designed by expats.
designed by expats.
Guided Rail Touring Packages
Expat Explore is making more travel possible as we bring you rail travel! The comfort and speed of a railroad trip mean that you’ll have more time to explore bucket-list destinations.
In fact, railroad travel is so unique and special that the journey itself will become part of your bucket-list experiences!
Want to find out more about these incredible new tours and all they have to offer? Watch our webinar with Expat Explore co-founder Carl below, and click the button to view the tour itineraries, departure dates & prices.
It’s About The Journey, And The Destinations
Imagine embarking on a great rail journey as you explore Europe and all that it has to offer. Now imagine that dream coming true! Enjoy 10 days of travel by rail from Milan to Amsterdam, with stops in the Swiss Alps, the Black Forest region, Paris and more! Hop onto the Amsterdam to Budapest Rail Explorer for 11 days of rail exploration through Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague, Vienna and Budapest. Or perhaps you’d like a shorter, scenic train trip from Prague to Budapest, discovering top Eastern Europe attractions as you go. If an Italian adventure is what you’re after, then climb aboard our Italy Rail Express for 9 days of pure bliss!
We have incredible tours for you to choose from, you just need to decide which one you’ll do first!
Bookings are open - secure your place with just a 10% deposit, with flexible date changes & money-back guarantee.
Tour By Rail - Your Ideal Next Vacation
You will experience the perfect balance between vibrant group tour culture and a sense of exclusivity as you travel by rail. In short, it’s the same vibe and people, with a different perspective on the journey. A rail tour lets you connect with the world differently as you embark on a new kind of adventure!
“Guided rail travel has given Expat Explore a great opportunity - we are now able to create different routes and continue our founding principle of Value for Money and Travel Made Possible.” - Jakes Maritz (Co-Founder of Expat Explore)
Travel In Comfort
Enjoy some legroom and the opportunity to get up and explore the train as you are taken from one destination to the next.
More Speed, More Time
Train trips use their own routes and only stop where needed. So, you will have more time to explore your bucket-list sights and destinations.
Guided Rail Tours
Our expert guides will be with you every step of the way. You won’t have to worry about any planning, timing or language barriers.
Enjoy Enhanced Itineraries
We have listened to our passengers’ feedback to provide an even better experience on tour with enhanced routes and itineraries.
Smaller Group Travel
Whether you’re travelling solo, with family or friends - a rail tour is made for you. Meet like-minded people and make memories as you adventure together.
You See The Unseen
Travel by rail takes you through a country, instead of around it. Your journey is as much part of the tour as the bucket-list sights!
Webinar with Expat Explore co-founder Carl
Learn more about Rail Tours directly from our co-founder Carl Cronje!
Frequently Asked Questions
Didn’t find what you were looking for? Please contact our Customer Service team - they’re always happy to help!
What is a rail tour?
A pre-planned group tour with an expert guide taking you from one destination to the next. The main mode of transport is rail throughout the tour.
How much luggage can I bring on a rail tour?
Similar to Expat Explore coach tours, you are permitted to bring one piece of luggage, along with a small backpack or carry bag as hand luggage, with you on the train. Small to medium-sized bags are better due to limited space on trains. A bag that is small and light enough to fit into overhead storage on trains is ideal.
Importantly, we advise packing as lightly as possible for rail tours as you will be carrying your own luggage to and from trains, through stations and into hotels. Porters will not be available, and your tour leader cannot assist you with your bags. Please ensure that your suitcases and trolley bags have sturdy wheels. If you are fit enough to carry a large backpack, that is also a good option for rail tours.
How will we get to our hotels from the stations?
Either with a short walk or via a short trip on public transport.
What precautions are being taken for my health and safety?
Expat Explore will strictly follow all guidelines set out by the ETOA. All staff will receive the recommended training and your health and safety will remain a top priority throughout the tour.
Will meals be included?
All breakfasts are included and some lunches and dinners - the meals are specified on the tour itineraries.
Will the tour leader be with us at all times?
Just like on any other Expat Explore tour, our expert tour leaders will be there for travel days, walking tours and meals. On free days, they will be operating optional excursions that you can choose to take part in. If you're off exploring by yourself, they will always be a phone call or message away if you need assistance.
Will I have time to explore by myself on the rail tours?
You, as the traveller, will always have a choice to join the offered experiences or not. There will also be free time given at each stop and on free days.
Is travelling by train better than flying?
Rail travel gives you the opportunity to enjoy the scenery as you travel through destinations and you have the ability to stop and get off in spots that are easily missed. It’s a more relaxed and comfortable way to travel. Travelling by rail gains you access to amazing views through mountains, rural landscapes and quaint towns!
What is the most scenic train ride in Europe?
We can’t choose only one - you’ve got the Black Forest region, the Alps in Switzerland - it all depends on the type of scenery you are looking for.
How do you travel by train in Europe?
The railway system in Europe is very well established and with an expert guide, you won’t have any of the hassles you may experience when travelling by yourself.
Are there showers on sleeper trains?
Our rail tours will not be overnight, so you will have the comfort of a hotel room in each of the destinations.
How do I plan a vacation on a train?
Yes! Your return traveller discount of 10% also applies to our rail tours!
I've travelled with you before. Do I get a discount?
Yes! Your return traveller discount of 10% also applies to our rail tours!
What are the group sizes?
Our rail tours have an average group size of 15 travellers, up to a maximum of 25.