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Independent Train Tours
Save on Independent Vacations Across the Globe Today

Canadian Rockies
Canadian Rockies Featuring Banff & Lake Louise
7 days from $5,395 pp $4,995 pp
  • Travel on your own, following a well-planned itinerary on an independent tour
  • Spend two days traveling into the Canadian Rockies on the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer
  • Stay on the shores of Lake Louise at the 5-Star Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
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Kenai Fjords National Park
Deluxe Alaska Highlights
8 days from $4,395 pp $3,995 pp
  • Explore two National Parks with guides and visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center for an up-close look
  • Enjoy comfortable, scenic travel on three Alaska Railroad lines, including the iconic Denali Star
  • Float down the Placer River, fly above Denali in a helicopter, and see glaciers
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Landwasser Viaduct Glacier Express
Grand Train Tour of Switzerland
11 days from $4,195 pp
  • Travel on five iconic Switzerland railroad lines, taking in the scenic landscapes Switzerland has to offer
  • Take in the breathtaking views as you journey up Mount Jungfraujoch a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Enjoy a relaxing cruise across Lake Lucerne on a historic paddle steamer
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Independent Rail Tours

Embark on an independent tour by train and get set for adventure! Set your own pace as you follow a well-crafted itinerary to popular destinations throughout the United States, Canada and Europe. Blaze a trail of discovery on heritage and history tours. Uncover North America's natural wonders with national parks vacations.  Revel in the romance of Europe's capital cities.

Each independent rail tour features travel along legendary train routes, comprehensive sightseeing and ample time at leisure. Choose from an extensive selection of regional tours, cross-country rail vacations, rail-drive getaways, and rail-cruise packages.

 

Curious About the Benefits of Traveling Independent?

There are many advantages to booking independent tours:

  • Curated itineraries that allow for you to travel at your own pace
  • Pricing includes travel, transfers, and accommodations so you don't have to think about it
  • Local excursions and guided tours are included 
  • Various add-ons are available to customize your trip
  • Flexible dates to meet your needs

Explore at Your Own Pace

Canadian Rockies
Save up to $800
4.6 stars(235 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
7 days from
$5,395 pp $4,995 pp
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Moraine Lake in Banff
Save up to $800
4.3 stars(203 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027MayJunJulAugSepOct
7 days from
$2,795 pp $2,495 pp
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Bow Lake, Banff National Park
Save up to $800
4.4 stars(60 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSepOct
2027MayJunJulAugSepOct
12 days from
$9,295 pp $8,895 pp
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Fairmont, Lake Louise
Save up to $800
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
8 days from
$6,295 pp $5,895 pp
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Emerald Lake
Save up to $800
4.4 stars(66 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027MayJunJulAugSepOct
8 days from
$5,795 pp $5,395 pp
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Rocky Mountaineer
Save up to $800
4.5 stars(78 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctNovDec
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
14 days from
$3,995 pp $3,595 pp
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Valley Ten Peaks Banff
Save up to $800
4.5 stars(56 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
7 days from
$2,695 pp $2,395 pp
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Icefields Parkway at Sunset, Banff National Park
Save up to $800
4.9 stars(14 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct
6 days from
$4,895 pp $4,495 pp
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129 results matching: Independent Rail Tours

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Grand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand Canyon
Save up to $800
4.2 stars(288 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct...
2027JanFebMarAprMay...
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 $800
6 days from
$1,195 pp $995 pp
per person
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Denali National Park wildlifeDenali National Park wildlifeDenali National Park wildlifeDenali National Park wildlifeDenali National Park wildlife
Save up to $800
4.6 stars(137 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSep
2027MayJunJulAugSep
Independent

Uncover scenic landscapes and quintessential sights of Alaska on this seven-day independent journey featuring the Denali Star. Travel from Anchorage to Talkeetna, where a jetboat takes you along the Talkeetna and Susitna Rivers, and then embark on a tundra wilderness tour in Denali National Park, with an expert guide revealing the best...

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Save up to $800
7 days from
$2,795 pp $2,495 pp
per person
View Details
Moraine Lake in BanffMoraine Lake in BanffMoraine Lake in BanffMoraine Lake in BanffMoraine Lake in Banff
Save up to $800
4.3 stars(203 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027MayJunJulAugSepOct
Independent

Over 69,500 square miles of jagged peaks, emerald forests, and alpine lakes spread over two provinces await in the Canadian Rockies. Venture into the jaw-dropping scenery of Jasper National Park aboard VIA Rail's premier overnight train, the Canadian. On arrival, well-planned sightseeing in iconic Rocky Mountain locales, including Jasper and Banff...

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Save up to $800
7 days from
$2,795 pp $2,495 pp
per person
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Niagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara Falls
Save up to $800
3.9 stars(52 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct
Independent

Discover the wonders of Niagara Falls on this 4-day rail adventure. Beginning and ending in New York City, travel aboard Amtrak's Maple Leaf for a full-day journey through upstate New York and into Ontario. Make the most of your two full days in Niagara Falls, enjoying the sights and sounds of the thundering falls and exploring the area's local...

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Save up to $800
4 days from
$795 pp $695 pp
per person
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Canadian RockiesCanadian RockiesCanadian RockiesCanadian RockiesCanadian Rockies
Save up to $800
4.6 stars(235 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

One of our most popular Canadian Rockies trips, this journey puts Western Canada on display. Experience the urban ambiance of Vancouver before boarding Rocky Mountaineer for a daylight-only trip alongside rivers, canyons and forests to Lake Louise. From here, the route continues to the resort town of Banff, renowned for its enchanting scenery and...

