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Escorted Train Tours
Discover new places and cultures with expertly guided tours in 2026
Vacation Types

Our Top Selling Escorted Tours

Durango & Silverton Train
Colorado Rail Experience
8 days from $3,695 pp
  • Experience six heritage railroads, including the beloved Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
  • Immerse yourself in the secluded scenes of the Rocky Mountains
  • Summit Pikes Peak and enjoy a visit to the awe-inspiring Garden of the Gods
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Fraumunster Church
Best of Switzerland by Rail
10 days from $3,795 pp
  • Experience Switzerland aboard four iconic trains with 4-Star accommodation, including two mountain railways
  • Admire incredible Swiss Alps from the iconic Glacier Express
  • Spend time relaxing in tranquil Zermatt & vibrant St. Moritz
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Paris
Highlights of Europe featuring London, Paris, Switzerland & Italy
13 days from $5,095 pp
  • Explore the histories of London, Rome, and Florence on guided tours of iconic cities
  • Weave through Paris while enjoying dinner and aperitifs from your Seine river cruise
  • Journey by train through the French-Swiss border to enchanting Lucerne in the Alps
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Escorted Rail Tours

An escorted tour offers so much more than an ordinary vacation. You can fully immerse yourself in a destination as our carefully curated itineraries show you the iconic sights and hidden gems, revealing the area's history, culture, and local flavors. So, whether you're dreaming of riding iconic trains in the Swiss Alps, uncovering Italy's historic cities, being awestruck by the palaces of India, exploring Canada on a cross-country journey, or embracing the wonders of our national parks, we'll make sure your vacation is filled with moments of great connection.

Every detail is taken care of, from travel and accommodations to selected meals, visits and excursions. For more than two decades, we've been crafting itineraries to destinations around the world and our award-winning vacations take the hassle out of travel. With us, you are free to simply sit back, relax, and enjoy a journey planned by our destination experts.

Wherever in the world you go, each escorted tour includes travel aboard iconic trains and by deluxe motorcoach as well as the perfect blend of comprehensive sightseeing and time at leisure. 

Curious About the Benefits of Escorted Travel?

There are many advantages to booking escorted tours:

  • Guidance of professional Tour Manager
  • Explore along with a group of fellow travelers
  • Includes travel aboard iconic trains and by deluxe motorcoach as needed
  • Includes hotel accommodations and some group meals
  • Baggage handling included on many tours
  • Curated itineraries that balance sightseeing and free time to explore
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Call to Book:  1-877-929-7245

Why choose an escorted tour?

As a leading and trusted provider of escorted vacations, we sort out all the logistics so you can enjoy your experience - but there's even more…

Expertly guided by a professional Tour Manager

A dedicated Tour Manager is on hand from your meeting point to the tour conclusion. They are there to take the hassle out of travel and guide you through your vacation - letting you enjoy it to the fullest.

Explore along with a group of like-minded travelers

Our sociable groups are a great way to travel and even make new friends. Plus, with group sizes as low as 16 people on our small group tours, you enjoy a more personal way of exploring your chosen destination.

Travel by iconic train and deluxe motorcoach

With Vacations by Rail, everything is taken care of, so you can relax. From world-famous rail journeys to luxury coach travel to off-the-track locations, all transfers throughout your tour are included in the price.

Curated itineraries that mix sightseeing and free time

With a selection of excursions included, you are fully immersed in your destination. From city tours to iconic rail journeys, discover the best of each location through guided sightseeing and ample free time.

155 results matching: Escorted Rail Tours

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Jacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam Train
Edinburgh, the Highlands and Islands
4.5 stars(493 reviews)
Escorted
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
Escorted

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...

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9 days from
$2,495 pp
per person
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Albuquerque Balloon FiestaAlbuquerque Balloon FiestaAlbuquerque Balloon FiestaAlbuquerque Balloon FiestaAlbuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta by Rail
4.4 stars(82 reviews)
Escorted
2026SepOct
Escorted

Discover the beauty of the Southwest in autumn on this 9-day escorted adventure featuring national parks, historic rail journeys, and the world-famous International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. Travel on the iconic California Zephyr to Grand Junction. View the breathtaking landscapes of Arches and Mesa Verde national parks, before riding the...

