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Save on Last-Minute Rail Tours

Are you interested in an enjoyable rail vacation experience in the next 90 days? We've curated a collection of our most popular escorted rail tours and independent rail vacations currently accepting reservations for travel with short notice.

To begin planning, choose to place a reservation online, call us at 877-929-7245 or request a call back from one or our team members. Our dedicated rail specialists are on standby waiting to guide you through the reservation and confirmation process.

The rail vacation of a lifetime is waiting for you. Start your planning today and hurry because space and availability is limited.

56 results matching: Last Minute Rail Tours

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Jacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam TrainJacobite Steam Train
Save up to $500pp
4.5 stars(574 reviews)
Escorted
2026Mar
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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Save up to $500pp
9 days from
$3,495 pp $3,195 pp
per person
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Grand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand Canyon
Save up to $500pp
4.2 stars(266 reviews)
Independent
2026JanFebMar
Independent

The classic ambiance of an overnight rail journey meets the splendors of one of America's top natural attractions on this rail vacation to Arizona. Join Amtrak's Southwest Chief on its cross-country route from Chicago to Flagstaff, and then board the 120-year-old Grand Canyon Railway on its route to the Grand Canyon. Uncover iconic views and top...

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Save up to $500pp
6 days from
$1,195 pp $1,095 pp
per person
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Via Rail, The Canadian in the SnowVia Rail, The Canadian in the SnowVia Rail, The Canadian in the SnowVia Rail, The Canadian in the SnowVia Rail, The Canadian in the Snow
Save up to $500pp
4.4 stars(46 reviews)
Independent
2026JanFebMar
Independent

Experience the best of the Canadian wilderness in winter and discover spectacular scenery as well as vibrant Canadian cities. Winter is an ideal time to travel as the rates are lower, the trains are less crowded, and the staff has more time to share their "tales of the rails" with you. Be a part of this exciting adventure onboard VIA...

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Save up to $500pp
7 days from
$2,895 pp $2,695 pp
per person
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Northern Lights, AlaskaNorthern Lights, AlaskaNorthern Lights, AlaskaNorthern Lights, AlaskaNorthern Lights, Alaska
Last 100 Spaces
Save up to $500pp
4.8 stars(34 reviews)
Escorted
2026Mar
Escorted

Seek the magical aurora borealis on a sensational winter journey from Fairbanks to Anchorage, riding the amazing Aurora Winter Train in the shadow of Denali. An evening in the wilderness provides a great chance to catch the Northern Lights, while an exciting dog-sled ride through the snow-covered tundra and a curling lesson help uncover the...

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Save up to $500pp
7 days from
$4,095 pp $3,695 pp
per person
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Matterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, Zermatt
Save up to $500pp
4.4 stars(61 reviews)
Independent
2026JanFebMar
Independent

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...

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Save up to $500pp
6 days from
$2,795 pp $2,595 pp
per person
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The Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & Lapland
Save up to $500pp
4.2 stars(51 reviews)
Escorted
2026JanFebMar
Escorted

 Beautifully scenic Scandinavian rail journeys take us from the ancient Viking capital of Trondheim to wintry Kiruna in Swedish Lapland, as we enjoy many opportunities to be dazzled by the ethereal Northern Lights.    Traveling through amazing landscapes, the Nordland Railway carries us across the Arctic Circle to Bodø. From here, we explore the...

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Save up to $500pp
11 days from
$4,165 pp $3,765 pp
per person
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Pilatus Mountain Peak and Lucerne LakePilatus Mountain Peak and Lucerne LakePilatus Mountain Peak and Lucerne LakePilatus Mountain Peak and Lucerne LakePilatus Mountain Peak and Lucerne Lake
Save up to $500pp
Independent
2026JanMar
Independent

Embark on an immersive rail journey that explores the sights and gastronomic delights of three Swiss giants: Zürich, Lucerne, and Montreux. Enjoy travel aboard some of the country's most well-regarded train lines and all-encompassing excursions that showcase the best of each city. Imagine the adventures to come as you arrive in Zürich, a modern...

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Save up to $500pp
7 days from
$2,795 pp $2,595 pp
per person
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Miyajima Island, JapanMiyajima Island, JapanMiyajima Island, JapanMiyajima Island, JapanMiyajima Island, Japan
Save up to $500pp
4.4 stars(14 reviews)
Escorted
2026Mar
Escorted

Uncover the delights of the Land of the Rising Sun with expert local guides, from its popular cuisine and zen tea ceremonies to dynamic cities and serene island shrines. Arriving in Tokyo, discover a well-organized metropolis of lantern-filled temples beside towering skyscrapers, before absorbing beautiful views of Mount Fuji and heading into the...

