Lakes and Mountains Holidays 2024/2025

From the glistening, cerulean waters of Italy’s famous lakes to the soaring, snow-dusted peaks of the Alps, Europe boasts a wealth of extraordinary scenery, all perfectly suited to exploring by rail. And you can soak up the splendours of the world’s finest lake and mountain panoramas for less.

Fairytale landscapes made up of ancient forests, emerald lakes, enchanting castles, and pastel-hued villages. Central Europe offers up culture and beauty galore, and we discover them in the best way possible – from their efficient, comfortable, and scenic railways.

Swiss, Italian & French Alps

From azure lakes and lofty peaks to rolling pastures and quaint villages of timber-framed houses, the Alps have been drawing travellers for generations, and it's little wonder why.

In Switzerland why not traverse mountain passes and take in breathtaking vistas aboard the Jungfrau Express or stroll around historic towns brimming with charm and character? Or experience the picturesque resort of Chamonix in the French Alps underneath mighty Mont Blanc, then, for those in search of a taste of 'La Dolce Vita',  the Italian lakes of Como and Garda offer a chance to truly relax amidst beautiful surroundings.

So whether you're looking for historic towns, scenic landscapes or iconic rail trips, discover the mountains and lakes of the Alps with Great Rail Journeys.

Often it feels like the spectacular mountains and lakes of Europe were tailor-made for the intrinsic charm of rail travel. We take in some of the finest lake and mountain railways on the continent in our European collection..

Lake Geneva, Mont Blanc & St Bernards

Relax by Lake Geneva and explore the dramatic Swiss scenery that surrounds our base in Champery. From there, travel through the Alps aboard funicular mountain railways, lake steamers and efficient Swiss trains. Pass the mighty peak of Mont Blanc by rail and discover the history of the charming St. Bernard dog.

8 days from £1,395pp

Jungfrau, Matterhorn & The Glacier Express

Explore the icons of Switzerland on a stunning 8-day holiday by rail. Starting in the scenic Bernese Oberland, our jounrey takes us to the 'Top of Europe' on the Jungfrau Express, through Alpine meadows on world-famous trains, and past striking mountain peaks to the charming resorts of St Mortiz and Zermatt.

8 days from £1,595pp

Splendours of Southern Switzerland

Discover Ticino, one of Switzerland's lesser known regions. From your base in the glamorous 'Monte Carlo of Switzerland', explore the highlights of this fascinating region, including picturesque lakeside cities and delightful mountain railways, all exhibiting an Italian charm.

9 days from £2,195pp

Lake Garda & The Gardone Riviera

Unwind in the lakeside Savoy Palace Hotel on the Gardone Riviera, savouring the fresh air and mild climate, with sparkling Lake Garda as a backdrop. Enjoy a flavour of Venice and a meal at an 'agriturismo' on this fantastic rail holiday packed full of delights.

10 days from £1,695pp

Beside Lake Como

Alluring Lake Como has been attracting visitors to its beautiful shores for more than 200 years. On our spectacular tour based beside its shores, we take in pretty Italian towns, lake steamers, mountain scenery and historic mansions. We also enjoy an enthralling journey into Switzerland on the Bernina Express, a stunning railway line with UNESCO protection.

10 days from £1,395pp

Lake Annecy, Chamonix & Mont Blanc

Glorious lakes and mountains form the backdrop of this relaxing French retreat. We combine the picturesque scenery of Lake Annecy with the Alpine charm of bustling Chamonix. Travelling high into the mountains by rail, we enjoy a leisurely cruise across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy.

8 days from £1,545pp

Lake Garda All Inclusive

On this wonderful holiday, you have the chance to explore the charming towns and villages surrounding Lake Garda and enjoy excursions to the fabulous cities of Verona and Venice.

10 days from £1,395pp

Glacier Express All Inclusive

Discover the magnificent scenery of Switzerland on this fabulous tour. Enjoying an all inclusive stay, we explore elegant St Moritz, Tirano and beautiful Arosa, as well as journeying on the world famous Glacier Express.

9 days from £1,595pp

Tyrolean All Inclusive Fly:Rail

Delight in the contrasting landscapes of the Austrian Tyrol as you enjoy all-inclusive accommodation from your base in Oberndorf. Discover the joys of Salzburg and take a journey on the Zillertalbahn Railway.

7 days from £995pp

The Harz Mountains

Travel the Harz Mountains, the highest range in northern Germany, by train on the Brocken and Selketal Railways for scenic journeys through spruce woodland and narrow valleys.

6 days from £895pp

Lake Como All Inclusive

Relax on the shores of beautiful Lake Como on this all inclusive holiday. Discover delightful lakeside towns, cruise across sparkling water and experience the Swiss Alps, travelling on the Bernina Express.

10 days from £1,595pp

Lake Levico and The Dolomites

Sojourn on the shores of delightful Lake Levico, on a rail tour that soaks up a collection of favourite Italian attractions. Explore incomparable Venice and stunning Lake Garda, collect snapshots of the Dolomites as you travel through the mountains, and discover the charms of Trento, on this unforgettable holiday.

10 days from £1,795pp

Harz Mountains & Rhine Gorge

Discover two of Germany's most picturesque regions on this fantastic two-centre holiday. We explore the halftimbered villages and stunning peaks of the Harz Mountains by rail before visiting the stunning Rhine Gorge, where the legendary Lorelei Rock still casts its spell.

10 days from £1,495pp

Glacier Express & St Moritz

Dramatic mountain scenery and beautiful lakes provide the setting for this magnificent tour, as we take the iconic Glacier Express through the Swiss Alps, staying in glamorous St Moritz, and Zermatt, where we enjoy breathtaking views of the Matterhorn.

10 days from £2,895pp