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9 days from
$3,795 pp
per person
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Kleine Scheddeg to the JungraujochKleine Scheddeg to the JungraujochKleine Scheddeg to the JungraujochKleine Scheddeg to the JungraujochKleine Scheddeg to the Jungraujoch
Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - An Escorted Experience
4.5 stars(244 reviews)
Escorted
2025Oct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
Escorted

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...

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11 days from
$4,295 pp
per person
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Peggys CovePeggys CovePeggys CovePeggys CovePeggys Cove
Highlights of French Canada and Nova Scotia
4.1 stars(52 reviews)
Escorted
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
Escorted

Eastern Canada's provinces draw the eye and capture the soul with their bountiful allures. Some of its best elements lie ahead as you explore the land and the sea - French Canada's cities and the dramatic coastlines of Maritime Nova Scotia. Spend time sightseeing and tasting your way through Montreal and Quebec City before venturing to the scenic...

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8 days from
$3,495 pp
per person
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Conway Scenic RailroadConway Scenic RailroadConway Scenic RailroadConway Scenic RailroadConway Scenic Railroad
No Single Supp
New England in the Fall
Escorted
2025Oct
2026SepOct
Escorted

Travel through spectacular mountain scenery lit up with vivid colors on this fall tour along America's scenic East Coast. Stay in Massachusetts's capital city of Boston with time to explore its unique history and culture, then journey to the charming village of North Conway in the beautiful White Mountains - one of the most stunning locations to...

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No Single Supp
9 days from
$3,295 pp
per person
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Fall Colors of Eastern Canada Rail & Cruise
4.3 stars(7 reviews)
Escorted
2026Sep
Escorted

Fiery autumn foliage and captivating destinations make it easy to fall in love with the Eastern states and provinces of the United States and Canada on this memorable tour. Split your time between the two nations, admiring the ever-changing landscape as you travel by train along Canada's bustling Windsor Corridor and cruise the St. Lawrence and...

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13 days from
$4,295 pp
per person
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Mt Washington Cog Railway Mt Washington Cog Railway Mt Washington Cog Railway Mt Washington Cog Railway Mt Washington Cog Railway
Fall Colors of New England, Quebec & Montreal
4.4 stars(149 reviews)
Escorted
2025Oct
2026SepOct
Escorted

The vibrant hues of autumn guide the way on this seasonal journey through New England and Eastern Canada. Spend ten days marveling at the subtle distinctions between regions, discovering in each how the changing leaves are as unique as the destinations themselves. Soak up the history of Boston, the starting point of your fall foliage adventure,...

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10 days from
$4,995 pp
per person
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Door CountyDoor CountyDoor CountyDoor CountyDoor County
Great Lakes & Trains featuring the Grand Hotel
4.0 stars(48 reviews)
Escorted
2026SepOct
Escorted

Nature's majesty and American history abound on this journey through the Great Lakes shorelines, featuring Wisconsin and Michigan. Starting in Chicago, ride Amtrak to Milwaukee, before exploring the heritage and picture-perfect landscapes of Door County Peninsula. Next, venture through Michigan's Upper Peninsula and cross the Canadian border to...

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11 days from
$4,995 pp
per person
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Glacier National ParkGlacier National ParkGlacier National ParkGlacier National ParkGlacier National Park
America's Great National Parks
4.5 stars(270 reviews)
Escorted
2026JunJulAugSep
Escorted

Discover five of America's beloved national parks on this rail tour to America's West. Start your tour with a classic overnight rail adventure aboard the Empire Builder, following the pioneer route into Big Sky Country. Here, we visit the first national park of the itinerary, Glacier National Park, surrounded by glorious natural spectacles. Moving...

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13 days from
$6,295 pp
per person
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Fraumunster ChurchFraumunster ChurchFraumunster ChurchFraumunster ChurchFraumunster Church
Best of Switzerland by Rail
4.4 stars(202 reviews)
Escorted
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
Escorted

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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10 days from
$3,795 pp
per person
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Glacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier Express
Glacier Express & the Majestic Rhine
4.3 stars(50 reviews)
Escorted
2026MayJunJul
Escorted

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...

