From the rice terraces of Vietnam to the iconic views of Japan, we handpick the best rail journeys that will keep your budget on track
Here at Atlas & Boots, we’ve long had differing opinions on the virtues of train travel. Peter believes it’s the best way to see a country: slow, sustainable, ground level. In contrast, I generally find it cramped and stressful.
I like the romance of rail travel and would certainly like to do more of it, but in reality hauling a suitcase down a narrow corridor into a compartment full of strangers is not my idea of fun, nor is shared commode. The Orient Express and its ilk are a different matter of course, but they’re not exactly suited to a modest budget.
This is why my interest was piqued by the new Rail Collection from G Adventures, the small-group travel specialist.
We are big fans of G Adventures and have travelled with them to Vietnam and Cambodia, Costa Rica, Myanmar, New Zealand, Nepal, India and, most recently, my solo trip to China.
Their new rail collection focuses on iconic routes and jaw-dropping views with at least 50% of the itinerary by train. While the majority of the collection is currently aimed at ‘18 to thirtysomethings’, there are several with broader appeal. Here, we handpick the seven best rail journeys that will keep your budget on track.
Best rail journeys
Our best rail journeys are ordered from shortest to longest. Prices will vary as some are on sale at the time of writing.
1. Sapa Adventure in Vietnam
Length: 5 days
Price: From £383
More info: Sapa Adventure
Sapa is a mountain town set on a misty peak six hours north of Hanoi in Vietnam. The town itself is admittedly touristy, but venture outside the bustling centre and you will find velvety green rice terraces, sweeping valley views and picturesque waterfalls.
This 5-day adventure is packed with village-to-village treks, foodie experiences, and hands-on activities led by local hosts. With most meals, plenty of immersive activities, and the guidance of an expert Chief Experience Officer (CEO) included, the hard work is done before you set foot in town.
2. Christmas in Eastern Europe: Zagreb to Budapest
Length: 7 days
Price: From £1,379
More info: Christmas in Eastern Europe
Europe at Christmas is the very definition of cosy. Picture stunning cathedrals and charming cobblestone streets set to twinkling lights, festive market stalls and the scent of mulled wine.
This is what’s on offer on this 7-day rail journey through Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia and Austria. Visit Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets, take your fill of warm spiced cider and sample the local cuisine.
3. China Express
Length: 8 days
Price: From £1,055
More info: China Express
If China is on your bucket list, you’ll hardly find a better trip at a better price. This stunning rail journey begins in Beijing where you will visit the Great Wall of China – one of the New Seven Wonders of the World – as well as the historic Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
You will then board a fast train to Xi’An, home of the legendary Terracotta Warriors. The Master of the Nets Garden in Suzhou and the dizzying heights of Shanghai are also on the list, offering a whistle-stop but immersive view of this multifaceted country.
4. Best of South Korea
Length: 8 days
Price: From £1,349
More info: Best of South Korea
Korean culture has taken over the world, be it music, cuisine or skincare routine. This 8-day trip offers a rich slice of the country, from the skyscrapers of Seoul to unique temples, folk villages and the bustling markets of Busan.
Learn about the sombre history of North and South Korea and take an excursion to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating the two. The trip starts and ends in Seoul and offers an illuminating snapshot of a country coming into its own.
5. Japan Express – Osaka to Tokyo
Length: 9 days
Price: From £2,001
More info: Japan Express – Osaka to Tokyo
Japan is on many a bucket list, but its sky-high price tag is understandably daunting. This rail journey may finally be your call to go. Starting in Osaka, you will travel to the centre of Buddhism in Japan: Mount Koya where you will enjoy a traditional dinner of shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) and sleep in a temple at 800m.
Next is a visit to the Peace Park and Memorial Museum of Hiroshima before the temples and torii of Kyoto, the iconic Mount Fuji and, of course, the neon lights of Tokyo. All in all, this rail journey is a tantalising taste of a country that so effortlessly combines the traditional and the contemporary.
6. Ultimate Italy
Length: 14 days
Price: From £2,439
More info: Ultimate Italy
There are few countries in the world with as many iconic cities as Italy: Rome, Florence, Pisa, Venice. Throw in Cinque Terre and Lake Como and you have an almost perfect itinerary. We’d add Milan, but there’s more than enough to keep you occupied on this two-week trip.
From the ancient grandeur of Rome to the iconic canals of Venice, by way of grand piazzas, winding lanes and the Renaissance masterpieces of Florence, this epic rail journey assures a quintessential experience in Europe’s most romantic destination.
7. Korea & Japan Encompassed
Length: 16 days
Price: From £4,575
More info: Korea & Japan Encompassed
This 16-day rail journey though Korea and Japan may stretch one’s modest budget, but considering that it covers nine destinations across two expensive countries, all travel and accommodation, a multitude of activities, several meals and a CEO throughout, it’s incredible value for money.
Sights include a visit to the DMZ, the Hiroshima Peace Park and Mount Fuji as well as stops in Seoul, Busan, Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo. Of all the stunning rail journeys on offer, this one is our favourite.
View G Adventures’ complete Rail Collection.
Enjoyed this post? pin it for later…
