A moving display of mountain peaks sets the backdrop for two of Europe's most scenic countries, Austria and Switzerland. The similarities of these two countries are nearly as striking as their contrasts, and independent and escorted tours showcase these idiosyncrasies beautifully. Quaint alpine towns sit alongside cosmopolitan cities, and sparkling lakes complement sprawling meadows. From the Imperial heritage of Vienna to the car-free resort of Zermatt, discovering Austria and Switzerland by train is the easiest way to fall in love with this part of the world.
Travel from Cologne or Bavaria in Germany into the dramatic landscapes of Austria. Look upon scenes straight out of the "Sound of Music" and discover breathtaking mountainscapes and charming locales from one side of the country to the other. Colorful buildings and Medieval city sites collide in the capital of the Alps, Innsbruck. Musical history and baroque architecture give Salzburg a unique flair, and palaces and grand cathedrals fill Vienna's skyline. Of course, Vienna also sits alongside the beautiful Danube River, opening up a whole new world of possibilities for holidays. Crossing the border into Switzerland, even more awe-inspiring sights await aboard some of the world's most famous luxury rail lines. Glacier-fed lakes and twisting mountain passes highlight the courses of the Bernina Express and the GoldenPass Panoramic. The Jungfrau Railroad climbs to the top of Europe. These prestigious rail lines pave the way between beloved destinations, like St. Moritz, Lucerne, and Interlaken. While each of these countries shines in its own right, combining them into thoughtfully orchestrated vacation packages makes Austria and Switzerland tours some of the most memorable in Central Europe.
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(243 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...
(202 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...
(29 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...
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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...
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...
(77 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,...
(17 reviews)Combine a rail trip to the "Top of Europe" with the stunning landscapes of the Rhine on this incredible rail and cruise vacation. Starting from our base in Interlaken, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Bernese Oberland as we take a scenic journey on the Jungfrau Express. Then, we set sail on the Rhine, cruising to the captivating towns of...
Spend a week enveloped in the delights of Switzerland on this roundtrip journey, bookended by time in the lakeside city of Zürich. From well-located bases in Zürich, Zermatt and the Engadine Valley, the nation's most incredible adventures are within reach. Find yourself immersed in history while touring St. Gallen, and discover the timeless...
(32 reviews)Fly to and from Munich to enjoy a leisurely cruise through four European countries and three capital cities, basking in beautiful river scenery all the way. Sail from the German border town of Passau through the Austrian wine-growing region of the Wachau Valley, admiring picturesque Dürnstein and commanding Melk Abbey enroute. After exploring...
(16 reviews)Fly to Munich for a luxurious cruise down the blue Danube, uncovering the beauty and culture of this scenic river. Delve into the rich history of the Ottoman and Habsburg empires and wander among inspiring architecture in Budapest and Vienna. Sail the beautiful Wachau Valley, visiting Dürnstein and historic Melk Abbey. Arriving in the Slovakian...
(6 reviews)Snow-bound views and enchanting seasonal scenery have made the Glacier Express famous at this time of year as the glistening peaks and sugar-frosted forests of the Swiss Alps provide picture-postcard backdrops. On this memorable vacation, pass icy lakes and the ethereal Palü Glacier on the UNESCO-listed route of the Bernina Express. Later,...
(12 reviews)Experience the best of the Swiss Alps in ultimate luxury, admiring majestic mountains, picturesque landscapes and unspoiled nature. Wake up each day in a five-star hotel in the enchanting village of Grindelwald, nestled beneath the immense Eiger. Journey to the 'Top of Europe' on the Jungfrau Express to marvel at jaw-dropping panoramas and the...
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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Jul 03, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
Fresh and exciting opportunities await to explore Europe next year, and you can be among the first to explore our collection of brand-new vacations for 2026.
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Jun 17, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
Marvel at staggering mountains, glacial lakes and storybook villages aboard Switzerland’s iconic railways, from the Jungfrau Railway to the Glacier Express.
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