Inside Story: What to do in Budapest
20/11/2025 · By Ian Holt
Visit Budapest with Great Rail Journeys and imperial history along the banks of the Danube, as well as elegant architecture, ruin bars and thermal spas.
Read moreWelcome to the new home for Rail Discoveries. Here at Great Rail Journeys, we are marking a significant milestone as we merge our two sister brands. All the same great tours are exclusively available here on our Great Rail Journeys website and will be called our Discoveries collection.
Our commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences is stronger than ever and we see this as an exciting new chapter. The knowledgeable Tour Managers, award-winning Customer Service team and transportation services you've come to trust with Rail Discoveries will continue seamlessly.
Our Rail Discoveries tours are still available and are Europe wide, but Great Rail Journeys doesn't stop there - discover the huge range now open to you, from the USA, to South Africa or Vietnam & Cambodia. Exploring the world by rail is our passion, and we can't wait to welcome you to one of our tours soon, whether it is cross continental, or close to home.
As always, our expert team in York is on hand, whether that is a tour you have booked, deciding on your next holiday with us or any other questions you may have.
Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.












From the coastal town of Roses, discover the glistening Catalan coast and ride into the Pyrenees, taking in the stunning scenery of France and Spain on this relaxing holiday. Journey through peaceful landscapes on the Núria Valley Rack Railway and ride the Little Red Train from Rivesaltes to Axat in France's Pyrenean foothills. Explore...





Experience Switzerland's most spectacular train journeys from a family-run hotel in the heart of the forested Albula Valley, including drinks with dinner each evening. Travel across the Swiss Alps and past enchanting glaciers to Italy on an UNESCO-listed line aboard the Bernina Express, before viewing the 'Swiss Grand Canyon' and incredible alpine...





Explore the enchanting destinations of the Italian Riviera while based in Chiavari on the Ligurian Sea. Cruise to the Cinque Terre villages, clinging to towering cliffsides, and Portofino, a popular village set within a natural harbor. Uncover San Fruttuoso abbey, located on a beach in a peaceful cove, and delve into the history of Genoa, the...





Famed for its prehistoric cave drawings, Les Eyzies provides the perfect location from which to explore the beautiful Dordogne, a region renowned for picturesque villages, ancient history and excellent cuisine. Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Dordogne from the honey-hued village of La Roque-Gageac and discover the spectacular cliff-side...





Enjoy an idyllic winter holiday in the heart of the snow-capped Swiss Alps, staying in the picture-book village of Wilderswil, where dinner and drinks are provided each evening. This all-inclusive getaway includes a jaw-dropping trip on the Jungfrau Express, a masterpiece of Swiss rail engineering, to Europe's highest railway station. Here,...





Explore the beautiful Basque coast of Spain and France from the seaside town of Hondarribia. Visit picturesque fishing towns and stylish cities, discovering the cuisine, art and culture of this fascinating region in San Sebastián and Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum. Board the nostalgic carriages of the Petit Train de la Rhune for a stunning journey,...





Embark on an all-inclusive tour of the Swiss Alps, based in the chocolate-box village of Wilderswil, where all meals and drinks with dinner are provided each evening. From this picture-perfect location, enjoy a jaw-dropping trip to Europe's highest railway station on the iconic Jungfrau Express to marvel at snow-capped peaks and the stunning...





Discover the magic of a Swiss winter on this GRJ All Inclusive seasonal holiday based in the scenic Albula Valley. Experience Switzerland's most spectacular train journeys from a family-run hotel, including drinks with dinner each evening. Travel across the Swiss Alps and past enchanting glaciers to Italy on the UNESCO-listed route of the...





Soak up the laid-back atmosphere of one of Italy's most beautiful lakes to peaceful Lake Garda, staying in the hidden gem of Garda town. Sail to the idyllic lakeside towns of Sirmione and Malcesine to uncover colourful streets and amazing views of the lake circled by alpine foothills. Stroll amid the botanical gardens of Sigurtà, admiring the...





From picture-postcard villages and lush rolling meadows to gentle waterways and historic steam railways, discover quintessential English charm and beauty in abundance on this holiday to one of the most scenic parts of the UK, the Cotswolds. Explore timber-framed Tudor buildings and the stunning cathedral in Worcester, and discover the...





On a captivating holiday through Scotland, uncover the best of Edinburgh and the Highlands in a perfect blend of iconic railways, grand castles and breathtaking scenery. Take in the historic sights of Edinburgh and enjoy a nostalgic trip on the Jacobite steam train, widely considered to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. ...





Experience the historic cathedral city of Durham on this five-night break, based at the majestic 12th-century Walworth Castle in the heart of County Durham. Discover some of the region's most famous landmarks, such as Chesters Roman Fort and Hadrian's Wall, and step back in time to other historic periods during visits to the captivating...