Although far-flung destinations are now cheaply accessibly via budget airlines, Ryanair doesn’t quite offer the romance rail travel can provide. Whether you’d prefer to travel in the footsteps of Portillo or Palin, there are plenty of options at home or abroad.
The ‘Grand Tour’ of the UK
If you’d prefer to stay at home, Great Rail Journeys offer one of the most comprehensive rail tours of the country.
From Bath to Inverness, this trip takes you across the length and breadth of the UK – stopping at major landmarks over the 14 day travel time.
There are first class and standard rooms available, with breakfast every day and some select evening meals.
The whole 14 days costs from £2,195 per person. Find out more.
For the colder weather fans – the Arctic Circle!
If you think England during winter is like a tropical paradise, maybe you’ll be hardy enough for this adventure.
Taking in the greatest rail journeys across Norway and Sweden, this Arctic experience is certainly different from your normal trip abroad.
Its unlikely that any other journey will cover as much historic and mythological landscapes as this one.
From £2,945 per person and filled with day trips, well chosen hotels and such breathtaking scenery, this is actually a bit of a bargain. Find out more.
The Romantic Venetian getaway
Its Railbookers to the rescue this time, with a perfect trip for the lovers among you. Starting and ending in London, you’ll be treated to top class dining, a 4* hotel in venice and a 5 day attraction rich itenerary (including obligatory gondala ride).
The American dream
Next to cruising down Route 66, a coast to coast rail expedition in the States is a perfect American escape.
Again, Great Rail Journeys have us covered with a comprehensive itinerary, spanning from New York to San Fransisco. From £5,260 per person it’s not cheap, but this is real bucket-list stuff and a once in a life time 21 day excursion.
Retire Well 