Travel between imperial capitals and iconic cities aboard classic sleeper trains on this unforgettable European rail journey.
Experience Vienna, Budapest and Venice on an unforgettable rail journey featuring two iconic sleeper trains. Discover grand palaces, classical music, a Danube dinner cruise and the Venetian Lagoon on this exceptional European escape.
From: London St Pancras
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable rail adventure through the heart of Europe, combining elegant imperial capitals, iconic sleeper trains and world-famous cultural experiences. Beginning with rail travel from London to Brussels, you’ll enjoy time to explore the Belgian capital before boarding the ÖBB NightJet sleeper train for your overnight journey to Vienna.
Spend several days discovering Austria’s magnificent capital, where grand architecture, imperial history and musical heritage await. Included experiences feature a visit to Schönbrunn Palace, followed by dinner and a classical concert in one of Europe’s most elegant settings.
Continue by rail to Budapest, one of the continent’s most captivating cities. Here you’ll experience a traditional dinner cruise and folk show on the Danube, alongside time to explore the city’s impressive architecture, thermal baths and vibrant atmosphere. Your journey then continues aboard the ÖBB NightJet sleeper train to Venice.
Arriving by private water taxi, you’ll be immersed in the magic of Venice from the moment you arrive. Explore the city’s hidden streets and famous canals, enjoy a traditional gondola ride and discover the colourful islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello on an included lagoon excursion.
Your holiday concludes with scenic rail travel through northern Italy and Switzerland before returning to London via Paris. Combining sleeper train travel, imperial cities, cultural treasures and unforgettable experiences, this journey showcases some of Europe’s most iconic destinations in a truly memorable way.
Trip Highlights
- Travel aboard two iconic European sleeper trains, including the ÖBB NightJet from Brussels to Vienna and the NightJet service from to Venice
- Discover three of Europe's most captivating cities with extended stays in Vienna, Budapest and Venice, allowing plenty of time to explore at a relaxed pace
- Enjoy memorable included experiences including Schönbrunn Palace, a classical concert and dinner in Vienna, plus a traditional Danube dinner cruise and folk show in Budapest
- Experience the magic of Venice with a private water taxi arrival, guided walking tour, gondola ride and a full-day excursion to the colourful islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello



What's Included
Accommodation
- Overnight hotel accommodation in Brussels & Zurich with breakfast included
- 3-nights hotel accommodation in Vienna & Venice with breakfast included
- 2-nights hotel accommodation in Budapest with breakfast included
- 2-nights sleeper train accommodation
Transport
- Roundtrip Rail from London
Excursions
- Hop-on, hop-off bus tour in Vienna
- Schönbrunn Palace Tour, Dinner & Concert
- Budapest dinner cruise & folk show
- The Pearls Of The Venice Lagoon: Murano, Burano & Torcello
Day’s Itinerary
Get PricesBrussels
Begin your journey with a rail transfer from London to Brussels. Sit back and relax as you travel comfortably by train, arriving in the heart of the Belgian capital. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You may wish to explore the historic centre or enjoy the city’s renowned cuisine. (Overnight in Brussels).

Overnight Journey to Vienna
Today is at leisure to explore Brussels at your own pace. Discover the Grand Place, visit local museums or enjoy the city’s famous cafés and chocolate shops. In the evening, board the ÖBB NightJet sleeper train for your overnight journey to Vienna. Settle into your cabin and enjoy this unique rail experience. (Overnight on board).

Vienna
Arrive in Vienna and transfer to your hotel. Begin exploring the Austrian capital with your 48-hour hop-on hop-off sightseeing pass. Discover the city’s grand architecture, historic landmarks and elegant boulevards at your own pace. (Overnight in Vienna).

Vienna
Today, visit the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, once the summer residence of the Habsburg dynasty. Explore its opulent interiors and beautifully landscaped gardens. In the evening, enjoy a memorable cultural experience with dinner followed by a classical concert featuring the music of Mozart and Strauss. (Overnight in Vienna).

Vienna
Today is free for you to further explore the elegant city of Vienna at your own pace. Rich in imperial history, grand architecture and world-famous culture, Austria's capital offers endless opportunities for discovery. Perhaps visit the magnificent Hofburg Palace, admire the treasures of the Kunsthistorisches Museum or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city's beautiful parks and historic streets. Vienna is also renowned for its traditional coffee houses, providing the perfect place to relax and soak up the city's timeless atmosphere. Whether you choose to explore its cultural attractions, browse its boutiques or simply enjoy the Viennese way of life, this additional day allows you to experience the city at a relaxed pace. (Overnight in Vienna).