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11 days from
$4,395 pp
per person
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ParisParisParisParisParis
Highlights of Europe featuring London, Paris, Switzerland & Italy
4.3 stars(29 reviews)
Escorted
2025Oct
2026AprMayJunSepOct
Escorted

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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13 days from
$5,095 pp
per person
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Show 12 more tours

Show all 155 tours

Our customers love our Escorted Tours tours
Edinburgh, the Highlands and Islands
1/Sep
Patricia Supik
5 stars
“Roger, our tour manager, was exceptional! His love for Scotland, his knowledge of all the magnificent areas and his joy with sharing Scotland with us made this trip outstanding.
Collected by Trustpilot
Best of Switzerland by Rail
31/Aug
Barbara Pfeiffer
5 stars
“The trip was awesome. Ivan Mayers was awesome, helpful, informative, interesting & very entertaining. Always felt comfortable traveling, knowing he was right there. We had an issue with our luggage & he was great. Only suggestion would be to have the Zurich town tour maybe the first...
Collected by Trustpilot
America's Great National Parks
29/Aug
LINDA WAGGONER
5 stars
“Great trip. Great tour manager!
Collected by Trustpilot
Glacier Express & the Majestic Rhine
28/Jul
Raghu S
5 stars
“The entire experience was simply outstanding.
Collected by Trustpilot
Fall Colors of Eastern Canada Rail & Cruise
30 Oct 2024
Roy Olsen
5 stars
“The trip itinerary was excellent; however, there seemed to be a disconnect between Vacation by Rail and Holland America. We did not receive timely information from the cruise line regarding excursions. The only info was for add' l perks such as wi-fi, drink pkgs, etc. We had contacted...
Collected by Trustpilot
Fall Colors of New England, Quebec & Montreal
25 Oct 2024
Alan Wold
5 stars
“Loved the trip, Our guide Edgar was awesome. Driver Anna was great too.
Collected by Trustpilot
Great Lakes & Trains featuring the Grand Hotel
21 Oct 2024
Henry Leeke
5 stars
“The venue was amazing. What made it so memorable were the tour guide & bus driver.
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - An Escorted Experience
1/Sep
Jean Chi
4 stars
“Good service and hotel
Collected by Trustpilot
Highlights of French Canada and Nova Scotia
21/Aug
Ms. CAROLYN SHAW
4 stars
“Too much free time. Train sleeping car was uncomfortable and train was 4 hours late. Next morning activities should have been moved back at least 1 hour Jim is an excellent tour guide
Collected by Trustpilot

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in an escorted vacation?

To give you the best value, each of the following is included in the price of your escorted tour:

  • Guidance and expertise of a professional Tour Manager
  • All guided tours and excursions
  • All rail and motorcoach travel throughout your tour
  • Hand-picked hotels and some group meals
  • Curated itineraries that balance sightseeing and free time to explore

How do I choose a suitably paced vacation?

To make sure you have the best experience possible, each of our tours is rated from 1 to 4 based on the level of physical activity.

  • Level 1 - Leisurely Tourist
  • Level 2 - Everyday Traveler
  • Level 3 - Comfortable Explorer
  • Level 4 - Active Adventurer

We understand that everyone has different abilities and concerns, so if you're not sure if a tour is for you after doing your research, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us. View the full Mobility Rating Scale.

How many people go on one of your tours?

Our group sizes vary between tours, but you can expect to travel with around 20-35 other customers, with a maximum of 40.

Vacations by Rail is a market leader when it comes to small group tours. We're proud of being pioneers in our approach to group sizes and have become the leading operator for escorted vacations. On these tours, the size can be as low as 16 travelers and an average of 22, to a maximum of 30.

What are the excursions like?

Excursions are included in the price of your vacation. They are designed to give a balance of cultural, historical, and social interest, and to give you insight into the areas we visit. We try to use trains for excursions, however we sometimes utilize deluxe motorcoaches or boats to get to places of interest. Where motorcoaches are used, these are of high quality and we aim to keep coach journeys to a maximum of two hours between stops. On most excursions, in addition to your Tour Manager, we are accompanied by a local guide to impart specialist knowledge of the sights being visited. Some excursions are to off-the-beaten-track destinations that simply would not be visited without this local knowledge.

Do we have to join in?

Traveling with Vacations by Rail, you will never feel as if you are just part of a "herd". Customers sometimes break away from the group to explore independently and there is plenty of flexibility within the itineraries to explore and dine on your own. Many of our excursions will feature free time at a destination to explore it at your own pace. There are also those who prefer to forego a particular excursion to relax at the hotel - it is your vacation after all.

Your Tour Manager is there to provide help when you need it or to discreetly "disappear" when you don't. The itinerary is comprehensive, but not compulsory - it is very easy to opt in or out as one pleases. There is time to yourself and freedom to indulge your own interests.