Rail Holidays in Europe

Journey through alpine wonder on the Mont Blanc Express, linking France and Switzerland. Snowy peaks, peaceful meadows and charming villages unfold around you – perfect for a relaxing escape into nature’s beauty. The train travels from the French station of St Gervais/Le Fayet, with a steep climb into the Chamonix valley, all the way through Chamonix and Argentiere, under the Col des Montets and down the other side into Martigny in Switzerland. Beginning with a gentle ascent, it passing through rows of vineyards into the pretty Rhône Valley before making use of the rack-and-pinion mechanism to climb high into the mountains.

Spain’s Núria Valley Rack Railway is your ticket to tranquillity. Winding deep into the Pyrenees, it’s the only way to reach a serene lakeside retreat surrounded by wildlife and mountain views. The journey covers 12.5km over an incline of more than 1,000 metres through the Pyrenees to the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Núria. Look out for deer or marmot as we travel through mountains and gorges! The valley is car free, so the valley is an oasis of calm. At the top, the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Núria looks out onto a beautiful blue lake, with the astonishing peaks behind.

Hop aboard France’s Red Train for a breezy ride past vineyards, castles and rolling hills. With open-top carriages and panoramic views, it’s a stunning way to savour the Pyrenees. Running for more than a century between Rivesaltes and Axat, this heritage line winds for 60km through valleys and gorges at a leisurely pace. Breathe the mountain air, enjoy onboard commentary, and watch Cathar castles crown the crags. As the route climbs, vineyards give way to forests and meadowland; tunnels open to sudden vistas; every curve frames a new view of the peaks.

France’s cheerful Yellow Train rolls gently through the Catalan Pyrenees. In summer, open-air carriages let you snap postcard-perfect views of valleys, peaks and rustic countryside. It was originally constructed in 1903 and is known for its engineering prowess. The train is painted bright yellow and travels at speeds of just 18mph, allowing you to soak up the stunning views as you go! The train also has some openair carriages during the summer months and the scenic route takes in suspension bridges, tunnels and plenty of picturesque towns.

Sit back and relax as we take the historic funicular railway up to the hilltop town of Montecatini Alto for panoramic views of the area. Running since 1898, this much-loved line still charms with its classic red carriages, polished wood seating and exterior balcony. The two cars pass at the midpoint, a moment that always makes passengers smile!

Switzerland’s Glacier Express is a feast for the senses. Settle in for a leisurely ride through the Alps, with panoramic windows, a delicious lunch and dramatic landscapes of bridges, tunnels and snowy peaks. Often considered the world’s slowest express train, the Glacier Express travels at around 24mph, giving you ample time to soak up the views. The full route spans roughly eight hours, threading 91 tunnels and crossing 291 bridges! Our journey savours the stretch from Brig in sunny Upper Valais over the Oberalp Pass at 2,003 metres before rolling into Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city.

In Switzerland, the Mount Rigi cogwheel railway blends history and beauty. This pioneering route, Europe’s first mountain line, climbs past lakes, alpine pastures and grazing cows – with modern trains that honour its heritage. Since 1871, it has carried travellers to the Queen of Mountains, with a 30–minute ascent to nearly 1,800 metres. Views stretch across lakes, while farms filled with wildflowers frame the track. New vehicles echo the 1911 No. 6 railcar, with a white and bronze finish linking past and present. Still running between Goldau and Rigi Kulm, it pairs vintage character with contemporary comfort for an Alpine ride.

Switzerland’s GoldenPass Panoramic train glides from Montreux to Gstaad, seamlessly switching tracks as it reveals lakes, forests and charming villages. It’s a journey of contrasts, wrapped in comfort and stunning views. The world’s first panoramic train on the GoldenPass Line, it is a century-in-the-making feat that adapts its gauge en route, removing the need to change trains. Sleek carriages with wide windows immerse you in the scenery. Leaving Montreux, the line skirts above Lake Geneva, then drops into Swiss valleys, threads the Gruyère district and continuing through the Pays-d’Enhaut to Gstaad, passing snowy peaks, alpine meadows and wooden traditional chalets.

