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...





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...





Discover beautiful Bavaria on a GRJ All Inclusive tour of southern Germany's wonderful Romantic Road, featuring excursions to stunning locations, including the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle - a fairytale fortress of piercing towers clinging to densely forested hills. On an exploration of one of Germany's most picturesque regions, ...





Join us on this delightful getaway to discover the unspoilt rural beauty and hidden treasures of South Wales - with trips aboard nostalgic steam trains into scenic, rugged landscapes, and exploring charming towns. From our base in Swansea, we journey on the Brecon Mountain Railway through the wonderful landscapes of the Brecon Beacons, ...





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 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,...





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...





Uncover the region's culture and history from a base in Kirchberg, a charming Tyrolean town of part-timbered chalets nestled amid gentle mountains and extensive alpine pastures. Experience amazing alpine views while travelling aboard the Achensee Railway to the 'Tyrolean Sea', followed by a short boat ride and a visit to the idyllic Gramai...





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...





Discover the rich heritage and natural beauty of Norfolk and Norwich on a journey filled with historic railways, waterways and royal charm. Explore the medieval city of Norwich on a guided tour, cruise along the Norfolk Broads on a Mississippi paddle boat and step back in time on scenic journeys with the Mid and North Norfolk railways. We...





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...





Soak up the beauty, serenity and relaxed ambience of three of Italy's glorious lakes. Staying in a hotel on the peaceful shores of Lake Orta, quieter than its famed neighbours, we explore Como's lakeside towns of Bellagio and Menaggio during a cruise. Visiting Lake Maggiore, Italy's second largest lake, become immersed in the artistic history...