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Eastern Europe
From dynamic cities to breathtaking landscapes, discover this iconic region
Europe

Take in the fairytale charm of Eastern Europe

ClassicClassic
St Johann
GRJ All Inclusive Austria: Alps, Salzburg & Lake Zell
4.2 stars(246 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
9 days from
£1,799 pp
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ClassicClassic
Grand Imperial Cities
Grand Imperial Cities
4.6 stars(240 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...
12 days from
£2,299 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Vienna, Prague & Berlin
Imperial Cities by Rail: Vienna, Prague & Berlin
4.5 stars(175 reviews)
2026JunSepOct
10 days from
£1,599 pp
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ClassicClassic
Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro
Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro: The Adriatic Coast
4.2 stars(84 reviews)
2026JunAugSepOct
13 days from
£2,999 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Tyrolean All Inclusive
GRJ All Inclusive Austria: Highlights of the Alps
4.3 stars(92 reviews)
2026JunSepOct
9 days from
£1,549 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Fisherman’s Bastion, Budapest
Imperial Cities: Prague, Vienna & Budapest
4.4 stars(119 reviews)
2026JunSepOct
8 days from
£1,399 pp
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ClassicClassic
Harz Mountains & the Rhine Gorge
Harz Mountains & Rhine Gorge
4.4 stars(123 reviews)
2026JunAugSepOct
9 days from
£1,799 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lindau
GRJ All Inclusive Bavaria’s Romantic Road
4.2 stars(222 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunAugSepOct
8 days from
£1,349 pp
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Eastern Europe Escorted Holidays

Connected by historical importance and breathtaking landmarks, the Grand Imperial Cities of Berlin, Prague, Vienna and Budapest take you to the heart of eastern Europe. These elegant capitals reveal a blend of musical heritage and unique history like few other places. With Great Rail Journeys, you can experience them through our award-winning tours. Alternatively, embark on a luxury river cruise from Budapest - the 'Pearl of the Danube' - into picturesque Bavaria. Sail through Slovakia's charming capital, Bratislava, and admire the views of Austria's scenic Wachau Valley.

Enjoy a discovery of the Adriatic countries of Slovenia, Croatia and Montenegro, uncovering natural wonders and idyllic towns in this ancient corner of Europe. Unwind beside pristine Lake Bled, stroll among the pretty streets of Slovenia's compact capital, Ljubljana, explore Croatia's breathtaking Plitvice Lakes and enchanting walled city of Dubrovnik before exploring Montenegro's stunning Bay of Kotor. In Germany, delve into Bavaria's fairytale forests and castles, enjoying celebrated food and drink. Add in spectacular Christmas markets in towns along the romantic Rhine and it's easy to see why Germany is an attractive destination all year round. Explore all of this and more with Great Rail Journeys.

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Discover the Imperial Cities of Europe

Experience the heart of Europe on our escorted tours through these incredible cities. With more than 50 years' experience in creating wonderful holidays, you can discover tales of empire by rail or river cruise. Journey through Germany, Austria, Hungary and Czechia by train on our Grand Imperial Cities tour, explore Vienna, Prague and Berlin on our Imperial Cities by Rail holiday, enjoy our Imperial Cities fly-rail trip or embark on our luxury Delights of the Danube river cruise.

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49 results matching: Germany & Eastern Europe

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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Cologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas Markets
German Christmas Markets of the Rhine
4.5 stars(185 reviews)
2026NovDec

Feel the spirit of Christmas on this cruise along the beautiful Rhine. Discovering Germany at the most magical time of the year we stop at traditional Christmas markets along the way, including Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz and Rüdesheim. Strolling through the stalls, admire the craftsmanship of local artisans and savour the flavours that define the...

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5 days from
£1,199 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Rhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine Gorge
The Majestic Rhine: Basel to Amsterdam
4.5 stars(250 reviews)
2026JunJul
2027MayJunJul

Embark on a scenic river cruise from Switzerland to Amsterdam, uncovering enchanting landscapes on the way, including the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, adorned with stunning castles, lush forests and sprawling vineyards. Sail from Switzerland to the Netherlands, drifting by forested valleys and charming riverside villages while enjoying guided tours...

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8 days from
£1,799 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
BaselBaselBaselBaselBasel
The Romantic Rhine: Amsterdam to Basel
4.4 stars(135 reviews)
2026JunJul
2027MayJunJul

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Netherlands to Switzerland on a luxury river cruise. Sail through four countries, admiring stunning forested valleys, charming half-timbered towns and historic cities lining the picturesque banks of this incredible river. Marvel at the spectacular scenery of the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site...

