Take a look at our top 20 recommendations for European rail holidays in 2024. We’ve based this list on some of our most popular holidays, as well as some new additions, and there’s plenty to be excited by! So, whether you’re looking for a sunny getaway, an epic adventure or perhaps a scenic break with a touch of luxury, we’re sure to have something that’ll fulfil your holiday desires.

For further information on the top 20 rail holidays for 2024, call us on 020 3322 7741 to speak to a member of our friendly team, or send us an email and we’ll get right back to you.

NEW HOLIDAY IDEAS

Black Forest Discovery

Head into the Black Forest in Germany on this new relaxing rail holiday, with stops in Freiburg (pictured) as well as Villingen and Freudenstadt. Your rail journeys also take you through the wonderful landscapes of the region, and with ‘open’ trains (no seat reservations required), you can just hop between destinations at any time of the day you prefer.

Find out more about our 9-day Black Forest Discovery Holiday 

Escorted Tour: Undiscovered Switzerland

If you’ve ever wanted to ‘get under the skin’ of Switzerland, rather than just ticking off the tourist attractions, then this tour is for you. You’ll travel by rail down to Basel and then meet your local guide for a typically Swiss adventure, including traditional, off-the-beaten-track hotels in stunning places and experiences like cheese tasting (and, of course fondue), visiting a dairy, lunch in a 17th century mansion, unforgettable walks and breathtaking rail journeys.

Find out more about our 9-day Escorted Tour: Undiscovered Switzerland holiday

Berlin, Dresden & Leipzig

This German rail holiday takes you into the former DDR, starting in vibrant capital Berlin and then moving east to Dresden on the River Elbe and Leipzig, the home of musical greats including J.S. Bach and Mendelssohn. You’ll have 2 nights in each place, with the option as ever to extend your stays in each city, stop over to break your journey there and back or add another 6 nights in other places!

Find out more about our 7-day Berlin, Dresden & Leipzig holiday

Escorted Journey: London to Istanbul (10 May, 2024)

This is the escorted version of our popular Epic Journey London to Istanbul itinerary. It gives you the chance to experience an exciting overland adventure, from London to the tip of Asia, with the reassurance of an experienced guide to help with the journey, but time at your own leisure in each stop along the way. The route of our escorted tour goes via Strasbourg, Munich, Vienna, a sleeper to Brasov in Romania and then Brasov to Bucharest, Sofia and finally Istanbul.

Find out more about our 12-day Escorted Journey: London to Istanbul holiday

SCENIC RAIL HOLIDAYS

Glacier & Bernina Expresses

On this scenic weekend escape, you’ll travel from London to Switzerland via Paris, heading for Brig and then take an unforgettable journey aboard the Glacier Express. Marvel as the train weaves through the Alps, treating you to stunning views of the Rhône Valley. Next, the Bernina Express awaits, a visual delight through bridges and breathtaking landscapes, dipping into Italy before heading back. The holiday’s finale – a return trip via Basel or a stopover in Cologne for the Rhine Gorge’s scenic charms – promises a perfect end to this essential Swiss itinerary.

Find out more about our 4-day Glacier & Bernina Expresses holiday

Norway in a Nutshell

From the busy streets of Hamburg to the fjord-filled landscapes of Norway, this is a holiday packed with different experiences. Oslo’s blend of the historical and the contemporary offers a glimpse into Norway’s fascinating past while Flåm’s tranquillity amidst the fjords brings a sense of serenity and wonder to any visitor. And the panoramic views from Mount Fløyen in Bergen? Absolutely breathtaking!

The beauty of this journey lies not just in the destinations but in the seamless transitions from one stunning locale to another, making every train ride a scenic experience in itself. And with the option to further explore or return home, it really is a tailor-made adventure.

