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Short Breaks

Short Rail Tours

A small taste of culture and a sampling of adventure, short breaks are your chance to relax and recharge. These quick getaways, ranging from 2 to 6 days, are ideal for embarking on new travel experiences and soaking in the delights that a change in scenery can bring.

In the United States, short break holidays can take you to stunning protected parklands, including Glacier National Park, or natural wonders of the world, such as the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls. Fans of city breaks appreciate samplers of some of the nation's most extraordinary locales while on getaways that feature New Orleans or Chicago and New York City.

Amtrak's well-connected railway system sets the tone for unforgettable long weekend breaks. Join the California Zephyr in navigating the great American landscape, venturing from Chicago, through the Rockies, to San Francisco. The Coast Starlight's incredible route along the Pacific Seaboard showcases California's beauty while traveling between Seattle and Los Angeles. For one of the more luxurious short breaks by rail, consider joining America's newest luxury train, Rocky Mountaineer, on its epic Rockies to the Red Rocks route from Denver, CO, to Moab, UT.

Imagine discovering Europe's unbelievable history on Euro city breaks. Though it may seem impossible, there are plenty of tour options that introduce the centuries-old architecture, local cuisine, and nuances of regional culture in one charming little package. Venture through the Scottish Highlands, explore Switzerland's charming alpine towns, or visit traditional Christmas Markets along the Rhine. Whether you are looking for short spring break trips or quick retreats into the varied countries that compose the European landscape, the continent's far-reaching railways make it possible. Some of Europe's most luxurious railways also offer a platform for adventure, even on a limited timeline. Consider short holidays that feature the Royal Scotsman or the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for a classic overnight route between Venice and Paris.

Start planning your short break with these imaginative itineraries ideal for a short getaway.

28 results matching: Short Breaks

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Grand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand Canyon
4.2 stars(299 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctNovDec
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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6 days from
$1,195 pp $1,095 pp
per person
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Mount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog RailwayMount Washington Cog Railway
4.3 stars(131 reviews)
Escorted
2026SepOct
2027SepOct
Escorted

Behold the brilliance of nature's seasonal finale in New England this fall. For 6 days, find yourself surrounded by sights of gold, rust and crimson as you travel through leaf-peeping hotspots in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont. Begin with time in Boston, where a guided tour acquaints you with the most historically significant sites of...

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6 days from
$2,699 pp $2,399 pp
per person
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Niagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara Falls
4.0 stars(57 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSepOct
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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4 days from
$795 pp $695 pp
per person
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California ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia Zephyr
3.9 stars(54 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctNovDec
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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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
Independent
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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5 days from
$1,595 pp
per person
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Matterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, Zermatt
4.3 stars(65 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctDec
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 $2,095 pp
per person
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Sunny Day At Glacier National ParkSunny Day At Glacier National ParkSunny Day At Glacier National ParkSunny Day At Glacier National ParkSunny Day At Glacier National Park
3.9 stars(15 reviews)
Independent
2027JunJulAugSep
Independent

Depart coastal Seattle for the 100+-year-old Glacier National Park aboard Amtrak's Empire Builder. Highlights of your two-day visit include an excursion along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road and stunning views from Marias and Logan Passes.

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5 days from
$1,495 pp
per person
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Arches National ParkArches National ParkArches National ParkArches National ParkArches National Park
Independent
2026JulAugOctNov
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

 Find inspiration in the in-between aboard Canyon Spirit, America's premier luxury train. Step aboard for a three-day trip that focuses on the journey, putting sightseeing at the forefront of the adventure. Depart from Salt Lake City, and enjoy delicious meals and expert commentary while traveling into the deserts and canyons of Moab. The scenery...

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3 days from
$2,439 pp
per person
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Denver Denver Denver Denver Denver
Independent
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

 America's only luxury train, Canyon Spirit, is your chariot for this unforgettable rail adventure. Follow its new route from Salt Lake City, through the deserts of Moab, into the peaks surrounding Glenwood Springs, and finally, to Colorado's dynamic capital city, Denver. Enjoy time to explore Salt Lake City ahead of the journey and daylight-only...

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5 days from
$2,935 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Cologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas Markets
Save $300pp
Escorted
2026NovDec
2027NovDec
Escorted

Feel the holiday spirit on this cruise along the beautiful Rhine. Discovering Germany at the most magical time of the year we stop at traditional Christmas markets along the way, including Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz and Rüdesheim. Strolling through the stalls, admire the craftsmanship of local artisans and savor the flavors that define the season. ...

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Save $300pp
5 days from
$1,699 pp $1,399 pp
per person
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Red Rocks Park At Sunrise Near Denver ColoradoRed Rocks Park At Sunrise Near Denver ColoradoRed Rocks Park At Sunrise Near Denver ColoradoRed Rocks Park At Sunrise Near Denver ColoradoRed Rocks Park At Sunrise Near Denver Colorado
Independent
2026AugOctNov
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

 From the name that brought you Rocky Mountaineer comes Canyon Spirit, America's premier luxury train. On this rail journey, set out on Canyon Spirit's flagship route, traveling from Moab, Utah, to Denver, Colorado, on a scenic, daylight-only route. Soak up sights of sprawling dessert, towering cliffs and unique rock formations before delving...

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2 days from
$1,739 pp
per person
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Colorful Sky Over Bow FallsColorful Sky Over Bow FallsColorful Sky Over Bow FallsColorful Sky Over Bow FallsColorful Sky Over Bow Falls
4.4 stars(32 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

Sometimes you just need to get away, even if only for a few days. This 5-day retreat into the Canadian Rockies is the perfect getaway, combining both sightseeing and relaxation, and of course spectacular scenery. Start your trip in Vancouver, where you'll have time to explore on your own. The next day, your train journey starts with a trip to...

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5 days from
$3,895 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Short Breaks tours
Canadian Rockies Escape with Rocky Mountaineer
9/Jun
Susan Knetsch
5 stars
“We really enjoyed our vacation with Rocky Mountaineer. The crew we had serving us was wonderful, the scenery amazing, and the food delicious! We would definitely travel with them again.
Collected by Trustpilot
California Zephyr Experience
28/May
LARRY SCHICK
5 stars
“Wonderful experience
Collected by Trustpilot
New England in a Nutshell
06 Nov 2025
Suzanne Howze
5 stars
“Our tour guide was great! Also the trip was well thought out and well-organized. My only suggestion; please have people wear name tags. Please, please.
Collected by Trustpilot
New York to Niagara Falls
2/Jul
Bonnie
4 stars
“The train is a lovely ride and Niagara Falls is everything it is cracked up to be. The vouchers for the different ways to view the falls were just right. The hotel we were booked in was overbooked so we were transported to a different hotel. It was closer to...
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
29/Jun
Beth Taylor Swift
4 stars
“The train is old and bathroom in our car was out of order for many hours twice. The staff were fabulous. Attentive and very knowledgeable.
Collected by Trustpilot
Zermatt & St. Moritz featuring Glacier Express
27/May
Susan Jackson
4 stars
“The trip was very good. We liked the hotels and the stops we made on the train. The one aspect we didn’t like was the stay in Turino. It was too long. I would suggest that people stay no longer than 3 hours. Take the Bernina Express there and have...
Collected by Trustpilot
Glacier National Park Escape - Seattle Roundtrip
19 Sep 2025
JILL BAILEY
4 stars
“Way over priced. The service was great on the way. But r he train 2as delayed and it wasn't your fault but the women who served the meals was not nice
Collected by Trustpilot