Seeing the world can be one of life’s greatest joys, but a growing number of us want to do so with a lighter touch on the planet. Choosing a holiday that is both unforgettable and more responsible is becoming more important than ever, and train travel offers a wonderful solution, blending the romance of the rails with a significantly lower carbon footprint. We’ve partnered with the rail experts at Railbookers to share some of the best scenic routes to add to your wish list and what makes them so special.
Why rail travel is the sustainable choice
One of the most effective ways to reduce your holiday’s carbon footprint is to travel by train. Compared to flying or driving, rail travel produces far fewer greenhouse gas emissions - often up to 75% less. Trains are masters of efficiency, moving people across vast distances using less fuel per passenger. They also make better use of land than sprawling airports and motorways, preserving more of the natural landscapes we all want to explore. Your Travel Counsellor can advise on the most sustainable options and shape your trip around your interests and pace. Flexibility is built into every journey; whether you want to start from your local station, combine your rail holiday with a cruise, extend your stay, or even upgrade to different classes along the way.
Scenic journeys that inspire
Railbookers curates trips that place you at the heart of the world’s most magnificent landscapes, turning the journey itself into a highlight. These are not just holidays; they are experiences crafted to connect you with the beauty of your surroundings from the comfort of a panoramic window.
Florence & the Bernina Express (6 days) offers an enchanting journey from Zurich through the Swiss Alps on the iconic Bernina Express, winding past glistening glaciers and soaring peaks before arriving in the Renaissance heart of Florence. You’ll have time to wander Zurich’s Old Town, enjoy Milan’s famous dining and fashion scene, and soak up the art and culture that make Florence utterly timeless.
Sicily by Train (9 days) combines Italy’s urban elegance with the authentic heritage of the Mediterranean’s largest island. Begin in the style capital of Milan, travel south aboard an overnight sleeper, and see the very best of Sicily, including the picturesque coastal town of Taormina, the grand boulevards of Catania, and the lively piazzas of Palermo. A guided 4x4 excursion to Mount Etna is a true stand-out on this trip.
Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer (10 days) is the definition of a bucket list adventure, delivering you from cosmopolitan Vancouver all the way to Calgary via Kamloops, Jasper, and Banff. You’ll travel in comfort on the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer, enjoy curated sightseeing tours throughout the Rockies, and experience unforgettable views of turquoise lakes, immense glaciers, and pristine wilderness.
Norway in a Nutshell® (8 days) is the ultimate fjord journey, showcasing the best of Norway’s landscapes on an immersive blend of train, boat, and coach. From Oslo, marvel at the views along the Flåm Railway - voted the world’s most scenic rail journey - explore Viking heritage, cruise through UNESCO-listed fjords, and spend time in colourful Bergen.
Grand Vienna, Salzburg & Munich (11 days) is a classic Central European odyssey, linking three cities steeped in culture and old-world charm. Begin with Vienna’s imperial palaces, sample Salzburg’s musical history and baroque beauty, tour fairy-tale Hallstatt, and end amid Munich’s thriving beer halls and the storybook towers of Neuschwanstein Castle.
To book your next rail adventure, get in touch with your Travel Counsellor today.
Finland is often linked with winter trips to Lapland, but there’s much more to discover across the country. From design-led cities to quiet lakes and coastal landscapes, it offers a different pace of travel that feels both refreshing and easy to explore. If you’re looking for a European destination that combines nature, culture, and something a little less expected, Finland is well worth considering.
Few destinations offer as much to discover as South Africa, and recently, a group of Travel Counsellors experienced just how varied a journey here can be. From the dramatic landscapes of the Panorama Route to unforgettable safari moments in Kruger National Park, time spent with local tourism partners, and a deeply moving visit to Soweto, the trip offered the kind of first-hand insight that helps shape more personal, meaningful holidays for customers. It was a reminder that South Africa isn’t only about big-name sights; it’s about the people, places, flavours, and small moments that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
Spain takes on a slightly slower, softer rhythm in September. The peak summer crowds have eased, the evenings still feel made for long dinners outside, and there’s enough warmth left for beach days, city strolls, and countryside escapes. From island coves to wine country and elegant northern coastlines, these five Spanish destinations all come into their own as summer gently gives way to autumn.
