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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
Save up to $800
4.2 stars(297 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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Save up to $800
6 days from
$1,195 pp $995 pp
per person
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Lake with Autumn Foliage view New England, StoweLake with Autumn Foliage view New England, StoweLake with Autumn Foliage view New England, StoweLake with Autumn Foliage view New England, StoweLake with Autumn Foliage view New England, Stowe
Save up to $800
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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Save up to $800
6 days from
$2,799 pp $2,499 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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California ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia Zephyr
Save up to $800
3.9 stars(54 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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Matterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, Zermatt
4.3 stars(65 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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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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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
Save up to $800
3.9 stars(15 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSep
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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Save up to $800
5 days from
$1,395 pp $1,195 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
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Eilean Donan CastleEilean Donan CastleEilean Donan CastleEilean Donan CastleEilean Donan Castle
Save up to $800
4.0 stars(30 reviews)
Escorted
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
Escorted

Discover the very best of the Scottish Highlands on a five-day tour while soaking up breathtaking scenery aboard the legendary West Highland Line and Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs and emerald forests that make up the Scottish landscape. Delve into Scotland's fascinating heritage and...

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Save up to $800
5 days from
$1,599 pp $1,399 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 up to $800
4.4 stars(31 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct
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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Save up to $800
5 days from
$3,895 pp $3,495 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
4.1 stars(35 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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Desert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View Watchtower
Save up to $800
4.1 stars(27 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctNovDec
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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Save up to $800
5 days from
$1,095 pp $895 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Short Breaks tours
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure - Los Angeles
2/Jun
Linda Maxwell
5 stars
“Train from LA to Flagstaff good, on time; great service with Sprinter van shuttle to Williams AZ. Nice touch having a room available at hotel. Loved train ride up to Grand Canyon. The scenery there is amazing. Trip reversed was fine.
Collected by Trustpilot
Canadian Rockies Escape with Rocky Mountaineer
29/May
ARTHUR WALLACE
5 stars
“It was an amazing time. The crew and staff on the train and at the hotels were friendly. The excursion in Banff was fun and the Brewster tour bus guide/driver was wonderful. Excellent time.
Collected by Trustpilot
California Zephyr Experience
28/May
LARRY SCHICK
5 stars
“Wonderful experience
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
21/May
JW
5 stars
“This was a wonderful introduction to the Highlands of Scotland. I was disappointed that we were unable to take the Jacobite steam train, but other parts of the tour were were excellent. Sharon was a great group leader but I think a guide who was native the the area could...
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
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
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
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
2/Jun
Paul Crawford
4 stars
“Trip from Williams to the Grand Canyon was very nice.
Collected by Trustpilot