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Save up to $500pp
12 days from
$5,095 pp $4,595 pp
per person
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Montreal During Foliage Season Montreal During Foliage Season Montreal During Foliage Season Montreal During Foliage Season Montreal During Foliage Season
Save up to $500pp
4.7 stars(79 reviews)
Independent
2026JanFebMar
Independent

A fascinating showcase of culture and history captures your attention and heart on this 7-day tour of two prominent cities within French Canada: Montreal and Quebec City. With each passing season, the views and experiences in these cities change, finding new ways to satisfy your inner voyager. Festivals, outdoor escapades, and busy streets filled...

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Save up to $500pp
7 days from
$895 pp $795 pp
per person
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Peyto Lake in BanffPeyto Lake in BanffPeyto Lake in BanffPeyto Lake in BanffPeyto Lake in Banff
Save up to $500pp
4.6 stars(50 reviews)
Independent
2026JanFebMar
Independent

As the temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall, the Canadian Rockies transforms from a lush land of emerald green forests and colorful valleys to the true embodiment of a winter wonderland. Join the excitement this season, and see why western Canada is one of the best places to spend the cold months. Your journey begins in Vancouver, where...

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Save up to $500pp
8 days from
$3,195 pp $2,895 pp
per person
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Empire Builder Between Chicago and SeattleEmpire Builder Between Chicago and SeattleEmpire Builder Between Chicago and SeattleEmpire Builder Between Chicago and SeattleEmpire Builder Between Chicago and Seattle
Save up to $500pp
4.2 stars(33 reviews)
Independent
2026JanFebMar
Independent

If it is the experience of a lifetime you seek, look no further than a scenic tour through the country aboard the legendary tracks of the Empire Builder. Totaling over 2,200 miles in length, this journey shows us glimpses of seven of the northern-most states and the beautiful Pacific Coast. The expedition begins in the heart of the Midwest -...

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Save up to $500pp
5 days from
$995 pp $895 pp
per person
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Northern Lights, Chena Hot SpringsNorthern Lights, Chena Hot SpringsNorthern Lights, Chena Hot SpringsNorthern Lights, Chena Hot SpringsNorthern Lights, Chena Hot Springs
Save up to $500pp
4.8 stars(35 reviews)
Independent
2026JanFebMar
Independent

Winter is a special time of year in Alaska. The landscape transforms into a wonderland clad in fluffy white snow, and the short days set the perfect stage for the aurora borealis to take over the night sky. Adventures take on a new form and open visitors' eyes to the wonders and traditions of America's Last Frontier. This week-long Alaskan journey...

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Save up to $500pp
7 days from
$2,995 pp $2,795 pp
per person
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Our customers love our tours
Montreal & Quebec City by Rail
12/Dec
PAULA GLEASON
5 stars
“The itinerary was perfect for us. It included the hotels, city tours, and plenty of time on our own.
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh, the Highlands and Islands
10/Dec
Heidi Faris
5 stars
“absolutely fantastic trip. Stuart Houghton is a wonderful guide, great man to work with. The bus driver Davey was also great- lots of local stories, jokes, font of information. This was first Vacation By Rail trip, and certainly not my last!! Keep up the great work!
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
6/Dec
don
5 stars
“First class very nice ride
Collected by Trustpilot
Zermatt & St. Moritz featuring Glacier Express
20/Oct
HERBERT BUNT
5 stars
“Beautiful train, comfortable and beautiful scenery.
Collected by Trustpilot
Empire Builder Experience - Chicago to Seattle
16/Oct
Mae Corwin
5 stars
“Wow! Loved our trip on the Empire Builder and will definitely do another trip with vacations by rail.
Collected by Trustpilot
Canadian Snow Train
30/Apr
CARROL SCHOLZ
5 stars
“Had a great time. Food was amazing!! Cabin attendant's and staff were fun. It was a bummer that due to train delays with other trains we arrived to late a a few places to have time to get off for more than 10 minutes if that, or we arrived at...
Collected by Trustpilot
Alaska Northern Lights & Winter Nights – An Escorted Journey
10/Apr
Charlene M Moody
5 stars
“We enjoyed the whole trip. The tour guide Shari Osterude and Larry the bus driver were just amazing. The food was fantastic, the rooms were great, and all the excursions were wonderful. I am looking in the near future for another trip with Vacation by Rails!
Collected by Trustpilot
Winter in the Rockies
11 Apr 2024
Helen Adams
5 stars
“This was a great trip; the hotels were beautiful and we loved the overnight train! Just the right amount of coordination by Vacations by Rail so that our time was our own but all of the transportation details were arranged conveniently and expertly. This was our second Vacations...
Collected by Trustpilot
Jewels of Japan
14/Nov
Laura Minter
4 stars
“Great itenerary, but at some locations we were not given enough time. And at some others, we were given too much time, time the could have been used at the other sites.
Collected by Trustpilot