Peter Harrison

The French Riviera and More by Rail

Stunning Scenic Journeys

Tour Overview

Take a scenic rail journey through the stunning landscapes of southern France, exploring historic cities, picturesque coastal routes, and legendary train journeys.

Let us carefully craft a rail holiday that takes you from London to Lyon, before journeying along the breathtaking French Riviera to Nice, where the Mediterranean charm, rich history, and vibrant culture await. Experience the legendary Train des Pignes, a steam-hauled journey through the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, before enjoying a free day to explore Nice at your own pace—perhaps venturing to Monaco or the medieval hilltop village of Èze.
From the glamorous Riviera, your journey continues west to Perpignan, a Catalan-influenced city full of history and charm. Enjoy an excursion to Carcassonne, where the UNESCO-listed medieval fortress transports you back in time, with its towering ramparts and fairy-tale turrets. A boat cruise on the historic Canal du Midi completes this day of cultural immersion.
Next, experience one of France’s most breathtaking train journeys—the Petit Train Jaune, or Little Yellow Train, as it winds through the Pyrenees, offering spectacular mountain scenery and a true taste of the region’s natural beauty.
For those who love scenic rail travel, this holiday is filled with remarkable train journeys. Travel along the Ligne des Causses, one of France’s most picturesque railway lines, passing through deep gorges, vineyards, and mountainous terrain, crossing the famous Viaduc de Garabit, a masterpiece designed by Gustave Eiffel. Stay in Clermont-Ferrand, before making your way to Lyon, a city of gastronomic delights and rich history. Take time to explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, admire Fourvière Hill’s panoramic views, and indulge in authentic French cuisine on your final evening.
This tailor-made rail holiday is perfect for those seeking a seamless, no-fly journey through France’s most stunning landscapes and historic cities. Whether you want to adjust the itinerary, add extra nights, or travel at your own pace, we can personalise your experience.

Travel Tips

Whilst it is possible to travel from London to Nice in a day by rail from London, we advise a stopover en route to keep your journey as leisurable as possible. This also enables you to visit and experience more of France.
The best time to visit is June and September as it is usually warm and less crowded than July and August, although it can be visited year-round.
There are several scenic rail journeys to take near Nice. A ‘must do’ is the Train des Pignes (Pine Cone Train) which makes for a lovely day out. Travel from Nice to Puget Thieners and connect with the steam train service to Annot. The steam train has limited departures so do time your visit accordingly if this is on your ‘to do list’.
The mainline train operates daily services to Monaco and Cannes, both of which are around half an hour in each direction and come highly recommended as daytrips from Nice.
Nice is easy to explore on foot or you may wish to use its modern, extensive tram system. Do include the Promenade des Anglais, Old Town (Vieux Nice), and art museums like the Matisse Museum and Marc Chagall National Museum.
The rail journey to Perpignan runs along the scenic coastline and a great base to explore on your Riviera tour. It is a compact city and best explored on foot and include a day trip to nearby Carcassonne (UNESCO World Heritage Site) by train to view the historic Ramparts and Castle and cross the 14th Century Pont Vieux.
Travel the spectacular line from Perpignan to Clermont Ferrand. The journey passes through the Massif Central, gorges, valleys, vineyards and the famous ‘Viaduc de Garabit’ built by Gustave Eiffel and now a national monument. There is only one direct train a day on this line that winds its way north at a leisurely pace.
Include a stopover in Lyon, famous for its cuisine and gastronomy.
If you plan to visit museums, we will arrange passes that offer discounts and avoids queues.
Provençal Cuisine is influenced by Mediterranean flavours. Try local specialties such as socca (chickpea pancake), salade niçoise, bouillabaisse (fish stew), and pissaladière (onion tart).