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8 days from
£1,699 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Schonbrunn Palace Gardens, ViennaSchonbrunn Palace Gardens, ViennaSchonbrunn Palace Gardens, ViennaSchonbrunn Palace Gardens, ViennaSchonbrunn Palace Gardens, Vienna
The Classic Blue Danube: Passau to Budapest - Fly
4.9 stars(50 reviews)
2026JunJulAug
2027JunJulSep

Fly to Munich for a luxurious cruise down the blue Danube, uncovering the beauty and culture of this scenic river. Delve into the rich history of the Ottoman and Habsburg empires and wander among inspiring architecture in Budapest and Vienna. Sail the beautiful Wachau Valley, visiting Dürnstein and historic Melk Abbey. Arriving in the Slovakian...

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8 days from
£1,799 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Rhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine Gorge
Treasures of the Rhine
4.6 stars(34 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AugSep

This beautifully scenic, easy-paced cruise takes us to the towns and cities of the River Rhine. Sailing by enchanting landscapes, discover Heidelberg and Strasbourg along with the sensational vistas of the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge. From Cologne, we sail south to explore the town of Koblenz, enjoy a guided tour of Heidelberg, and wander...

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8 days from
£2,099 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Trier, GermanyTrier, GermanyTrier, GermanyTrier, GermanyTrier, Germany
Autumnal Colours of the Moselle & Rhine
4.7 stars(63 reviews)
2026Oct
2027AugSepOct

Join us as we uncover the Moselle and Rhine, where every bend of the river reveals breathtaking autumnal hues and every port beckons a new discovery. Ancient castles and Roman ruins sprinkle the red, gold, and orange landscape on this leisurely cruise as we sail by sloped vineyards and rolling hills ready for harvest. Visit charming towns like...

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8 days from
£2,199 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Grand Imperial CitiesGrand Imperial CitiesGrand Imperial CitiesGrand Imperial CitiesGrand Imperial Cities
Grand Imperial Cities
4.6 stars(240 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...

Embrace the storied past of grand empires on this bestselling rail holiday. Starting amid Vienna's glorious Habsburg palaces and ornate architecture, enjoy a strudel-making show at Schönbrunn Palace with a tasting, before savouring the delights of Hungary's dignified capital, Budapest. Absorb panoramic views of the illuminated Parliament and Buda...

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12 days from
£2,299 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
LindauLindauLindauLindauLindau
GRJ All Inclusive Bavaria’s Romantic Road
4.2 stars(222 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunAugSepOct

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, stroll amid...

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8 days from
£1,349 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
HeidelbergHeidelbergHeidelbergHeidelbergHeidelberg
Christmas on the Rhine: Cologne & Strasbourg
2026Dec

Embark on a breathtaking Rhine cruise through some of Germany's most picturesque towns and cities at this most magical time of year. From the historic charm of Mainz and Koblenz to the storybook streets of Strasbourg and Rüdesheim, experience scenic beauty and rich culture at every stop. Onboard, enjoy a festive atmosphere with a Christmas Day...

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7 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Harz Mountains & the Rhine GorgeHarz Mountains & the Rhine GorgeHarz Mountains & the Rhine GorgeHarz Mountains & the Rhine GorgeHarz Mountains & the Rhine Gorge
Harz Mountains & Rhine Gorge
4.4 stars(123 reviews)
2026JunAugSepOct

Embark on a voyage of discovery amid half-timbered towns, rolling mountains and gleaming rivers in some of Germany's most picturesque locations. Explore the medieval villages of Wernigerode, Quedlinburg and Goslar and journey to the peak of the Harz Mountains by historic narrow-gauge railway. Uncover the idyllic towns of Assmannshausen and St...

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9 days from
£1,799 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
BudapestBudapestBudapestBudapestBudapest
The Beautiful Blue Danube: Passau Round Trip
4.6 stars(76 reviews)
2026JunJulAug
2027JulAug

Enjoy a leisurely cruise through four countries and three capital cities, basking in beautiful river scenery all the way. Sail from the German town of Passau through the Austrian wine-growing region of the Wachau Valley, admiring picturesque Dürnstein and Melk Abbey enroute. After exploring imperial Vienna, the captivating Hungarian capital of...

