The Best Rail Trips to Take in Europe

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Gethin Morgan

Content and CRM Executive

Always dreamt of interrailing around Europe? Train travel is the best way to explore the continent’s glorious countryside and endless array of fascinating cities. Book a spot on one of these Rail Trips and join us for the European train trip of a lifetime.

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Palace of Pena in Sintra, Lisbon, Portugal.

Complete Portugal by Train

This eight-day tour of Portugal is slow travel at its best. Scenic train journeys and a series of stunning towns and cities make this laid-back southern European gem perfect for exploring via the tracks. The itinerary connects the country’s two major cities, starting in the northern powerhouse of Porto and ending up in the glorious capital, Lisbon. In Porto you’ll get a guided tour of the city’s charming old streets, as well as a Port wine tasting session in one of the old riverfront cellars. You’ll trace the grape all the way into the Douro Valley, where you’ll get a scenic boat ride through the region’s rolling hills, as well as lunch at a local winery. Then it’s time to head south to the lagoon city of Aveiro, which challenges Venice in beauty thanks to its colourful buildings and charming canal boats, not to mention a wonderfully sweet local delicacy. The train ride to Lisbon is incredible scenic and, upon arrival in the capital, you’ll be treated to a guided food tour – featuring the best pastel de nata you ever had – and a live Fado (traditional folk music) show. From Lisbon you’ll also get a day trip to the fairytale town of Sintra, a must-visit on any trip to Portugal.

From US$1927

Next available from 15th Jun 2024

Secure your spot with a low deposit

Trip highlights and details

STARTS AT

Porto, Portugal

arrow pointing to the right

ENDS AT

Lisbon, Portugal

DURATION

8

GROUP SIZE

16

PHYSICAL RATING

Moderate

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STYLE

Discovery

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Jacobite steam train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, as seen in Harry Potter

Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands by Train

If train travel in Europe makes you think of charming old steam locomotives chugging through the countryside, then boy are you going to love this weeklong adventure through the rugged Scottish Highlands. It starts with a more modern touch, as we take the overnight sleeper train from London, so you can wake up to glorious views of handsome Scotland. After whisky-tasting in Fort William, the next train journey gets even more dreamy, as you hop onboard the Jacobite steam train. This beautiful old machine was made famous by its performance as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films, and you’ll get to cross the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct – as seen in the movies – from the comfort of your carriage. From there you’ll explore the Isle of Skye, Inverness, the Cairngorms and, last but not least, the gorgeous gothic streets of Edinburgh. Expect castles, lochs and fairytales along the way – and a haggis dinner or two, if you fancy it?

From US$2728

Next available from 27th May 2024

Secure your spot with a low deposit

Trip highlights and details

STARTS AT

London, England

arrow pointing to the right

ENDS AT

Edinburgh, Scotland

DURATION

7

GROUP SIZE

18

PHYSICAL RATING

Moderate

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STYLE

Discovery

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Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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