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Explore Europe's hidden gems
Plan your next unforgettable holiday and secure your preferred dates for 2027
Holiday Destinations

Experience the diverse landscapes of Europe

ClassicClassic
Sirmione on Lake Garda
Treasures of Lake Garda
4.4 stars(470 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...
10 days from
£2,499 pp
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ClassicClassic
Glacier Express
New for 2027
Grand Rail Tour of Switzerland
2027AprJunJulSep
10 days from
£4,199 pp
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ClassicClassic
Glacier Express in winter
Save £150pp
Classic Glacier Express in Winter: Brig to Chur
2027JanFebMar
9 days from
£2,999 pp £2,849 pp
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ClassicClassic
Santorini Island, Greece
Mediterranean Gems Cruise: Malta & Greek Islands
2026Sep
2027AprMayOct
13-15 days from
£3,799 pp
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ClassicClassic
San Sebastian
Beautiful Basque Country: San Sebastian & Bilbao
4.6 stars(106 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunSepOct
8 days from
£2,999 pp
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ClassicClassic
Mantua
New for 2027
Lake Garda & Hidden Gems of Northern Italy
2027JunSepOct
10 days from
£2,599 pp
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ClassicClassic
Grand Imperial Cities
Grand Imperial Cities
4.6 stars(287 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...
12 days from
£2,599 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Roses
Discover Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
4.4 stars(804 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027MarAprMayJunSepOct
8 days from
£1,499 pp
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Escorted European Holidays

Europe is a beautifully diverse continent, home to the magical landscapes of Switzerland as well as the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. With more than 50 years' expertise, award-winning customer service and the guidance of an expert Tour Manager from start to finish, our escorted holidays bring you the very best of Europe without the hassle.

With no-fly options available, travel by rail or cruise with like-minded people as we bring to life unique towns and cities from the fjords of Scandinavia to the vibrant streets of Sicily. Our holidays include enriching excursions, hand-picked hotels, comfortable travel and meals that celebrate authentic local flavours. 

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

You're in safe hands with Great Rail Journeys

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Enjoy seamless no-fly travel options

Experience expertly planned rail journeys to and from your destination.

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Perfecting travel for more than 50 years

We are a Which? Recommended Provider and rated Excellent on Trustpilot.

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Award‑winning service from our York team

Our team is on hand to help from the moment you book to the moment you return.

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Expert Tour Managers by your side

Our world-class Tour Managers and local guides take care of every detail.

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Book with complete peace of mind

Feel secure knowing your holiday is protected under UK travel regulations.

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No fuel surcharges guarantee

We guarantee your price will not increase from the moment you book .

Discover by Destination

Lake Brienz, Switzerland
SwitzerlandView more
Avignon, France
France & BeneluxView more
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Charles Bridge, Prague
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216 results matching: European Holidays

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ClassicClassic
Glacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier Express
Highlights of Switzerland: Glacier & Bernina
4.6 stars(435 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...

Experience the highlights of Switzerland from stays in two scenic locations, including the country's oldest town, Chur, and idyllic Täsch, perfectly placed for exploring the country's celebrated sights. Soak up dramatic scenes aboard two renowned railways, admiring glacier views enroute to Poschiavo on the Bernina Express and basking in alpine...

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8 days from
£2,399 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Cologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas Markets
Save £150pp
German Christmas Markets of the Rhine
4.5 stars(211 reviews)
2026NovDec
2027NovDec

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, including Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz and Rüdesheim. Strolling through the stalls, admire the craftsmanship of local artisans and savour the flavours that define the...

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Save £150pp
5 days from
£1,099 pp £949 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Glacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier ExpressGlacier Express
Classic Glacier Express
4.6 stars(551 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...

Experience epic mountain landscapes and shimmering alpine lakes on this fantastic holiday to Switzerland. Discover the Swiss Alps on the world-acclaimed Bernina Express and Glacier Express from our popular bases in Chur and Brig, traditional towns surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Enjoy a private aperitif on the terrace of the 10th-century Spiez...

