From Imperial Cities to the Dalmatian Coast
Travel by rail from London through the heart of Europe, where imperial cities, Alpine scenery and Adriatic sunshine combine in one seamless journey.
Heading south via Cologne and Munich, you’ll discover Salzburg’s baroque charm and mountain backdrop, including a Sound of Music experience and fascinating salt mines. In Vienna, explore magnificent Schönbrunn Palace and enjoy an elegant dinner and concert steeped in Habsburg grandeur.
Continue to Slovenia’s picturesque capital, Ljubljana, before uncovering Zagreb’s Austro-Hungarian heritage on a guided walking tour. Your adventure ends on Croatia’s dazzling Dalmatian coast in Split, where Roman history and sparkling sea views provide the perfect finale.
From: UK Airport
Overview
Travel by rail from London to Croatia’s Adriatic coast on a remarkable journey through the heart of Europe. Blending iconic cities, Alpine landscapes and coastal sunshine, this multi-country adventure showcases the very best of Germany, Austria, Slovenia and Croatia, all connected by comfortable high-speed and scenic rail services.
Begin in Cologne before heading south to Munich and Salzburg, where mountain scenery and musical heritage set the tone. Continue to imperial Vienna for a visit to magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, complete with dinner and a classical concert experience. Cross into Slovenia to explore charming Ljubljana, then discover Zagreb’s elegant Austro-Hungarian character on a guided walking tour.
Your journey concludes in Split, where Roman history meets the sparkling Adriatic. With seamless rail travel throughout and a flight home from Croatia, this is a grand European journey combining culture, scenery and relaxation in perfect balance.
Trip Highlights
- Explore magnificent Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna
- Discover Salzburg’s film locations on a Sound of Music experience
- Uncover Zagreb’s Austro-Hungarian heritage on a private guided walking tour
- Explore Split and its surroundings with a 48-hour hop-on hop-off pass
What's Included
Accommodation
- Overnight hotel accommodation in Cologne & Munich with breakfast included
- 2-nights hotel accommodation in Salzburg, Ljubljana & Zagreb with breakfast included
- 3-nights hotel accommodation in Vienna and Split with breakfast included
Transport
- Rail travel from London and return flights to UK from Split
Excursions
- Original Sound of Music and Salt Mines Day Trip
- Schönbrunn Palace Tour, Dinner & Concert
- Hop-on, Hop-off bus tour in Split
- Private walking tour in Zagreb
Day’s Itinerary
Get PricesCologne
Travel by rail from London to Cologne via Brussels, arriving in Germany’s vibrant Rhine city. Enjoy time to explore the old town or admire the iconic Cologne Cathedral before your overnight stay. (Overnight in Cologne).
Munich
Today, travel south by high-speed rail from Cologne to Munich, watching the landscapes shift from the Rhine region to the heart of Bavaria. Sit back and relax aboard Germany’s flagship InterCity Express service as you glide through rolling countryside, passing vineyards, rivers and traditional towns along the way. Arriving in Munich, Bavaria’s elegant capital, you’ll have time to settle into your hotel and begin exploring. Perhaps stroll through Marienplatz to see the famous Glockenspiel, admire the twin towers of the Frauenkirche, or enjoy dinner in one of the city’s historic beer halls. (Overnight in Munich).
Salzburg
This morning, continue your journey by rail from Munich to Salzburg, crossing from Germany into Austria against a backdrop of ever-rising Alpine scenery. As the train rolls through the Bavarian countryside, traditional farmhouses, church spires and distant mountain peaks come into view, building anticipation for your arrival. You’ll soon reach Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace and one of Europe’s most enchanting small cities. Framed by mountains and divided by the Salzach River, its baroque Old Town is a delight to explore. Spend the afternoon wandering cobbled lanes, visiting Mirabell Gardens, or simply soaking up the atmosphere in one of the city’s inviting cafés. (Overnight in Salzburg)
Salzburg
This morning, continue east by rail from Salzburg to Vienna, enjoying a comfortable journey through Austria’s ever-changing landscapes. As the train sweeps past mountain backdrops, rolling hills and picturesque villages, you’ll experience a final taste of Alpine scenery before the countryside opens into the Danube region. (Overnight in Salzburg)
Vienna
This morning, continue east by rail from Salzburg to Vienna, enjoying a comfortable journey through Austria’s ever-changing landscapes. As the train sweeps past mountain backdrops, rolling hills and picturesque villages, you’ll experience a final taste of Alpine scenery before the countryside opens into the Danube region. Arriving in Vienna, Austria’s elegant imperial capital, you’ll immediately sense the grandeur of this historic city. Wide boulevards, ornate palaces and classical music heritage define its character. After checking into your hotel, perhaps take an evening stroll along the Ringstrasse, visit a traditional coffee house, or simply soak up the refined atmosphere that makes Vienna so captivating. (Overnight in Vienna).
Vienna
Today, experience the grandeur of Vienna with a visit to the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, followed by a VIP classical concert. Enjoy priority access to the concert hall and bar, a refreshing welcome drink, front-row seating, free coat check, and an exclusive VIP program booklet. Toast the evening with a glass of sparkling wine as the music begins, soaking up the elegance and history of Vienna in style. (Overnight in Vienna).
Vienna
Today enjoy a full day at leisure in Vienna to explore the city at your own pace. Stroll through the historic streets, visit world-class museums, relax in elegant cafés, or take in the beauty of the Ringstrasse and its grand architecture. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in art, history, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere, today is yours to enjoy. (Overnight in Vienna).
