self guided european rail tours

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Europe Self-guided tours and trips 2024/2025

The best self-guided and independent tours in Europe. We currently offer 555 Europe tours and trips that are self-guided with varying trip durations from 1 to 50 days. Self-guided and independent tours can be a great way to discover Europe although potential risks associated with not having a guide always needs to be considered. See our guided tours to Europe if you’ve decided the risks were too high.

555 self-guided tours in Europe

• Starts Les Houches, France
• Ends Les Houches, France

Classic Tour du Mont Blanc in Comfort

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Activities Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking Walking tours , Trekking and Hiking & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='16501'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Guest House, Resort & Hut
• Transport Private Vehicle, Bus, Train & Taxi
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Aug 25 Only 4 seats left
• Aug 26 Only 3 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Cheltenham, England
• Ends Cheltenham, England

Cotswolds by Bike

• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Bicycle tours & Explorer
• Accommodation Hotel, Guest House & Villa
• Transport Train
• Apr 12 10+ seats left
• Apr 13 10+ seats left

• Starts Passau, Germany
• Ends Vienna, Austria

Cycling on the Danube from Passau to Vienna

• Activities Bicycle tours & Adventure
• Accommodation Hotel
• Age Range 5-95 yrs
• Apr 12 Only 8 seats left
• Apr 13 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Avignon, France
• Ends Chapelle Saint Gabriel, France

In Van Gogh's Footsteps

• Activities Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking
• Transport Train, Bus & Taxi

• Starts Klaipeda, lithuania
• Ends Riga, Latvia

Latvia and Lithuania Cycle Explorer

• Activities Bicycle tours
• Accommodation Hotel, Guest House & Resort
• May 01 10+ seats left
• May 02 10+ seats left

• Starts Maastricht, Holland
• Ends Maastricht, Holland

Five Countries Cycle

• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Train & Boat
• May 22 10+ seats left
• Jul 03 10+ seats left

• Starts St Bees, England
• Ends Robin Hoods Bay, England

Coast to Coast Rambler - 18 Days

• Activities Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking Walking tours , Trekking and Hiking & Beach 'data-more-tripid='16532'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Guest House, Hut, Hostel & Resort
• Transport Private Vehicle, Train & Taxi

• Starts Zurich, Switzerland
• Ends Zurich, Switzerland

Highlights of Switzerland in Eleven Days

• Free cancellation
• Trip customizable
• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & City sightseeing Natural landmarks sightseeing , City sightseeing , Train tours , Glaciers & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='32141'>+3 more
• Transport Train, Boat & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 2-96 yrs

• Starts Meiringen, Switzerland
• Ends Zermatt, Switzerland

The Bernese Oberland and Reichenbach Falls

• Transport Train, Private Vehicle, Boat & Bus
• Jun 19 10+ seats left
• Jun 20 10+ seats left

• Starts Lecce, Italy
• Ends Matera, Italy

Walking in Puglia

• Apr 14 10+ seats left

• Starts Chamonix, France
• Ends Chamonix, France

Mont Blanc Classic

• Activities Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking Walking tours , Trekking and Hiking & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='20353'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hostel, Hotel & Hut
• Transport Bus & Taxi
• Aug 12 10+ seats left

• Starts Amsterdam, Holland
• Ends Paris, France

Wonders Of Amsterdam Bruges And Paris By Rail

• Tour Type Independent Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Museum and gallery visits City sightseeing , Museum and gallery visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='38832'>+1 more
• Transport Train, Boat & Bus
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• Apr 25 10+ seats left

• Starts Leon, Spain
• Ends Santiago De Compostela, Spain

Spanish Camino by Bike: Leon to Santiago

• Starts Porto, Portugal

Portuguese Way Cycle - Coast and Camino

• Transport Ferry

Europe Self-guided Tour Reviews

Self-guided and independent tours.

• Balkans self-guided tours
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• Uk And Britain self-guided tours
• Italy self-guided tours
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• Europe trips
• Europe budget tours
• Eco tours in Europe
• Europe guided tours
• Europe family tour packages
• Europe honeymoon packages
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• Europe romantic holidays
• Europe small group tours
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• Europe tours for senior citizens
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• Europe group tours
• Europe last minute deals
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Europe upcoming departures

• Spring 2024/2025
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• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024

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• Crete Sea to Summit
• Best of the Swiss Alps
• Exploring The Jungfrau
• Italian Dolomites
• Best of the French Alps
• St Moritz to Italy
• Exploring Croatia
• Italian Lakes Discovery
• Best of Slovenia and the Julian Alps
• Tour of the Giants
• Italian Dolomites Alta Via 1
• Chamonix-Zermatt Haute Route
• Deluxe Haute Route
• Deluxe Tour du Mont Blanc
• Via Alpina - Swiss Alpine Route
• Deluxe Bernese Oberland Traverse
• Eiger to the Matterhorn
• England Coast to Coast
• Scenic Alps by Rail
• Cheese, Chocolate, & the Alps
• Self-Guided - Scenic Alps by Rail
• Self-Guided- Glacier Express
• Christmas in Switzerland
• Scenic Alps by Rail - Christmas Edition
• Self-Guided Haute Route
• Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc
• Self-Guided Jungfrau
• Self-Guided Via Alpina
• Self-Guided Bernese Oberland Traverse
• Self-Guided Eiger to the Matterhorn
• Self-Guided Swiss Alps
• Self-Guided Austria Zillertal Alps
• Private Guided and Custom Trips
• Appenzell -Alpstein Range
• Zermatt and the Matterhorn
• Leukerbad -Thermal Hot Springs
• Principality of Liechtenstein
• Saas-Fee - Pearl of the Alps
• Tour Calendar
• Where We Stay
• How We Travel
• FAQ – Alpenwild Experience
• FAQ - Tour du Mont Blanc
• FAQ - Haute Route
• FAQ - Alps Hiking Tours
• FAQ- Scenic Alps by Rail Tour
• A Self-Guided Tour FAQ
• Self-Guided FAQ - Haute Route
• Self-Guided FAQ - Tour du Mont Blanc
• Self-Guided FAQ - Rail Tours
• Travel Agents + Alpenwild
• Why You'll Love The Alps
• Packing List – Alps Trekking Tours
• Packing List – Alps Hiking Tours
• Packing List – Alps Walking and Sightseeing Tours
• Packing List - Winter Tours- Christmas in Switzerland
• Weather In The Alps
• Haute Route Essentials
• Tour du Mont Blanc Essentials
• Is a Self-Guided Trip for me?
• Car Travel in Switzerland
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• Why Choose Alpenwild
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Self-Guided Scenic Alps by Rail

Ride the legendary Glacier Express train and cross over the world-famous Landwasser viaduct.

