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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.

31 results matching: Short Breaks

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Grand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand Canyon
Save $200pp
4.2 stars(256 reviews)
Independent
2025NovDec
2026JanFebMarAprMay...
Independent

The Grand Canyon is one of the world's top natural attractions. Visit one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World on this exciting rail adventure. Beginning in Chicago, board Amtrak's Southwest Chief bound for Flagstaff, Arizona, the gateway to the Canyon. Upon arriving in Flagstaff, catch the historic Grand Canyon Railway for your journey to...

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Save $200pp
6 days from
$1,195 pp $995 pp
per person
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Cologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas Markets
Escorted
2025NovDec
2026NovDec
Escorted

Feel the spirit of Christmas 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. Strolling through the stalls, admire the craftsmanship of local artisans and savor the flavors that define the season. On board, soak in the natural beauty of the...

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5 days from
$1,395 pp
per person
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Kancamagus Highway During Foliage SeasonKancamagus Highway During Foliage SeasonKancamagus Highway During Foliage SeasonKancamagus Highway During Foliage SeasonKancamagus Highway During Foliage Season
4.3 stars(130 reviews)
Escorted
2026SepOct
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
$2,795 pp
per person
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Niagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara Falls
3.9 stars(48 reviews)
Independent
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
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
per person
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Matterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, Zermatt
Save $200pp
4.4 stars(61 reviews)
Independent
2025Dec
2026JanFebMarAprMay...
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 $200pp
6 days from
$2,295 pp $2,095 pp
per person
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Colorado Rockies Continental DivideColorado Rockies Continental DivideColorado Rockies Continental DivideColorado Rockies Continental DivideColorado Rockies Continental Divide
4.0 stars(44 reviews)
Independent
2025NovDec
2026JanFebMarAprMay...
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
$795 pp
per person
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Sunrise in Winter at the Grand CanyonSunrise in Winter at the Grand CanyonSunrise in Winter at the Grand CanyonSunrise in Winter at the Grand CanyonSunrise in Winter at the Grand Canyon
4.5 stars(22 reviews)
Independent
2025NovDec
2026JanFebMar
Independent

This winter, escape to the warmth of America's southwest and the beauty of one of the world's top natural attractions, the Grand Canyon. Your 6-day train vacation begins in Chicago, where you'll board Amtrak's Southwest Chief for Flagstaff, Arizona. From there, catch the historic Grand Canyon Railway for your journey to the South Rim of the Grand...

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6 days from
$1,295 pp
per person
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Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Save $200pp
Escorted
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
Escorted

On this nostalgic escape, ride on celebrated railways, visit ancient castles, and discover the beautiful gardens of north Wales. Journey through stunning scenery on the Ffestiniog Railway, the world's oldest independent line, and ascend Snowdon's summit on the Snowdon Mountain Railway. Step into the unique village of Portmeirion, the design of...

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Save $200pp
6 days from
$1,195 pp $995 pp
per person
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Denver Denver Denver Denver Denver
Independent
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
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
$2,654 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
2026JunJulAugSep
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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Desert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View Watchtower
4.0 stars(26 reviews)
Independent
2025NovDec
2026JanFebMarAprMay...
Independent

Beginning in Los Angeles, board Amtrak's Southwest Chief for the overnight journey to Flagstaff, Arizona, where you will catch the historic Grand Canyon Railway for the ride to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. This 4-day rail vacation includes travel aboard two iconic trains, hotel accommodations in Flagstaff and Grand Canyon National Park,...

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5 days from
$995 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
Save $1,000pp
4.3 stars(28 reviews)
Independent
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
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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Save $1,000pp
5 days from
$3,095 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Short Breaks tours
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
27/Oct
JACK ALLAN POWELL
5 stars
“Very pleased with going through Vacations By Rail to book the vacation. Very easy.
Collected by Trustpilot
New England in a Nutshell
23/Oct
Rich & Jane
5 stars
“Big thank you to our motorcoach driver, Larry. He was very friendly, talkative, helpful and safe driving. We had a great tour manager, Linda ika "Fun Size". She was extremely organized, informative, friendly and always had our best interest/enjoyment at heart. We were provided a detailed itinerary for the entire vacation....
Collected by Trustpilot
Zermatt & St. Moritz featuring Glacier Express
20/Oct
HERBERT BUNT
5 stars
“Beautiful train, comfortable and beautiful scenery.
Collected by Trustpilot
Canadian Rockies Escape with Rocky Mountaineer
10/Oct
DEBORAH ANN BLACKBOURN
5 stars
“This trip was on my husband’s bucket list. We felt pampered the moment we stepped on the train! Staff was well-trained in their role! The scenery was gorgeous! We were thrilled that we could do this trip, but also thrilled with the experience we had! I will be recommending The...
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure - Los Angeles
17/Sep
Anthony Massaro
5 stars
“One of the best vacations in a long time
Collected by Trustpilot
Winter Escape to the Grand Canyon - Chicago Round-trip
16/Mar
LARRY D THOMAS
5 stars
“A very nice and comfortable, and affordable vacation
Collected by Trustpilot
California Zephyr Experience
22/Oct
Jimmy Hudson
4 stars
“The overall product is a 4.5 rating. The hotels, tours, dining and scenery are outstanding. The bedroom accommodations could be more spacious.
Collected by Trustpilot
New York to Niagara Falls
20/Oct
conwrite
4 stars
“Excellent trip. Many attractions included. Hotel was great! Only disappointments were extremely long return trip back to New York (out of Vacations by Rail's hands) and boat ride under the falls was not included.
Collected by Trustpilot