Explore Worldwide, the B-Corp certified small-group adventure operator, has teamed up with International Rail Australia to simplify rail travel connections for Australian travellers embarking on European tours. The move supports the company’s growing commitment to low-emission, overland travel options.
This new partnership enables travel agents to seamlessly include rail journeys when booking Explore Worldwide tours, offering clients a more sustainable way to travel. With access to thousands of routes across Europe, it opens the door for customers to skip short-haul flights and embrace the scenic journey by train instead.
“We know how much our customers love travelling by train – not just as a way to lower their carbon footprint, but as an opportunity to slow down and take in the scenery,” said Ben Ittensohn, Regional Director AUNZ at Explore Worldwide.
Rail-linked tours offer eco-friendly flexibility
A key selling point for agents is the ability to link multiple Explore tours via rail. Travellers can, for example, journey from the Amalfi Coast Walking tour to the Hiking the Dolomites experience entirely by train – a compelling choice for eco-conscious clients.
This partnership builds on Explore Worldwide’s broader rail initiatives, which include a growing portfolio of train-based itineraries throughout Europe and Asia. The company is also integrating sustainable travel practices internally, rewarding employees who choose trains for their holidays with extra leave.
“Our policies encourage behavioural shifts, and now we’re inviting our customers to make similar choices when they travel,” Ittensohn added.
Featured rail journeys from Explore Worldwide
Explore’s rail-friendly trips are gaining traction, with the Balkans Rail Adventure tour seeing a 67 per cent increase in bookings year-on-year. More than 36 itineraries are now accessible by train, including:
- Balkans Rail Adventure – 15 nights from $6,110: Explore Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia and North Macedonia.
- Highlights of Albania – 10 nights from $2,620: Discover historic towns, Ottoman villages and the Adriatic coast.
- Trekking in Spain – 7 nights from $1,990: Walk the rugged Picos de Europa and experience rural northern Spain.
- Amalfi Coast Walking – 7 nights from $2,820: Hike through picturesque villages from Ravello to Capri, ending each day with authentic local food.
