01904 521 936
Tour Search



Europe
ClassicClassic

Glacier Express Tour & Italy, France, Spain Cruise

 
Duration
17-20 days
From per person
£4,999
Tour code
SIO27
Mobility Rating 2
View Dates & Pricing
View Dates & Pricing
Save £1,000

Azamara cruise cabin upgrades. Save £1,000 when you upgrade to a Veranda, Veranda Plus or Continent Suite, when you book by 15th December 2025. Call only offer quoting code AZAMARA.

View terms and conditions

Gallery
Map

Travel through the majestic Swiss Alps on the route of the iconic Glacier Express, before setting sail from Rome on a Mediterranean cruise to Barcelona

Experience two of Switzerland's most-famous rail journeys on a GRJ escorted tour, marvelling at breathtaking panoramas and enjoying stunning alpine landscapes from the celebrated Bernina Express and Glacier Express.

Soak up Matterhorn views from Zermatt and enjoy a private aperitif at Spiez Castle before a cruise across Lake Thun. Travel by rail to Florence with time at leisure, before boarding an Azamara ship for a Mediterranean cruise.

Enjoy sun-kissed coastal views from Italy to Spain, disembarking at exquisite ports of call including Tuscany, Monaco, Marseille and Catalonia.

Unforgettable Experiences

Enjoying a breathtaking journey on the Glacier Express
Enjoying a breathtaking journey on the Glacier Express
Embark on an iconic journey*, with lunch onboard, passing awe-inspiring peaks, the ‘Swiss Grand Canyon’ and picture-perfect alpine valleys, travelling in panoramic carriages between Chur and Brig. *Please note: the 21st October 2027 departure does the route of the Glacier Express on regional trains.
Travelling in luxury on Azamara ships
Experience luxury onboard the premium Azamara Journey or Onward, enjoying a front-row seat to the beauty of the region. Savour diverse dining options, take a dip in the pool and enjoy nightly entertainment.
Journeying along the scenic route of the Bernina Express
Journeying along the scenic route of the Bernina Express
Encounter superb panoramas aboard the Bernina Express, travelling along the UNESCO World Heritage route of the Rhaetian Railway, from Switzerland’s Chur to Poschiavo in Italy, viewing the Palü Glacier at Alp Grüm enroute.
Admiring views of the Matterhorn from Zermatt
Admiring views of the Matterhorn from Zermatt
Enter the idyllic, car-free resort at the foot of the mighty Matterhorn. Wander among wooden chalets with geranium-filled balconies, visit a welcoming café or browse Swiss souvenir shops surrounded by stunning views.
Uncovering elegant Italian towns such as Florence
Uncovering elegant Italian towns such as Florence
Spend a night in the ‘jewel of the Renaissance’, Florence, before boarding your ship. Sailing along the coast from Rome, reach historic Livorno, from where you can soak up more of Tuscany’s charm.

Step onboard your Azamara ship

Enticing onboard facilities
Enticing onboard facilities
Browse onboard boutiques, challenge friends to a game of shuffleboard or enjoy some quiet time in the Living Room, home to a well-stocked library and panoramic views. 
World-class dining
World-class dining
With six distinctive dining venues and complimentary drinks included, savour globally inspired cuisine created with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, designed to reflect the destinations you visit.
Warm & attentive crew
Warm & attentive crew
From the moment you step onboard, the Azamara crew will be ready to go above and beyond. With a high crew-to-guest ratio, passengers can expect a laid-back small-ship experience with attentive service from a crew that feels like family.
Entertainment, Bars & Lounges
Entertainment, Bars & Lounges
Your Azamara ship offers entertainment to suit every mood, from evening shows in the Cabaret Lounge and drinks at the sociable Discoveries Bar to relaxing in the Drawing Room.
Stylish staterooms & suites
Stylish staterooms & suites
Each space is thoughtfully designed to offer the comfort and charm of a boutique hotel. Wake up to ocean views, unwind with 24-hour room service and enjoy details like plush robes, luxury bath products and freshly made beds.
Spa & wellbeing
Spa & wellbeing
Stay active or simply unwind with Azamara’s onboard offerings. With an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and tranquil spa offering a range of treatments, your wellbeing is always taken care of.

What’s included on the tour?

Itinerary

DAY1London to Strasbourg overnight

Meeting the GRJ Tour Manager at London St Pancras, your rail and cruise holiday begins by boarding the Eurostar to Paris.

