyon. However, our train car host Taryn did a great mcjob mod entertaining u during the delay with stories and factoids about the history of the Grand Canyon and with...
Collected by Trustpilot
New York to Niagara Falls
25/Sep
CORRIE TERASHITA
5 stars
“Had an amazing trip. The whole process was easy and simple to do.
Collected by Trustpilot
Canadian Rockies Escape with Rocky Mountaineer
17/Sep
Gene
5 stars
“hard to beat what mother nature has made glad I got to make the tour
Collected by Trustpilot
Zermatt & St. Moritz featuring Glacier Express
10/Sep
Kathleen Malerba
5 stars
“Excellent views and service
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure - Los Angeles
1/Aug
MARIA GARCIA
5 stars
“The train ride at night was a little shake as it was my first time riding the rails at night. But the view during the day light was beautiful.
Collected by Trustpilot
Coast Starlight Experience
28/May
Kevin Stone
5 stars
“We enjoyed our train trip from Seattle to Los Angeles. The service on the train was excellent. The food was good. We look forward to doing it again.
Collected by Trustpilot
Harz Mountains Christmas Markets
26 Dec 2025
Brian
5 stars
“Beautiful historic towns and the best Christmas Markets.
Collected by Trustpilot
California Zephyr Experience
29/Sep
customer
4 stars
“The scenery was great, but having to gonal stop in Emeryville without lighting in the bathroom/shower left a lot to be desired. We didn't have any light in this area from the time we left Denver until the final stop in Emeryville. We informed the cabin attendant (Jose)...
Collected by Trustpilot