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

Glide through the Swiss Alps by rail on this no-fly tour. Enjoy a journey from Interlaken to Lucerne, enjoy a scenic day trip on the historic Glacier Express from Chur to Brig and take the train to Bern, where you can explore the highlights of the Swiss capital. During this itinerary, you'll also sail across Lake Lucerne to Vitznau and the summit of Rigi Kulm and cruise the length of Lake Thun.

Full details: Swiss Alps & Glacier Express

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
Visit Carcassone and the Dordogne

Immerse yourself in rural France, with its fairytale châteaux, world-class art, bustling farmers' markets and quaint medieval villages dotted along the picturesque Dordogne River. Wander through the walled city of Carcassonne with its stunning gardens of Marqueyssac and beautiful Beynac Castle. In the evening, enjoy dinner at Carcassonne's Michelin-starred restaurant La Barbacane. A highlight of the trip is exploring the fascinating city of Albi to see the preserved stone-age cave paintings of Lascaux on a guided tour.

Full details: Carcassone & the Dordogne

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Celebrating over 175 years of Swiss Rail