Ljubljana
Today you leave Austria behind and travel south by rail to Slovenia’s charming capital, Ljubljana. Sit back and enjoy a scenic cross-border journey as the train winds through rolling countryside, forested hills and Alpine landscapes before descending towards Slovenia. Arriving in Ljubljana, you’ll discover one of Europe’s most delightful and compact capitals. With its pedestrian-friendly Old Town, elegant bridges and leafy riverside cafés, the city has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. After checking into your hotel, perhaps take a stroll along the Ljubljanica River, cross the iconic Triple Bridge, or admire views from Ljubljana Castle perched above the city. (Overnight in Ljubljana).
Ljubljana
Today you'll enjoy Ljubljana at your own pace. Slovenia’s capital is perfect for relaxed exploration. Wander through the cobbled Old Town, browse local boutiques and markets, or linger at a riverside café as boats glide along the Ljubljanica River. You may wish to take the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views across the city and surrounding mountains, or venture slightly further afield to discover the natural beauty of Lake Bled or the remarkable Postojna Caves on an optional excursion. (Overnight in Ljubljana).
Zagreb
This morning, continue your journey by rail from Ljubljana to Zagreb, crossing into Croatia as landscapes of rolling countryside and forested hills unfold outside your window. The short yet scenic journey offers a relaxed transition between two charming capitals. Arriving in Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant cultural heart, you’ll discover a city shaped by Austro-Hungarian elegance and lively café culture. After checking into your hotel, explore the cobbled streets of the Upper Town, visit St. Mark’s Church with its colourful tiled roof, or stroll through Ban Jelačić Square to soak up the atmosphere. (Overnight in Zagreb).
Zagreb
Today, enjoy a private guided walking tour of Zagreb, uncovering the rich history and character of Croatia’s capital. With your expert guide, explore the atmospheric Upper Town (Gornji Grad), where cobbled streets lead to landmarks such as St. Mark’s Church, the Lotrščak Tower and the historic Stone Gate. Descend into the Lower Town to admire elegant Austro-Hungarian architecture, leafy squares and grand boulevards that reflect the city’s imperial past. Along the way, gain insight into Zagreb’s culture, traditions and modern identity, with recommendations for local cafés and hidden gems to explore later at leisure. The remainder of the day is free to relax or continue discovering the city at your own pace. (Overnight in Zagreb)
Split
Today’s journey is one of the most scenic as you travel by rail from Zagreb to Split, heading south through Croatia’s dramatic inland landscapes. Sit back and watch as rolling hills give way to rugged mountains, deep valleys and remote villages, offering an authentic glimpse of the country beyond the cities. As the train descends towards the Dalmatian coast, the scenery shifts once more, with sparkling Adriatic views signalling your arrival in Split. This historic coastal city blends Roman heritage with a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. After checking into your hotel, take an evening stroll along the palm-lined Riva promenade or wander through the atmospheric lanes of Diocletian’s Palace, where ancient stone walls frame lively cafés and restaurants. (Overnight in Split).
Split
Today you have the freedom to discover Split and its surroundings with your 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus pass. Explore at your own pace, stepping on and off as you wish to visit key sights, scenic viewpoints and nearby attractions along the Dalmatian coast. You may choose to spend time wandering through the remarkable Diocletian’s Palace — a UNESCO-listed Roman complex at the heart of the city — before heading up Marjan Hill for panoramic sea views. Alternatively, relax along the waterfront Riva promenade or explore nearby beaches and charming coastal neighbourhoods. (Overnight in Split).
Split
Enjoy a further day in Split with the flexibility of your hop-on hop-off pass, allowing you to continue exploring the city and its beautiful coastal surroundings at your own pace. Perhaps revisit the atmospheric lanes of Diocletian’s Palace to uncover hidden courtyards and boutique shops, relax on one of Split’s nearby beaches, or take in sweeping Adriatic views from Marjan Hill. You may also choose to venture beyond the city to discover charming coastal villages or historic sites along the Dalmatian Riviera. With its blend of Roman heritage, lively café culture and sparkling sea views, Split provides a fitting and relaxed finale to your rail journey across Europe. (Overnight in Split).
Return home
After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer from your hotel to Split Airport for your return flight to the UK.
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Testimonials & Reviews
Got questions about your rail holiday?
What makes Marvellous Escapes’ rail holidays different?
All our trips are 100% tailor-made. We design your journey around your interests, pace, budget, and preferred travel style.
Can you customise my itinerary?
Absolutely. Nothing is off the shelf. Whether you want a scenic rail journey through the Alps, a cultural city break, or a multi-country adventure, we design your itinerary from scratch.
What happens if my train is delayed or cancelled?
If your train is delayed or cancelled, don’t worry, we’re here to help. You’ll have access to our 24-hour on-trip support, and our team will assist with rebooking your journey, adjusting connections, or arranging alternatives where needed. We’ll make sure you can continue your trip with as little disruption as possible.
Do I need to print my train tickets?
We’ll send you a full printed ticket pack 2–3 weeks before departure, which includes all your train tickets, itinerary and travel documents. You’ll also receive a digital copy of your tickets, so you can choose whichever format you prefer when travelling.
What financial protection do you provide?
We protect every booking with our ATOL licence, the UK Package Travel Regulations, and a secure trust account (Protected Trust Services), ensuring your money and your holiday are safe.
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