Credit : Glacier Express

Recent Blog Posts

Day 1 – Travel to Lucerne -- Mt. Pilatus Mountain Excursion

Typically, you will arrive on a morning flight at the Zurich airport and then travel by train to Lucerne (1 hr). In the afternoon, you can take a local train to Alpnachstad and then ascend on the world's steepest cogwheel train to the top of the 7000 ft. Mt. Pilatus. You will enjoy the beautiful Central Swiss Alps panorama and Lake Lucerne below you. When you are ready, descend via a cozy 4-person gondolas for a scenic ride down to Kriens. From Kriens, take a short walk downhill to the main road bus stop for a bus ride back into Lucerne.   Overnight in Lucerne .

Day 2 – Gotthard route in the Historic Heart of Switzerland

Lucerne--Flüelen --Gothard Route -- Lugano

Ride a historic paddle steamboat along the Wilhelm Tell express route to the town of Flüelen on Lake Lucerne. Transfer to a train to Lugano through the historic beginnings of Switzerland where you see the Rütli meadow where Switzerland was founded in 1291 and ride through the 15 km Gotthard tunnel that first opened in 1882. This 13th century Gotthard pass became the shortest North-South route through Europe and still one of the reasons for Switzerland's economic success. Once in Lugano you will be delighted to enjoy this Italian speaking part of Switzerland called Ticino, representing 10% of the Swiss population. Overnight in Lugano . 

Day 3 – Bernina Route - Lugano past northern Lake Como to St Moritz

Lugano -- Bernina Express Bus and Train -- St. Moritz

Begin with a morning bus ride alongside Lake Lugano and into Italy following the northern shores of Lake Como, then through the extensive Veltlin vineyards to the Italian border town of Tirano. From here, you will board the Bernina Express train to traverse the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bernina Railway line. Experience the scenic narrow valley terrain as the train climbs from 1200 ft up and over the 7300 ft Bernina pass summit with the 12900 ft Bernina mountain range surrounding you. The beautiful alpine scenery changes with the many twists and turns of the train along its 122 km/76 mile route, through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges and viaducts.   Overnight in St. Moritz .

Day 4 – Spectacular Swiss Alps, Lakes and Panorama Views

All Day in St. Moritz to relax, discover, and enjoy

You will see numerous alpine lakes from the Muottas Muragl funicular railway to reach the 2554m/7362ft summit overlooking this scenic Engadine valley. You have several choices today to visit a variety of mountain excursions or to walk along the pathway around the glistening St. Moritz lake while taking in the beauty of nearby snowcapped Bernina Mountain peaks. You will also be amazed at the high-end and fashionable attire in the store windows and come to understand the "champagne climate" branded by St. Moritz. The hotel should provide you with an Engadine card that will provide access to all local transportation and cable cars to summit either Piz Nair, Piz Corvatsch, or Diavolezza Mountains. It is possible that you might even be able to hear the language of Romansh in this region, which is spoken by only 1% of the Switzerland population.  Overnight in St. Moritz . 

Day 5 – Glacier Express Train -- Alpine Peaks, Green Pastures, and Magnificent Scenery

St. Moritz -- Glacier Express -- Zermatt

There are surely faster ways to get from St. Moritz to Zermatt, but none more picturesque or more notable than the Glacier Express while experiencing the one-of-a-kind mountain landscape in the Swiss Alps. In addition to breathtaking scenery, you can listen to narration (in English) along the way to learn more about what you are seeing. You will be astounded with the engineering feats of this rail route as you cross 291 bridges and go through 91 tunnels while ascending and descending 500m/1660ft through the diverse and ever-changing mountain valleys. You should have the opportunity to order al a carte lunch on the train. Throughout the day there is plenty of room to get up and walk around as you enjoy the scenery travelling by. Please note that lunch is eaten at your seats and there is no separate dining car.  Overnight in Zermatt . 

Day 6 – Gornergrat Cogwheel train -- Best Views of the Matterhorn and Surrounding Highest Peaks in Europe

All day in Zermatt to discover and enjoy!

The Gornergrat cogwheel train is a major highlight as you travel to 3000m/10,000ft and enjoy the best views of the Matterhorn Mountain along with a 360-degree view of the surrounding 4000m/13,000ft highest peaks in Europe. Immerse yourself in the stunning mountain and glacier views; showcasing awesome alpine snow-covered peak scenery. If you want to extend your Matterhorn experience, you could consider some easy hiking options along signposted paths to and through tiny alpine hamlets that offer great photo taking opportunities. In the afternoon, you’ll have time to further enjoy Zermatt on a walk through the historical section of town or a visit to the local Matterhorn museum. You will be in the German speaking region of Switzerland.  Overnight in Zermatt

Day 7 – Montreux Riviera -- Vineyards, Mountain Peaks and Lake Geneva

Zermatt – Montreux -- Chillon Castle -- Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)

Today you can travel by train to the town of Montreux which has a Mediterranean flair and considered part of the Swiss Riviera. As you enter the region, you will enjoy views of the terraced vineyards of the Lavaux Vineyards which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once in Montreux, you will have plenty of time take a leisurely 45-minute walk along the lakeshore promenade on your way to the well-preserved 12th-century Chillon Castle which is located on a rock on the banks of Lake Geneva. This impressive fortress was immortalized by Lord Byron who was once a prisoner there and is the most popular castle in Switzerland. In the afternoon, you could also choose to take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Geneva which is the largest lake in Switzerland and France. Montreux is in the French region of Switzerland.  Overnight in Montreux

Day 8 – Legendary GoldenPass Rail on your way to the Jungfrau Region

You will ride the GoldenPass train as it travels past alpine valleys, rolling hills, beautiful green pastures with grazing cows, wooden chalets and picturesque villages, to bring us to Interlaken and on to Grindelwald, one of Switzerland’s oldest and most popular resorts in the UNESCO World Heritage Jungfrau region.  Overnight in Grindelwald . 