Budapest
Today, travel by rail from Vienna to Budapest, enjoying a comfortable journey through Central Europe. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. You may wish to take an evening stroll along the Danube or explore the city’s vibrant atmosphere. (Overnight in Budapest).

Budapest
Today is yours to explore Budapest at leisure before an unforgettable evening on the River Danube. Admire the city's magnificent architecture, stroll through the historic streets of Buda and Pest, or perhaps visit one of Budapest's famous thermal baths. This evening, enjoy an included dinner cruise along the Danube, offering spectacular views of the city's illuminated landmarks. As you sail past iconic sights including the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge, you'll enjoy a delicious meal accompanied by a traditional Hungarian folk show. This memorable experience provides the perfect introduction to Hungary's rich culture, history and hospitality. (Overnight in Budapest).

Overnight Journey to Venice
Enjoy a free day to explore Budapest at your own pace. Later, take the short rail journey back to Vienna to connect with the ÖBB Nightjet sleeper service to Venice. (Overnight on board)

Venice
Arrive into Venice this morning after your overnight sleeper train journey from Budapest. Upon arrival at Venice Santa Lucia station, enjoy a private water taxi transfer to your hotel, offering a truly memorable introduction to one of the world's most unique and romantic cities. As you glide along the canals, admire Venice's elegant palaces, historic buildings and picturesque waterways before arriving at your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to begin exploring at your own pace. Perhaps wander through the city's charming maze of streets and bridges, discover hidden squares away from the crowds or relax with a coffee overlooking one of Venice's beautiful canals. (Overnight in Venice).

Venice
Today, enjoy an included guided walking tour through the heart of Venice, uncovering the fascinating history, culture and hidden corners of this remarkable city. Stroll through narrow alleyways, picturesque squares and historic districts as your guide brings the story of Venice to life. Your experience also includes a traditional gondola ride, offering a unique perspective of the city as you glide along Venice's famous canals. Admire elegant palaces, charming bridges and peaceful waterways while experiencing one of the city's most iconic traditions. The remainder of the day is free for further exploration at your leisure. Perhaps visit St Mark's Square, browse the boutique shops or simply soak up the atmosphere of this enchanting city. (Overnight in Venice).

Venice
Today, enjoy an included excursion to three of the most fascinating islands in the Venetian Lagoon. Travel by boat across the lagoon to discover Murano, Burano and Torcello, each offering its own unique character and traditions. Begin with a visit to Murano, renowned worldwide for its centuries-old glassmaking heritage. Continue to the colourful island of Burano, famous for its brightly painted houses, charming canals and traditional lace-making craftsmanship. Finally, visit the peaceful island of Torcello, one of the earliest settlements in the lagoon and home to important historic landmarks. Throughout the day, enjoy beautiful views across the Venetian Lagoon while experiencing a different side of Venice away from the city's bustling streets. Return to Venice later in the day and enjoy the evening at leisure. (Overnight in Venice).

Zurich
After breakfast, bid farewell to Venice and begin your scenic rail journey towards Switzerland. Travel through northern Italy to Milan before continuing north through spectacular Alpine landscapes en route to Zurich. As the journey unfolds, enjoy ever-changing scenery, from picturesque Italian towns and lakes to dramatic mountain vistas and rolling Swiss countryside. Sit back and relax as you experience another of Europe's great rail journeys. Upon arrival in Zurich, the remainder of the day is free for you to explore Switzerland's largest city. Perhaps take a stroll through the charming Old Town, relax by the shores of Lake Zurich or enjoy a final evening soaking up the atmosphere of this elegant destination. (Overnight in Zurich).

Return home
Today, begin your journey home as you travel by rail from Zurich to Paris, enjoying your final opportunity to relax and admire the passing scenery. On arrival in the French capital, connect with the Eurostar service for the onward journey to London. As you travel home, reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the past two weeks, from the grandeur of Vienna and the beauty of Budapest to the romance of Venice and the unique experience of travelling across Europe by sleeper train.

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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.

