This Romanian steam train winds through the wild Vaser Valley. Europe’s last forestry railway offers a magical escape – curving past rivers and forests where bears roam and nature reigns. Known as the Mocănița, this 760mm narrow-gauge line was built for timber and now carries travellers deep into century-old woodland. Steam billows as the locomotive journeys over bridges, dives through tunnels and hugs the Vaser River on a 40km round trip. There are no villages or roads, just Carpathian scenery and the chance, if you’re lucky, to spot wolves! It’s wonderfully slow, nostalgic travel at its most atmospheric.

Switzerland’s Rochers-de-Naye railway climbs high above Lake Geneva to reveal sweeping Alpine views. With forests, villages and an Alpine Garden of 1,000 plants, it’s a year-round delight – plus Father Christmas awaits in December! Starting near the lakeshore, the line gains over 1,600 metres on a slope-hugging track to Rochers-de-Naye at 2,042 metres, with ever-wider vistas across water, ridges and snow-capped peaks. At the top, a panorama stretches from the Eiger to Mont Blanc and down to Lake Geneva. The ride is unhurried and scenic, winding past pastures and rocky outcrops before cresting the ridge.

Before becoming a Tour Manager, I worked in both charity and corporate retail, having started as a teenager in Liberty London. I later chose tour managing as a career because I wanted to combine my love of meeting new people with my love of travel. When it comes to favourite destinations, I know most people would choose an exotic place, but I love Europe! I particularly like Lake Bled in Slovenia – what a wonderful place. The country, the people, the lake! This would be my top choice for people to visit. Even the scenery on the train journey to Slovenia is beautiful – if you’re a train enthusiast, this is a must. I’ve been lucky enough to visit many wonderful places as a Tour Manager, including Vietnam and Cambodia, but New York in the fall remains my bucket list destination.
I have so many memories from my tours, all happy ones. I come away from them having met people I’m still in contact with today, and who still ask my advice about their next holiday. When asked what I would recommend, I always suggest a European rail tour – not only for the scenery, but also for the comfort and ease. It offers the ability to move around, without the stress of airports or driving. My top travel tip is to make a list of what you’re taking – I always forgot something until I started doing this. Outside of work, I am a keen cyclist (but not the Lycra type!) and I have a classic car that I take to shows. And, fun fact, I once held Fifi Trixibelle Geldof (Bob Geldof’s daughter) so that he could get his suitcases onto a train to Faversham!

I have always worked in travel and tourism, from jobs abroad to roles in hospitality. I enjoy being around people and, with holidays, always making sure everyone has a wonderful experience. Rail holidays, to me, are the best. You see so much of an ever-changing landscape, and it still fascinates me to travel through different countries and witness the dramatic changes from mountains to lakes, along with the delights of different cultures.
My favourite country is France – I love being there and tasting its flavours of food, culture, cities, and history. It will always be in my heart. Santorini is also very special to me, and one of my favourite holiday memories is watching the sunset while on a catamaran there. In the future, I want to visit Argentina – it is at the top of my bucket list. Outside of work, my hobbies are cooking, reading, and visiting historical sites.

Prior to becoming a Tour Manager, I worked in architecture and real estate. I later chose tour managing as it allowed me to combine my main interests – video production, walking and travel – all whilst informing and entertaining the customers as we travel through Europe. I have lots of enthusiasm when showing customers the amazing places we visit. I love sharing stories of where I’ve been and encouraging people to experience those destinations for themselves. My favourite places are Switzerland for the beautiful scenery, northern Italy for the food and weather, and the Pyrenees for their mountains and coastal views. In the future, I’d love to take the train along the coast of Vietnam. Travelling by rail is a must for me – it’s comfortable, relaxing, and you’re looked after all the way. My top tip is always to pack light!

Hi, I’m Darren. I have worked as a Tour Manager for Leger for a number of years, leading various rail holidays across Europe. I really enjoy the different aspects of my role, but most of all I love to show new and interesting places to people, and share the stories and history that bring them to life. Europe is so varied, with so many beautiful cities, landscapes, and cultures to see – it’s impossible not to find something new and interesting to discover. I look forward to meeting you on one of our rail tours in the future!

