Steam train trips are an ideal way to experience the beautiful European countryside. This is the best way to experience what travel was like during the heyday of steam trains. The UK & Europe are home to a collection of iconic steam trains, and the Jacobite Steam Train is arguably the most famous. Passengers admire some of the most breathtaking Scottish scenery, from Ben Nevis to the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Linnhe, on the journey between Fort William and Mallaig. Elsewhere in the UK, the Royal Windsor Steam Express chugs across the River Thames from London to Windsor and showcases lovely sites while indulging guests in a classical English brunch. The North Yorkshire Moors Railroad makes excursions through Yorkshire's wild landscapes on a route that includes some of the oldest railway tunnels in the world.
Steam train rides on the continent are just as noteworthy and are perhaps some of Europe's best-kept secrets. Consider Germany's Brocken Railroad, which is hauled by a steam train engine and takes travelers to the highest peak in the Harz Mountains. Switzerland is known for its scenic rail journeys, and the Furka Steam Railway is no exception, with spectacular views of the Central Alps, the Furka Pass, and the Rhone and Mutt Glaciers. Steam rail tours in Switzerland also include the Brienzer Rothorn Railway, which dates to the 1890s. This mountain train's claim to fame is its red panorama coaches and the opportunity to see more than 690 peaks on the journey. Steam rail tours showcase some of Europe's most renowned trains and spectacular scenery.
(572 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...
(184 reviews)Experience three of the British Isles' most scenic countries on a vacation showcasing the best of these Celtic destinations. Beginning in Scotland, we explore the majestic Highlands before travelling to Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, nations with fascinating culture and history. Traveling on the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train,...
(27 reviews)
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...
(5 reviews)Encounter the untamed North York Moors and rolling Yorkshire Dales aboard the nostalgic North Yorkshire Moors Railway and famed Settle-Carlisle line, before discovering the gems of Northumberland on a tour which blends dramatic landscapes with fascinating history and culture. In Yorkshire, wander among the spectacular gardens of RHS Harlow Carr,...
(61 reviews)Discover the very best of the Scottish Highlands on a five-day tour while soaking up breathtaking scenery aboard the legendary Jacobite steam train and Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs and emerald forests that make up the Scottish landscape. Delve into Scotland's fascinating heritage and...
Discover two of Germany's most picturesque regions on this fantastic two-center holiday. We explore the half-timbered villages and stunning peaks of the Harz Mountains by heritage railway before visiting the stunning Rhine Gorge, where the legendary Lorelei Rock still casts its spell.
Oct 20, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
Embrace the spooky spirit of Halloween by joining an expertly curated vacation to some of the most legendary and lore-filled destinations around the globe.
Read more
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.
Read more
May 19, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
Get a head start on next year’s adventures by booking your European vacation ahead of time, enjoying benefits like greater options and early booking discounts.
Read more
May 06, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
Spend the remaining months of the year ticking off your travel bucket list while traveling to top last-minute destinations for 2025 from the U.S. to Europe.
Read more