Find out more about our 8-day Norway in a Nutshell holiday

Romantic Rhine & Moselle Valleys by Rail

Start with a Eurostar ride to Brussels, then journey to Trier in Germany, a hidden gem with an impressive eight UNESCO sites. Next, follow the beautiful Moselle River to Boppard, your base for exploring the charming Rhine Valley. Continue to Rüdesheim where you’ll have the opportunity to indulge the local wine varieties and see some stunning views. Conclude the trip with a scenic train ride back via Koblenz to Brussels for the return Eurostar to London.

Find out more about our Romantic Rhine & Moselle Valleys by Rail holiday

Matterhorn and Glacier Express

Zermatt sits 5,250 feet above sea level, nestled in a little enclave surrounded by mountain peaks. The dominant and most clearly distinguishable of these peaks is the Matterhorn with its distinctive triangular shape.

On this popular holiday, you’ll travel via Strasbourg to Zermatt, with time here to take the famous Gornergrat Railway up into the mountains with endlessly photogenic views of the Matterhorn. Then, you’ll catch the world-famous Glacier Express across Switzerland all the way to the country’s other famous ski resort – St Moritz.

Find out more about our 9-day Matterhorn & Glacier Express holiday

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

Lake Como via the Bernina Express

One of our most popular holiday ideas, this itinerary includes a lovely summer destination and an iconic alpine rail journey – the perfect combination! Travel via Paris to Chur, Switzerland’s oldest town, and then board the Bernina Express which will take you over the Alps, via glacial lakes and snow-capped peaks, into Italy. Once across the border, a regional train takes you to the shores of Lake Como and then it’s a scenic boat ride down to Como town.

Return home via the equally scenic Gotthard Pass route with a night in the Black Forest city of Freiburg im Breisgau en route back to the UK.

Find out more about our 8-day Lake Como via the Bernina Express holiday

Provence in Detail

Travel to Avignon and spend three days exploring the city’s history and artistic vibe. Visit famous landmarks, including the monumental Papal Palace and the Pont d’Avignon, with an optional day trip to Orange, Arles or Montelimar. Next, head for Aix-en-Provence, where you can spend an idle afternoon people-watching from a pavement cafe or visit Paul Cezanne’s studio. You can also explore Marseille, Cassis or Cannes on day trips by train.

Return from Aix-en-Provence via high-speed train to Paris or Lille for the Eurostar journey back to the UK, with an optional Paris stopover for iconic sightseeing.

Find out more about our 8-day Provence in Detail holiday

Cinque Terre Discovery

The five villages that make up the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cinque Terre National Park are all beautifully colourful, clinging precariously to the cliffs along this stretch of coastline. You can get between all of them by boat, by sensational cliff paths or by train – with a station in each village. We give you a base in pretty Rapallo, a perfect base to explore. 

Travel out via the Rhine Valley with a night in Freiburg and then back up the coast, staying overnight on the French Riviera in Cannes.

Find out more about our 7-day Cinque Terre Discovery holiday.

Croatian Coastline by Rail

Embark on a rail adventure from London this summer, discovering the charm of Heidelberg with its stunning hilltop castle. Travel via scenic routes to Split and Hvar Island, immersing yourself in Roman heritage and coastal beauty. Conclude your trip amidst the historic splendour of Dubrovnik’s Old Town.

On this holiday, you can choose how to come back to the UK – either book your own flight or let us help with rail and / or ferry options to extend your holiday.

Find out more about our 13-day Croatian Coastline by Rail holiday

LUXURY TRAIN HOLIDAYS

Luxury Prague, Vienna & Budapest

This holiday takes you on a journey through some of Central Europe’s most historic cities, all while travelling in style with First Class rail and 5* hotels throughout. As well as experiencing the three titular destinations, you’ll also soak up Berlin’s unique & fascinating history, along with the musical heritage of Salzburg.

