01904 521 936
Tour Search



Double Discount! Experience the wonders of Europe with £150pp off 2025 holidays
Request a free brochure

Experience the diverse landscapes of Europe

ClassicClassic
The Italian Riviera
The Italian Riviera
10 days £2,599 pp £2,449 pp
  • Explore the colourful cliffside villages of Cinque Terre and glamorous Portofino
  • Sail to San Fruttuoso abbey, set in a secluded cove, only accessible by boat
  • Enjoy 9 nights’ 4-star accommodation in charming coastal town Sestri Levante
Discover More
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Roses
Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
8 days £1,199 pp £1,049 pp
  • Stay in the seaside town of Roses on the shimmering Catalan coast
  • Journey on France's 100-year-old Little Red Train through the Pyrenean foothills
  • Travel through beautiful gorges on the scenic Núria Valley Rack Railway
Discover More
ClassicClassic
Zell am See
Austrian Alps All Inclusive
9 days £1,999 pp £1,849 pp
  • Explore the beauty of the Austrian Alps based in an all-inclusive 4-star hotel
  • Experience a steam-hauled journey through the picturesque Ziller Valley
  • Cruise the brilliant-blue waters of Lake Zell to the town of Zell am See
Discover More

Escorted European Holidays

Europe is a beautifully diverse continent, home to the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands as well as the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. And with train lines connecting much of what's in between, an escorted holiday with Great Rail Journeys offers a relaxing and scenic way of exploring its different countries. Travel with people who share your interests and enjoy similar activities, as we bring to life unique towns and cities from Scandinavia to Sicily, through engrossing excursions, hand-picked hotels, comfortable travel, and meals bursting with local flavour.

Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.

View our 2025 brochure and discover Europe's wonders with the experts

Our exclusive 2025 tours - perfected over more than 50 years - reveal the very best of beautiful Europe, from journeying between the spellbinding peaks of Switzerland on iconic trains to basking beside the white-washed villages of Italy and uncovering the elegance of central Europe's imperial cities. To experience the delights of Portugal, Germany, France and everywhere in between, view our new brochures now!

View Brochure

European Top-selling Holidays

Here are some of our customer favourites for experiencing Europe by Rail

LandmarkLandmark
Carcassonne & the Canal du Midi
Double Discount
4.2 stars(188 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
7 days from
£1,999 pp £1,849 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Sirmione
Double Discount
4.2 stars(272 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
10 days from
£1,799 pp £1,649 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Glacier Express
Double Discount
4.5 stars(323 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
9 days from
£2,399 pp £2,249 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Portofino
Double Discount
4.0 stars(292 reviews)
2025MayJunAugSepOct
9 days from
£1,499 pp £1,349 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
Double Discount
4.3 stars(132 reviews)
2025MayJunAugSepOct
7 days from
£1,549 pp £1,399 pp
View Details
LandmarkLandmark
Jungfrau Express
Double Discount
4.5 stars(163 reviews)
2025MayJunAugSepOct
9 days from
£3,149 pp £2,999 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Double Discount
4.4 stars(60 reviews)
2025MayJunSepOct
2026AprMayJunSepOct
8 days from
£1,449 pp £1,299 pp
View Details

183 results matching: European Holidays

Filters
Any
Reset
Any
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Glacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All Inclusive
Double Discount
4.3 stars(511 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Experience Switzerland's most spectacular train journeys from a family-run hotel in the heart of the forested Albula Valley, including drinks with dinner each evening. Travel across the Swiss Alps and past enchanting glaciers to Italy on the UNESCO-listed Bernina Express, before viewing the 'Swiss Grand Canyon' and incredible alpine scenery from...

View map

Double Discount
8 days from
£2,049 pp £1,899 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
SirmioneSirmioneSirmioneSirmioneSirmione
Double Discount
4.2 stars(272 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct

The historic lakeside town of Desenzano, set on the southern shores of Lake Garda, is our charming base. With a peaceful harbour, a characterful old town and an efficient rail service, we are perfectly placed for exploring. This delightful holiday includes a cruise to enchanting Isola del Garda to visit the opulent Villa Borghese-Cavazza and a...

View map

Double Discount
10 days from
£1,799 pp £1,649 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
RosesRosesRosesRosesRoses
Double Discount
4.3 stars(523 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct

From the charming seaside town of Roses, discover the glistening Catalan coast and ride into the Pyrenees, taking in the stunning scenery of France and Spain on this relaxing holiday. Experience the delightful Núria Valley Rack Railway on a journey through a peaceful valley and ride the Little Red Train from Rivesaltes to Axat in France's...