Day 9 – Jungfraujoch Cogwheel train --Highest Railway Station in Europe

The tour ends with a magnificent trip up to the Top of Europe when you ride up to the 3,400m / 11,371ft Jungfraujoch. The Jungfraujoch complex was built in 1914 and is positioned between the Mönch & Jungfrau mountains. At the top, you will be on Europe’s largest Aletsch Glacier and bask in alpine mountains, snow, and ice as far as you can see. There’s time to walk outside on the hard-packed snow glacier or go exploring in the Ice Palace filled with ice sculptures. When you are ready, you will then take a final train to Zurich for your final tour night.  Overnight at the Zurich airport hotel

Day 10 – Depart Zurich for onward travel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading out for onward destinations.

Activity Level

Alpenwild trips are designed for people who are active and filled with a spirit of adventure. We rate this trip as easy, but you should be capable of walking about one to two miles per day. You should also be able to handle your own luggage to get to the trains and to/from your hotels. On two days, you will take a mountain railway excursion to an elevation of over 10,000 feet and you should be able to handle staying at this elevation for a couple of hours.

• Walking:  in addition to walking on the flat surfaces, you also need to walk on uphills, uneven terrain, and cobblestones. You'll likely not walk this amount all at once, but you need to be able to get to/from train stations, hotels, and excursions. We can accommodate slow walkers, but you must still be able to walk the distance.
• Stairs:  at train stations when we have to change platforms; most of the station platforms only have stairs or ramps -- not elevators. Some train connections are tight and the group may need to walk quickly to catch the next train.
• Getting on and off trains:  be aware that many trains have a few steep steps to negotiate in order to get on or off. You need to be confident that you can get on and off the trains.
• Standing time:  you need to be able to stand on your feet for at least 10-15 minutes as benches at train stations are not in good supply.
• Luggage:  You need to be able to get your own bags on and off the trains and to/from each hotel.

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Self-Guided & Independent , Train & Rail Journeys Tours & Trips

1,119 self-guided & independent trips. tours from 248 tour companies. 1,199 reviews. 4.6/5 avg rating..

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Let's Go Europe

Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, Bratislava, Bruges, Budapest, Copenhagen, Croatia, Florence, Hamburg, Krakow, Lake Como, Ljubljana, London, Nice, Paris, Prague, Rome, Sorrento, Split, Venice, Vienna

• Take a walk in Trafalgar Square and admire he fountains and the famous monuments, such as the four bronze lion statues and Nelson’s Column
• Visit Eiffel Tower
• Visit places with amazing architecture and take sightseeing to a completely new level in Barcelona.
• Visit Ljubljana
• Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site

Cultural, Family Friendly, High Adventure, Nature & Wildlife, Train & Rail Journeys, Sailing, Photography

What travelers are saying

"Los funcionarios de Interraling son excelentes personas y atienden las inquietudes a tiempo y con amabilidad. Nos ayudaron a organizar nuestras vacaciones familiares en Europa, de acuerdo a nuestras solicitudes, las cuales llenaron todas nuestras expectativas. Gracias a ustedes disfrutamos al máximo este viajes. Las salidas de los trenes fueron en el horario previsto y los hoteles buenos y bien ubicados."

21 Day Grand Tour Discover Real New Zealand

Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Fiordland National Park, Pacific Ocean, Queenstown, Rotorua, Tasmania, Wellington

• All inclusive tour package prepared by New Zealand based specialists so you sit back and relax
• An exciting itinerary will be customised to suit you - let us help plan and perfect your dream vacation
• We offer self-drive trips (rental car) we arrange all your accomodations, activities, attractions (you select) we book your car (fun, freedom, independence, flexibility) you set the pace each day or, select a private driver trip (fully guided) or, escorted coach tours (daily commentary).
• Either way, you will have an awesome time on our wonderful 21 day Grand New Zealand Tour with Real New Zealand Tours.

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Small Ship Cruise, Train & Rail Journeys, Trekking & Expeditions, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness, Sailing, Golf

"Geoff helped my wife and I to put together an itinerary that customized to our particular interests and preferences. At the outset he asked us where we'd like to go and, after a small number of iterations, together we were able able to craft an itinerary that met our budget, touched on much of the places we wanted, and did not have us staying at a different resort each night. Before leaving for our trip we were given our itinerary and confirmation #'s/vouchers/contact #'s for all of our activities and hotels captured in an easy-to-use app that made it extremely easy to transition to the next point of our journey. He and his assistant were quick to respond to any questions we had along the way as well. Overall, we had a great stay and highly endorse Geoff and RealNZ for anyone planning a bespoke trip to NZ."

Generous cancellation

The Ultimate Bucket List

Berlin, Budapest, Florence, Krakow, Ljubljana, London, Nice, Paris, Prague, Rome, Split

• First stop on this Eurail package is none other than Amsterdam!
• Take a walk in the Old Town in Krakow
• Visit the poignant Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial
• Visit Hidden gem of Europe included on this package, capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana!
• Visit the magical split

Cultural, Family Friendly, Relaxing Retreats, Train & Rail Journeys, Photography

All Self-Guided & Independent , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Self-Guided & Independent

The Euro Trip

Amsterdam, Berlin, Budapest, Krakow, Ljubljana, London, Paris, Prague, Rome, Split, Zagreb

• Visiting the likes of Paris, Interlaken, Rome, Split, and Ljubljana
• Overnight ferry
• Enjoy exploring and discovering local life, without the added pressure of having to tick off those famous tourist sights.
• Visit Ljubljana, Slovenia's capital city is the hidden gem of Europe on this rail holiday, an interrail route favourite!
• UNESCO World Heritage Site

Cultural, Family Friendly, Small Ship Cruise, Train & Rail Journeys, Photography

The Golden Ticket

Amsterdam, Berlin, Budapest, Florence, Ljubljana, Nice, Paris, Prague, Rome, Venice

• Traveling Europe by Rail, 4 Weeks Exploring 10 of Europe's Most Popular Cities, Package starts and ends in London St Pancras Station, Eurostar

High Adventure, Train & Rail Journeys, Photography

Euro Getaway

Bruges, Brussels, London

• Quick stop at Bruges, the open-air museum which is a UNESCO cultural heritage
• Visit the Magdalena Church
• Visit the capital of the Hauts-de-France région in Bruges
• Take a quick stop at the Grand Place or Grote Markt in Brussels

Cultural, Family Friendly, Train & Rail Journeys, Photography

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City Slickers

Amsterdam, Berlin, Budapest, Ljubljana, Paris, Prague, Rome, Venice

• Traveling Europe by Rail, 6 Iconic Cities

High Adventure, Train & Rail Journeys

Euro Delight

Amsterdam, Berlin, London, Nice, Prague, Rome, Venice, Vienna

• First stop on your Euro Delight interrailing package will be in the capital of the Alpes-Maritimes department on the French Riviera, Nice, which sits on the picturesque, pebbly shores of Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels).
• Visit ancient town built on a lagoon, Venice!
• Last stop is Amsterdam

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Best Self-Guided & Independent Tours by Duration

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Self-guided & independent reviews & ratings.

