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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
4.2 stars(234 reviews)
Independent
2025OctNovDec
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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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
$1,495 pp
per person
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Matterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, Zermatt
4.4 stars(52 reviews)
Independent
2025OctDec
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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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(43 reviews)
Independent
2025OctNovDec
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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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
4.7 stars(30 reviews)
Independent
2025OctNov
Independent

An experience reserved for Canada's travelers in years past now is available in Colorado: a ride aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer. This quick trip offers a memorable introduction to the high-end amenities of this rail line as you travel between Denver, CO and Moab, UT. Soak in sights of deep canyons and towering mountain peaks, travel past...

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2 days from
$2,327 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
4.3 stars(26 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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5 days from
$3,095 pp
per person
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Independent
2026JunJul
Independent

A route of natural wonders and untamed landscapes comes to life on this Canadian Rockies vacation featuring Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise. Following a round-trip route from Calgary, delve into the immense beauty of the Rockies in Banff National Park before boarding Rocky Mountaineer for a ride on its limited-time route, Passages to Peaks, to...

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8 days from
$6,395 pp
per person
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Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Save $200 per person
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 $200 per person
6 days from
$1,195 pp $995 pp
per person
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Icefields Parkway at Sunset, Banff National ParkIcefields Parkway at Sunset, Banff National ParkIcefields Parkway at Sunset, Banff National ParkIcefields Parkway at Sunset, Banff National ParkIcefields Parkway at Sunset, Banff National Park
4.9 stars(14 reviews)
Independent
2025Oct
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
Independent

Snow-capped peaks surrounded by vibrantly hued lakes and emerald-green forests set the scene for this independent journey through Canada's Rocky Mountains. A brilliant combination of rail travel and time to drive through the amazing landscape at your own pace allows for an impressive and thorough introduction to interior Canada. Begin in Calgary,...

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6 days from
$4,295 pp
per person
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Niagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara Falls
4.0 stars(40 reviews)
Independent
2025Oct
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
$695 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
4.2 stars(30 reviews)
Independent
2025OctNovDec
2026JanFebMarAprMay...
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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5 days from
$895 pp
per person
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Desert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View Watchtower
4.0 stars(25 reviews)
Independent
2025OctNovDec
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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Our customers love our Short Breaks tours
Rockies to the Red Rocks - 2 Day Rail
12/Sep
GEORGE DODSON
5 stars
“Phenomenal!
Collected by Trustpilot
Zermatt & St. Moritz featuring Glacier Express
23/Aug
Richard
5 stars
“St. Moritz hotel, The Schweitzerhof, was not up to the quality of the other two in Zurich and Zermatt. It needs upgrading. Otherwise the trip was wonderful
Collected by Trustpilot
Empire Builder Experience - Chicago to Seattle
15/Sep
Debbie Reidhaar-Flisher
4 stars
“The trip was a good value for the price. My suggestion is in regard to the information about arrival in Chicago that is provided in the paperwork received beforehand. Arriving at O'Hare International and getting to Palmer House, downtown Chicago, was challenging to say the least. More detail information from...
Collected by Trustpilot
New York to Niagara Falls
15/Sep
Linda Vila Passione
4 stars
“Nice vacation idea but difficulty in contacting live help when there is a glitch
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
13/Sep
Donald Griffin
4 stars
“Tardiness of the train unfortunately impacted the overall experience of the journey even though Amtrak has less control over the railways than they would like to have since freight trains own the right of passage..
Collected by Trustpilot
Canadian Rockies Escape with Rocky Mountaineer
1/Sep
LORI HITCHCOCK HANEY
4 stars
“Everything was great except for our final transportation. They went to the wrong hotel to pick us up. Luckily we called right away and was picked up and shuttled to the main bus. The bus then continued to drop us off at the wrong location. He was...
Collected by Trustpilot
California Zephyr Experience
26/Aug
Jim Ramsey
4 stars
“Roomette was very comfortable and had more space than what we expected. A couple of small problems (one light broken, substandard air conditioning), but overall enjoyed it. The view through the Rockies was remarkable.
Collected by Trustpilot
Beautiful Banff Rail & Drive
20/Aug
MICHELLE ROGERS
4 stars
“This was an amazing trip! We thoroughly enjoyed it, and saw spectacular scenery. The highlight was the trip on the Rocky Mountaineer. The service level and amazing on-board hosts really were top notch. The only reason I gave this tour 4 stars instead of 5 is that I think you...
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure - Los Angeles
9/Aug
JAN MEI
4 stars
“The trip is Nice!
Collected by Trustpilot