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Eastern Europe
From dynamic cities to breathtaking landscapes, discover this iconic region
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Take in the fairytale charm of eastern Europe

DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Tyrolean All Inclusive
GRJ All Inclusive Austria: Highlights of the Alps
9 days£1,599 pp £1,499 pp
  • Experience amazing alpine views of Tyrol's spectacular mountains and lakes
  • Enjoy 3-Star hotel accommodation in the charming Tyrolean town of Kirchberg
  • Discover the musical city of Salzburg and the emerald waters of Achensee
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ClassicClassic
Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro
Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro: The Adriatic Coast
13 days£3,299 pp
  • Uncover the natural beauty of Slovenia, Croatia and Montenegro
  • Explore historic towns, spectacular islands, and awe-inspiring lakes and waterfalls
  • Enjoy 12 nights of 4 & 5-Star hotels including 3 nights beside Lake Bled
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Vienna, Prague & Berlin
Imperial Cities by Rail: Vienna, Prague & Berlin
10 days£1,599 pp £1,499 pp
  • Experience three European capitals, with 4-Star accommodation throughout
  • Uncover the architecture of Vienna with its Ringstrasse and many palaces
  • Explore the iconic landmarks of Berlin and Prague’s atmospheric streets
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Eastern Europe Escorted Holidays

Connected by historical importance and breathtaking landmarks, the Grand Imperial Cities of Berlin, Prague, Vienna and Budapest take you to the heart of eastern Europe. These elegant capitals reveal a blend of musical heritage and unique history like few other places. With Great Rail Journeys, you can experience them through fascinating tours by rail. Alternatively, embark on a luxury river cruise from Budapest - the 'Pearl of the Danube' - into picturesque Bavaria. Sail through Slovakia's charming capital, Bratislava, and admire the views of Austria's scenic Wachau Valley.

Enjoy a discovery of the Adriatic countries of Slovenia, Croatia and Montenegro, uncovering natural wonders and idyllic towns in this ancient corner of Europe. Unwind beside pristine Lake Bled, stroll among the pretty streets of Slovenia's compact capital, Ljubljana, explore Croatia's breathtaking Plitvice Lakes and enchanting walled city of Dubrovnik before exploring Montenegro's stunning Bay of Kotor. In Germany, delve into Bavaria's fairytale forests and castles, enjoying celebrated food and drink. Add in spectacular Christmas markets in towns along the romantic Rhine and it's easy to see why Germany is an attractive destination all year round. Explore all of this and more by rail and river with Great Rail Journeys.

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Discover the Imperial Cities of Europe

Experience the heart of Europe on our escorted tours through these incredible cities. With more than 50 years' experience in creating wonderful holidays, you can discover tales of empire by rail or river cruise. Journey through Germany, Austria, Hungary and Czechia by train on our Grand Imperial Cities tour, explore Vienna, Prague and Berlin on our Imperial Cities by Rail holiday, enjoy our Imperial Cities fly-rail trip or embark on our luxury Delights of the Danube river cruise.

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Holiday ideas for Eastern Europe

ClassicClassic
Grand Imperial Cities
Grand Imperial Cities
4.6 stars(210 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunAug...
12 days from
£2,499 pp
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ClassicClassic
Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro
Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro: The Adriatic Coast
4.1 stars(62 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct
13 days from
£3,299 pp
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ClassicClassic
Wroclaw
Historic Cities of Poland
2026AprMayJunSep
11-12 days from
£2,999 pp
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ClassicClassic
Harz Mountains & the Rhine Gorge
Harz Mountains & Rhine Gorge
4.3 stars(113 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct
9 days from
£1,899 pp
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ClassicClassic
Zell am See
GRJ All Inclusive Austria: Alps, Salzburg & Lake Zell
4.1 stars(209 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
9 days from
£1,899 pp
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ClassicClassic
Nuremberg
Save £100pp
Bavarian Christmas Markets
4.4 stars(18 reviews)
2025Dec
5 days from
£1,299 pp £1,199 pp
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ClassicClassic
The Harz Mountains
Save £100pp
The Harz Mountains in Winter
4.6 stars(77 reviews)
2026JanFeb
7 days from
£1,499 pp £1,399 pp
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Where to go and what to see

Top 5 destinations

York Minster

 

  • Berlin
  • Prague
  • Vienna
  • Budapest
  • Dubrovnik

Find out more

Top 5 sights

Stonehenge

 

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Neuschwamstein Castle
  • Prague Castle
  • Plitvice Lakes
  • Hungarian Parliment Building

Find out more

Expert opinions & guides

Black Forest Gateaux

Recipes to Stir the Senses

Learn how to make one of Germany's most delicious deserts, Black Forest Gateau, with our handy recipe on the Journey Blog. The desert rose to fame in the 70s and is an indulgent treat that combines the timeless flavours of cherries and chocolate. Try it for yourself!