I’m Eddie, and I’ve been a Tour Manager for over 25 years, working in more than 70 countries across the globe. Before I got into the travel industry, I was a kitchen and bedroom designer – in fact, it was a chance conversation with a customer (who happened to be a Tour Manager) that opened the door to this career. Not long after, I was over in America leading tours throughout the Americas, from Chile and Central America to the USA, Canada’s eastern provinces, and across the Caribbean from the Bahamas to Cuba. After years of long-haul travel, I felt it was time to explore closer to home, and it’s a decision I’m glad I made. I now have a special fondness for the Netherlands, Germany, and Austria – each with their own rhythm and charm. As for my personal travel dreams, there are just two countries left on my bucket list: Japan and Russia. While Russia is unlikely at present, Japan remains a must-see destination I hope to experience soon. Outside of work, my interests have ranged widely – I’ve skydived, hang-glided, flown both model and full-sized aircraft, and held an ocean skipper’s ticket for yachting. These days, life is more grounded, with time spent at home or by the Norfolk Broads, feeding wildlife and indulging my passion for reading, researching, and writing about our incredible country.

I have lived in six different countries across Europe, which has helped me learn about other cultures. I am half Hungarian and half French, with dual nationality, and I speak three languages fluently while also learning another. Before becoming a Tour Manager, I studied at business school and spent 13 years in Paris as a Sales Director in the perfume sector. I am enthusiastic in sharing information and memories with others, and I have a real love of discovery. I am driven by a passion for history, culture and heritage, and I enjoy sharing my knowledge. I love human interaction, and this profession involves numerous encounters with tourists, which is very rewarding.
I also like to develop my communication skills. A Tour Manager must be able to communicate clearly, explain complex concepts, and adapt to different audiences. At the same time, this job requires perfect organisation skills. Tour planning, time management, and logistics are all part of the role. Adaptability is indeed a real challenge – I must be able take into consideration the needs and interests of different groups, whether families, seniors or a mix. My favourite destinations include France, Switzerland and Hungary. France is one of Europe’s most fascinating destinations, famous for its breathtaking monuments, efficient services, and nice restaurants. A trip to Switzerland lets you dive into postcard-perfect Alpine scenery, explore modern and lively cities, discover deep-rooted traditions, and enjoy culinary specialties like local cheeses and the very famous chocolate. The biggest lake in Europe, Balaton, is perfect for everyone – nature lovers, sports enthusiasts, thermal bath or art fans, or if you’re simply in need of some rest, Whatever kind of traveller you are, Hungary will win you over. One of my favourite memories is visiting Slovenia’s Postojna Cave with a tour group, travelling on the underground train to see its magnificent formations, diverse fauna, and the famous ‘baby dragons’. Looking to the future, I have Montenegro, Macedonia, and Iceland firmly on my bucket list. Wherever is next, I will go by rail, because it really is a wonderful and lovely way to explore different countries in a more eco-friendly way, combining comfort, breathtaking landscapes and convenience. They are a relaxing alternative to air travel, allowing you to witness diverse scenery, easily access city centres, and enjoy the journey without airport check-ins or security lines. And, to make your holiday run smoothly, remember to always check your visas, don’t forget your passport, and choose Leger Holidays!

Hello! My name is Lesley, and I am very happy to be a Tour Manager with Leger Holidays. I used to be a teacher of Modern Languages, and I regularly organised ski trips and educational visits for pupils. That knowledge and experience led me to consider tour managing, which has been my career now for many years. When it comes to rail holidays, some of my favourites have been Corsica, Transylvania, and the Pyrenees. Each offers fascinating train journeys, wonderful scenery and the chance to enjoy local culture while staying in a variety of hotels. I once worked as an overseas representative in ski resorts in Romania, so returning there on a rail holiday was especially memorable. I love that rail journeys let guests enjoy spectacular scenery, with the added comfort of being able to stand and walk about while travelling. One of my favourite on-tour memories was a local land-train trip high into the hills of the Pyrenees to Roses. The weather turned from hot and sunny to wet and windy, but the driver handing out plastic ponchos, wine and biscuits at the summit, and the good humour of the guests, made it a real highlight of the trip. What makes rail holidays so special is the opportunity to meet fellow travellers and be part of a friendly group. I always recommend that guests interact with each other and take full advantage of the knowledge of Tour Managers and local guides. Looking to the future, I would love to revisit some of my favourite destinations and repeat previous visits to Eastern Europe. Wishing you all a great trip, wherever you decide to go!

