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Independent Tours In Europe
“This was my first independent tour with vacations by rail and I like the balance of planned activities and free time. The tour guides we had were very good.”
CHARLES SOUCEK - Traveller
5 stars
Collected by Trustpilot

Independent Rail Tours in Europe

Embark on an independent rail tour across Europe and set your own pace for adventure! Travel through iconic destinations, from the romance of Paris to the historic charm of Rome and beyond. Whether you're exploring vibrant capitals or serene landscapes, our expertly curated itineraries offer the freedom to discover Europe on your terms.

Each independent rail tour features legendary train routes, immersive sightseeing, and plenty of leisure time to explore at your own pace. Choose from a wide range of European tours, including regional explorations, and cross-country journeys.

Curious about the benefits of traveling Independent?

There are many advantages to booking independent tours:

  • Curated itineraries that allow for you to travel at your own pace
  • Pricing includes travel, transfers, and accommodations so you don't have to think about it
  • Local excursions and guided tours are included
  • Various add-ons are available to customize your trip
  • Flexible dates to meet your needs

Our Recommended Tours

Matterhorn, Zermatt
Last Chance 2025
4.4 stars(45 reviews)
Independent
2025JulAugSepOctDec
2026JanFebMarAprMay...
6 days from
$2,255 pp $2,055 pp
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Lake Como
Last Chance 2025
4.4 stars(17 reviews)
Independent
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
13 days from
$5,175 pp $4,975 pp
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Landwasser Viaduct Glacier Express
Last Chance 2025
4.6 stars(74 reviews)
Independent
2025JulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
11 days from
$3,905 pp $3,605 pp
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Barcelona
Last Chance 2025
4.5 stars(25 reviews)
Independent
2025JulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
9 days from
$2,835 pp $2,635 pp
View Details
Save up to $500
4.6 stars(59 reviews)
Independent
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
9 days from
$2,815 pp $2,615 pp
View Details

Cuisine & Culture Vacations

Paris, Champagne & Bordeaux

Fill your days with French cuisine and culture on this expedition highlighting four renowned regions.

Dublin, Killarney & Galway

Cities overflowing with history, culture and culinary prowess collide with the Emerald Isle's impressive coastal scenery.

Rome, Florence & Venice

Wine, architecture and all-encompassing culture welcome you to Italy on this 9-day rail vacation.

Lisbon & Porto

The sunny Iberian Peninsula is brimming with stunning coastlines and delicious gastronomy, all of which are yours to savor.

Barcelona, Madrid & Seville

Sunny Spain, where a colorful atmosphere is cultivated through flavorful cuisine and centuries of tradition.

23 results matching: Independent Tours

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Matterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, Zermatt
Last Chance 2025
4.4 stars(45 reviews)
Independent
2025JulAugSepOctDec
2026JanFebMarAprMay...
Independent

If there is one thing Switzerland is known for, it is its otherworldly mountain scenes. The Swiss Alps are an icon, and when views of them are combined with stays in charming resort towns and rides aboard some of the world's most scenic railways, it is the recipe for an unforgettable vacation. Begin in Zurich with a day to get acclimated to the...

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Last Chance 2025
6 days from
$2,255 pp $2,055 pp
per person
View Details
Landwasser Viaduct Glacier ExpressLandwasser Viaduct Glacier ExpressLandwasser Viaduct Glacier ExpressLandwasser Viaduct Glacier ExpressLandwasser Viaduct Glacier Express
Last Chance 2025
4.6 stars(74 reviews)
Independent
2025JulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

Discover the diverse regions of Switzerland on this 11-day vacation. This trip, which takes you on a variety of Swiss rail lines, is a train lover's dream. Filled with twists and turns along rivers and mountainsides, you can relax and enjoy stunning views only available via rail. You'll view stunning landscapes such as the Bernese Oberland,...

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Last Chance 2025
11 days from
$3,905 pp $3,605 pp
per person
View Details
Save up to $500
4.6 stars(59 reviews)
Independent
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

Through museum visits, guided tours and culinary experiences, delve into the history and incredible culture of Italy. This nine-day expedition follows a northerly course that takes travelers from Rome in the south to Venice on the cusp of the Adriatic Sea. Each stop along the way paints a memorable picture of Italy's immense beauty. Distinctive...

