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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.

35 results matching: Short Breaks

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Worldwide Rail Vacations 2023/24

Our latest vacation brochure is now available.

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South Rim of the Grand Canyon
Independent
Save up to $350
4.3 stars(121 reviews)
2023OctNovDec
2024JanFebMarAprMay...
6 days from
$1,029 pp
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Independent
Save up to $350
6 days from
$1,029
per person
View Details
tour map
  • AccommodationRail, Hotel
  • TransportRail
Map and accommodation
Strathspey Railway
Escorted
4.4 stars(30 reviews)
2024MarAprMayJunJul...
5 days from
$1,295 pp
View Details
Escorted
5 days from
$1,295
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationScotland
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail
Map and accommodation
Glacier Express in the Goms Valley
Independent
Save up to $350
4.6 stars(9 reviews)
2023OctDec
2024JanFebMarAprMay...
6 days from
$1,787 pp
View Details
Independent
Save up to $350
6 days from
$1,787
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationSwitzerland
  • TransportRail
Map and accommodation
Cabin Emerald at Lake Yoho National Park
Independent
Save up to $350
2024MayJunJulAugSepOct
6 days from
$3,752 pp
View Details
Independent
Save up to $350
6 days from
$3,752
per person
View Details
tour map
  • AccommodationRail
  • TransportRail
Map and accommodation
Aurora Viewing at Bettles Lodge
Independent
Save up to $350
4.9 stars(12 reviews)
2023OctNovDec
2024JanFebMar
6 days from
$2,624 pp
View Details
Independent
Save up to $350
6 days from
$2,624
per person
View Details
tour map
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail
Map and accommodation
Aurora Borealis Display at Chena Hot Springs Resort
Independent
2023OctNovDec
2024JanFebMar
6 days from
$1,622 pp
View Details
Independent
6 days from
$1,622
per person
View Details
tour map
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail, Coach
Map and accommodation
California Zephyr
Independent
4.3 stars(26 reviews)
2023OctNovDec
2024JanFebMarAprMay...
5 days from
$604 pp
View Details
Independent
5 days from
$604
per person
View Details
tour map
  • AccommodationRail, Hotel
  • TransportRail
Map and accommodation
Empire Builder Between Chicago and Seattle
Independent
4.2 stars(19 reviews)
2023OctNovDec
2024JanFebMarAprMay...
5 days from
$648 pp
View Details
Independent
5 days from
$648
per person
View Details
tour map
  • AccommodationRail
  • TransportRail
Map and accommodation
Save up to $350
5 days from
$1,272
per person
View Details
tour map
  • AccommodationRail, Hotel
  • TransportRail
Map and accommodation

Worldwide Rail Vacations 2023/24

Our latest vacation brochure is now available.

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Desert View Watchtower
Independent
4.4 stars(14 reviews)
2023OctNovDec
2024JanFebMarAprMay...
5 days from
$821 pp
View Details
Independent
5 days from
$821
per person
View Details
tour map
  • AccommodationRail, Hotel
  • TransportRail, Coach
Map and accommodation
Kancamagus Highway During Foliage Season
Escorted
Save up to $300pp
4.3 stars(30 reviews)
2024SepOct
6 days from
$2,495 pp $2,395 pp
View Details
Escorted
Save up to $300pp
6 days from
$2,495
$2,395
per person
View Details
tour map
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail, Coach
Map and accommodation
Niagara Falls Aerial View
Independent
4.3 stars(15 reviews)
2023Oct
2024MayJunJulAugSepOct
4 days from
$655 pp
View Details
Independent
4 days from
$655
per person
View Details
Our customers love our Short Breaks tours
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
20 Sep 2023
Linwrage
5 stars
“We received everything we were promised on this vacation. The trains were on time and everything went smoothly. The car attendants on the train were very helpful and friendly. We booked a bedroom in a Sleeper car for this trip. It was very much worth the extra expense. The food on the train was very good. The hotels were very comfortable and clean. Seeing the Grand Canyon was amazing! The driver we had on the bus tour was very knowledgeable and interesting. We stayed at the Maswik Lodge. There are additional sightseeing tours that you can go on - just ask at the main desk and they will let you know the times. I would go on this vacation again, but I would probably extend my stay.
Collected by Trustpilot
Rockies to the Red Rocks Excursion Salt Lake City
20 Sep 2023
SUSAN ANDERSON
5 stars
“This was a great trip. The places we visited and the scenery was fantastic. The staff on the Rocky Mountaineer took good care of us, providing very interesting information about the areas we passed through. Food quality and service was outstanding!
Collected by Trustpilot
Rockies to the Red Rocks - 2 Day Rail
16 Sep 2023
Steve Joiner
5 stars
“This was a trip of a lifetime for us and we have travel often, on cruises, river cruise ships, and resorts. The service was on the same par as your favorite cruise. The Lanscape changes and it brings so much joy as we experience all of it.
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
16/Sep
steve hanson
5 stars
“The itenerary was top-notch. The tour manager was caring and professional. The train rides were great. What else could we ask for?
Collected by Trustpilot
Zermatt & St. Moritz featuring Glacier Express
31 Aug 2023
MARY HULL
5 stars
“Spectacular views, comfortable ride
Collected by Trustpilot
California Zephyr Experience
27 Aug 2023
Sheila Garrett
5 stars
“Very comfortable in coach I did think the prise of the food was a bit high
Collected by Trustpilot
New York to Niagara Falls
27 Aug 2023
LINDA GRECO
5 stars
“Wonderful tour. Had one minor issue. Boat voucher confirmation was incorrect but clerk resolved issue and located my ticket by name.
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure - Los Angeles
27 Jun 2023
Penny Smith
5 stars
“We loved the trip to the Grand Canyon on this train.
Collected by Trustpilot
New Orleans Express
03 May 2023
DORINDA UY
5 stars
“The first class accommodation at the lounge was perfect with the shower room ( complete with towels and toiletries), snacks and comfortable chairs. The meals in the train were savory and hot. Enjoyed every one of them. The train ride from Chicago to New Orleans went by pretty quickly with views of the Midwest towns. The hotels provided in Chicago and New Orleans were right in the center of downtown where you could walk to most places. Overall, all 4 of us enjoyed our experience!
Collected by Trustpilot