I’m passionate about travel and cultural experiences – both personally and professionally. As a Tour Manager with Leger, I love bringing destinations to life through storytelling, history and local insights. Outside of work, I’m a huge fan of theatre and the arts, and I thrive on live performances, from classic plays to modern dance and street shows. Fun fact: I once navigated a group through five countries in a week – and not a single person lost a suitcase! Before becoming a Tour Manager, I lived a very different kind of tour life – as a professional dancer! I was born in Moscow and moved to Amsterdam at 17 to chase my dream. I graduated from the Amsterdam Academy of Arts with a BA in Performing Arts and spent several years performing across the world. In 2019, life took me in a new direction when I became a mom – and eventually found my way into the world of travel, where I still get to bring energy, storytelling and a bit of stage presence to every trip! I became a Tour Manager because being on the road feels like home to me. I love inspiring people to see more, feel more and step out of their everyday lives. For me, travel isn’t just a job – it’s a way of life (some say religion!). I always say: we live a small life together on tour – full of shared stories, inside jokes and unforgettable moments. Creating those experiences is what lights me up. When it comes to destinations, my favourite is usually the one I haven’t been to yet. I know that sounds a bit odd, but there’s something about the rush of the unknown – diving into prep, researching every detail, and then watching it all come to life on the road. That said, Italy always holds a special place on the map (and in my stomach… hello gelato!). The nature is stunning, the food is basically a love language, and don’t even get me started on how Italian men dress – it’s like a runway on every corner. The wine? Fantastico. And the scenery? Pure postcard material. Every turn looks like it was made for a movie scene. It’s a country that knows how to live – with passion, style and a perfect espresso in hand. Some of my most meaningful memories as a Tour Manager have been about connection. I lost both of my parents, and in many ways, I find little pieces of them in the people I travel with. One moment I’ll never forget was when a group asked for a photo at the end of a tour – but before we even posed, each person hugged me and told me how unforgettable the trip had been. I cried. In that moment, I felt so deeply connected – not just as a Tour Manager, but as a human being sharing something truly special. Moments like that remind me why I do this. For me, European rail holidays are one of the best ways to travel. No airport chaos, no liquid limits, no endless security lines – just smooth, scenic journeys from city to city. You can sip a coffee, watch the world glide by like a movie, or chat with fellow travellers (train chats really do hit different!). It’s relaxed, beautiful and part of the adventure itself, not just the way to get there. My top travel tip? Stay open – to new experiences, new people, and even the little surprises along the way. Some of the most meaningful moments happen when you least expect them. Pack light, bring an open heart, and say yes to things that take you slightly out of your comfort zone. That’s where the real joy of travel lives. Looking to the future, Bhutan is high on my bucket list. There’s something deeply moving about a country that measures success in Gross National Happiness. I’m drawn to its peaceful energy, untouched landscapes, and the sense of spiritual depth that seems to flow through every mountain and monastery. It feels like the kind of place that doesn’t just offer sights – but shifts something inside you.

Before becoming a Tour Manager, I did a variety of different jobs, though my main role was as a secondary school teacher for almost 15 years. I wanted to find a way of combining my professional experience with my ongoing love of travel, and becoming a Tour Manager felt like the best way to do this. Choosing a favourite destination is impossible, but when asked, Nepal is the country I mention most often. It offers unsurpassable hiking, hospitable people and wonderful food. Another standout memory was a Leger tour in Corsica – a beautiful part of the world, where the group bonded brilliantly and we had a fantastic time together. As someone who loves travelling by train, I believe rail holidays are a great, leisurely way to see a different country without the stress of airports or long car journeys. When I travel, I always pack a few practical extras. Aside from not overpacking and making sure you have suitable footwear, I recommend bringing some Tupperware and a couple of tote bags – they always come in handy. Looking to the future, I would love to travel along parts of the Silk Road – the history and culture of that route really fascinates me. Outside of work, I am a very active person. I’ve run several marathons and play tennis regularly. Between 1996 and 2000, I worked four times at Wimbledon as a scoreboarder, and I even once appeared on the TV quiz show ‘Fifteen to One’!