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Save up to $500
9 days from
$2,815 pp $2,615 pp
per person
View Details
BarcelonaBarcelonaBarcelonaBarcelonaBarcelona
Last Chance 2025
4.5 stars(25 reviews)
Independent
2025JulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
Independent

Sunny Spain, where a colorful atmosphere is cultivated through flavorful cuisine and centuries of tradition. Your fascinating rail vacation take you to Barcelona, Madrid, Toledo, and Seville, where independent sightseeing and optional excursions pair with guided touring to enrich each day and make it one to remember. Enjoy a paella cooking...

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Last Chance 2025
9 days from
$2,835 pp $2,635 pp
per person
View Details
Lake Como Lake Como Lake Como Lake Como Lake Como
Last Chance 2025
4.4 stars(17 reviews)
Independent
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

Find yourself steeped in luxury and surrounded by tradition on this memorable tour of Italy. Explore various regions throughout the country, from Como in the Italian alps near the Swiss border to the farmlands of Tuscany and the beautiful cities alongside the Amalfi Coast. A thoughtfully composed mixture of guided touring, optional excursions, and...

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Last Chance 2025
13 days from
$5,175 pp $4,975 pp
per person
View Details
Jungfrau RailwayJungfrau RailwayJungfrau RailwayJungfrau RailwayJungfrau Railway
Last Chance 2025
4.4 stars(22 reviews)
Independent
2025JulAugSepOct
2026JanFebMarAprMay...
Independent

Soaring snow-clad peaks frame charming cities steeped in history, and sprawling valleys lead to crystalline glacier-fed lakes in stunning Switzerland. Sit back and relax as these elements are brought to life aboard some of the world's most famous rail lines, including the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express, on this independent journey. The...

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Last Chance 2025
8 days from
$3,105 pp $2,805 pp
per person
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InterlakenInterlakenInterlakenInterlakenInterlaken
Last Chance 2025
Independent
2025JulAugSepOctNovDec
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

More than two weeks of dramatic alpine scenery, charming destinations and remarkable rail adventures beckon on this independent trip to Switzerland. With an included Swiss Travel Pass providing unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat; complimentary admission to 500-plus museums; select mountain rail excursions; and a 50% discount on many other...

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Last Chance 2025
15 days from
$3,885 pp $3,685 pp
per person
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Cliffs Of MoherCliffs Of MoherCliffs Of MoherCliffs Of MoherCliffs Of Moher
Last Chance 2025
4.3 stars(19 reviews)
Independent
2025AugSepOctNovDec
2026JanFebMarAprMay...
Independent

Where else can you kiss a stone said to bestow eloquence, sip freshly made Guinness beer, and look upon 700-foot cliffs towering over the powerful Atlantic Ocean than Ireland? This country may be known for its hearty spirit and rolling landscapes, yet there is much more to uncover. On this independent expedition, spend nine days traveling through...

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Last Chance 2025
9 days from
$3,045 pp $2,845 pp
per person
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Jeronimos MonastreyJeronimos MonastreyJeronimos MonastreyJeronimos MonastreyJeronimos Monastrey
Last Chance 2025
4.7 stars(18 reviews)
Independent
2025JulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
Independent

Where the sun meets the sea and centuries of history are presented through architecture, dancing and some of the finest wine and cuisine in the world, Portugal is a vacation destination that calls to travelers of all interests. Find what appeals to you while spending seven days exploring this idyllic piece of Europe. This thoughtfully planned...

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Last Chance 2025
7 days from
$2,535 pp $2,335 pp
per person
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Isle of SkyeIsle of SkyeIsle of SkyeIsle of SkyeIsle of Skye
Last Chance 2025
4.0 stars(26 reviews)
Independent
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

A land where legends are just as prevalent as natural beauty, Scotland plays host for this journey of a lifetime. Settle in as you explore from south to north aboard a legendary rail line, and by way of scenic roadways through the highlands. Incredible history and stunning neogothic architecture offer a grand introduction to the country as the...

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Last Chance 2025
9 days from
$3,095 pp $2,795 pp
per person
View Details
Spanish StepsSpanish StepsSpanish StepsSpanish StepsSpanish Steps
Save up to $500
4.6 stars(13 reviews)
Independent
2025JulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

Let ocean views and cities that span the ages capture your heart in beautiful Italy. It is no secret this country is brimming with fantastic offerings, from its gastronomy to its scenery and rich culture, and this independent expedition is your chance to immerse yourself in it all. Throughout the journey, an enticing mixture of private and...