Gordon & laurel

Thank you again for your good work making our trip so wonderful !

The roadbook notes were generally excellent! The Fort De Buoux was fascinating. Should not be missed but needs at least 1 hour for planning purposes. The recommende...

Tour:   Walk from Van Gogh's landscapes to the Luberon trip

Cheryl & Michael

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip. The hikes were fantastic, the route notes very accurate

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip. The hikes were fantastic, the route notes very accurate (we only were confused one time and missed a turn but it didn't take long to ...

Jayne & patricia

Everything was so beautiful yet varied. It’s hard to single out a highlight : so many !!

Everything was so beautiful yet varied. It’s hard to single out a highlight : so many !! We are planning to do our next walking tour in Portugal with Intura Travel, ...

Beth & Frederick

We enjoyed the scenery, all hotels except in Avignon, the food, and the people we met

We enjoyed the scenery, all hotels except in Avignon, the food, and the people we met. Yes, I would travel again with your company and would recommend to friends. Th...

We really enjoyed our trip.

We really enjoyed our trip. The hikes took up a large portion of our day and we would have liked to have more time exploring the towns and villages. Maybe a good ide...

See all Self-Guided & Independent reviews

Self-Guided & Independent Tour Selection Trips

• Research your destination thoroughly before your trip.
• Plan a rough itinerary to maximize your time.
• Pack light to ease mobility and navigation.
• Stay connected with reliable communication tools.
• Prioritize safety and security throughout your journey.
• Embrace local transportation for an authentic experience.
• Keep important documents organized and accessible.
• Learn basic phrases in the local language for convenience.
• Always carry a water bottle and stay hydrated.
• Budget wisely to avoid overspending during your trip.
• Stay open-minded and embrace unexpected adventures along the way.

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Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 1119 trips to Self-Guided & Independent and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

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Europe Trip Planner

Euroventure specialises in multi-city europe trips – specifically interrail and eurail adventures., check out our resources and tools below to help you plan your european escape.

It can be really overwhelming trying to plan your Europe trip. There are a ton of things to work out, research and eventually book. That’s why we offer as many resources and services as possible. From planning tools and rail trip advice, to fully guided tours , we can help you plan your ultimate Europe trip on your terms.

Use our interactive Europe Trip Planner tool to create your own route.

Use our Europe trip planner map  to create your own self-guided route, including any major European destinations – plus some further afield including Russia and China!

The map tool is interactive and super easy to use; you can make a plan without any obligation to book your trip with us. We’ll then send you over our best ideas for your route, plus a price including all your trains and accommodation. If you like the idea of having your multi-destination trip planned for you, you can book it within minutes! If not, no problem – you can still use the planner.

Not sure which destinations to visit? Get some inspiration with our destination guide !

Planning a trip to Europe but need some inspiration? Take a look at our self-guided itineraries.

Choose the route you like the best, and we’ll plan your Europe trip. You travel on your own, or with friends, but we’ll organise everything and send it all to you in a handy travel pack. We can also book activities, attractions and excursions for you. All you have to arrange is a flight to and from your start/finish point, plus your travel insurance (which you can sort through our partners here ) and spending money. Find out roughly how much spending money to take .

Wherever we can, we use trains to get from A to B. They’re the most sustainable, sociable and convenient way to get around – and we’ve got deals with all the main providers plus a ton of expert knowledge! Read more about  travelling Europe by train  – or check out our comparison of  different ways to travel Europe  for more inspiration. Scroll down for Europe trip itineraries from 1 – 8 weeks or longer!

If you prefer to travel with likeminded backpackers, why not join one of our small group trips across Europe:  Find out more.

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Independent Rail Tours in Scandinavia

Travel through Scandinavia by train. We offer spectacular Scandinavian rail tours, including the breathtaking fjords of Norway, impressive mountain passes and the Scandinavian capitals. All our train tours are self-guided.

Our Independent Rail Tours are a selection of eco-friendly package tours, where travel is by public transport, including train, boat and/or bus. Several tours also include overnight cruises, scenic railways and fjord cruises. When booking an independent rail tour you have the perfect opportunity to sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery without having to worry about driving directions.

Read more about our self-guided tours by train, boat and bus.

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1. find your dream tour.

Choose from our selection of tours — or discuss the options with our travel specialists.

2. Request your booking

Complete the online process — add extra nights and experiences and combine tours. 

3. Prepare for your journey

Book your flights, receive your travel documents and get ready for an experience of a lifetime.

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Train Tours in Northern Europe

Travel in comfort on Northern European train tours, reaching picturesque landscapes and vibrant cities. Enjoy a self-guided experience of Europe on these independent train trips, with all your accommodation and rail tickets included in the package price.

Scandinavian Countries

Sit back, relax and take in views of Sweden, Norway and Denmark on these multi-country train trips in Scandinavia.

Why see Scandinavia by train?

• Visit three different countries in one incredible tour
• Take advantage of reliable, fast and punctual rail journeys
• Experience a mix of cultural attractions and pretty countryside
• Combine train travel with cruise or ferry connections

Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark

Best of Scandinavia & Iceland

Train, cruise & minibus, best of scandinavia classic, train & cruise, capitals of scandinavia & norwegian fjords.

Admire iconic landscapes as you travel by train in Norway, home to what Lonely Planet called "the world's most beautiful train journey".

Why opt for train tours in Norway?

• Witness majestic fjords and mountains outside your window
• Embark on the famous Norway in a Nutshell® route from Oslo or Bergen
• Experience the steepest climb in Norway, aboard the Flåm Railway
• Enjoy a scenic train journey and fjord river cruise in the same tour

Norway in a Nutshell® - Classic

Express norway, fjord cruise & scenic train journey, best of the norwegian fjords – express, geiranger & fjord cruise.

