Europe is a beautifully diverse continent, home to the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands as well as the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. Traveling Europe by train or a river cruise allows you to soak in the landscapes as you move between cities. On our well-planned itineraries the journey is part of the adventure.
Recommended Destinations: Scotland, Switzerland, Italy, Ireland, Spain & Portugal, France, Germany & Eastern Europe, Scandinavia
Ride Famous Trains: Glacier Express, Jungfrau Railway, Jacobite Steam Train, Royal Scotsman, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Bergen Railway and more.
Explore by Travel Type: Escorted tours guided by a tour manager, River Cruises on their own or paired with a scenic rail tour, and Independent itineraries to explore at your own pace. We offer small group tours across Europe.
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quote to pair with your vacation.Explore our top escorted and independent vacation packages in Europe
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(520 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...
(268 reviews)Discover the amazing scenery of Switzerland from alpine peaks to brilliant blue lakes. Experience the best of this incredible country on an escorted grand tour, exploring stunning lakes and awe-inspiring mountains. Journey on some of its most iconic trains, including the Glacier Express, Bernina Express and the GoldenPass Express. Each locale...
A stunning adventure from beginning to end, this journey combines time in beautiful Switzerland, riding the iconic Glacier Express, with a magical seven-night cruise on the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Stay in Zermatt, beneath the Matterhorn, and enjoy two spectacular rail excursions before sailing past the castles, forests and Lorelei Rock in...
(41 reviews)From Europe's exciting cityscapes to the stunning heights of the Swiss Alps and idyllic Tuscan countryside, this 12-day exploration opens the doors to Europe's rich history, culture and traditions. Uncover iconic landmarks in London, sail along the romantic Seine in Paris and marvel at Switzerland's stunning Alps during a lake cruise and...
(50 reviews)Enjoy one of the world's finest rail journeys aboard the legendary Glacier Express to Zermatt and admire Matterhorn views from the charming Gornergrat Railroad. Descending the Alps, set sail on a sensational Rhine cruise, indulging in luxurious amenities and superb service. Enroute, savor incredible vistas of the stunning Rhine Gorge. Wander...
(221 reviews)From Switzerland's largest city, Zürich, this round-trip unveils an unforgettable perspective on this small but stunning European country. Uncover delightful towns such as medieval St Gallen and Lucerne, lakeside Montreux, upmarket St Moritz and charming Zermatt, traveling between them on Switzerland's famed trains. Renowned railroads provide a...
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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...
Beginning in the beautiful floating city of Venice, explore a thousand years of history before discovering the magnificent Renaissance city of Florence and unveiling the ancient classical sites of Rome on an expert-led tour. Staying in four diverse bases - Venice, the spa town of Montecatini Terme, Rome and romantic Sorrento - this...
Feel the spirit of Christmas 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. Strolling through the stalls, admire the craftsmanship of local artisans and savor the flavors that define the season. On board, soak in the natural beauty of the...
Delve into the diverse culture of Southern Italy and glorious Sicily, immersing yourself in its rich history, landscapes, and idyllic coastlines, and indulging in local cuisine. Each stop reveals layers of history, beauty, and local charm - from the unique houses of Matera and Alberobello to Sicily's magnificent Greek temples, the Palatine...
Uncover captivating towns and cities on a scenic cruise along the River Rhine. Starting from Cologne, our journey upstream leads us to Koblenz before we delve into Heidelberg's history, meander through Strasbourg's winding alleyways, and stroll Rüdesheim's famous Drosselgasse alley. Savor the scenery as we cruise at a leisurely pace before the...
(79 reviews)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,...
Europe is home to some of the world's most beloved cities and acclaimed travel locales. Your dream may be to stroll the Champs-Elysees in Paris, to make a wish in the Trevi Fountain in Rome, to relax along the Amalfi Coast or to visit any number of big cities, medieval villages and coastal towns that lie in between these destinations. Perhaps you desire to soak in the culture of Eastern Europe's Imperial Cities or to be surrounded by the fairytale scenery of Bavaria. Many tour packages depart from London St. Pancras, giving you an easily accessible starting point for your grand adventures through Europe.
European train tours are a wonderful way to get a closer look at the landscape as you move between cities, thanks to the vast rail network that spans to virtually every country on the continent. As you make your way between destinations aboard local, regional and high-speed trains, such as the Eurostar or TGV, or upon scenic specialty trains, like Switzerland's Glacier Express, relax in your comfortable onboard accommodations and drink in the local scenery, which ranges from coastal passages and lush vineyards to majestic mountains and quaint villages. Select vacations include rail journeys on Europe's famous luxury trains, including the Venice Simplon-Orient Express, the Royal Scotsman and the Golden Eagle Trans Siberian Express.
For an even more unique experience, select an escorted rail and cruise vacation that presents the best of Western Europe and beyond by train and deluxe cruise ship. Sail along the winding waters of the romantic Rhine River, surrounded by castles and dramatic scenery, or along the mighty Danube, which weaves through 10 countries. Like our guided land tours, these combination holidays are thoughtfully designed with packages ranging from just a few nights to upwards of 14 days.
Have the urge to travel soon? Explore our last minute trips.
Sep 05, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
Step into the pages of history while unveiling Europe’s best examples of ancient palaces, showcasing a range of architectural styles in spellbinding locations.
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Sep 03, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
If you crave a change of scenery this winter, join a well-planned seasonal vacation featuring one of these three top destinations to spend the holidays.
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Aug 01, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
Discover countries filled with culture, cuisine and remarkable scenery in the top-trending vacation destinations for 2026, from Europe to Asia and Australasia.
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Jul 15, 2025 · By Co-Founder Todd Powell
Whenever a train passes, I’m reminded of when—and where—I first fell in love with rail travel: Switzerland, 1992, on a solo trip between Rome, Italy, and Interlaken, Switzerland.
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