View map

Double Discount
8 days from
£1,199 pp £1,049 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Glacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier Express
Double Discount
4.6 stars(313 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Enjoy Switzerland's warm hospitality and astounding landscapes from traditional hotels in historic Chur and idyllic Täsch. Soak up dramatic scenes of soaring mountains and glaciers on journeys aboard two iconic trains. Cross the Alps on the amazing Bernina Express, admiring glacier views enroute, and bask in views of alpine valleys and...

View map

Double Discount
8 days from
£1,799 pp £1,649 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Glacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier Express
Double Discount
4.5 stars(323 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Experience magnificent mountain landscapes and sparkling alpine lakes on this fantastic holiday to Switzerland. Discover the Swiss Alps on the world-renowned Bernina Express and Glacier Express from our bases in Chur and Brig, traditional alpine towns surrounded by mountains. Enjoy a private aperitif on the terrace of the lakeside 10th-century...

View map

Double Discount
9 days from
£2,399 pp £2,249 pp
per person
View Details
LandmarkLandmark
Jungfrau ExpressJungfrau ExpressJungfrau ExpressJungfrau ExpressJungfrau Express
Double Discount
4.5 stars(163 reviews)
2025MayJunAugSepOct

Experience the best of the Swiss Alps in ultimate luxury, where majestic mountains, picturesque landscapes and unspoiled nature align. On this magnificent all-inclusive holiday, you'll wake up in a delightful five-star hotel in the enchanting village of Grindelwald. Nestled in a green valley beneath the immense Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains...

View map

Double Discount
9 days from
£3,149 pp £2,999 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
BariBariBariBariBari
Double Discount
4.3 stars(482 reviews)
2025MayJunSepOct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct

Experience traditional Italy on a relaxing all-inclusive, fly-rail holiday to the unspoilt heel of southern Italy. Based in a spa hotel overlooking the beautiful coast of Monopoli, just 50 meters from a gorgeous white sandy beach, we explore the undiscovered region of Puglia, dotted with historic ports, white-washed villages and unique ancient...

View map

Double Discount
8 days from
£1,299 pp £1,149 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Sirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake Garda
Double Discount
4.4 stars(323 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Based in the exquisite fortress town of Sirmione, set on a picturesque peninsula overlooking Lake Garda, and staying in an elegant spa hotel, this captivating holiday includes some fabulous excursions. Join us as we glide through Venice's turquoise canals on an unforgettable gondola ride - passing Venetian palazzos, intriguing architecture and...

View map

Double Discount
10 days from
£2,299 pp £2,149 pp
per person
View Details
River CruiseRiver Cruise
BaselBaselBaselBaselBasel
Double Discount
4.4 stars(71 reviews)
2025MayJunJul
2026MayJunJul

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Romantic Rhine River from the North Sea to the Swiss Alps. As we cruise through France, Germany, and the Netherlands bound for Switzerland, we admire stunning forested valleys, charming half-timbered towns, and incredible cities along the enchanting riverbanks. Sail through the spectacular scenery of the...

View map

Double Discount
8 days from
£2,199 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Zell am SeeZell am SeeZell am SeeZell am SeeZell am See
Double Discount
4.1 stars(187 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct

Explore the beautiful towns and landscapes of the Austrian Alps based in an all-inclusive hotel in St Johann, where dinner and drinks are included each evening. Marvel at views of Austria's tallest mountain on a journey across the Grossglockner High Alpine Road and discover Mozart's hometown of Salzburg with a singing tour guide. Travel through...

View map

Double Discount
9 days from
£1,999 pp £1,849 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming Dordogne
Double Discount
4.1 stars(283 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Based in charming Les Eyzies, explore this beautiful region renowned for picturesque villages, ancient history and excellent cuisine. Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Dordogne from the village of La Roque-Gageac and discover the spectacular cliff-side pilgrimage site of Rocamadour. Delight in the sights and smells of fresh produce on market day...

View map

Double Discount
7 days from
£999 pp £849 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
PortofinoPortofinoPortofinoPortofinoPortofino
Double Discount
4.0 stars(292 reviews)
2025MayJunAugSepOct

Explore the delightful Italian Riviera from a base in Chiavari and view the colourful cliffside Cinque Terre villages on a cruise. Relax on a cruise to glamorous Portofino, a popular village set within a natural harbour, before uncovering San Fruttuoso abbey, located on a beach in a peaceful cove. Delve into the history of Genoa, the former city...