Travelling in Plus class, we enjoy a light meal at our seats and dash through the French countryside. From the French capital, we continue east to Strasbourg for an overnight stop. This historic Alsatian city has a compact but captivating centre, with grand squares and narrow waterways.

After checking in to our central four-star hotel, we take a short walk to a local restaurant for dinner, a flavour of the Alsace.

Includes
  • Eurostar Light Meal, Dinner
DAY2A warm alpine welcome in historic Chur

With a free morning after breakfast, you could explore the sights of Strasbourg. A short stroll from our hotel, La Petite France was home to tanners, millers and fishermen in the Middle Ages. Now, this pretty area is a UNESCO World Heritage site of cobbled streets, flower-lined canals and half-timbered houses.

Leaving Strasbourg, we travel by First Class rail to Switzerland. In Basel, we join the Swiss rail network in Standard Class and witness the scenery quickly increasing in beauty and altitude.

As the country's oldest town, Chur is full of history - as is our central hotel. After checking in, we enjoy dinner together this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY3A superb journey on the Bernina Express

Dubbed the rail experts' best-kept secret, a journey on the panoramic Bernina Express is a highlight of this holiday.

The UNESCO-listed route twists and spirals its way south through the rugged landscape of the Engadine Valley, across the curved Landwasser Viaduct and looping through tunnels as it climbs the Albula Line. Reaching the summit at more than 7,300 feet, we pass the turquoise waters of Lago Bianco before crossing the Bernina Pass. Pausing to view the Palü Glacier, we then wind down to the Italian-speaking town of Poschiavo.

Pastel-coloured buildings line the streets of this compact alpine town, and there are numerous restaurants in which to lunch independently. On the return journey, we stop briefly in the sophisticated resort of St Moritz before arriving back in Chur for dinner.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY4A free day in Chur, Switzerland’s oldest town

A leisurely breakfast begins a free day, and there are plenty of lovely destinations to explore.

Chur itself is backed by mountains, and its colourful Old Town is a delightful place to wander. The centre of the Old Town is the idyllic Martinsplatz, where you can find the Town Hall. Overlooking the historic centre are the 800-year-old cathedral and the terracotta-fronted Bishop's Palace.

Alternatively, if you want to head further afield, you could use your Swiss Half Fare Card for 50% discounts on all rail journeys across the country. The scenic Arosa Line, which climbs more than 3,000 feet in less than 17 miles to the lakeside town of Arosa, is a popular option. The mountain resorts of Davos and Klosters, a favourite of British royals, are easily reachable too.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY5An epic journey on the Glacier Express

Today, one of Europe's most iconic train journeys awaits as we board the incredible Glacier Express* to Brig. The route of the 'slowest express train in the world' delves into the Rhine Gorge, where panoramic carriages provide front-row seats to the 'Swiss Grand Canyon'.

Travelling at an average speed of 24mph, we are served a two-course lunch in our seats, admiring the dramatic landscapes from our panoramic carriages. The scenery is uplifting as we rise above the valley floor, passing serene lakes and snowy peaks as we climb to Andermatt. Emerging from the Furka Tunnel, we follow the Rhône to the valley town of Brig, at the northern edge of the Simplon tunnel.

We check in to our family-run hotel near the station for a four-night stay, before dinner tonight.

*Please note: on the 21st October departure, we will travel the route of the Glacier Express on regional trains, without lunch included.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY6Soaking up Matterhorn views from Zermatt

On a dramatic journey by local train, we zigzag past the lush wildflower meadows, dense alpine forests and thundering waterfalls of the Matter Valley to beautiful Zermatt, keeping an eye out for the mighty Matterhorn coming into view.

We are welcomed to this idyllic mountain resort by the Air Zermatt crew, who take us on a behind-the-scenes tour as a pilot informs us of their rescue work in this popular destination for mountaineering. There's free time to explore the car-free town of Zermatt. From its location at the foot of the Matterhorn, you could take the Gornergrat Mountain Railway up to the Alps' second largest glacier.

Returning by train to Brig later, we enjoy dinner at our hotel this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY7Uncovering Brig or venturing further afield

A day at leisure provides an opportunity to see more of this beautiful part of Switzerland after breakfast. Besides its charming historic centre, Brig also boasts the 17th-century Stockalper Palace, recognisable from miles around due to its three stone towers topped by large, gilded domes.