Harz Mountains

Snowbound Steam in Deepest Germany

The twinkling lights of a Christmas market, charming medieval towns, and steam trains winding through snow-blanketed wintry landscapes; Germany at Christmastime is a delight to discover. Find out more with this personal account of a festive adventure in the Harz Mountains.

Charles Bridge, Prague

A love affair with: Prague

Fall in love with Prague, a city of dramatic Gothic spires, centuries of fascinating history, and some of the best beer in the whole of Europe! Read more on the Journey Blog, and find out why the Czech Republic capital is one of the most romantic cities on earth.

Germany & Eastern Europe Iconic Trains

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.

43 results matching: Germany & Eastern Europe

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River CruiseRiver Cruise
BaselBaselBaselBaselBasel
The Romantic Rhine: Amsterdam to Basel
4.4 stars(131 reviews)
2026MayJunJul

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Netherlands to Switzerland on a luxury river cruise. Sail through four countries, admiring stunning forested valleys, charming half-timbered towns and historic cities lining the picturesque banks of this incredible river. Marvel at the spectacular scenery of the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site...

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8 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Trier, GermanyTrier, GermanyTrier, GermanyTrier, GermanyTrier, Germany
Save £300pp
Autumnal Colours of the Moselle & Rhine
4.7 stars(35 reviews)
2025Oct
2026Oct

Join us as we uncover the wonders of the Moselle and Rhine, where every bend of the river reveals beauty and every port beckons a new discovery. Sailing by lush hillsides and sloped vineyards, ancient castles and Roman ruins sprinkle the landscape on this leisurely cruise. Visit charming towns like Cochem and Rüdesheim as we navigate both the...

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Save £300pp
8 days from
£2,099 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Cologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas Markets
Save £200pp
German Christmas Markets of the Rhine
4.5 stars(138 reviews)
2025NovDec
2026NovDec

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 savour the flavours that define the season. On board, soak up the natural beauty of the...

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Save £200pp
5 days from
£1,299 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
RegensburgRegensburgRegensburgRegensburgRegensburg
A Tale of Three Rivers: Danube, Main & Rhine
4.0 stars(24 reviews)
2025Sep
2026Sep

This nine-day river cruise featuring five-star dining and luxurious cabins, blends historical discovery with unparalleled onboard comfort. Experience Regensburg, visit Weltenburg Abbey, Bavaria's oldest Benedictine monastery and wander through the medieval streets of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Sample fine wines in Würzburg's Baroque setting and...

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9 days from
£2,799 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Nuremberg Nuremberg Nuremberg Nuremberg Nuremberg
Save £100pp
Bavarian Christmas Markets
4.4 stars(18 reviews)
2025Dec

Prepare to be swept away by the romance of Bavaria's world-renowned Christmas markets. Experience the captivating atmosphere of three unique markets - in Nuremberg, Regensburg and Rothenburg - each with its own distinct character, and enjoy a scenic journey along Germany's famous Romantic Road. Staying in Nuremberg, discover the historic city on...

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Save £100pp
5 days from
£1,299 pp £1,199 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
BudapestBudapestBudapestBudapestBudapest
Delights of the Danube: Budapest to Passau
4.3 stars(99 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSep

Uncover the gems of Hungary, Slovakia and Austria on a luxurious Danube river cruise. Explore the fascinating cities of Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna, marvel at the striking Melk Abbey in the Wachau Valley, indulge in local cuisine and sample some of the region's finest wines. Choose to spend a day in historic Salzburg, the birthplace of...

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11 days from
£2,799 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Strasbourg at ChristmasStrasbourg at ChristmasStrasbourg at ChristmasStrasbourg at ChristmasStrasbourg at Christmas
Festive Markets of the Rhine & Alsace
2026NovDec

Embark on a festive cruise through Europe's most enchanting Christmas destinations on the Rhine river. Scenic landscapes and charming towns come alive with seasonal cheer in Germany and France during the most wonderful time of the year. From the twinkling lights of Koblenz's historic streets to the captivating markets of Rüdesheim, Heidelberg,...

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5 days from
£1,499 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Grand Imperial CitiesGrand Imperial CitiesGrand Imperial CitiesGrand Imperial CitiesGrand Imperial Cities
Grand Imperial Cities
4.6 stars(210 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunAug...