Find out more about our 12-day Luxury Prague, Vienna & Budapest holiday

The Blue Train: Pretoria to Cape Town

Embark on a luxurious journey from Pretoria to Cape Town aboard the famous Blue Train. Experience the charm of Pretoria’s landmarks before indulging in scenic views and fine dining en route to Kimberley. You’ll arrive in Cape Town for a 4-night stay, exploring iconic attractions like Table Mountain and the Boulders Beach Penguin Colony. There’s also the option to extend your adventure even further, with a safari or onward to travel to Victoria Falls.

Find out more about our 9-day Blue Train: Pretoria to Cape Town holiday

Glacier Express Excellence Class

One of Europe’s most popular rail journeys – but better! Board the Glacier Express’s Excellence Class, with a red-carpet welcome, and enjoy a gourmet meal served at your seat. This holiday takes you the full Glacier Express route from Zermatt to St Moritz with 5* hotels and time to explore both destinations. You’ll also have return travel from the UK in First Class.

Find out more about our 5-day Glacier Express Excellence Class holiday

Classic Orient Express: London to Venice

Experience the ultimate bucket-list rail journey on the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express combining 1920s style, glamour and opulence. Enjoy gourmet food and wine, immaculate service and stunning Alpine vistas en route to Venice, where you have a 2-night stay to explore. Start your unforgettable trip with a night in Paris and return from Venice in First Class via the Brenner Pass route through the Alps to London.

Find out more about our 6-day Classic Orient Express: London to Venice holiday

EPIC JOURNEYS BY RAIL                  

London to Sicily & Malta by Rail and Sea

Who says you can only visit Malta by getting on a plane? This wonderful epic journey takes you from London, across France and down through Italy to Naples. From Naples, travel right to the toe of the ‘boot’ of Italy and cross the Straits of Messina aboard one of Europe’s last remaining boat trains. Enjoy a few days at leisure at the Sicilian resort of Taormina before continuing your journey south and boarding a ferry for Valletta. When you arrive, a driver will be at the port to meet you and take you to your hotel.

You’ll return to the UK via historic Siracusa, Milan and Basel in Switzerland with no need to get on a plane at all.

Find out more about our 13-day London to Sicily and Malta holiday.

London to Istanbul

From the continent’s Western edge to its borders with Asia, via Brussels, Munich, Budapest and Bucharest, this wonderful adventure is an opportunity to explore the historic and cultural diversity of Europe before revelling in the aromatic, ear-bending bustle of Istanbul.

Whether you are interested in celebrated city-centre parks or award-winning museums, giant gothic parliament buildings or perfectly preserved peasants’ homes, Michelin stars or traditional cuisine, this exploration of some of Europe’s most charismatic cities will leave you beguiled.

Find out more about our 9-day London to Istanbul by Rail holiday

Escorted Rail Journey: London to Marrakech

From London to the vibrant, bustling streets of Marrakech, you’ll whizz through Barcelona and Madrid on high-speed trains, catch a ferry across to Tangier, explore Rabat’s hidden gems, and finally reach the enchanting city of Marrakech. 

Zak, your guide, will make sure your adventure through ancient streets, bustling markets, and historic sights is nothing short of memorable. After immersing yourself in all the excitement of Morocco, you can either return home by air or extend your adventure to Fez and Casablanca. The choice is yours. Joy is guaranteed on this epic journey by rail and sea!

Find out more about our 10-day Escorted Rail Journey: London to Marrakech holiday

London to the Arctic Circle

Head north from the UK and cross Germany and Scandinavia up to Bodo above the Arctic Circle in the north of Norway. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Trondheim, Norway’s Viking capital before traversing through breathtaking landscapes to Bodø, experiencing the Arctic environment and its unique activities. From Bodø, witness the marvels of the midnight sun or the northern lights, and consider extending your journey to Bergen or Kirkenes along the renowned Hurtigruten ferry line

Find out more about our 10-day London to the Arctic Circle holiday

Remember, all our holiday ideas are just that – ideas. If you want to be away longer, shorter, stop in different places, or do something different altogether, we can help. Just give us a call or drop us an email.