Rail and river holidays

River holidays and cruises

River holidays can be everything from hiring and piloting your own narrow boat or cruiser, through to following the length of one of Europe's majestic rivers on a full service cruise boat.  Either way you will see the landscape from a completely different view to those travelling by road and at a pace which is restful and relaxing.

River Cruises
For those who prefer to be guided and looked after, a river cruise ship is better for you.  These well equipped ships cruise the main waterways of the world, showing tourists the best sights and views on offer.  With cabins on board, you will often sleep while moored and sail by day, ensuring you miss nothing of the scenery.  With regular stop offs to visit places of interest and on board restaurants and entertainment, your boat is akin to a floating hotel.  Once unpacked, the cabin is yours to enjoy like a hotel room until the end of your trip.  River cruises can often be taken as part of a wider touring holiday.

For itineraries on the Rhine, the Nile, Danube, in Russia, China and beyond, please see our destination pages for our full range of recommendations. However here are some of the main companies you can choose from:

Rail holidays

Rail holidays operate across the world with some of the most exciting itineraries covering the USA and Canada, across Russia, South Africa, through the Far East, India and Australia and of course on Europe's vast railway network.

Whether you are using rail to get from A to B through stunning scenery such as the Rocky Mountains of Canada, or whether you are a rail buff and want to experience the many and varied railways of the Alps, rail is a very civilised way of seeing the world.  Rail holidays are often interspersed with days in a resort or city to allow you time to explore before you move on to another place.  Or they may be the holiday itself, such as the Trans Siberian Express, the famous Blue Train in South Africa or the Orient Express.  Meals are served on board and most trains will have overnight cabins when staying on board, alternatively accommodation will be in hotels on-route.  You will usually be escorted by a guide to handle your questions.

Many of the main touring companies offer rail tours and we list them below, however check out our destination guides for more options of who offers tours in each area.

Top rail and river holiday destinations

Further guides on fly drive and touring holidays