Hop from one cool city to the next aboard modern, high-speed trains in Sweden, enjoying lush countryside views en route.

Why travel by train in Sweden?

• Easily reach your next stop with fast and comfortable trains
• Visit the cities of Stockholm, Malmö and Gothenburg
• Gaze out the window to see southern Sweden’s green landscapes
• Take an optional day trip to Copenhagen from Malmö, for a taste of Denmark

Sweden's Top Three by Train

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About Your Train Tour in Northern Europe

Travel by train in Northern Europe and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. You’ll benefit from our expert-made itineraries and experience the freedom that comes from independent train travel. When you book a Nordic Visitor tour, you can expect:

• An authentic travel experience planned by an established and trusted agency • A dedicated travel consultant to organise your tour • All relevant bookings for your chosen package • A detailed online personal itinerary and all of your train tickets • Handpicked accommodation for a relaxing stay • 24/7 emergency phone support for peace of mind

Nordic Visitor has made it easy to start planning your train tour. Simply follow these steps:

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

WHY CHOOSE NORDIC VISITOR

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our cancellation insurance free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

Trusted local travel experts

Since 2002, Nordic Visitor has been creating exceptional travel experiences in Northern Europe. Our travel experts have all explored the region extensively and will add their in-depth knowledge of destinations and train routes to your itinerary.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when Tripadvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Value for money

When you book with Nordic Visitor, you benefit from the expertise of a dedicated travel consultant who will make all the arrangements for you. Plus, we secure the best rates for high-quality rail journeys, tours and hotels from our network of trusted suppliers, saving you time and money.

Stress-free experience

Our travel consultants will take care of all the practicalities and bookings for you. You’ll receive a personalised itinerary with your train tickets, accommodation and activities all arranged on your behalf. That way you can relax and get excited for your expertly planned trip.

Flexible tour options

All our train tours in Northern Europe have been carefully designed to incorporate the best experiences. However, these itineraries are not set in stone. Our travel experts will happily tailor your package to you, so don’t hesitate to request extra nights, attractions or destinations.

You are in good hands

Unexpected weather or events? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We will rework your itinerary as well as re-book your train travel, accommodation and activities, all while keeping you safe and informed. Our emergency 24/7 helpline means we’re only a call away.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

EUROPE RAIL TOUR REVIEWS

Hear what our amazing customers had to say about their train tour experiences.

Elizabeth United States

Amazing job! I have already recommended Nordic Visitor to several friends. Everything worked perfectly, from trains... read more

Amazing job! I have already recommended Nordic Visitor to several friends. Everything worked perfectly, from trains to boats to accommodations. It was a perfect way to travel and see the country, and Bjarni was prompt and helpful throughout all communications. 

Carol United States

This was a wonderful experience and we have only only good things to say about our tour. Thank you!

Northern Europe Train Tour Highlights

Discovering Northern Europe by rail is a fast and convenient way to reach the region’s top destinations and attractions. You might want to go city-hopping, delve into the stunning countryside, or both! On your train tour of Northern Europe, you could…

• Explore the Scandinavian Triangle by visiting Stockholm , Oslo and Copenhagen
• Marvel at beautiful fjords, mountains and valleys on the Norway in a Nutshell® tour
• Discover the most sustainable city in the world, Gothenburg , and enjoy its buzzing vibe
• Prepare for jaw-dropping views and a thrilling descent aboard the Flåm Railway
• Stroll down the cobbled streets of Gamla Stan Old Town and admire the colourful architecture
• Wander through Vigeland Sculpture Park to experience art and nature in Oslo
• Visit Malmöhus Castle and soak up the medieval charm of Lilla Torg in Malmö
• Cycle around Copenhagen and visit one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, Tivoli Gardens
• Walk down the 900-year-old Bryggen wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bergen

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT NORTHERN EUROPEAN TRAIN TOURS

Want to learn more about train tour packages? Or need some tips on where to go? Then keep reading, as we’ve got the answers to the most frequently asked questions about rail journeys in Northern Europe. If you’re looking for more information on bookings, have a look at our FAQs and booking information page .

1. IS NORTHERN EUROPE SAFE?

Yes, Northern Europe is considered a safe region for visitors. In fact, the Nordic countries – Iceland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland – consistently feature in the top 10 safest places in the world . This is down to their low crime rates, good standards of healthcare, and excellent road safety.

Because Northern Europe is one of the world’s safest regions, it is ideal for solo travellers. The Nordic countries are forward-thinking when it comes to gender equality, so female visitors can enjoy hassle-free trips compared to other countries. It’s also an LGBTQ-friendly destination.

You can learn more about why Scandinavia is ideal for solo visitors on our blog.

2. WHY IS NORTHERN EUROPE POPULAR?

There are many reasons why Northern Europe is so popular. Firstly, you can’t help but fall for the breathtaking scenery, ranging from mighty mountains and glittering fjords to lush pastures and meandering rivers. There are so many ways to immerse yourself in these landscapes.

Thanks to excellent transport connections in Europe, you can visit more than one country in the same trip. The rail networks are fast, reliable and efficient, and of course treat you to scenic views between stops.

You could hop between the capitals of Norway, Sweden and Denmark by train, plane and ferry. You can also explore the Baltic cities of Helsinki and Tallinn on a cruise tour. Some like discovering the Swiss Alps aboard the Glacier Express. Or you could opt for a multi-country tour of Scotland and Ireland.

Another advantage of visiting Northern Europe is that most people speak English. In Scotland and Ireland, English is the main language. In the Nordic countries, many locals speak English fluently as a second language.

What’s more, Northern Europe is a year-round destination. Each season has its own appeal and there is no “bad time” to visit!

3. WHAT ARE THE TOP SIGHTS IN NORTHERN EUROPE?

Northern Europe is a wonderfully diverse place where you’ll find some of the most exquisite natural sights on Earth.

Marvel at glaciers, volcanoes and waterfalls in Iceland, or fjords, mountains and valleys in Norway. Venture to Lapland in the Arctic Circle to chase the northern lights and go dog sledding through the snowy scenery.

Soak up Sweden’s wooded islands and green countryside, or immerse yourself in the national parks and coastlines of Scotland and Ireland. You could ride vintage steam trains to witness the shimmering lochs (lakes) and glens (valleys) of the Scottish Highlands.

