01904 521 936
Tour Search



Escorted City Breaks & Sightseeing Holidays by Rail

Across Europe and the UK, there's a magnificent wealth of cities to lose yourself in, each brimming with unique culture and unforgettable sights. Join us on an enticing city break and we'll take you to the cultural heart of each city, with carefully-planned itineraries that combine visits to must-see attractions with authentic local experiences, as well as free time to explore in a way that suits you.  

See how historic cities have developed into modern hubs while maintaining their one-of-a-kind charms, or step back in time in ancient cities seemingly unchanged in centuries; the best part of Europe is its rich diversity. Our holidays take you to your chosen city in the best way possible, with an efficient and comfortable rail journey that takes you straight into the centre of the action - and gives you the chance to admire some of Europe's stunning stations, often landmarks in themselves.

With us, you'll be expertly guided by our knowledgeable tour managers, who bring these amazing cities to life with their local insights and engaging stories. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, we'll show you a side of these cities that you've never seen before, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Our recommended Cities & Sights holidays

ClassicClassic
Grand Imperial Cities
Save £100pp
4.6 stars(245 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...
12 days from
£2,399 pp £2,299 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Highlights of Tuscany
Save £100pp
4.4 stars(290 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunAugSep...
10 days from
£1,899 pp £1,799 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Lisbon
4.3 stars(96 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunAugSepOct
15 days from
£3,999 pp
View Details

City break ideas from our blog

From what to get up to if you find yourself in Amsterdam for the day to the world's most beautiful railway stations, head over to the Journey Blog and let us inspire you with our unique city insights.

Why travel with us?

126 results matching: Cities & Sights Escorted Holidays

Filters
Any
Reset
Any
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
ClassicClassic
Taj Mahal, AgraTaj Mahal, AgraTaj Mahal, AgraTaj Mahal, AgraTaj Mahal, Agra
Half price upgrade
4.8 stars(573 reviews)
2026SepOctNov
2027JanFebMarAprSep...

Follow in the footsteps of maharajas on our bestselling Indian holiday, uncovering the gems of northern India and visiting Shimla - the only tour operator to combine the Golden Triangle and the former summer capital of the British Raj. Embrace the many wonders of this mystical country on this unrivalled overland journey. Enjoy the bustle of...

View map

Half price upgrade
14 days from
£2,699 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Highlights of TuscanyHighlights of TuscanyHighlights of TuscanyHighlights of TuscanyHighlights of Tuscany
Save £100pp
4.4 stars(290 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunAugSep...

Savour the glorious colours, aromas and flavours of Tuscany on a holiday highlighting the true beauty of this beloved region. Discover the great Renaissance city of Florence, visit a historic family estate for a tour and dinner, and marvel at the iconic monuments of Pisa, including the Leaning Tower. Explore the stunning sights of Siena, the...

View map

Save £100pp
10 days from
£1,899 pp £1,799 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
DesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzano
Save £100pp
4.2 stars(349 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...

A family-run hotel in the lakeside town of Desenzano is our charming base. With a panoramic terrace providing beautiful views of the lake, the hotel is perfectly positioned near to the characterful Old Town and train station. This holiday includes a cruise to enchanting Isola del Garda to explore the renowned Venetian Villa Borghese-Cavazza and...

View map

Save £100pp
10 days from
£1,549 pp £1,449 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
St Johann St Johann St Johann St Johann St Johann
4.2 stars(252 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

Explore the beautiful towns and landscapes of the Austrian Alps from your base in the charming town of St Johann, surrounded by rolling peaks and lush valleys. Marvel at views of Austria's tallest mountain on a journey across the Hochtor Pass on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, viewing glaciers and gold-mining towns, before discovering the...

View map

9 days from
£2,199 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
The Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian Riviera
Save £100pp
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

Discover the towns and villages of the Italian Riviera which sparkle beside the Mediterranean Sea, as we explore the Cinque Terre and the harbour town of Portofino. Explore the pastel-hued fishing village of Camogli, a hidden gem, and relax in Sestri Levante - a town between two bays. Sail to San Fruttuoso abbey, set in a secluded cove and only...

View map

Save £100pp
10 days from
£1,899 pp £1,799 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Carcassonne & the Canal du MidiCarcassonne & the Canal du MidiCarcassonne & the Canal du MidiCarcassonne & the Canal du MidiCarcassonne & the Canal du Midi
4.3 stars(266 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

Embark on an indulgent French holiday based in a riverside hotel in stunning Carcassonne, discovering the myths of hilltop Cathar castles and indulge in the region's renowned flavours. Stroll through Carcassonne's walled fortress on a guided tour of the city's medieval sights and uncover the mysterious history of the four hillside Châteaux de...

View map

7 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Vienna, Prague & BerlinVienna, Prague & BerlinVienna, Prague & BerlinVienna, Prague & BerlinVienna, Prague & Berlin
Save £100pp
4.4 stars(176 reviews)
2026JunSepOct

Travel through central Europe, visiting iconic landmarks from the time of vast empires. Uncover the timeless elegance of Vienna - the seat of the mighty Habsburg dynasty - and enjoy views of majestic palaces and grand, ornate buildings along the renowned Ringstrasse. Experience the medieval charm of the Czech capital, Prague, a magical city of...