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Save up to $500
8 days from
$3,825 pp $3,625 pp
per person
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FlorenceFlorenceFlorenceFlorenceFlorence
Save up to $500
4.6 stars(5 reviews)
Independent
2025JulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

Experience the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and one of the world's most celebrated gastronomical regions in beautiful, artistic Tuscany. This central Italian expedition follows a roundtrip course from Rome and includes visits to widely known Tuscan cities and smaller towns alike. Spend several nights in Florence and Siena and your days...

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Save up to $500
8 days from
$2,835 pp $2,635 pp
per person
View Details
Our customers love our Independent Tours tours
Edinburgh, the Jacobite & Isle of Skye
24/Jun
JONATHAN RICKET
5 stars
“Long day but very worthwhile
Collected by Trustpilot
Cuisine & Culture: Rome, Florence & Venice
23/Jun
REGINA MARIE COSFOL
5 stars
“Excellent trip, managed professionally and efficiently by VBR
Collected by Trustpilot
Zermatt & St. Moritz featuring Glacier Express
10/Jun
customer
5 stars
“I preferred the glacier Express over the Bernina Express. Excellent service & food. The train allowed great views
Collected by Trustpilot
Cuisine & Culture: Dublin, Killarney & Galway
2/Jun
CANDACE WOODWARD-CLOUGH
5 stars
“Beautiful trip. Plan extra money for taxis! Hit all the main sites. We have a Private historical tour and food four. Wonderful
Collected by Trustpilot
Switzerland by Rail: Glacier Express, Jungfrau & Bernina Express
11/May
Harry Brandt
5 stars
“Great vacation. We enjoyed every moment of it.
Collected by Trustpilot
Explore Italy: Pompeii, Capri & the Amalfi Coast
17/Apr
MARK STEVEN RICHARD
5 stars
“Excellent service! Can't recommend VBR enough.
Collected by Trustpilot
Cuisine & Culture: Barcelona, Madrid & Seville
14/Apr
LUCINDA ANN DALY
5 stars
“This unescorted tour of Barcelona, Madrid and Sevilla was outstanding. The preferred seating on the train is spectacular.! The food tour in Barcelona for tapas was lovely and generally, we enjoyed the entire trip!
Collected by Trustpilot
Highlights of Switzerland & Italy by Rail
05 Oct 2024
LEE GODWIN
5 stars
“Couldn’t recommend this company more.
Collected by Trustpilot
Explore Tuscany: Florence & Siena
14 Aug 2024
MARY EIDSON
5 stars
“Wonderful tour guides. Beautiful and comfortable accommodations. Our bed and breakfast had a fabulous view of Siena. We had a wonderful trip.
Collected by Trustpilot

Self-Guided Tours in Europe

Touring Europe on your own is an experience of a lifetime - one that whisks you to centuries-old destinations brimming with culture and offers endless opportunities for extravagant adventures. Select from more than 50 independent tours in Europe, each of which provides well-planned itineraries in popular destinations, travel aboard Europe's renowned trains and stays in centrally located hotels. Comprehensive sightseeing trips are included in many independent packages, giving exclusive introductions to landmark sites with the help of a local guide. Assuredly, there are also abundant opportunities for you to get acquainted with the cities at your own pace.

Enjoy a personalized journey on these DIY Europe tours. With less structure than traditional European tours, you have the chance to explore the points of interest that most align with your travel bucket list. Take the opportunity to venture through cities at leisure, perhaps delving further into the historic, artistic or culinary scenes as it suits you.

Travel through cities across the continent with one of our independent vacations. Connect the cobblestone streets of London with France's historic arrondissements and Rome's piazzas by train, or perhaps travel from chic Paris to the vineyards in the south of France by high-speed rail. Visit the Imperial Cities of Berlin, Prague and Vienna or complete the "Classic Grand Tour" of Italy, complete with visits to Rome, Florence and Venice. Navigate through the vibrant cities of Spain from a first-class seat on an efficient AVE train. Our independent vacations can also take you to Ireland or the Scottish Highlights, where castles, verdant landscapes and fascinating lore leave you craving more. Take your expedition into your own hands with any one of these self-guided tours of Europe.

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