(39 reviews)
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Landmark
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(344 reviews)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.
Book today to secure one of the last seats for 2026 on the First-Class Grand Alpine Explorer.
(344 reviews)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...
(266 reviews)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 Bernina...
(65 reviews)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...
River Cruise
(37 reviews)Enjoy an eight-day cruise vacation through four 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 the Melk Abbey en route. After exploring Vienna, the Hungarian...
(56 reviews)From Europe's exciting cityscapes to the stunning heights of the Swiss Alps and the idyllic Tuscan countryside, this 13-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...
Discover landmark-lined rivers, alpine peaks and iconic cities while delving into the heart of Europe, relishing its best features from many perspectives. This vacation is a showcase of culture, with something new in each destination. Begin under the Eiffel Tower in Paris, cruising the Seine and touring its sites before venturing into the Swiss...
(85 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,...
Landmark
Discover historic Zürich and the stunning Swiss Alps on this twin-center vacation, staying in five-star hotels and traveling by First Class rail. Explore the highlights of the Bernese Oberland, riding the steepest cable car in the world and enjoying a trip to the "Top of Europe" on the Jungfrau Express. Soak up panoramic views across snow-capped...
(39 reviews)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...
Embrace the storied past of grand empires throughout central Europe. Starting amid Vienna's glorious Habsburg palaces and ornate architecture, enjoy a strudel-making show at Schönbrunn Palace with tasting, before savoring the delights of Hungary's dignified capital, Budapest. Absorb panoramic views of the illuminated Parliament and Buda Castle...
(19 reviews)On this sensational vacation, travel from Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva to the mountainous surroundings of the Jungfrau Massif. Explore Château de Chillon, sail along Lake Geneva and cross the Alps to Chamonix on the Mont Blanc Express. Boarding the GoldenPass Express, admire views of the Bernese Alps while traveling to lakeside...
River Cruise
(63 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 Railway. Descending the Alps, set sail on a Rhine cruise, indulging in luxurious amenities and superb service. En route, savor incredible vistas of the stunning Rhine Gorge, wander through...
Oct 10, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
Follow in the footsteps of travel influencer Michael Downie as you uncover Switzerland on a 15-day vacation featuring the convenience of a Swiss Travel Pass.
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Sep 05, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
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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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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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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