Find out the best places to visit in Northern Europe with our insider guides:

• The best places to visit in Scandinavia
• The best things to see and do in Norway
• The best places to visit in Iceland
• The best places to visit in Scotland
• The best places to visit in Ireland

4. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT NORWAY’S FJORDS?

You can visit Norway’s fjords at any time of the year, as each season has its own special appeal. Summer is the most popular time to explore the fjords because of the warm weather, long daylight hours, and opportunities for outdoor activities.

However, visit Norway in the shoulder season – spring or autumn – and you’ll find fewer visitors at the most famous fjords. Another plus is that you’ll either get to see flowers blooming (March to May) or the trees lighting up in beautiful autumnal shades (September to November).

You can also discover the Norwegian fjords in winter. This is the quietest time of year due to the cold weather and shorter days. But winter has a particular charm about it, with the chance to see the aurora borealis in Northern Norway and snow-dusted mountains towering above glassy fjords.

Find out more about the best times to visit Norway and the most beautiful Norwegian fjords on our experts’ blog.

5. WHAT ARE THE BEST TRAIN TRIPS IN NORTHERN EUROPE?

The best train trips in Northern Europe take you through jaw-dropping landscapes and vibrant cities. You could travel around one country or hop from one to the next by train and be treated to stunning views.

Norway is one of the best countries in Europe for train travel. Here are just a few of the top routes to take:

Norway in a Nutshell®

Flåm Railway to Myrdal

Dovre Railway Line Tours

Another fantastic route is the journey between Stockholm, Sweden, and Copenhagen, Denmark. Travel between these Scandinavian capitals by train to witness picturesque Swedish countryside along the way. You could then cruise to Oslo from Copenhagen by overnight ferry for the complete Scandinavian circuit!

6. WHAT IS A SELF-GUIDED TOUR?

“Self-guided” means that you travel independently without a guide or group tours. But you’re certainly not alone, as your personal Nordic Visitor travel consultant has organised all the details of your trip before you arrive. You’ll get a customised itinerary with tickets, bookings and recommendations.

You can also reach us on our 24/7 helpline during your self-guided tour. Should anything unexpected arise, we’re only a phone call away.

7. WILL MY ACCOMMODATION BE CLOSE TO THE TRAIN STATIONS?

Yes, we’ll book you into hotels that are located near the train stations. When you choose rail tours with Nordic Visitor, rest assured that your accommodation is conveniently located and comfortable.

We have quality-checked all aspects of your itinerary, including accommodation, to ensure it meets our high standards. Plus, we always secure the best rates thanks to our network of trusted suppliers.

8. CAN I CHOOSE THE ARRIVAL DATE?

Yes, you can view and choose Nordic Visitor arrival dates online. Our independent train tours are some of the most flexible itineraries we offer, giving you the freedom to pick your dates and trip duration.

9. CAN I EXTEND MY TOUR BY A DAY OR TWO?

Yes, you can add as many days as you like to your train tour package! If you’d like to spend more time in a particular destination, you can request this when booking your tour online. Your dedicated travel consultant will get in touch to confirm the extra days with you.

10. WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY FLIGHT TICKETS?

We suggest you book your flights after your Nordic Visitor tour has been confirmed. It’s a good idea to check flights for dates and prices, but only buy them once your travel consultant has secured your package.

When you receive the confirmation email from your Nordic Visitor consultant, you will have all of the details you need to buy suitable flights.

11. WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR MY TRIP?

The weather can be a little unpredictable in Northern Europe, no matter the time of year you visit. Here are some essential items that we recommend you pack for your trip:

• A warm jumper or fleece
• A waterproof jacket
• Gloves, scarves and hats
• Comfortable walking shoes or boots
• Warm socks (especially for winter travel)
• Sunscreen (for summer trips)

An umbrella may also come in handy, and you might wish to bring a good book or other entertainment for your train journeys.

For more detailed information on what to pack and how to prepare for your trip, read our travel guides for Iceland , Norway , Scotland  and Ireland .

Whether you want to start planning your Northern European train tour or need some advice on where and when to go, get in touch. Our travel team will be happy to help.

Our main phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel expert

Blog Articles

Why bergen is called the “gateway to norway’s fjords”, 7 incredible things to see and do in norway, 7 amazing scandinavia tour ideas for first-time visitors, the best and most beautiful fjords in norway.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

Travel to Europe your way

Pre arranged tours for individual travellers

Multi-Country Rail Tours

If you enjoy our   Multi-Country Rail Tour,  you will be able to take advantage of an excellent developed railway network in Europe , High-speed Rail like the “ Eurostar ” in between London, Paris, and Brussels, the “ ICE ” within Germany, the “ TGV ” within France and the “ RailJet ” within Austria. Not to mention the Speed Rail “ InterCity ” and “ EuroCity ” trains, running connecting all major cities in Europe. Trains take you under the sea (through the Channel Tunnel ) and on the  Top of Europe , the highest railway station located in the Swiss Alp Mountains . Europe offers cultural diversity: 47 countries in a comparatively small area. Each European country has a rich history and you will find a wide cultural variety, different traditions and a great variety of culinary delights.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen Main Station

By High-Speed Rail you travel from London to Paris in less than 2.5 hours, from Munich to Salzburg in less than 1.5 hours and from Venice to Rome in less than 4 hours. The European Railways network with the High-Speed trains with top speeds of up to 220 mph allow you to visit multiple countries during a Holiday in Europe without wasting much of your vacation time traveling. Please find a wide variety of our Central Europe Holiday Packages by Rail on an overview page by clicking the picture below.

Rail Jet Train ©Thomas H. Giesick

Most tours start and end right from International Airports. At Frankfurt International Airport for example, the largest airport in continental Europe, you will find two different Rail Stations: the Regional Rail Station (located below baggage claim in Terminal 1) and the Long Distance Rail Station (called “ AiRail ”) which is connected to Terminal 1. You do not need an airport transfer, your railway holiday starts right at the airport terminal: in about an hour you are in front of the Cathedral in Cologne for example, in less than two hours in Wurzburg, gateway to the Romantic Road !

