What to Expect on Your First Rail Journey

There’s something super nostalgic about rail travel. Unlike plane travel, where the journey feels like a mere interlude between locations, train holidays turn the journey into the experience itself.

Imagine watching the Swiss Alps glide by aboard the Glacier Express, sipping tea in a luxurious train carriage, or weaving through the spectacular Pyrenees. With rail holidays, every mile and every stop reveals something new.

Rail travel also offers unparalleled flexibility. Whether you’re looking for lively cities, quaint villages, or coastal resorts, train holidays can cater to your every whim. The convenience of local joining points like London’s St Pancras makes starting your holidays from Europe as easy as stepping onto a platform.

It’s the perfect holiday and it all starts with one click.

Booking your first rail holiday marks the beginning of an adventure unlike any other. Picture this: you’ve just secured your seat on an iconic, high-speed train ride to your dream destination, knowing that you’ll get to witness the scenic splendour and charming towns along the way. So, what happens next? Let’s paint the picture of what your first train holiday might look like, from the moment you click 'book' to stepping off the train at your final stop.

Booking your rail holidays is the first step towards discovering stunning scenery and indulging in unforgettable experiences. Thanks to convenient local joining points, it’s easy to start your trip at a station close to home. Whether you’re setting off from London to explore the Swiss Alps or heading from Paris to Venice, the process is simple, with plenty of options for all budgets.

You might choose a tailor-made experience or opt for one of the escorted rail holidays, where everything from your overnight stay to your continental breakfast is planned for you. With many packages available, there’s a perfect fit for everyone. 

On the day of your departure, you arrive at the station with your suitcase in tow as you board the train. Once settled in, you can take a deep breath and relax – unlike airports, you won’t have to worry about long queues or unnecessary faff.

With spacious seats, ample legroom, and a table where you can unpack a book or start planning your next stop, the luxurious train atmosphere makes you feel immediately at ease. You may even be welcomed with a refreshing soft drink or the option to enjoy a light bite while the train prepares to depart. 

As the train picks up speed, the first thing you notice is the peaceful rhythm of the train as it glides through the landscape – no turbulence, no bumps. Just a smooth ride through a world of spectacular scenery. Perhaps you’re crossing a majestic mountain range or passing through a peaceful village somewhere in Europe where charming houses dot the hillside. You might even be journeying across Norway, where lush forests and glittering lakes majestically appear.

Inside, the train is a comfortable haven. If you’re on a luxury train like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, expect an opulent ambience with plush velvet seats, exquisite dining, and an attentive staff ready to cater to your every need. On a more relaxed journey, you’ll still find comfort – think large windows, airy cabins, and the freedom to wander from carriage to carriage as you please.

As the miles roll by, you’re free to unwind and let the landscapes enchant you. On a rail holiday, train rides are about more than just getting from A to B – they’re a chance to discover and admire the world around you. Depending on your route, you might pass through lush forests, cross rolling hills, or skirt a shimmering coastline. If you’re travelling through Europe to historic cities like Paris, Rome, or Venice expect to be gazing out the window in awe.

Many train journeys offer stops along the way to explore destinations that charm you right off the train. If you’re heading to the Pyrenees or through South Africa, you’ll have time to stretch your legs and take in local culture, whether it’s a brief visit to a resort by the coast or a guided tour of a bustling market. And when you’re not marvelling at the view, enjoy the train’s amenities: gourmet meals, fine wines, or perhaps a cup of tea in the lounge car as you chat with fellow travellers.

When your journey reaches its final destination, you’ll disembark with a sense of accomplishment, having experienced a leisurely, scenic ride that feels both exciting and relaxing. Whether your arrival is in a quaint village nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees, a bustling city like London or Paris, or a beach resort offering golden beaches and fresh air, your first rail journey will be one for the books.

Now your rail holidays can begin!

As mentioned, embarking on your first rail journey means stepping into a world of comfort, stunning scenery, and a little touch of glamour. Here’s what awaits:

From spacious seats and panoramic windows to impeccable service, rail holidays redefine travel comfort. Many journeys, such as the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, offer full-board dining and even a delightful continental breakfast. Whether you’re exploring the UK’s lush landscapes or traversing picture-perfect cities on a luxury train, you’ll enjoy all the amenities to make your trip unforgettable.

I mention it so much because it’s true. Rail holidays deliver scenery like no other. Think snow-capped mountains, historic cities, and emerald green countrysides. The Snowdon Mountain Railway is a perfect example, winding its way to the summit of Wales’ highest peak while treating passengers to spectacular scenery. Similarly, the Harz Mountains in Germany provide unforgettable panoramic views.

No two rail holidays are alike. Some trains whisk you away to iconic destinations, such as the romantic streets of Paris or the ancient charm of Bruges. Others stop at quirky gems like wooden chalets nestled in the Swiss Alps or markets bustling with life in vibrant cities. Whatever the season – winter or summer – choose from selected tours to really tailor make your dream holiday.

If you’re unsure where to start, here are some of the world’s most renowned railway journeys that deserve a spot on your bucket list:

Known as the “slowest express train in the world”, the Glacier Express winds its way through the heart of the Alpine region of Switzerland. Offering unrivalled views of rugged peaks and pristine valleys, this luxurious train ride is the epitome of relaxation and fun rolled into one.

Synonymous with glamour, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express promises opulence on wheels. From its Art Deco interiors to exquisite dining experiences, this train lets you step into a world of timeless elegance as you journey through Europe.

For a touch of whimsy, hop aboard the Yellow Train in the French Pyrenees. This quirky ride offers panoramic views of dramatic mountain ranges, charming villages, and glorious scenery at every turn.

With its glass-domed roof in GoldLeaf Service, a journey on the Rocky Mountaineer is something truly special. Combine that with excellent service, incredible stories told by your hosts, and local, gourmet cuisine, and this is easily one of the best rail routes on Earth, let alone the US and Canada.

Pair your rail holidays with a safari tour on South Africa’s luxurious Blue Train. The route from Pretoria to Cape Town combines high-end indulgence with some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on the planet.

The TranzAlpine may cover just 139 miles, but it's still one of the world's greatest locomotives. Delve deep into New Zealand's Southern Alps, soaking up mountain, snow and glacier views from the comfort of your seat.

From postcard-worthy landscapes to luxurious comforts, it will be hard for your first rail journey not to be a wild and wonderful ride. Expect panoramic views and a sense of excitement at every turn; soon you’ll discover that train holidays offer far more than just a means of transport – they’re a way to experience the world in a whole new light. 

Are you ready to embark on the trip of a lifetime? Your centre for travel has it all. Chat with an Expert to find out more: