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Enchanting Winter Journeys
Find your dose of winter magic in destinations across the globe
Vacation Types

Top Winter and Holiday Getaways

River CruiseRiver Cruise
Cologne Christmas Markets
German Christmas Markets of the Rhine
5 days from $1,695 pp $1,595 pp
  • Visit the Christmas markets of Cologne, Rüdesheim, and more
  • Sip mulled wine, admire twinkling lights, and enjoy local delicacies
  • Spend 4 relaxing days onboard the ship with five-star service
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Via Rail, The Canadian in the Snow
Canadian Snow Train
7 days from $2,795 pp $2,495 pp
  • Relax in luxurious surroundings, staying in 4 and 5-Star hotels in Vancouver and Toronto
  • Enjoy included admission to FlyOver Canada, a multi-sensory flight ride in Vancouver
  • Witness winter scenes while traveling from Vancouver to Toronto on VIA Rail’s Canadian
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The Northern Lights & Lapland
The Northern Lights & Lapland
11 days from $4,595 pp $4,295 pp
  • Seek the ethereal Northern Lights aboard the Nordland Railway and on the remote Lofoten Islands
  • With an expert local guide, discover the history and lifestyle of the Sámi people
  • Embark on a delightful husky safari, gliding through the snow on a sleigh hauled by the lively dogs
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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.

Northern Lights, Alaska
Save $300pp
Alaska Northern Lights & Winter Nights – An Escorted Journey
4.8 stars(34 reviews)
Escorted
2026Mar
2027FebMar
7 days from
$3,895 pp $3,595 pp
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The Northern Lights & Lapland
Save $300pp
The Northern Lights & Lapland
4.1 stars(64 reviews)
Escorted
2026MarDec
2027JanFebMar
11 days from
$4,595 pp $4,295 pp
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Northern Lights, Chena Hot Springs
Save $300pp
Alaska Northern Lights & Aurora Train
4.7 stars(41 reviews)
Independent
2026MarDec
2027JanFebMar
7 days from
$2,995 pp $2,695 pp
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Alaska Wildlife
Save $300pp
Northern Lights & Alaska Highlights
4.5 stars(15 reviews)
Independent
2026MarDec
2027JanFebMar
7 days from
$2,595 pp $2,295 pp
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Northern Lights on a Winter Arctic Cruise
Northern Lights on a Winter Arctic Cruise
Escorted
2027JanFebMar
12 days from
$4,499 pp
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Northern Lights Swirling over Pine Trees
Save $300pp
Aurora Viewing at Bettles Lodge
4.7 stars(21 reviews)
Independent
2026MarOctNovDec
2027JanFebMar
6 days from
$3,195 pp $2,895 pp
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Dining Hut under the Stars
Save $300pp
Northern Lights at Borealis Basecamp
4.7 stars(22 reviews)
Independent
2026AugSepOctNovDec
2027JanFebMarApr
8 days from
$2,795 pp $2,495 pp
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Stockholm
Northern Lights & Sweden's Arctic Circle
Independent
2026Mar
9 days from
$6,195 pp $5,895 pp
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62 results matching: Winter Tours

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Grand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand Canyon
Save $300pp
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
4.2 stars(270 reviews)
Independent
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
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 $300pp
6 days from
$1,195 pp
per person
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Northern Lights, AlaskaNorthern Lights, AlaskaNorthern Lights, AlaskaNorthern Lights, AlaskaNorthern Lights, Alaska
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Alaska Northern Lights & Winter Nights – An Escorted Journey
4.8 stars(34 reviews)
Escorted
2026Mar
2027FebMar
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 $300pp
7 days from
$3,895 pp $3,595 pp
per person
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Milford SoundMilford SoundMilford SoundMilford SoundMilford Sound
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Grand Tour of New Zealand
4.3 stars(27 reviews)
Escorted
2026MarOctNovDec
2027JanFebMarOctNov
Escorted

Discover New Zealand's dynamic cities, extraordinary national parks, spectacular alpine mountains, glacial lakes and breathtaking Fiordland on this extensive tour of the North and South Islands. This epic adventure combines the greatest and most famous features of New Zealand's North and South Islands in one vacation: a combination of superb...

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Save $300pp
18 days from
$7,295 pp $6,995 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
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Grand Canyon Winter Experience by Rail
4.5 stars(26 reviews)
Independent
2026MarNovDec
2027JanFebMar
Independent

A UNESCO-listed attraction and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon beckons on this wintertime vacation. Find yourself transported back to the golden age of train travel as you join Amtrak's Southwest Chief on its overnight journey from Chicago to Arizona. The rail adventures continue aboard the 120-year-old Grand...

