The French capital and one of Europe's - if not the world's - most instantly recognisable and iconic cities. Its global impact on art, fashion, entertainment, media and education cannot be underestimated; Paris truly offers something for everyone. Its origins date back to 52BC, when the Romans conquered a Gallic fortress called Lutetia Parisiorum. They established a colony which later became the capital of the Frankish Empire - and then emerged in the 10th century as the centre of the new French Kingdom.
(49 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...
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...
Two of the world's most recognizable metropolises lie ahead on this vacation to Europe. Beginning in London, see famous landmarks from multiple perspectives while touring the streets and cruising the Thames, and witness British heritage at the opening ceremony of the Tower of London. Traveling in Eurostar Plus, the showcase continues in the...
(35 reviews)Explore the highlights of Paris and northwest France, with guided tours of its historic cities and landmarks, palaces and châteaux. On this diverse tour, visit the expansive Palace of Versailles and Monet's famed garden, then continue to Normandy's beaches, taking in the poignant D-Day landing sites. Explore majestic Mont St Michel and the...
River Cruise
A discovery of world-famous cuisine, elegant cities and unbelievable landscapes beckons in France. Come along for a route filled with intrigue, which presents the many sides of this nation, beginning with its most famous city. Spend three days in Paris, wandering through its streets in search of beloved landmarks and visiting the Palace of...
River Cruise
From Paris, under the Eiffel Tower, to landscapes and historical villages so picturesque, they inspired the world's greatest artists, dive into the essence of France. On this Seine cruise, each port of call reveals new artistry. Travel from Paris to Auvers-sur-Oise, a favorite of Van Gogh, before discovering Rouen's famous cathedral and the...
River Cruise
Eight days of unparalleled luxury aboard the MS Amadeus Diamond begins and ends in the romantic City of Light, Paris. Cruise along the River Seine, where history, art and natural beauty converge to create an inspiring experience. While sailing, we discover the peaceful landscapes that inspired some of the world's greatest artists. Wander the...
River Cruise
Explore some of the best-loved châteaux of the Loire Valley, then cruise the Seine, discovering the gems of Paris, Rouen and Honfleur. Explore the iconic Château de Chenonceau, Leonardo da Vinci's Clos Lucé, and Château de Chaumont, before boarding the Amadeus Diamond for a leisurely cruise down the Seine. From the charm of Auvers sur Oise to...
River Cruise
Experience the idyllic landscapes of the Bordeaux wine region on a leisurely river cruise on the Garonne and Dordogne. Discover Bordeaux's 18th-century grandeur and cruise to medieval St. Émilion, where ancient caves and Europe's largest monolithic church await. Explore the renowned Médoc wine route, visit the prestigious Rochefort and...
River Cruise
Experience the Basque Coast of France and a river cruise into the wine region of Bordeaux. Starting in the Belle Époque city of Biarritz, we enjoy a trip on La Rhune Mountain Railway in the Western Pyrenees before sailing into one of Europe's most renowned wine regions on the scenic Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. Uncover each region through...
There are so many famous landmarks of the Paris skyline that you're unlikely to take them all in, but there are some places you really should take the time to see. The vast majority of landmarks line the River Seine, or are a stone's throw away. Obviously the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral are along here, as well as the Louvre with its distinctive glass pyramids.
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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May 29, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
Find your ideal way to explore as you discover tours of France for 2026 that present the country’s history, culture, cuisine and vistas in four distinct ways.
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