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Save up to $800
7 days from
$5,395 pp $4,995 pp
per person
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Matterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, Zermatt
4.3 stars(64 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOctDec
2027JanFebMarAprMay...
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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6 days from
$2,295 pp
per person
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California ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia Zephyr
Save up to $800
3.9 stars(50 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct...
2027JanFebMarAprMay...
Independent

Before embarking on your 2,300 mile journey to San Francisco, take advantage of your time in Chicago by visiting the city's famed attractions such as the John Hancock Observation Deck, ride the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier or window shop down The Magnificent Mile. The city also offers a rich cultural experience with its several museums and the...

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Save up to $800
5 days from
$895 pp $795 pp
per person
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Glacier Parks Lakes and WildflowersGlacier Parks Lakes and WildflowersGlacier Parks Lakes and WildflowersGlacier Parks Lakes and WildflowersGlacier Parks Lakes and Wildflowers
Save up to $800
Independent
2026JunJulAugSep
2027JunJulAugSep
Independent

Your two-night stay is in the heart of the unspoiled natural attractions and stunning beauty Glacier National Park. Wondrous displays of nature, historic lodges, and sightseeing through the forests and valleys of this complex ecosystem are highlights of your stay before returning by train to Chicago.

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Save up to $800
5 days from
$1,495 pp $1,295 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 $800
4.2 stars(33 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct...
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 $800
5 days from
$895 pp $795 pp
per person
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Rocky MountaineerRocky MountaineerRocky MountaineerRocky MountaineerRocky Mountaineer
Save up to $800
4.5 stars(78 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctNovDec
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

Traverse the boundless Canadian landscape, discovering spectacular cities and natural wonders while traveling from the West Coast to the East by train. This epic long-haul journey features classic overnight travel on VIA Rail's Canadian from Vancouver to Toronto and aboard VIA Rail's Ocean from Quebec City to Halifax, with the convenient Corridor...

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Save up to $800
14 days from
$3,995 pp $3,595 pp
per person
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Pacific Ocean and Big Sur CoastlinePacific Ocean and Big Sur CoastlinePacific Ocean and Big Sur CoastlinePacific Ocean and Big Sur CoastlinePacific Ocean and Big Sur Coastline
Save up to $800
4.3 stars(28 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct...
Independent

En route daily between Seattle and Los Angeles, the Coast Starlight passes through Portland, Sacramento, the San Francisco Bay Area and Santa Barbara. The scenery along the Coast Starlight route is unsurpassed. The dramatic snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta, lush forests, fertile valleys and long stretches of Pacific Ocean...

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Save up to $800
4 days from
$795 pp $695 pp
per person
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Glacier Park LodgeGlacier Park LodgeGlacier Park LodgeGlacier Park LodgeGlacier Park Lodge
Save up to $800
4.6 stars(14 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSep
2027JunJulAugSep
Independent

Your adventure starts in Chicago or Seattle when you board Amtrak's Empire Builder headed for Glacier. Read a book, talk with fellow travelers or enjoy a drink in the bar car as you speed towards your vacation destination. During your Glacier Park stay be sure to take advantage of all the sights and activities available. Exploring the wilderness...

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Save up to $800
5 days from
$1,495 pp $1,295 pp
per person
View Details
Our customers love our Independent Tours tours
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
13/May
JUDY COBB
5 stars
“Outstanding service and friendly staff everywhere we went. Thanks!
Collected by Trustpilot
Canadian Rockies Featuring Banff & Lake Louise
10/May
KIM B CUTRERA
5 stars
“The overall experience on the Rocky Mountaineer was outstanding. The views were amazing. The history was interesting and the animal sightings were just a special treat. The onboard staff in train 15 were the best. Barry, Kelsey, and Shiron...
Collected by Trustpilot
Across Canada by Train
27/Apr
DICK MILLER
5 stars
“This unescorted tour by Vacations by rail was excellent. All of the train travel, lodging and tours were arranged in advance and were all excellent. We enjoyed being on our own with fixed plans for lodging, travel and tours and not being at the mercy of a large group...
Collected by Trustpilot
New York to Niagara Falls
03 Nov 2025
Yu-Lein Kung
5 stars
“This is our very 1st vacation by rail and it was above our expectations.
Collected by Trustpilot
Empire Builder Experience - Chicago to Seattle
16 Oct 2025
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
Alaska Wilderness Tour
26 Sep 2025
JERI L GILBERT
5 stars
“I have never had a better time on a trip. Most everything went perfectly. I did have one luggage problem and was unable to do the excursion in Fairbanks due to misinformation from the desk clerk. ?? but everyone and everything else was amazing.
Collected by Trustpilot
Glacier National Park Escape - Chicago to Seattle
06 Sep 2025
ARTHUR M DENNIS
5 stars
“Made a mistake by no gettin a full bedroom suite; roomette too small.
Collected by Trustpilot
California Zephyr Experience
9/May
BARBARA HAYNES
4 stars
“The scenery, the service and the food. There was not enough accessibility for seniors or those mobility impaired.
Collected by Trustpilot
Zermatt & St. Moritz featuring Glacier Express
13/Apr
RICHARD BRADFORD
4 stars
“We loved the locations. The hotels were great. You kept us informed. The pace was too fast for us. After an 8 hour train ride from Zermatt to St. Moritz, we would have liked another day before another train from St. Moritz to Tirano and then another...
Collected by Trustpilot