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Save $300pp
6 days from
$1,295 pp
per person
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Alaska WildlifeAlaska WildlifeAlaska WildlifeAlaska WildlifeAlaska Wildlife
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Northern Lights & Alaska Highlights
4.5 stars(15 reviews)
Independent
2026MarDec
2027JanFebMar
Independent

By day and night, immerse yourself in the wonders of an Alaskan winter. With its far-north location, this state is one of the best places in North America to see the aurora borealis, and this journey features plenty of opportunities to do just that. Venture into the state's remote interior aboard the Alaska Railroad's Aurora Winter Train and...

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Save $300pp
7 days from
$2,595 pp $2,295 pp
per person
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Cuisine & Culture: Rome, Florence & Venice
4.6 stars(62 reviews)
Independent
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

Through museum visits, guided tours and culinary experiences, delve into the history and incredible culture of Italy. This nine-day expedition follows a northerly course that takes travelers from Rome in the south to Venice on the cusp of the Adriatic Sea. Each stop along the way paints a memorable picture of Italy's immense beauty.

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9 days from
$3,495 pp $3,195 pp
per person
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Desert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View WatchtowerDesert View Watchtower
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Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure - Los Angeles
4.0 stars(26 reviews)
Independent
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
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 $300pp
5 days from
$995 pp
per person
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Via Rail, The Canadian in the SnowVia Rail, The Canadian in the SnowVia Rail, The Canadian in the SnowVia Rail, The Canadian in the SnowVia Rail, The Canadian in the Snow
Save $300pp
Canadian Snow Train
4.4 stars(52 reviews)
Independent
2026MarAprOctNovDec
2027JanFebMarApr
Independent

Experience the best of the Canadian wilderness in a season when crowds are low and the scenery is pristine. Frosted mountain peaks, icy rivers and snow-clad scenes pave the way on this winter journey across five provinces. Step aboard the iconic Canadian train in Vancouver, and travel through landscapes only accessible by rail. Savor...

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Save $300pp
7 days from
$2,795 pp $2,495 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
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Alaska Northern Lights & Aurora Train
4.7 stars(41 reviews)
Independent
2026MarDec
2027JanFebMar
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...

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Save $300pp
7 days from
$2,995 pp $2,695 pp
per person
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Pacific Ocean and Big Sur CoastlinePacific Ocean and Big Sur CoastlinePacific Ocean and Big Sur CoastlinePacific Ocean and Big Sur CoastlinePacific Ocean and Big Sur Coastline
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Coast Starlight Experience
4.4 stars(26 reviews)
Independent
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
Independent

En route daily between Seattle and Los Angeles, the Coast Starlight passes through Portland, Sacramento, the San Francisco Bay Area and Santa Barbara. The scenery along the Coast Starlight route is unsurpassed. The dramatic snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta, lush forests, fertile valleys and long stretches of Pacific...

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Save $300pp
4 days from
$795 pp
per person
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Golden Gate BridgeGolden Gate BridgeGolden Gate BridgeGolden Gate BridgeGolden Gate Bridge
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Coast to Coast: New York to San Francisco
Independent
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
Independent

Prepare for a 10-day cross-country rail vacation that showcases the best of the USA, from natural beauty to big cities. Start your journey by exploring iconic landmarks on a guided tour of New York. Next, relax aboard the Lake Shore Limited as it whisks you through scenic vistas to Chicago, where you'll delve into the Windy City's ...

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Save $300pp
10 days from
$2,595 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
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Montreal & Quebec City by Rail
4.7 stars(79 reviews)
Independent
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
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...

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Save $300pp
7 days from
$895 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Winter Tours tours
Canadian Snow Train
15/Feb
Judith R
5 stars
“Train crew was super friendly. All connections were as promised.
Collected by Trustpilot
Alaska Northern Lights & Aurora Train
15/Feb
DONG SHIN
5 stars
“This tour was worth the time and money
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Tour of New Zealand
10/Feb
Janet Hallock
5 stars
“A great tour of the highlights of New Zealand with lots of scenery and cultural experiences.
Collected by Trustpilot
Northern Lights & Alaska Highlights
3/Feb
TERRILYNN LACKEY
5 stars
“Well worth the $$$. Great experiences. Top notch guides.
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
14/Jan
RODRICK SPEIKES
5 stars
“very nice ,very thorough, everything and just a bit more than we expected
Collected by Trustpilot
Montreal & Quebec City by Rail
12 Dec 2025
PAULA GLEASON
5 stars
“The itinerary was perfect for us. It included the hotels, city tours, and plenty of time on our own.
Collected by Trustpilot
Cuisine & Culture: Rome, Florence & Venice
08 Oct 2025
customer
5 stars
“It was very nice to be met at airports and train stations with an easy to identify who our drivers were at each stop. These drivers who brought us to and from our Hotels removed any anxiety from our trip this made our truly amazing.
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure - Los Angeles
17 Sep 2025
Anthony Massaro
5 stars
“One of the best vacations in a long time
Collected by Trustpilot
Alaska Northern Lights & Winter Nights – An Escorted Journey
10 Apr 2025
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

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.