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Winter Vacations
Embrace the winter season in magical locales or find your perfect warm-weather getaway
Vacation Types

Top Winter and Holiday Getaways

Cologne Christmas Markets
German Christmas Markets of the Rhine
5 days from $1,395 pp $1,295 pp
  • Spend 4 relaxing days onboard the ship with five-star service
  • Visit the Christmas markets of Cologne, Rüdesheim, and more
  • Sip mulled wine, admire twinkling lights, and enjoy local delicacies
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Via Rail, The Canadian in the Snow
Canadian Snow Train
7 days from $2,795 pp $2,595 pp
  • Travel from Vancouver to Toronto on the iconic VIA Rail Canadian in Sleeper Plus
  • Soak up the amazing winter landscapes of five Canadian provinces and the Rockies
  • Discover the oceanside city of Vancouver on a fascinating multisensory journey
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 First Class Mountaintops of Switzerland in Winter
9 days from $4,395 pp $3,995 pp
  • Stay at the Pilatus Kulm mountaintop hotel, which is only accessible by cable car
  • Enjoy exquisite views from the historic Grandhotel Giessbach
  • Admire scenery from two iconic trains, the Glacier Express and Bernina Express
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Our Most Popular Winter Getaways

Experience the magic of winter with a quest to spot the Northern Lights, engage in holiday festivities, or escape the cold to enjoy regions in their summer months.

Aurora Winter Train
Save $600
Alaska Northern Lights & Winter Nights – An Escorted Journey
4.8 stars(34 reviews)
Escorted
2026Mar
7 days from
$3,795 pp $3,195 pp
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The Northern Lights & Lapland
Save $600
The Northern Lights & Lapland
4.2 stars(51 reviews)
Escorted
2026JanFebMar
11 days from
$3,465 pp $2,865 pp
View Details
Northern Lights, Chena Hot Springs
Save up to $500
Alaska Northern Lights & Aurora Train
4.8 stars(35 reviews)
Independent
2025Dec
2026JanFebMar
7 days from
$2,995 pp $2,795 pp
View Details
Alaska Wildlife
Northern Lights & Alaska Highlights
4.5 stars(13 reviews)
Independent
2025Dec
2026JanFebMar
7 days from
$2,495 pp $2,295 pp
View Details
Save $600
Northern Lights on a Winter Arctic Cruise
Escorted
2026JanFebMar
12 days from
$3,895 pp $3,295 pp
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Northern Lights Swirling over Pine Trees
Save $300
Aurora Viewing at Bettles Lodge
4.7 stars(20 reviews)
Independent
2025OctNovDec
2026JanFebMar
6 days from
$3,395 pp $3,095 pp
View Details
Dining Hut under the Stars
Save up to $500
Northern Lights at Borealis Basecamp
4.8 stars(17 reviews)
Independent
2025SepOctNovDec
2026JanFebMarApr
8 days from
$2,795 pp $2,495 pp
View Details
Stockholm
Save up to $500
Northern Lights & Sweden's Arctic Circle
Independent
2026JanFebMar
9 days from
$5,995 pp $5,495 pp
View Details
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76 results matching: Winter Tours

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Grand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand Canyon
$1,000 off
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
4.3 stars(230 reviews)
Independent
2025SepOctNovDec
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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$1,000 off
6 days from
$1,195 pp
per person
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Aurora Winter TrainAurora Winter TrainAurora Winter TrainAurora Winter TrainAurora Winter Train
Save $600
Alaska Northern Lights & Winter Nights – An Escorted Journey
4.8 stars(34 reviews)
Escorted
2026Mar
Escorted

Seek the magical aurora borealis on a sensational winter journey from Fairbanks to Anchorage, riding the amazing Aurora Winter Train in the shadow of Denali. An evening in the wilderness provides a great chance to catch the Northern Lights, while an exciting dog-sled ride through the snow-covered tundra and a curling lesson help uncover the...