Using your Swiss Half Fare Card for 50% discounts on rail travel, the glamorous Swiss Riviera can be reached in under 90 minutes. Celebrities including Charlie Chaplin and Freddie Mercury once flocked to live in the villas of Montreux and Vevey. With hillside vineyards, alpine air and the pristine waters of Lake Geneva looking out across to the French Alps, it's easy to understand why.

Heading southwards, the Italian town of Domodossola is a short ride from Brig through the tunnel formerly used by the Simplon-Orient Express.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY8Spiez Castle and a cruise on Lake Thun

Travelling by rail through the 21.5-mile Lötschberg Base Tunnel after breakfast, we arrive in the quaint town of Spiez.

Set in beautiful grounds beside the crystal-clear waters of Lake Thun is Spiez Castle. Displaying conical turrets and a central keep with dense stone walls, this fairytale fortress dates from the 10th century. Entrance to the museum is included, and you can view the medieval exhibits before we relax on the terrace for an exclusive private aperitif using grapes grown in the vineyards surrounding the castle.

Leaving Spiez by boat, we cruise along Lake Thun, with mountain views in every direction. Along the shore, pitch-roofed chalets and church towers peek out of the trees. On arrival in the historic town of Thun, we catch the train back to Brig in time for our final dinner together in Switzerland.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY9By rail to Florence

Leaving Switzerland by rail, we travel south through the Simplon Tunnel and into Italy. From Milan, we continue to Florence, a breathtaking city that was home to leading figures of the Renaissance.

With the rest of the day at leisure, you can stroll along the attractive streets, viewing renowned landmarks such as the Duomo, the medieval Ponte Vecchio and timeless squares. If you would like to visit the famous Uffizi or Accademia galleries, we recommend booking in advance.

Embrace your Italian surroundings this evening by venturing into a traditional trattoria or osteria and dining on authentic Tuscan cuisine such as pappardelle al cinghiale or Florentine steak, perhaps with a glass of Brunello or Chianti.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY10Boarding your cruise ship in Rome

Returning to Florence train station this morning, the final leg of your rail journey begins. Heading through the Italian countryside, we arrive in the capital, Rome.

On arrival, you are transferred to your Azamara ship, where you say farewell to your Tour Manager and are welcomed by the friendly and attentive crew. With a smaller capacity than most other ocean and sea cruise ships, these vessels can get closer to ports than their counterparts allowing for a more immersive experience.

All meals and a house drink package are included on your cruise, and you can enjoy dinner as you set sail into the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Find out more about your ship here:

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY11Exploring Tuscany

Throughout the cruise, you can enjoy a selection of optional excursions at each port of call (payable onboard). Today, you dock in Livorno, where your ship stays here overnight, providing ample opportunities to discover the city.

This historic port on the western coast of Tuscany is often called the 'gateway to central Italy', providing great access to Florence and Pisa. These famed cities abound with timeless treasures to uncover, including the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Returning to the ship this evening, enjoy world-class cuisine in one of the six restaurants, before savouring a cocktail ahead of the night's onboard entertainment.

*Please note: the 8th July 2027 departure will feature a 10-night cruise, ending in Barcelona on Day 20. Today. Your ship will dock in Elba.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY12Departing Livorno

With a full day in Tuscany before your 8pm departure, you can unwind and use the ship's facilities. Browse the onboard boutiques or enjoy a game of shuffleboard. Head to the sun deck to unwind or take a dip in the outdoor pool.

Heading out into Livorno, explore the city's history while strolling past the canals of the charming New Venice district, located around the 14th-century Old Fortress.

Back onboard this evening, enjoy dinner in the restaurants which offer a different menu each day.

*Please note: the 8th July 2027 departure will be visiting Livorno today.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY13A day in Monte Carlo

Having left Italy last night, you arrive in the tiny principality of Monaco this morning. A sovereign state of just under one square mile, Monaco boasts some of the planet's most expensive real estate.

Famous for its luxury lifestyle, Monte Carlo is home to grand boulevards, designer boutiques and the world-renowned Monte Carlo Casino. You might step inside to admire its ornate interiors or simply take in the atmosphere of the surrounding Place du Casino.

Down by the harbour, admire the opulent yachts moored in Port Hercule, or explore the winding streets of Monaco-Ville, the old town, where you'll find the Prince's Palace and scenic gardens with views across the Mediterranean.