View map

Double Discount
9 days from
£1,499 pp £1,349 pp
per person
View Details
Our customers love our Europe tours
Classic Glacier Express in Winter
9/Apr
A Bignell
5 stars
“All good apart from bed bug in my room, in Brig. Tour leader Debbie was brilliant! Arlene
Collected by Trustpilot
Glacier Express All Inclusive in Winter
3/Apr
Mick Uttley
5 stars
“A wonderful experience; great views, comfortable hotels, seamless journeys. Very well planned with professional management by Paul Parmenter.
Collected by Trustpilot
The GoldenPass Express in Winter
29/Mar
customer
5 stars
“Most fantastic rail journey: the train comfort, the scenery and tge service are second to none
Collected by Trustpilot
Huskies & the Northern Lights
23/Mar
LINDA TYLER
5 stars
“Amazing holiday. Great tour guide and met some lovely people .
Collected by Trustpilot
Jungfrau Express All Inclusive in Winter
20/Mar
Jean Hedges
5 stars
“One of the best tours we have ever done it was good to have a really great tour guide who new the best places to visit would highly recommend
Collected by Trustpilot
Northern Lights on a Winter Arctic Cruise
12/Mar
Benita Harris
5 stars
“enjoyed the trip and the trip Manager Joe Royal went above and beyond to make the trip more meaningful
Collected by Trustpilot
The Harz Mountains in Winter
8/Mar
Hugh Pead
5 stars
“A very enjoyable trip led by a very knowledgeable guide.
Collected by Trustpilot
Interlaken & the Jungfrau Express in Winter
27/Feb
Martyn Leedham
5 stars
“Splendid holiday, well organised and friendly helpful tour manager Andrew
Collected by Trustpilot
Nice Carnival & The French Riviera
27/Feb
alan coltman
5 stars
“Very interesting to see the Carnival in Nice. Hotel Locarno in a very nice position, away from the centre of town, only 200m to the promenade when you can walk into the old part of Nice or take the tram line to the centre of Nice.
Collected by Trustpilot

The Wonder of Rail

The adventure often starts as we depart London St Pancras, beginning our journey towards mainland Europe. Travelling by rail has always had romantic connotations, and as we pass rural villages that seemingly haven't changed in centuries and coast through cosmopolitan cities, it's hard to deny that trains offer a different perspective.

With freedom to move around the carriages as you please, make new friends or just wallow in the luxury of time to sit back and read a book, feel yourself unwind a little more with each passing mile before arriving in the heart of your destination, relaxed and ready to explore.

Great Rail Journeys by name, Great Rail Journeys by nature. On nearly every holiday we run, relaxing, impressive or once-in-a-lifetime rail journeys are par for the course. Whether it's the 180-mile trip the Glacier Express makes through the mountains of Switzerland, an experience aboard the steepest railway line in the world - the Flåm Railway in Norway, or a beautifully-restored journey on the Jacobite Steam Train through the Scottish Highlands, we know all of the best rail experiences to be had across Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of travel options do you offer for European holidays?

We provide a variety of travel options tailored to your preferences, including escorted rail tours, flight-inclusive packages, and combinations of both. Whether you prefer the scenic journey by train or the convenience of air travel, we have options to suit your needs.

Do I need travel insurance for Europe?

Yes. While the GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) provides some medical coverage in the EU, it does not cover private healthcare, repatriation, or lost belongings. We strongly recommend travel insurance.

Do I need an adapter for my electronics?

Yes, most European countries use Type C, E, or F plugs (two-round-pin sockets). The UK uses Type G, so you'll need an adapter.

What are some must-visit destinations in Europe?

Europe offers something for everyone. Some popular choices are:

  • Cultural cities: Rome, Vienna, Prague
  • Golden beaches: Amalfi Coast, The Basque Country, The French Riviera
  • Stunning landscapes: Swiss Alps, Italian Lakes, Austrian Alps
  • Hidden gems: Slovenia, the Baltics

How many people go on one of your holidays?

Great Rail Journeys is a market leader when it comes to small group tours. We're proud of being pioneers in our approach to group sizes and have become the leading operator for escorted holidays. Our group sizes vary between tours, but are our ranges are usually a good indicator of what to expect.

For our Discoveries range, you'll be in groups with an average of 30-35 travellers and a maximum of 40. If opting for our Classic collection, you'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. Our Landmark holidays are where you'll find our smallest group sizes, starting from as low as 16 travellers and an average of 22, to a maximum of 30.

*Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

Latest articles from our journey blog