Great rail journeys and scenic cruises
If you don't like flying, or wish to swap the plane for a train or ship, take a look at our favourite no-fly tours for 2024. Wake up in a new destination every day, or enjoy the stunning scenery which passes you by from a window - whether it's mountains, beaches or countryside. These are the trips you need to tick off this year.
Discover Vermeer and the Dutch Masters with Andrew Graham-Dixon

On this six-day trip to the Netherlands you'll discover Dutch masterpieces by Johannes Vermeer, Rembrandt and more. Experience a private viewing at the world-famous Mauritshuis where you'll be joined by art critic Andrew Graham-Dixon in the Vermeer gallery for an exclusive talk on the painter's most revered works. You'll also visit Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, home to 8,000 artworks including some of Rembrandt's masterpieces and explore the artists birthplace of Leiden.

Full details: Discover the Dutch Masters with Andrew Graham-Dixon

Swiss Alps & Glacier Express

A four-night itinerary taking you to the heart of the Swiss Alps by rail. Experience the Interlaken Express to Lucerne, before your ascent up Mount Rigi aboard a charming cogwheel railway. The highlight of your trip will be a journey on the famous Glacier Express, taking you through the snow-capped landscapes and to the Rhône valley. You will also cruise the deep-blue waters of Lake Thun, framed by majestic mountains and replete with fairy-tale castles.

Full details: Swiss Alps & Glacier Express

Italian lakes & the Peaks of Switzerland

Travel by rail through France and Italy on this eight-night tour. Stay in a lakeside hotel on Lake Maggiore, in beautiful Stresa - an ideal base for exploring the Borromean Islands and other Italian Lakes. Enjoy a day crossing the Swiss border to Zermatt, and choose an optional excursion on the cog railway 3,000m up the slopes of the mighty Matterhorn. As well as escorted excursion, you'll also enjoy free time to soak up the beauty of this part of Italy.

Full details: Italian lakes & the Peaks of Switzerland

Explore the Isles of Scilly Wildlife & Gardens with Julian Branscombe

Take in the natural beauty, lush gardens and rugged landscapes of the Isles of Scilly on this six-day trip. The group of islands, known for their sub-tropical climate and wonderous wildlife, will prove a delight to explore. Visit St Mary's, Tresco, St Agnes and St Martins - and hear from Julian Branscombe, Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust. Highlights include a guided tour of Tresco Abbey Gardens and a unique visit to an organic coastal vineyard.

Full details: Explore the Isles of Scilly with Julian Branscombe

a stone archway with flowers in the foreground
Monet’s Garden & Loire Valley

Visit one of France's prettiest regions on this seven-day tour, where innumerable highlights include Monet's house and garden at Giverny, Fontevraud Abbey, Chartres Cathedral, Château Fontainebleau and Château of Clos Lucé - the final home of Leonardo Da Vinci. You'll also get to sample the fine wines and exceptional cuisine, for which the region is known.

Full details: Monet's Garden & Loire Valley

a green bridge over water with purple flowers
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Celebrating over 175 years of Swiss Rail