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Save $600
7 days from
$3,795 pp $3,195 pp
per person
View Details
Cologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas Markets
Save up to $500
German Christmas Markets of the Rhine
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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Save up to $500
5 days from
$1,395 pp $1,295 pp
per person
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Matterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, ZermattMatterhorn, Zermatt
Save $300
Zermatt & St. Moritz featuring Glacier Express
4.4 stars(52 reviews)
Independent
2025SepOctDec
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 $300
6 days from
$2,395 pp $2,095 pp
per person
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Rocky MountaineerRocky MountaineerRocky MountaineerRocky MountaineerRocky Mountaineer
$1,000 off
Across Canada by Train
4.5 stars(71 reviews)
Independent
2025SepOctNovDec
Independent

Spend 14 days traversing the boundless Canadian landscape, discovering all the spectacular cities and natural wonders bestrewn upon it by train. This remarkable journey travels from the West Coast to the East using three rail lines - two overnight and one whose route connects the popular cities along the Windsor Corridor. Enjoy first-class...

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$1,000 off
14 days from
$3,795 pp $3,495 pp
per person
View Details
Colorado Rockies Continental DivideColorado Rockies Continental DivideColorado Rockies Continental DivideColorado Rockies Continental DivideColorado Rockies Continental Divide
$1,000 off
California Zephyr Experience
4.1 stars(41 reviews)
Independent
2025SepOctNovDec
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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$1,000 off
5 days from
$795 pp
per person
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The Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & Lapland
Save $600
The Northern Lights & Lapland
4.2 stars(51 reviews)
Escorted
2026JanFebMar
Escorted

 Beautifully scenic Scandinavian rail journeys take us from the ancient Viking capital of Trondheim to wintry Kiruna in Swedish Lapland, as we enjoy many opportunities to be dazzled by the ethereal Northern Lights.    Traveling through amazing landscapes, the Nordland Railway carries us across the Arctic Circle to Bodø. From here, we explore the...

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Save $600
11 days from
$3,465 pp $2,865 pp
per person
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Grand Tour of Spain & Portugal
Escorted
2025Oct
Escorted

The Iberian Peninsula holds a rich culture, incredible landscapes, and excellent gastronomy. Join us on a grand tour of Spain and Portugal, experience the highlights of many cities with an expert guide, with free time to explore independently. Starting in Spain, staying in noble Madrid and historic Salamanca, we cross the border into Portugal. We...

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12 days from
$4,120 pp
per person
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Northern Lights, Chena Hot SpringsNorthern Lights, Chena Hot SpringsNorthern Lights, Chena Hot SpringsNorthern Lights, Chena Hot SpringsNorthern Lights, Chena Hot Springs
Save up to $500
Alaska Northern Lights & Aurora Train
4.8 stars(35 reviews)
Independent
2025Dec
2026JanFebMar
Independent

Winter is a special time of year in Alaska. The landscape transforms into a wonderland clad in fluffy white snow, and the short days set the perfect stage for the aurora borealis to take over the night sky. Adventures take on a new form and open visitors' eyes to the wonders and traditions of America's Last Frontier. This week-long Alaskan journey...

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Save up to $500
7 days from
$2,995 pp $2,795 pp
per person
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Milford SoundMilford SoundMilford SoundMilford SoundMilford Sound
Save up to $500
Grand Tour of New Zealand
4.2 stars(17 reviews)
Escorted
2025SepOctNovDec
2026JanFebMarOctNovDec
Escorted

Discover New Zealand's dazzling cities, extraordinary national parks, spectacular mountains, and breathtaking Fiordland on this epic tour of the North and South Islands. This fabulous tour combines the greatest features of this wonderful country in one vacation: superb railways, glorious landscapes, fabulous wine estates, and the warm and...

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Save up to $500
18 days from
$5,295 pp
per person
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First Class Glacier Express in Winter (Brig-Chur) 2016First Class Glacier Express in Winter (Brig-Chur) 2016First Class Glacier Express in Winter (Brig-Chur) 2016First Class Glacier Express in Winter (Brig-Chur) 2016First Class Glacier Express in Winter (Brig-Chur) 2016
Save up to $500
Classic Glacier Express in Winter
5.0 stars(6 reviews)
Escorted
2026JanFebMar
Escorted

Snow-bound views and enchanting seasonal scenery have made the Glacier Express famous at this time of year as the glistening peaks and sugar-frosted forests of the Swiss Alps provide picture-postcard backdrops. On this memorable vacation, pass icy lakes and the ethereal Palü Glacier on the UNESCO-listed route of the Bernina Express. Later,...