*Please note: the 8th July 2027 departure will be visiting Porto Venere today.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY14Uncovering Provence from Marseille

As the oldest city in France, Marseille has a timeless spirit and a vibrant energy. Founded by Greek settlers in around 600 BC, the Vieux Port district is a great place to explore and indulge in fine food and drink.

Take a stroll around this atmospheric district lined with fishing boats and quaint cafés, perfect for soaking up the city's mediterranean charm. You might also choose to visit the impressive Notre-Dame de la Garde, which offers panoramic views over the city and coastline, or explore Le Panier, Marseille's oldest neighbourhood, with its narrow streets, street art and artisan shops.

*Please note: on the 21st October 2027 departure, we will dock at Nice instead of Marseille, while the 8th July 2027 departure will be visiting Portofino today.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY15Sanary-sur-Mer on the French Riviera

Nestled between Marseilles and Toulon, the port of Sanary-sur-Mer* is located on the Côte d'Azur and is considered to be the sunniest town in France, with a beautiful coastline dotted with small beaches.

Explore the palm-lined harbour with yachts bobbing in the brilliant-blue water or step into its cobbled backstreets to uncover timeless scenes and local handicrafts. At the Musée Frédéric-Dumas, you can learn about the history of scuba diving which was pioneered in this area by Dumas and his close friend, Jacques Cousteau.

Back on board this evening, enjoy dinner and entertainment as you sail overnight towards Spain.

*Please note: on the 21st October 2027 departure, we will dock at Marseille instead of Sanary-sur-Mer, while the 8th July 2027 departure will be visiting Monte Carlo.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY16Uncovering Catalonia from Palamós 

Having sailed across the Mediterranean overnight, you reach the Costa Brava port of Palamós this morning.

Separating a sandy beach and a marina, the rugged headland of Palamós is lined by narrow alleyways called carrers. Enjoy a quintessential slice of Catalan culture while walking through this historic port, dotted with ornately decorated churches, or visit the Fishing Museum to gain an insight into the seafaring traditions.

This evening, return to your Azamara cruise ship for your final evening aboard. Enjoy dinner and the onboard entertainment in the Cabaret Lounge, indulge in a cocktail at the sociable Discoveries Bar or relax with a good book in the Drawing Room.

*Please note: the 8th July 2027 departure will be visiting Marseille today.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY17Homeward bound

From the snow-dusted Swiss Alps to the gleaming resorts of the Mediterranean coast, this combination of signature escorted rail tour and cruise began in the historic town of Chur. From here, you journeyed on two of Switzerland's unforgettable panoramic trains, the Glacier Express and Bernina Express, marvelling at Matterhorn views from Zermatt and sailing across Lake Thun. After a night in incredible Florence, you set sail from Rome around the coasts of Italy, France and Spain. Enroute, you encountered famed resorts and hidden gems, while sailing in luxury on an Azamara ship.

Arriving in Barcelona this morning*, enjoy breakfast before disembarking. After you say farewell to the friendly crew, you are transferred to Barcelona airport ready for your flight to London Heathrow or regional airport, where your holiday comes to an end.

*Please note: the 8th July 2027 departure will be visiting Sète today. On Day 18, the ship docks in Palamós before arriving in Barcelona on Day 20, where you disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Departure times

Travel timings in your Holiday Confirmation are provisional and are subject to change. We will confirm your travel times in your final itinerary around 10-14 days before your departure. Eurostar or Flight times will be confirmed to you approximately 30-50 days before departure.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular holiday with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

More journeys to inspire you

Still deciding? Continue exploring our brand-new tour and Azamara cruise holidays and find the journey that's right for you.

Lake Garda Tour & Venice, Sicily, Amalfi Cruise

16-day holiday

Discover the charm of Lake Garda, savouring Italian flavours and idyllic gardens, then set sail on an unforgettable cruise from Venice, visiting Adriatic ports and the Amalfi Coast.

View More

Gems of Tuscany Tour & Italy, France, Spain Cruise

16-day holiday

Uncover Tuscany's treasures on an escorted exploration taking in Florence, Pisa, Siena and more, before setting sail for a Mediterranean cruise from Rome to Barcelona.

View More

Iconic Spain Tour & Italy, Croatia, Slovenia Cruise

21-day holiday

Journey through the heart of Spain and sail into the charm of the Mediterranean, where centuries of culture, history and coastal beauty await at every stop.

