5 unmissable European rail journeys

21 January 2025

Travelling by train isn’t just a more responsible way to explore - it’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and cultures of Europe. Forget queueing at airport security or worrying about baggage weight; with rail journeys, you can sit back, stretch your legs, and watch the world go by. What makes many of these journeys even better is they begin in London with the Eurostar, making it easier than ever to skip the airport altogether.

Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, and Nice

Experience the charm of southern France on this sun-soaked rail adventure. Start your journey in London with a seamless Eurostar trip to France, before exploring the cobbled streets of Aix-en-Provence, known as the ‘town of water and art’. Next, walk through history in Avignon, where medieval streets and the famous Pont d’Avignon beckon. Finally, finish in the glittering coastal city of Nice, where the French Riviera dazzles with its crystal-clear waters, fancy beach clubs, and delicious seaside dining.

A grand tour of Berlin, Prague, Vienna, and Budapest

Discover the heart of Central Europe on this ultimate imperial rail tour. After setting off from London, your holiday begins in Berlin, where history and modernity collide in a city rich with culture. From there, traverse stunning countryside to Prague, home to breathtaking Gothic architecture and Old Town charm. Then, it’s on to Vienna for its opulent palaces and vibrant coffeehouse culture, before finishing in Budapest, a city celebrated for its thermal baths and dramatic skyline along the Danube. This trip seamlessly connects four iconic capitals while reducing your carbon footprint compared to multiple short-haul flights.

Experience the Arlberg Pass: Zurich, Salzburg, and Vienna

If mountain peaks, verdant valleys, and alpine lakes catch your eye, this rail adventure will leave you spellbound. This itinerary promises every passenger a front-row seat to some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes. Starting in Zurich, Switzerland’s cosmopolitan hub, you’ll spend the week travelling the majestic Arlberg Pass—a route that winds through the Austrian Alps. Once in Salzburg, the baroque city of Mozart, explore its musical history and romantic streets, while your next stop in Vienna acts as the magnificent finale, where art, history, and world-famous strudel are around every corner.

Ride the Flåmsbana and witness the fjords of Norway

On this epic ten-night adventure, you’ll get to experience Norway’s Flåmsbana Railway, hailed as one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys. Start by boarding the Eurostar in London before making your way to Northern Europe where your journey truly begins. This trip takes you through dramatic fjords, cascading waterfalls, and lush valleys with stops in beautiful Bergen and trendy Oslo. You’ll also visit quaint villages in the countryside and the fjord cruises are a truly magical experience, offering unparalleled views of crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering cliffs, making this an ideal getaway for nature lovers thanks to its perfect mix of train journeys, boat rides, and outdoor exploration, far removed from the conventional tourist trail.

The iconic Belmond Royal Scotsman Highland Journey

Prepare for luxurious travel on one of the world’s most exclusive trains. Departing from Edinburgh, the Belmond Royal Scotsman whisks you deep into the breathtaking Scottish Highlands for a memorable adventure. Along the way, expect majestic landscapes of misty lochs, rugged cliffs, and sprawling glens with you enjoy gourmet dining onboard paired with faultless service and opulent cabins to rest in after a busy day exploring. Your time off the train is just as incredible with plenty of amazing things to do and see, including sampling a dram of whisky at Strathisla Distillery, a private tour of Culloden Battlefield, and skip-the-line tickets to Edinburgh Castle.

To book your European rail adventure, contact your Travel Counsellor today.

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Experience long-haul river cruising with Riviera Travel

27 February 2026

Long-haul travel is no longer just about ticking off landmarks; it’s about seeing a destination properly, with the right balance of exploration and downtime. That’s exactly where Riviera Travel’s river cruise and tour combinations come into their own. These itineraries begin with expertly guided touring in some of Asia’s most iconic cities, before transitioning to a river cruise where the pace softens and everything is seamlessly organised for you. For travellers who want depth without the hassle of planning every detail, it’s a smart way to explore further afield.

Stay at a landmark address on Crete’s coast

27 February 2026

Set along the north-eastern shoreline of Crete, Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas was the first luxury hotel to open in Elounda and remains one of its most established names. As a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, it delivers a level of quality and consistency that seasoned travellers expect, while staying true to its Greek roots. The focus here is on understated luxury, experienced staff, and service that feels attentive without being intrusive.