Embrace the storied past of grand empires on this bestselling rail holiday. Starting amid Vienna's glorious Habsburg palaces and ornate architecture, enjoy a strudel-making show at Schönbrunn Palace with tasting, before savouring the delights of Hungary's dignified capital, Budapest. Absorb panoramic views of the illuminated Parliament and Buda...

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12 days from
£2,499 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Charles Bridge, PragueCharles Bridge, PragueCharles Bridge, PragueCharles Bridge, PragueCharles Bridge, Prague
Imperial Cities & Delights of the Danube
4.4 stars(41 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSep

Embrace the storied past of grand empires on a captivating rail-and-cruise holiday. Starting in the German capital of Berlin, uncover the magic of Prague from its sprawling capital and enchanting Charles Bridge. Absorb panoramic views of Budapest's grand architecture on an illuminated evening cruise before setting sail for the fascinating cities...

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13 days from
£3,999 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Vienna, Prague & BerlinVienna, Prague & BerlinVienna, Prague & BerlinVienna, Prague & BerlinVienna, Prague & Berlin
Save £100pp
Imperial Cities by Rail: Vienna, Prague & Berlin
4.5 stars(149 reviews)
2025Sep
2026AprMayJunSepOct

Delve into the imperial past and modern energy of three contrasting European capitals. Uncover the timeless elegance of Vienna - the seat of the mighty Habsburg dynasty - and enjoy views of majestic palaces and grand, ornate buildings. Experience the medieval charm of the Czech capital, Prague, a magical city of exquisite architecture and a...

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Save £100pp
10 days from
£1,599 pp £1,499 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Slovenia, Croatia & MontenegroSlovenia, Croatia & MontenegroSlovenia, Croatia & MontenegroSlovenia, Croatia & MontenegroSlovenia, Croatia & Montenegro
Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro: The Adriatic Coast
4.1 stars(62 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct

Marvel at stunning natural wonders and idyllic towns during a 13-day holiday to the three former Yugoslavian countries of Slovenia, Croatia and Montenegro. Unwind beside Lake Bled, uncover Slovenia's capital of Ljubljana and take a charming rail trip into the otherworldly Postojna Caves. Explore Croatia's historic capital, Zagreb, admire the...

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13 days from
£3,299 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
BudapestBudapestBudapestBudapestBudapest
The Beautiful Blue Danube: Passau Round Trip
4.5 stars(64 reviews)
2025Aug
2026JunJulAug

Enjoy a leisurely cruise through four countries and three capital cities, basking in beautiful river scenery all the way. Sail from the German town of Passau through the Austrian wine-growing region of the Wachau Valley, admiring picturesque Dürnstein and Melk Abbey enroute. After exploring imperial Vienna, the captivating Hungarian capital of...

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9 days from
£2,299 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Germany & Eastern Europe tours
The Classic Blue Danube: Passau to Budapest
31/Jul
Old Bob
5 stars
“Excellent trip, well organised with top quality travel by trains and river boat
Collected by Trustpilot
GoldenPass & the Romantic Rhine
31/Jul
Vandra Iles
5 stars
“Fabulous holiday
Collected by Trustpilot
The Romantic Rhine: Amsterdam to Basel
30/Jul
Mrs Sue Ragdale
5 stars
“Excellent staff. Excellent food.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Classic Blue Danube: Passau to Budapest - Fly
29/Jul
Marion
5 stars
“The Classic Blue Danube is a truly wonderful river trip to take. Great Rail showed such care and attention to detail in all aspects of this sparkling holiday that it could not have been bettered by anyone else.
Collected by Trustpilot
GRJ All Inclusive Bavaria’s Romantic Road
28/Jul
P Pope
5 stars
“Wonderful experience. Great companions. Well organised and managed. Excellent and very obliging hotel.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Majestic Rhine: Basel to Amsterdam
28/Jul
A Drysdale
5 stars
“The holiday was excellent . When things didnt go quite to plan the support from the guides, especially Alexis, was brilliant. Had an issue with the smoking policy on board ship in that smokers could smoke anywhere on deck. Managed to get that resolved to some extent....
Collected by Trustpilot
Glacier Express & the Majestic Rhine
28/Jul
Jean Perry
5 stars
“Best holiday ever
Collected by Trustpilot
Jungfrau Express & the Majestic Rhine
27/Jul
Peter
5 stars
“The trip was marvellous…the scenery was stunning and the whole experience Will be remembered forever
Collected by Trustpilot
Fairytale Bavaria & Delights of the Danube
25/Jul
M Beckingsale
5 stars
“Amazing trip, covered so much. Tour manager dealt with the German train issues admirably. Will definitely do another river cruise.
Collected by Trustpilot
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