View map

Save £100pp
10 days from
£1,399 pp £1,299 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Discovering JapanDiscovering JapanDiscovering JapanDiscovering JapanDiscovering Japan
Half price upgrade
4.4 stars(137 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027MarAprMaySepOct

Discover the contrasting culture, superb landscapes and hidden stories of Japan with expert local guides, enjoying a variety of experiences - from unique cuisine and zen tea ceremonies to futuristic cities and serene island shrines. Experience the buzzing metropolis of Tokyo, where ornate wooden temples are illuminated by flashing neon billboards...

View map

Half price upgrade
14 days from
£5,299 pp
per person
View Details
River CruiseRiver Cruise
Rhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine Gorge
Save £300pp
4.5 stars(256 reviews)
2026JunJul
2027MayJunJul

Embark on a scenic river cruise from Switzerland to Amsterdam, uncovering enchanting landscapes on the way, including the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, adorned with stunning castles, lush forests and sprawling vineyards. Sail from Switzerland to the Netherlands, drifting by forested valleys and charming riverside villages while enjoying guided tours...

View map

Save £300pp
8 days from
£1,999 pp £1,699 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
PortoPortoPortoPortoPorto
Save £100pp
3.9 stars(66 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunSepOct

Join us on this holiday, carefully crafted to showcase the best of Portugal. Immerse yourself in the rich history, diverse culture and beautiful landscapes of the country, from its cities to its verdant valleys. Discover the country's historic capital, Lisbon, to explore its stunning viewpoints, hilltop castle and magnificent squares. Experience...

View map

Save £100pp
8 days from
£1,399 pp £1,299 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Halong BayHalong BayHalong BayHalong BayHalong Bay
4.7 stars(24 reviews)
2026SepOctNov
2027JanFebMarAprSep...

Discover the stand-out sights and diverse destinations of Vietnam on this southeastern Asian adventure. Enjoy a street-food experience in Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, and a serene overnight cruise amongst the jungle-draped islands of Ha Long Bay. Travelling on the Reunification Express allows us to uncover the laid-back delights of coastal Hue and...

View map

14 days from
£2,699 pp
per person
View Details
River CruiseRiver Cruise
Danube RiverDanube RiverDanube RiverDanube RiverDanube River
Save £300pp
4.4 stars(30 reviews)
2026JunJulAug
2027JunJulSep

Journey down the blue Danube, where each bend in the river reveals a new tapestry of architectural wonders and culture. Delve into the history of the Ottoman and Habsburg empires and wander among inspiring architecture in Budapest and Vienna. Sail through the beautiful Wachau Valley to Dürnstein and captivating Melk Abbey. Discover the beauty of...

View map

Save £300pp
11 days from
£2,399 pp £2,099 pp
per person
View Details
Our customers love our Cities & Sights tours
The Majestic Rhine: Basel to Amsterdam
1/Jun
Pamela Clifford
5 stars
“A lovely restful break. Superb room, food and friendly staff. Loved the Rhine.
Collected by Trustpilot
Simply Lake Garda
1/Jun
Kernoweth
5 stars
“This was my first trip with Great Rail Journeys and I thoroughly enjoyed my holiday. I was kept well informed from the moment I booked and given all the information I needed before travelling. Throughout the holiday, our dedicated tour guide inspired me with confidence, especially as I was travelling...
Collected by Trustpilot
Classic Austrian Alps
30/May
Diane - Exmouth, Devon
5 stars
“I had a wonderful holiday, I haven't been with GRJ before but everything was so well organised, the hotels were lovely, the excursions interesting, and the tour manager was excellent. I have already booked a holiday for next year.
Collected by Trustpilot
First-Class Carcassonne, Châteaux & Vineyards
30/May
J Taylor
5 stars
“Really great experience. The group was lovely, Tour Manager Michael was friendly, extremely knowledgeable and relaxed, and spoke excellent French. I welcomed the not-too-early starts and the periods of free time. The hotel and personnel were very good and welcoming - one of the main attractions of this holiday...
Collected by Trustpilot
Tuscany: Florence, San Gimignano & Pisa
27/May
Richard
5 stars
“Great experience, lovely holiday
Collected by Trustpilot
India’s Golden Triangle, Tigers & Shimla
7/May
Rupert Lavers
5 stars
“Fantastic trip, enjoyed shimla most, followed by the national park and jaipur. Alot packed into 2 weeks, accommodation excellent
Collected by Trustpilot
Highlights of Vietnam
19/Feb
Hilary Whitehouse
5 stars
“A professionally organised tour with a sensible balance of a varied itinerary and independent time. This was our first experience with GTJ and wouldn't hesitate to travel with them again.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Classic Blue Danube: Passau to Budapest
31 Jul 2025
Old Bob
5 stars
“Excellent trip, well organised with top quality travel by trains and river boat
Collected by Trustpilot
Lisbon, Porto & the Douro Valley
25/May
Martin Lewis
4 stars
“A very enjoyable tour greatly assisted by a superb tour manager. Local guide in Lisbon better than the one in Porto but accommodation better in the latter. Unfortunately, Sintra excursion from Lisbon was slightly chaotic due to crowds whereas Cascais was superb. Local train from Porto to Pinhao was crowded...
Collected by Trustpilot