Itinerary - 8 Night Holiday by Rail

Day 1

London to Lucerne

Travel on the Eurostar to Paris, before departing on the famous TGV train to Basel. Speed through the French Champagne region passing quaint French villages and picturesque countryside before arriving into Lucerne in time for dinner.

Check in at the centrally located Waldstaetterhof Hotel for your overnight stay.

Located in the heart of Switzerland, Lucerne has magnificent views across Mount Pilatus and Rigi in the Swiss Alps. Visit the 14th century Chapel Bridge, the impressive Jesuit Church and the historic Old Town which borders the River Reuss. Later, enjoy dinner along the charming waterfront.

Day 2

Lucerne to Venice

Depart Lucerne in the morning and travel to Venice on one of the most scenic routes in Europe, the Gotthard Pass. Relax whilst the train cuts through the Alps and down into Italy. As well as the stunning mountain scenery the train runs next to Lakes Lugano and Como. Arrive into Venice Santa Lucia station in the early afternoon and check in to the traditional Ai Mori d' Oriente Hotel for a 3 night stay.

Famous for its network of canals, its history and its ethereal beauty, Venice has a uniquely beautiful cityscape which transforms every visitor into an avid photographer!

Days 3 and 4

Venice

Enjoy two full days to explore the famous attractions of this city. The best place to start is St Mark's Square with its grand arcades and fabulously ornate cathedral. From here you can visit the historic Doge's Palace or take a boat out on the lagoon. If it's a special occasion, why not hire a gondolier to expertly steer you through the canals?

Away from the main thoroughfares, the Peggy Guggenheim Museum is a gallery of modern art, housed in the American collector's former home with cool courtyards full of sculptures and a commanding view over the Grand Canal.

Day 5

Venice to Innsbruck

This morning, catch the direct train from Venice to Innsbruck. Journey through Alpine meadows and catch a glimpse of Lake Garda before experiencing the beauty of the famous Brenner Pass on the Italian-Austrian border. Witness fabulous mountain scenery - some of the finest in the world, before arriving in Innsbruck.

Check in at the conveniently located Grand Hotel Europa Innsbruck, just across the road from the station, for your overnight stay.

Encircled by snowcapped mountains, Innsbruck is famous for its fantastic winter sporting events and impressive historical monuments. Visit the Hofkirche or the Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof), both popular landmarks dedicated to Maximilian I before shopping for souvenirs in the lovely Old Town.

Day 6

Innsbruck to Vienna

Enjoy another free morning in Innsbruck and then return to the station for an early afternoon service through the Austrian countryside to the historic city of Vienna. On arrival, check in to the Hotel Am Konzerthaus for a 2 night stay.

Once you have settled into your hotel, stretch your legs with a wander around "Europe's culture capital", passing some of its highlights such as the Anchor Clock, the prestigious Opera House and the Hofburg, Vienna's Imperial Palace.

Day 7

Vienna

Spend the day discovering the attractions of Vienna. In the morning, why not start with a visit to the Naschmarkt, a bustling market dating back the 18th century which has stalls full of food, crafts and oriental goods?

There is a huge range of museums to visit here, from the modern, funky Kunsthaus to the grand Museum of Natural History, housed in an elaborate 19th century palace. You also have a great choice of music venues for an evening concert. Why not take in a performance at the famous Vienna Opera House or one of the five hundred annual concerts at the Musikverein concert hall?

Day 8

Vienna to Cologne

Enjoy another full day in Vienna. Why not explore the city's imperial past with a visit to one the magnificent Schonbrunn or Belvedere Palaces? Alternatively, take a relaxing cruise along the Danube or a horse and cart ride through the city streets from St Stephen's Cathedral.

In the evening, catch a sleeper train from Vienna Westbahnhof towards Cologne. Settle into your private compartment and watch the lights of the city peter out as you head towards Germany.

Day 9

Cologne to London

After breakfast, arrive in Cologne and transfer onto the service to Brussels. Here,
stop for lunch and some last minute chocolate shopping before boarding your Eurostar for the short trip across the Channel back home.

Special Occasion

For a more luxurious holiday, Railbookers can upgrade your hotels and rail travel. Why not stay at the following hotels to make your trip that little bit more special -

Des Balances Lucerne - Stay at this gourmet, chic hotel in the heart of Lucerne's Old Town and experience great cuisine, fine wines and tastefully decorated rooms.

Bauer Hotel Venice - This beautiful boutique hotel is the perfect way to enjoy an extra special Venetian trip!

Sacher Vienna - Famous for its luxurious location opposite the Opera House this hotel offers charming rooms, high-class service and famous clientele.

Please call for details and news of our latest offers.