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9 days from
£3,099 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
The Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & LaplandThe Northern Lights & Lapland
Save £150pp
The Northern Lights & Lapland
4.4 stars(431 reviews)
2027JanFebMar

Spellbinding Scandinavian rail journeys take us from the ancient Viking capital of Trondheim to Swedish Lapland, visiting the best places to see the Aurora Borealis, with many opportunities to experience these swirling lights. Travelling by rail through amazing landscapes, cross the Arctic Circle to Bodø to seek the ethereal Northern Lights on a...

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Save £150pp
9 days from
£2,999 pp £2,849 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
DesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzano
Simply Lake Garda
4.3 stars(369 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...

Cruise across the sparkling waters of Lake Garda to discover picturesque islands, medieval towns and elegant villas from a family-run hotel in charming Desenzano, the perfect base for exploring the beauty of Lake Garda. Visit enchanting Isola del Garda, where you explore the renowned Venetian Villa Borghese-Cavazza and its magnificent hanging...

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10 days from
£1,899 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Glacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All InclusiveGlacier Express All Inclusive
Simply Glacier & Bernina Express
4.4 stars(730 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep

Experience Switzerland's most spectacular train journeys from a traditional hotel in the heart of the idyllic alpine surroundings of the forested Albula Valley. Ride the UNESCO-listed route of the Bernina Express across the Swiss Alps to Italy, admiring the Palü Glacier and crossing the Brusio Viaduct enroute. View outstanding scenery from the...

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8 days from
£2,199 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
BariBariBariBariBari
Simply Puglia
4.3 stars(855 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunSepOct

Flying into Bari, stay just outside the clifftop town of Polignano a Mare, renowned for its secluded coves and historic Old Town. Ideally placed for exploring Puglia's top sights, your hotel provides a relaxing base, with all meals and a drinks package included throughout your stay. Experience the region's culture and character during visits to...

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8 days from
£1,299 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Fjords of Norway rail tourFjords of Norway rail tourFjords of Norway rail tourFjords of Norway rail tourFjords of Norway rail tour
Highlights of Norway’s Fjords & Cities
4.5 stars(264 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

Experience the beauty of Norway, from natural wonders to charming cities, on this tour across stunning landscapes. Journey through an impressive wilderness of plateaus and waterfalls on two of the world's most famous train journeys: the spectacular Bergen Railway and the cherished Flåm Railway. Marvel at towering cliff faces on a sensational...

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8 days from
£2,299 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Highlights of TuscanyHighlights of TuscanyHighlights of TuscanyHighlights of TuscanyHighlights of Tuscany
Tuscany: Florence, San Gimignano & Pisa
4.4 stars(331 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunAugSep...

Savour the glorious colours, aromas and flavours of Tuscany on a holiday highlighting the true beauty of this beloved region. Discover the great Renaissance city of Florence, visit a historic family estate for a tour and dinner, and marvel at the iconic monuments of Pisa, including the Leaning Tower. Explore the stunning sights of Siena, the...

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10 days from
£2,599 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Rhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine Gorge
Save £400pp
Treasures of the Rhine
4.7 stars(36 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AugSep

Ideal for wine enthusiasts, this scenic, easy-paced cruise takes us past the lush vineyards of the Rhine, revealing historic towns and stunning cities under the cosy hues of autumn. Sailing south from Cologne, explore the town of Koblenz, enjoy a guided tour of Heidelberg and wander Strasbourg's winding alleys lined with half-timbered houses.

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Save £400pp
8 days from
£2,199 pp £1,799 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
St Johann St Johann St Johann St Johann St Johann
Classic Austrian Alps
4.2 stars(319 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

Explore the beautiful towns and landscapes of the Austrian Alps from your base in the charming town of St Johann, surrounded by rolling peaks and lush valleys. Marvel at views of Austria's tallest mountain on a journey across the Hochtor Pass on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, viewing glaciers and gold-mining towns, before discovering the...

