Europe is a beautifully diverse continent, home to some of the world's most influential cities and dramatic landscapes ranging from the staggering peaks of the Swiss Alps to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. It is these contrasts and the railways that connect them that sparked our founding more than 20 years ago and continue to inspire our itineraries across Europe.
With hand-chosen routes to countries where history, culture, cuisine and scenery collide, our vacations offer a true immersion into your chosen region through exciting excursions and meals that celebrate local flavors. See the highlights of the Emerald Isle, explore Italy from Top to Toe or savor the artistic landscapes of France. Set your sights on Eastern Europe's Imperial Cities or find yourself surrounded by Bavaria's fairytale scenery.
Connect destinations by rail, uncovering more of the continent while traveling on acclaimed railways like Norway's Bergen Railway, or drift along Europe's scenic waterways on a luxurious river cruise. Whether on an escorted tour or traveling solo with an independent itinerary, enjoy an unforgettable glimpse at Europe with Vacations By Rail.
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quote to pair with your vacation.Explore our top escorted and independent vacation packages in Europe
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(286 reviews)
(575 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...
(228 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...
(286 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...
(185 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...
(62 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...
Beginning in the beautiful floating city of Venice, explore a thousand years of history before discovering the magnificent Renaissance city of Florence and unveiling the ancient classical sites of Rome on an expert-led tour. Staying in four diverse bases - Venice, the spa town of Montecatini Terme, Rome and romantic Sorrento - this ...
River Cruise
(50 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 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.
Explore Norway's iconic mountains, glaciers and fjords, and discover Swedish Lapland's untamed wilderness on this epic vacation. Soak up hallmarks of regional culture and set out on each and every one of the great Scandinavian rail experiences, crossing the Arctic Circle to the "Land of the Midnight Sun." This ultimate tour combines...
Experience the beauty of Norway, from its natural wonders to charming cities, on this rail tour across stunning landscapes. Journey through the impressive wilderness of plateaus and waterfalls on two of the world's most famous train journeys: the Bergen Railway and the Flåm Railway. Marvel at towering cliff faces on a sensational...
(36 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...
(7 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...
(38 reviews)Uncover the beauty of one of Europe's most enchanting regions, the captivating Amalfi Coast. The journey begins with two nights in the "Eternal City" of Rome, where ancient landmarks and vibrant culture set the stage. From here, continue to the charming clifftop town of Sorrento, overlooking the Bay of Naples, the gateway to Capri and the...
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.
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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 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.
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Sep 03, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
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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