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Save up to $500
8 days from
$2,495 pp $2,295 pp
per person
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Montreal During Foliage Season Montreal During Foliage Season Montreal During Foliage Season Montreal During Foliage Season Montreal During Foliage Season
Save $300
Montreal & Quebec City by Rail
4.7 stars(74 reviews)
Independent
2025SepOctNovDec
2026JanFebMarAprMay...
Independent

A fascinating showcase of culture and history captures your attention and heart on this 7-day tour of two prominent cities within French Canada: Montreal and Quebec City. With each passing season, the views and experiences in these cities change, finding new ways to satisfy your inner voyager. Festivals, outdoor escapades, and busy streets filled...

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Save $300
7 days from
$1,195 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Winter Tours tours
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
Montreal & Quebec City by Rail
16/Aug
Frank Senn
5 stars
“Enjoyed the three days in each city. Bus excursions were thorough and the guides well informed.
Collected by Trustpilot
Across Canada by Train
22/Jul
Chris Currier
5 stars
“Enjoyed the trip overall. Sleeper Plus Cabin for 2 was very small and quite dated. Staff & Service were excellent!
Collected by Trustpilot
Alaska Northern Lights & Winter Nights – An Escorted Journey
10/Apr
Charlene M Moody
5 stars
“We enjoyed the whole trip. The tour guide Shari Osterude and Larry the bus driver were just amazing. The food was fantastic, the rooms were great, and all the excursions were wonderful. I am looking in the near future for another trip with Vacation by Rails!
Collected by Trustpilot
Classic Glacier Express in Winter
5/Apr
Jack Irwin Lesser
5 stars
“This was one of the most amazing trips that we’ve taken since we started traveling in 2022. Our Tour Manager Debbie Perkin was amazing, and extremely helpful during our incredible journey!
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
26/Aug
DIANE MEYER
4 stars
“The trip was wonderful. The reason for 4 stars instead of 5 was the train going to Flagstaff was over 3 hours past schedule.There is probably nothing you could do to prevent the delay, however, it would have been nice to be informed by the conductor or the staff on...
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
Grand Tour of New Zealand
21/Apr
Donna Baker
4 stars
“I enjoyed the tour, especially the Maori venues. The bus and train rides were somewhat tedious but I know we had to travel long distances to see as much as possible. Kay and the drivers were fantastic. Donna Baker
Collected by Trustpilot
Alaska Northern Lights & Aurora Train
3/Apr
MICHAEL BALDINELLI
4 stars
“better transportation to events. Good guides, bad vans
Collected by Trustpilot

Winter Vacations

Switch up your holiday itinerary this year with a winter vacation. There are many appealing things about traveling during the winter months: Popular attractions are devoid of summertime tourists, trains are less crowded and, of course, the scenery is amazing. Plains and prairies are blanketed with freshly fallen snow, and mountain peaks are dressed in their winter white. All of this paired with ice-encrusted rivers and frozen lakes make for some of the most incredible sights to behold. The best winter vacations highlight the beauty of the landscape while also capturing the spirit of the season. 

Visit alpine towns chock-full of winter activities, such as Banff or Jasper in the Rocky Mountains of Canada or the resort cities of the Swiss Alps. In these destinations, skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling and snowshoeing are among the most popular ways to savor the winter scenes. Ride a snow train from Chicago to San Francisco or Seattle for a look at the ever-changing vistas of winter as you travel between states.  Take a train trip past the Arctic Circle to watch the Northern Lights play across the sky in places like Alaska and Scandinavia. A winter holiday may also venture to Europe, where traditional Christmas markets fill the air with spiced aromas and the joyous sounds of festive music. 

Winter holiday destinations do not have to be cold, though. Rather, travelers have the option to escape to warmer havens to soak up the sun and leave the cold far behind them. These trips combine thoughtful train itineraries with ocean cruising to destinations like Hawaii and the  Western Caribbean. Winter vacation ideas are as diverse as the travelers that set out upon them.