View More

Frequently Asked Questions

How do your tour & ocean cruises work?

Each holiday begins with a fully escorted Great Rail Journeys tour, led by an experienced UK Tour Manager. You'll explore your chosen destination by rail with everything taken care of, from expertly planned excursions to hand-picked accommodation. Once the tour ends, your Tour Manager will escort you to your Azamara cruise, ensuring a smooth transition. From there, your adventure continues at sea - with Azamara's boutique ships offering a relaxed, all-inclusive cruising experience.

What’s included in the price?

Our Great Rail Journeys tours are thoughtfully designed to include return travel, transfers and quality hotel stays, along with guided excursions, selected meals and the expertise of your dedicated Tour Manager. Once you step aboard your Azamara cruise, you can enjoy a choice of dining venues, lounges and social spaces, drinks throughout the day and night, onboard gratuities, self-service laundry and Azamara's exclusive AzAmazing Evenings - all included as part of your journey.

Which destinations do your Tour and Cruise holidays visit?

Our Tour & Cruise holidays span a diverse range of destinations across the globe. Whether you're dreaming of exploring the coastlines of the Mediterranean, the wild beauty of Alaska or the scenic rail routes of Switzerland, each itinerary is carefully crafted to showcase the best of land and sea. From iconic cities to hidden gems, there's a journey to suit every kind of traveller.

Is there a dress code onboard Azamara’s ships?

Azamara cruises follow a relaxed resort casual dress code. In the main dining venues and speciality restaurants, we recommend smart-casual attire - think dresses, skirts, trousers, shirts or blouses. While there's no need for formal wear like tuxedos or gowns, many guests enjoy dressing up a little in the evenings.

A highlight of the cruise is White Night - a special evening of dining and entertainment. Guests are encouraged to wear white to join in the spirit of the celebration, though it's entirely optional.

Where can I find details about the ships & cabins?

Azamara's boutique-style ships are designed for a more personal, relaxed cruising experience. You can find out more about the cabins, facilities and onboard experience by visiting the individual ship pages below:

Each ship offers elegant surroundings, attentive service and everything you need to make your time at sea as memorable as the journey on land.

Are Azamara cruise ship holidays accessible?

Your enjoyment on holiday is our top priority, and while Azamara's cruise ships have been thoughtfully designed to accommodate a wide range of travellers, it is essential to speak to one of our expert Tour Advisors about any concerns you may have regarding the ship's accessibility.

Trains & Ships

More information on the different trains and ships that are used on this tour.

Find out more
Oceanview
Oceanview Stateroom

Relax in the comfort of your own private retreat. Large picture windows frame ever-changing ocean views, while thoughtful touches such as plus cotton linens, 24-hour room service and complimentary drinks ensure a relaxing stay.

Find out more
Veranda
Veranda Stateroom

Experience a little extra indulgence with your own private Veranda, where you can soak up the sea air and panoramic views. Inside, relax with all the thoughtful touches included in every stateroom, ensuring comfort and relaxation throughout.

Find out more
Veranda Plus
Veranda Plus Stateroom

Enjoy all the comforts of a Veranda stateroom plus added extras, including priority embarkation, in-room spirits, a complimentary speciality dining experience, onboard credit for internet and one free bag of laundry - all designed to elevate your time at sea.

Find out more
Continent Suite
Continent Suite

Indulge in suite life with dedicated butler service, premium in-room spirits, unlimited Wi-Fi and priority check-in. Enjoy exclusive dining, in-suite afternoon tea, two bags of laundry weekly and access to the Thalassotherapy Pool - all with every detail taken care of.

Find out more

Enhance your holiday

Flight upgrades

Flight upgrades are available. For information regarding the types of upgrades offered by the various airlines we use, call our expert team for details.

Flight upgrades
London Hotels

Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home.

Read more

We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.

London hotels
UK rail connections

Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business - there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules and restrictions. As you are connecting with an international departure, we strongly recommend that you book a fully flexible ticket to ensure that should the departure times for your holiday change, your rail ticket can allow for these changes.

Read more

We can book fully-flexible UK rail tickets from your local station to join your holiday whether this be a European holiday from St Pancras or a UK holiday. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.

For an up to date quote from your local station, please ask one of our Tour Advisors.

UK train tickets