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9 days from
£2,299 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Glacier Express & St MoritzGlacier Express & St MoritzGlacier Express & St MoritzGlacier Express & St MoritzGlacier Express & St Moritz
First-Class Glacier Express, Zermatt & Matterhorn
2026Sep
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep

Staggering mountain peaks and serene alpine lakes provide the extraordinary setting for this holiday as we travel in First Class all the way, including on the iconic Bernina Express and Glacier Express. Staying in the Engadine Valley and the popular mountain resort of Zermatt provides idyllic bases from which to explore the Swiss Alps by rail. ...

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9 days from
£3,799 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Europe tours
Highlights of Norway’s Fjords & Cities
12/Aug
Nick Tkaczuk
5 stars
“This was an excellent way to see Norway for the first time. Our guide was very informative giving us all the tips for our trip.
Collected by Trustpilot
Classic Glacier Express
11/Aug
Adrian
5 stars
“If your thinking of going then it’s a massive YES from me ….
Collected by Trustpilot
Simply Glacier & Bernina Express
8/Aug
Gill
5 stars
“A great combination of rail trips and visits to towns embedded in beautiful scenery
Collected by Trustpilot
Tuscany: Florence, San Gimignano & Pisa
1/Aug
JAS
5 stars
“Excellent, well organised tour. Wonderful group of fellow passengers. Whole experience greatly enhanced by Tour Manager Ian.
Collected by Trustpilot
Simply Puglia
27/Jul
Kevin Howard
5 stars
“Great holiday
Collected by Trustpilot
Treasures of the Rhine
18/Jan
customer
5 stars
“Very well organised, special thanks to everyone, especially our Leaders who went out of their way to enable us to meet up with a very old friend in Germershein. Accommodation was excellent and staff friendly and helpful.
Collected by Trustpilot
German Christmas Markets of the Rhine
10/Jan
Ian
5 stars
“A magical pre-Christmas trip, organised and delivered to Great Rail Journey's usual high standards! The crew, cabin, facilities and food on the Amadeus Cara were fantastic, and the views as we cruised the Rhine gave us some amazing memories. We did get a little 'Christmas market overload' at times, but...
Collected by Trustpilot
Highlights of Switzerland: Glacier & Bernina
9/Aug
Steve
4 stars
“Excellent scenery and great visit, but the first couple of days were extremely tiring as we had to carry our cases wherever we were headed. Complete lack of transfers from railway stations to hotels that were some distance apart.
Collected by Trustpilot
Classic Austrian Alps
9/Aug
John
4 stars
“Please see survey we did
Collected by Trustpilot

Discover Europe's most beautiful train journeys

Treat yourself to a scenic journey on one of Europe's most iconic trains. From Switzerland's celebrated Glacier Express to Norway's famous Flåm Railway and the epic West Highland Line in Scotland, Europe's renowned railways are the one of the most rewarding ways to experience this beautiful continent.

Glacier Express train
Glacier ExpressView more
Bernina ExpressView more
Fläm Railway
Fläm RailwayView more
Brocken RailwayView more
Jungrau Express train
Jungfrau ExpressView more
Bergen RailwayView more
GoldenPass ExpressView more
Jacobite Steam TrainView more

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.

What are GRJ walking holidays like?

Our exciting itineraries have been designed to offer the perfect blend of walking and exploring in our signature escorted format.

Each walking day will have two options, and we curated routes with varied levels of activity to give you the opportunities to explore the destinations your way. While walking provides the chance to embrace the joy of slow travel and uncover hidden gems, excursion days take us to some of the must-see sights in the region.

With First Class rail travel and 4-Star hotels, we aim to strike the ideal balance between relaxation and exploration.

To find out more about our walking holidays, click here.

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