Holiday Ideas for Iconic Rail Journeys







Holiday Ideas for Iconic Rail Journeys







As the leading rail holiday experts, we firmly believe there's no better way to explore the world than by rail. A rail journey introduces you to scenic delights you'd never uncover on any other form of travel; as you glide through the heart of your destination, steal glimpses at picture-perfect rural landscapes, glittering azure coastlines, or frosty mountain peaks.
One of the things that makes rail travel so unique, is the long history behind classic railways. Intriguing tales, both fictional and non-fictional, give certain trains and rail routes an almost legendary status; one that makes our classic rail holidays something to remember.
From the dizzying heights of Switzerland's Alpine railways to the scenic beauty of Canada's Rocky Mountaineer, classic rail journeys are found across the globe. Our classic rail holidays take these unforgettable journeys and elevate them, by including them in culture-rich itineraries, all packed with hand-picked excursions and authentic experiences.
Take a look at our classic rail journeys selection below which features rail experiences around the world, and enjoy discovering your next once-in-a-lifetime holiday.





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 ...





Enjoy Switzerland's warm hospitality and astounding landscapes from traditional hotels in historic Chur and idyllic Täsch, soaking up dramatic scenes of soaring mountains and glaciers aboard two iconic trains. Cross the Alps on the Bernina Express, admiring glacier views enroute to Poschiavo. The show continues as you bask in the alpine valleys...





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. ...





From our base in Carrbridge, we discover the very best of northern Scotland. Soak up breathtaking scenery as we travel aboard the legendary Jacobite steam train and the charming Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, we marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs, and emerald forests that make up the Scottish landscape. Step back...





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 an UNESCO-listed line aboard the Bernina Express, before viewing the 'Swiss Grand Canyon' and incredible alpine...





Snow-bound views and enchanting seasonal scenery have made the Glacier Express famous at this time of year as the glistening peaks and sugar-frosted forests of the Swiss Alps provides picture-postcard backdrops. On this memorable holiday, pass icy lakes and the ethereal Palü Glacier on the UNESCO-listed route of the Bernina Express. Later, ...





Enjoy having your head in the clouds this winter as we stay in some of Switzerland's best mountaintop hotels. Located on beautiful Lake Brienz, the Belle Époque Grandhotel Giessbach is perched above the waters and surrounded by nature, while Pilatus Kulm lies at the top of a mountain accessed by cable car. These spectacular hotels allow you to...





Enjoy having your head in the clouds while staying in a selection of Switzerland's best mountaintop hotels, all with sweeping views of mountains and lakes. The Belle Époque Grandhotel Giessbach on Lake Brienz is only accessible via boat and funicular railway, while Pilatus Kulm lies at the top of a mountain accessed by Europe's steepest...





Encounter the untamed North York Moors and rolling Yorkshire Dales aboard the nostalgic North Yorkshire Moors Railway and famed Settle-Carlisle line, before discovering the gems of Northumberland on a tour which blends dramatic landscapes with fascinating history and culture. In Yorkshire, wander among the spectacular gardens of RHS Harlow ...





Delve into the remarkable landscapes of Canada on world-famous trains. Our exploration begins with a guided tour of beautiful Vancouver on the Pacific coast before we enjoy two daytime trips on the amazing Rocky Mountaineer to the astonishing Canadian Rockies. Based in gorgeous Banff and Jasper, we admire awe-inspiring Lake Louise and the...





Experience a holiday of a lifetime with an enchanting Rhine river cruise followed by a rail adventure on the cutting-edge GoldenPass Express. From the streets of Amsterdam, where historic landmarks meet modern charm, to the picturesque Moselle Valley and the legendary Rhine Gorge, every moment is a cultural experience. Step aboard the...





On this sensational holiday, travel from Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva to the mountainous surroundings of the Jungfrau Massif. Explore Château de Chillon, sail on Lake Geneva and cross the Alps to the French mountain town of Chamonix on the Mont Blanc Express. Boarding the GoldenPass Express, admire views of the Bernese Alps...