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10 days from
£2,299 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Wachau ValleyWachau ValleyWachau ValleyWachau ValleyWachau Valley
The Beautiful Blue Danube: Passau Round Trip - Fly
4.8 stars(55 reviews)
2026JunJulAug
2027JulAug

Fly to and from Munich to enjoy a leisurely cruise through four countries and three capital cities, basking in beautiful river scenery all the way. Sail from the German border town of Passau through the Austrian wine-growing region of the Wachau Valley, admiring picturesque Dürnstein and commanding Melk Abbey enroute. After exploring ...

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8 days from
£1,799 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Germany & Eastern Europe tours
Grand Imperial Cities
9/May
Mr Michael Lancaster-Usher
5 stars
“Very interesting and a wonderful tour guide. Trains were excellent and on time and we would recommend this company to anyone. Good value for money.
Collected by Trustpilot
Harz Mountains & Rhine Gorge
8/May
customer
5 stars
“Excellent tour in all respects. Well thought out itinerary, decent hotels, informative tour manger and great value. We had a really interesting time and recommend.
Collected by Trustpilot
Treasures of the Rhine
18/Jan
customer
5 stars
“Very well organised, special thanks to everyone, especially our Leaders who went out of their way to enable us to meet up with a very old friend in Germershein. Accommodation was excellent and staff friendly and helpful.
Collected by Trustpilot
German Christmas Markets of the Rhine
10/Jan
Ian
5 stars
“A magical pre-Christmas trip, organised and delivered to Great Rail Journey's usual high standards! The crew, cabin, facilities and food on the Amadeus Cara were fantastic, and the views as we cruised the Rhine gave us some amazing memories. We did get a little 'Christmas market overload' at times, but...
Collected by Trustpilot
Autumnal Colours of the Moselle & Rhine
05 Nov 2025
John Wood
5 stars
“A fantastic holiday. Cannot fault it but the highlights were excellent food, friendly, efficient staff and well run, interesting excursions.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Beautiful Blue Danube: Passau Round Trip
30 Sep 2025
Philip Adams
5 stars
“Wonderful experience! Worth flying in from Singapore to enjoy our time on the cruise with exceptional staff, facilities and fellow passengers.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Beautiful Blue Danube: Passau Round Trip - Fly
26 Sep 2025
R Gaff
5 stars
“Great holiday.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Romantic Rhine: Amsterdam to Basel
17 Aug 2025
Helen Antrichan
5 stars
“Everything was so well planned and organised. The ship was perfect and staff were wonderful.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Majestic Rhine: Basel to Amsterdam
05 Aug 2025
JD
5 stars
“Very enjoyable, well organised trip
Collected by Trustpilot

Where to go and what to see

Top 5 destinations

York Minster

 

  • Berlin
  • Prague
  • Vienna
  • Budapest
  • Dubrovnik

Find out more

Top 5 sights

Stonehenge

 

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Neuschwamstein Castle
  • Prague Castle
  • Plitvice Lakes
  • Hungarian Parliment Building

Find out more

Expert opinions & guides

Black Forest Gateaux

Recipes to Stir the Senses

Learn how to make one of Germany's most delicious deserts, Black Forest Gateau, with our handy recipe on the Journey Blog. The desert rose to fame in the 70s and is an indulgent treat that combines the timeless flavours of cherries and chocolate. Try it for yourself!

Harz Mountains

Snowbound Steam in Deepest Germany

The twinkling lights of a Christmas market, charming medieval towns, and steam trains winding through snow-blanketed wintry landscapes; Germany at Christmastime is a delight to discover. Find out more with this personal account of a festive adventure in the Harz Mountains.

Charles Bridge, Prague

A love affair with: Prague

Fall in love with Prague, a city of dramatic Gothic spires, centuries of fascinating history, and some of the best beer in the whole of Europe! Read more on the Journey Blog, and find out why the Czech Republic capital is one of the most romantic cities on earth.

Germany & Eastern Europe Iconic Trains

How many people go on one of your holidays?

Great Rail Journeys is a market leader when it comes to small group tours. We're proud of being pioneers in our approach to group sizes and have become the leading operator for escorted holidays. Our group sizes vary between tours, but are our ranges are usually a good indicator of what to expect.

For our Discoveries range, you'll be in groups with an average of 30-35 travellers and a maximum of 40. If opting for our Classic collection, you'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. Our Landmark holidays are where you'll find our smallest group sizes, starting from as low as 16 travellers and an average of 22, to a maximum of 30.

*Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

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