Frankfurt Airport Long Distance Rail Station – AiRail ©Thomas H. Giesick

We designed attractive Europe Vacation Packages, if you are looking for a Multi Country Rail Tour  you have the choice – from the  5 Day Paris to Vienna 1st-Class Rail Tour (5R01) (covering France , Germany and Austria ) to the  23 Days Europe Rail Circle Tour (23R01)  . The Vacation Package which starts and ends at  London Heathrow Airport  covers eight European Countries and takes you to the Cities of   London , Paris , Berlin , Munich , Cologne , Vienna , Salzburg , Prague , Budapest , Bratislava , Brussels , Bruges .

Linderhof Palace Ettal © Softeis and Neuschwanstein Castle Oberammergau ©Cezary Piwowarsk

Among the most popular of our  Multi Country Rail Tour Packages are the  9 Day Germany and Austria Rail Circle Tour (9R02) which covers many Highlights of Southern Germany ( Bavaria and Heidelberg ) and Austria, the  8 Day Vienna, Prague, Berlin Rail Tour (8R01) , which takes you to the capital cities of Austria , Czech Republic and Germany , the  11 Day Frankfurt to Rome Rail Tour (11R01)  (which covers the  Romantic Road , Munich , the  Royal Castles , the  Alp Mountains , Venice and Rome ) and the  10 Day Germany & Switzerland Rail Circle Tour (10R03) (which covers the South of Germany , the Royal Castles and the Swiss Mountains ).

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Europe Self Drive Tours & Road Trips

A self-drive tour throughout Europe is the ultimate road trip. Travel off the beaten path, stop at photogenic hotspots and create a custom itinerary tailored to you. Whether you hire a car, a campervan or a motorcycle, these 162 tours are guaranteed to deliver an unforgettable experience.

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162 self drive tours in europe with 86 reviews.

The Best Of Ireland

The tour was great and our tour / bus driver is one of the best. He's extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of Ireland and went out of his way to do extra things that were not on the itinerary. We had plenty of time at all of our stops and loads of free time as well. Thanks Indus for a great time.

• In-depth Cultural

10 day Self-drive tour | Fantastic Iceland

• Local Living

Portugal Discovery, Self-drive

Good not great could have been better

8 day Self-drive tour | Fantastic Iceland

• Christmas & New Year

England Scotland Ireland – Highlights of UK

12 Days Self-drive | Everything your must see in Iceland Ring Road Tour

I was extremely happy with the responsiveness of the tour company and Lyn in particular. Essentially, the company was available to assist literally late into the eve. Provided you take the 12-day itinerary as suggestions of places to see vice a checklist to accomplish, you will not be disappointed. Several of the overnight accommodations were not up to my standards but none were bad. I would happily recommend this tour and give it my stamp of approval by saying I wish it was two days longer!4

Summer 5-Country Alpine Tour in a Porsche: Pre-set sat-nav guided

10 Days Self-drive | In-Depth Iceland Ring Road Tour

We had a super great trip through Iceland. We saw a lot, even more than the tour included. You can always get in touch with the tour operator, ask questions and rebook booked activities, for example. Everything went smoothly. As we were unable to redeem an activity due to organizational reasons, we were informed immediately and got our money back. So it was worth it.

11 Day Island Tour Santorini, Crete, Rhodes with Private Cruise to Cape Sounio

Really happy with our experience. Everything was well planned, clearly communicated and superbly executed

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Classic Scotland Self Drive

Great car with automatic. Accommodation was pretty good. Breakfasts were nourishing.

Best of Croatia 11 Days, Self-Drive

Overall good. The only issue was lack of free parking at some hotels In Zagreb had a pay a large amount to park the car at the airport, which did not need until we left Zagreb 2 nights later. While parked outside the hotel some locals deliberately scratched the hire car with a key or screw driver. It would have been much better if the hire car was delivered to hotel the morning that we departing Zagreb

Highlights of Croatia with Plitvice, Self-Drive (Multi country)

Alles perfekt organisiert. Man hat wirklich die schönsten Plätze in Kroatien ausgewählt, plus Mostar - für uns das absolute Highlight. Die Hotels waren einfach, aber ok, eben landestypische 3-Sterne; Frühstücksangebot ebenso. Und gut Mittag- und Abendessen kann man sowieso überall auf dem Balkan. Gern wieder mit Tourradar.

Portugal Meets Spain, Self-drive (Multi country)

We had a great time! The hotels picked for us were so great. The breakfast must have been awesome because when i came home weighed the same as when i left and we walked lots. The location of the hotels put us in the middle of the best areas. Very helpful with all our needs. Would book with them again.

Self-Drive Tour of The Baltic States

Munich, Austrian Alps, Dolomites in a Porsche: Pre-set sat-nav guided

With this guided tour, we felt like we were locals. We navigated through great scenic points and great restaurants. Definitely a great memory of a lifetime!

Europe Road Trip Reviews

The communication/paperwork could use a little fine tuning, but overall the value was definitely there. This tour brings you through absolutely spectacular areas of Ireland, with enough downtime to not feel too rushed. The hotels/food was nicer than we expected for the price.

The locations and hotels selected were excellent. At the last minute my husband ended up in a wheelchair for most of the trip. Once I mentioned it to the check-in staff they went above and beyond to accommodate our needs. Changing rooms so that he had a walk in shower, a room close to the elevator and assistance with luggage or whatever we needed. Thank you.

Excellent itinerary, great hotels, easy to read maps with lots of good information. Iceland is unique and beautiful, full of contrasts, wildlife and natural beauty.

Travel Styles

• Best 3 Weeks Europe Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• 10 Best Luxury River Cruises & Lines 2022
• Hiking in Europe in February
• Hiking in Europe in January
• Hiking in Europe in March
• Hiking in Europe in April
• Hiking in Europe in May
• Hiking in Europe in June
• Hiking in Europe in July
• Hiking in Europe in August
• Hiking in Europe in September
• Hiking in Europe in October
• Hiking in Europe in December

International Versions

• Deutsch: Europa Rundreise Selbstfahrer
• Français: Europe : Circuits autonome 2024/2025
• Español: Conducción autónoma Circuitos en Europa
• Nederlands: Autoreis Rondreizen in Europa

• Preplanned tours
• Daytrips out of Moscow
• Themed tours
• Customized tours
• St. Petersburg

Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro Tour is included in most guided tours’ itineraries. Opened in 1935, under Stalin’s regime, the metro was not only meant to solve transport problems, but also was hailed as “a people’s palace”. Every station you will see during your Moscow metro tour looks like a palace room. There are bright paintings, mosaics, stained glass, bronze statues… Our Moscow metro tour includes the most impressive stations best architects and designers worked at - Ploshchad Revolutsii, Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya and some others.