I have been working as a Tour Manager ever since my retirement in 2017 from British Airways, where I worked in various administrative and support roles for 37 years. Already familiar with much of Europe, and speaking both German and French, I wanted a part-time paid job that allowed me to keep travelling and meeting people – so becoming a Tour Manager seemed ideal. My passion for rail travel goes right back to 1972, when I spent a month exploring Europe on an Interrail ticket – the very first year they were launched (£27.50 for one month, yes really!) for young people aged 18 to 21. That trip was the start of my gap year and truly ignited my love of independent travel. My favourite rail memory is from December 1972, travelling from Basel to Linz on the now-defunct Transalpino train. The sky was clear blue and the snow dazzling white – unforgettable. Another tour memory was standing on the roof of the cable car gondola to the top of the Stanserhorn at Lake Lucerne. Perhaps it’s no surprise then that my stand-out favourite country is Switzerland. I find its lakes and mountains inspiring and calming (not to mention its seamless transport system). My favourite ride is the Bernina line, closely followed by its sibling, the Albula. I recommend riding in the open wagons, although I’ve only done so once. I also particularly enjoy exploring lesser-known mountain railways. Whether it’s a gentle trundle through the countryside, admiring magnificent scenery, or speeding across France, Germany, or Italy on a high-speed express train, a European Rail Holiday is calming, relaxing and recommended for its relative ease. Shared experiences with fellow travellers make it even more enjoyable. And, if you feel adventurous, engaging locals in conversation – even with just a few phrases – helps to break the ice. Next up on my personal bucket list are the northern Scandinavian rail routes, which travel north of the Arctic Circle. Outside of work, my interests include travel, railways (not planes), pétanque, cycling and walking. I also try to keep my spoken German up to date – I recently joined a local U3A German conversation group!

Before becoming a Tour Manager, I worked in the wind industry delivering training on wind turbine safety rules. Prior to that, I was a senior marketing executive with British Telecom, promoting the use of mobile and flexible working in UK businesses. I was inspired to take on the role of Tour Manager because of my love of travel and my desire to explore new places and gain new experiences. Italy has become a favourite destination, thanks to its great landscapes and fabulous food. The Italian coast and Riviera hold some of my fondest travel memories. For me, a European rail holiday is a fast, efficient, and enjoyable way to explore a country while experiencing local hospitality. My top travel tip is simple: be prepared and enjoy meeting like-minded individuals along the way. Looking to the future, New Zealand is high on my bucket list. Outside of work, I enjoy the theatre and am a regular gym bunny – I love Pilates and yoga. And a fun fact? I can never resist indulging in a good afternoon tea, whenever and wherever the opportunity arises!

I’m a Tour Manager with a background in computer science. My past experience shapes the way I work today, as it allows me to combine technical skills with the art of travel. I streamline logistics, uncover hidden experiences, and film creative on-tour videos that bring each journey to life. Blending code with creativity, I capture stories that are both practical and imaginative, creating visually compelling content for every destination.

In a previous life, I have been a banker, wine merchant, newspaper man, property manager in Dubai, and hotelier in Norfolk – so I like to think that qualifies me as a Tour Manager, having travelled to most continents. Europe is so easy to explore by train – more leg room, a relaxed pace, and plenty of opportunity to chat with fellow travellers and share experiences along the way. My favourite destination to visit has to be Italy, with its hidden lakes and gardens. One highlight is arriving at Lake Orta on the first day of a tour. Known as the ‘Cinderella Lake’ for its unspoilt and natural beauty, it has an outstanding setting, a superb hotel, and several fascinating day tours to neighbouring lakes and gardens. It’s fun all the way, and the long train journey is only the beginning. Outside of work, I still enjoy the occasional game of golf, and regular bridge helps keep my brain in gear.

I’ve been in tourism since the age of 19, starting out as an in-resort Holiday Representative for Thomson Holidays. My travels then took me to Tenerife, where I ended up staying for almost 26 years. When I returned to the UK in 2010, I knew I wanted to remain in the travel industry and became a self-employed Tour Manager. I love interacting with people and really enjoy helping them make meaningful memories whilst on holiday with me. My passion for travel is unwavering and I'm privileged to call 'my hobby' my job. As I speak fluent Spanish, my favourite destination is Spain or any Spanish-speaking country. And, as a large part of my life was spent in the Canary Islands, I feel a deep fondness for all things Spanish! Having said that, for me, the most interesting and memorable tour I've experienced was to Morocco, which I visited with a group on a rail holiday. What a wonderful country it is with splendid sights, smells, crafts and of course food. Looking to the future, Puerto Rico sits firmly at the top of my bucket list. I very much hope to visit one day to experience the incredible fauna and wildlife it has to offer. My top travel tip is simple: when you’re visiting a city, always look up. You’ll be surprised by the beautiful architecture you might otherwise miss.