What is the kremlin in russia?

The guide will not only help you navigate the metro, but will also provide you with fascinating background tales for the images you see and a history of each station.

And there some stories to be told during the Moscow metro tour! The deepest station - Park Pobedy - is 84 metres under the ground with the world longest escalator of 140 meters. Parts of the so-called Metro-2, a secret strategic system of underground tunnels, was used for its construction.

During the Second World War the metro itself became a strategic asset: it was turned into the city's biggest bomb-shelter and one of the stations even became a library. 217 children were born here in 1941-1942! The metro is the most effective means of transport in the capital.

There are almost 200 stations 196 at the moment and trains run every 90 seconds! The guide of your Moscow metro tour can explain to you how to buy tickets and find your way if you plan to get around by yourself.

How to travel by bicycle in Russia: ideas and suggestions

• April 15, 2021
• Last updated: April 19, 2021
• Adventure , Destinations , Outdoor , Russia

Home » Travel Blog » How to travel by bicycle in Russia: ideas and suggestions

Day trips in Russia

Newcomers can test their “strength” on a one-day trip – the roads should not be complicated and the distances should not be too long. For first-time riders, study the route carefully, taking into account not only the length of the road, but also the conditions: there should be no long climbs and no high mountain passes. The flatter the road, the better. Do not ride close to crowded and busy large traffic lanes, even if conditions permit.  Also, make sure carry your Russian invitation letter with your visa . 

Route: Levutov – Pavlovsky town

Distance: 65 km

From Reutov (metro station “Novokosino”) outside Moscow, via Saltykovsk, Zheleznodorozhny, Fedurnovo, then turn to Biserovo, to Staraya Kupavna, then to Elektrostal via Ivashevo, and finally to Pavlovsky Posad via Subbotino, the intercity electric train This is a good route for newcomers to the town of Pavlovsky Posad (Vokhna or Pavlovsky Posad station).

This route is good for beginners: the terrain remains almost unchanged throughout the route. It’s mainly asphalt, but it’s quiet, with a rural landscape and few cars. Also, there are many intercity train stations along the way – if you get tired, you can take the train back to Moscow.

For the uninitiated, there are plenty of suitable roads around Moscow. The entire Moscow region is dotted with railway lines, so it is not necessary to make a circular route. You can take an intercity train to one station and back from another. There are many convenient route options around most Russian cities. You can make your own route, or take the advice of experienced travelers and use an already prepared route map.

Two-day trips in Russia

If you can travel 60-70 km per day, it’s no problem and you’ll be able to ride for two days. First of all, you need to solve your overnight problem: will you stay in a hotel, borrow a private house or pitch your own tent? Be sure to take the weather into account and take extra things that will keep you warm or heated.

When choosing your route, add some “hills” on the way, but not too steep.

Keep an eye on your bike. Ideally, it should be carefully checked and tested two days before departure; if you don’t know much about bike parts, you should have a full “car check” at a good mechanic’s shop to remove all faults in time.

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Route: ride along Nizhny Novgorod and rest on the Volga

Distance: 140 km

This is a self-guided route with picturesque Volga forests, where you will have to pitch a tent on the road overnight. You don’t have to think about the schedule of electric trains or buses, even if you are delayed on the way, don’t worry.

From Nizhny Novgorod, you will pass through the town of Bor (you can cross the Volga by cable car). Next, head to Ivanovskoye. On the way, note the unique, interlocking bi-level railroad: it is no longer in use, but the original structure is still there. Then go in the direction of Yurasovo, where you will turn to Maloye Utkino, then to Beryozovka, to Vypolzovo, then to the Volga River, to Apraksino, passing through the hill fortress with its ancient earthen embankment. Hillfort, which retains its ancient earthen berm.

After that, follow Orlovo, Belkino, Yamnovo, Zavrazhnoye, Selishi. After passing through Zhukovka, you can go straight through the forest to the bank of the Volga River and find a place to pitch your tent.

The next day, go in the direction of Pumra, then through Vagankovo, Orekhovo, Markovo, turn left at Matveyevka, go to Vatoma, then through Put’kovo and back to the banks of the Volga, then to the town of Pol, and then to Nizhny Novgorod.

There are many suitable two-day rides in the Volga Valley, around the Voronezh region, around the cities along the Golden Ring and in the Crimean steppe.

Multi-day rides in Russia

Riding for several days in a row is a very serious matter and you need to be physically prepared. For the first time, choose a route that is not too difficult and not extreme, because riding a few days in a row is not at all the same as riding 100 km in a week. Please estimate that it is more comfortable to travel 70-80 km per day on the plains and with much less hills.

Check to see if there are any settlements along the way – it depends on whether you’ll be carrying a lot of food, or if you can buy all your food along the way. But whenever and wherever you go, make sure you have drinking water on you. Please do not forget to constantly replenish your supplies and have an emergency reserve – about 1.5 liters of water per person. 

Route: “Crimean coast: from Kerch to Alushta”

Distance: 270 km , 5-7 days

We have intentionally divided the trip on this route into several days, as it depends a lot on your fitness and desire to visit the sights – which will be seen on the way, and quite a lot of them. There will be some mountain passes – if you feel tired as you pass them, it is always possible to set up camp early and prepare for an overnight stay. Almost the entire road runs along the coastline. If you don’t want to pitch a tent, you can easily find a place to spend the night in the resort.

Get off the ferry to Kerch and head directly to the Feodossia steppe. Pass through the town of Ordzhonikidze and head to Koktebel. Be prepared for a long and tiring uphill climb. If you don’t want to tire yourself out that much, then sacrifice some of the scenic views and take a different route – along the Simferopol highway.

From Koktebeli there is a difficult mountain road leading to Sudak. The strongest will can cycle to the town of “Novyi Svit” in one day, while the rest of the people should go to the village of Morske and then to Alushta via Rybache and Malorichens’ke. From Alushta, you can take a bicycle and a trolleybus to Simferopol, from where you can return by plane or return to Kerch by bus or taxi.

Pack & travel:

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Guest Contributor

• Published: April 15, 2021

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