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Geneva.info » Activities » Tours » Mini Train Tours

Geneva Mini Train Tours

Several companies operate mini train tours in Geneva.

Swiss tours transport

operates mini trains going through the Old Town, around right (west) bank of Geneva Lake, through international district and via parks and residences.

Prices of Mini Train Tours in 2015:

Free with Geneva Pass. Geneva Old Town Tour - CHF 10.90 adults, CHF 6.90 children. Geneve Parks & Residence Tours* - CHF 8.90 adults, CHF 5.90 children. Geneva International Tours** - CHF 25 adults, CHF 13 children. All 3 tours combined: CHF 32 adults, CHF 16 children.

*Parks and Residence Tours run daily from 1st March till 31th September. **Geneva International Tours run daily from 1st April till 31th October and on the weekends in the March and from 1st November till 24th December.

Tel.: +41 22 781 04 04 Web: www.trains-tours.ch

Departure points and times from stop Quai du Mont-Blanc:

* July and August

Little Solar Powered Electric Train

30-35 minutes journey around left (east) bank of Geneva Lake - this electric mini train, started in 1995, is running from English Garden to Baby Plage and back. Audio comentary is available in English, French, Italian, Spanish.

Price: Adults CHF 8, Children CHF 5, Free with Geneva Pass.

Tel: +41 22 735 43 00 Web: www.petit-train-geneve.ch/en

You can buy tickets at any ticket poin and at the starting point, which is either Quai du Mont-Blanc ( map ) or Place du Rhône ( map ).

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Trains & Trolleys Tours in Geneva

Swisstours Transport SA 36 Boulevard Saint Georges 1205 Genève Phone  +41 (0)22 781 04 04 sttt.ch

Discover Geneva and her main attractions with 3 sightseeing tours: «Parks and Residences Tour», «International Tour» and «Old Town Tour».

The «Parks and Residences» mini-train will take you on a dream journey along the right bank of Lake Geneva to discover beautiful parks and gardens. The Trolley «International Tour» will make you understand the international dimension of Geneva by leading you to the meeting of the buildings of the UN and the International Organizations which work for the good of humanity and peace in the world. The Tramway «Old Town of Geneva» invites you back to the past.Through its narrow streets and alleyways you will discover the old town and its 2000 years of closely guarded history. More information: Trains & Trolley Tours Geneva

Swisstours Transport SA 36 Boulevard Saint Georges 1205  Genève Switzerland

Phone  +41 (0)22 781 04 04 sttt.ch Show Route

Swisstours Transport SA 36 Boulevard Saint Georges 1205 Genève Phone  +41 (0)22 781 04 04 sttt.ch Show Route

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Geneva Tourism Place de Cornavin 7 1er étage 1211  Genève +41 (0)22 909 70 00 +41 (0)22 909 70 11 [email protected] Website

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Geneva sightseeing tours: panoramic bus, mini trains, open trolley - touristic visit of Geneva & in Switzerland.

Line 1: Geneva Old town of Geneva (STTG01)

€ 12.58 $ 14.04 CHF 11.9

View details

Line 2: Geneva Parks and Residences (STTG02)

€ 10.47 $ 11.68 CHF 9.9

Line 3: Geneva International Tours (STTG03)

€ 27.48 $ 30.68 CHF 26

Line 4: Geneva Sightseeing Cruise (STTG04)

€ 30.66 $ 34.22 CHF 29

Line 7: Montreux-Lavaux Panoramic Tours (STTL07)

Mini-Train Tour of Geneva Old Town

Description, good to know.

• Pricing details

Departure place

You would like, essential information *, immediate confirmation, duration 35 minutes, opening hours 11:30 am - 4:00 pm.

Go back in time and explore Geneva Old Town on board your mini-train! 

Departing from Quai des Bergues, set off on a mini-train tour to admire the historical centre of the city’s most iconic sites and monuments, such as: 

• The Equestrian Statue of Guillaume-Henri Dufour
• University of Geneva
• The Reformation Wall
• Eynard Palace
• The Athénée Palace
• The Palace of Nations
• The City Hall
• The Pictet De Rochemont Statue
• The Bust of Henry Dunant

This activity is available between March and December

• Availability: every day from April to December (excluding exceptional dates)
• Duration: 35 mins approx.
• Opening times: 11:30am to 4pm
• Departure point: Quai des Bergues  
• Frequency of departure: every 45 minutes
• Languages: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese
• The commentary will be in the form of an audio guide
• Groups of up to 50 participants maximum

Price includes

• Mini-train tour
• Audio-guide commentary

Price doesn’t include

• Tips (optional)
• All other extras

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13 BEST Day Trips From Geneva You Can’t Miss In 2024

Are you looking for the best day trips from Geneva?

Nestled in the western part of Switzerland, Geneva serves as a perfect hub for exploring charming towns in France and the scenic areas of western Switzerland.

We’ve spent extensive time exploring this region, taking numerous day trips to find the top spots for you to visit.

Whether you prefer traveling by tour, train, car, or want a quick half-day getaway, we’ve got you covered with our list of the best day trips from Geneva.

Need help planning?

We’re travel experts and we’re happy to help! We offer options to: + Answer questions + Provide feedback on an itinerary you’ve recreated + Create a custom itinerary based on your travel dreams!

Get Started →

Swiss Travel Pass

✅ Valid 3-15 Days

✅ Unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats

Day Trips From Geneva By Tour

Don’t have a car or travel pass or just want someone else to handle the details? We recommend these awesome tours for day trips from Geneva!

Gruyères Cheese Factory and Cailler Chocolate Factory

⏱Tour Length: 10 hours | ⭐️Rating: 4.5/5 | ➡️ Book Now

One of our favorite day trips from Geneva was the Gruyères Tour With Train, Chocolate and Cheese , a day full of delicious indulgences and stunning scenery.

Starting with an air-conditioned ride, we were driven to Broc to sample mouthwatering chocolate at Maison Cailler —a chocoholic’s dream!

The tour continued to Gruyères, where the picturesque mountaintop town with an awesome castle with breathtaking views.

Our favorite part? Sampling rich Gruyère cheese at La Maison du Gruyère and enjoying traditional Swiss cheese fondue.

The Panoramic Golden Express train ride has incredible sweeping vista views of Lac Léman and the beautiful countryside. This train ride was one of our favorites in all of Switzerland!

This full-day trip perfectly combines Switzerland’s rich traditions, tasty treats, and panoramic landscapes.

Chamonix, Mont Blanc & Ice Caves

⏱Tour Length: 8-9 hours | ⭐️Rating: 5/5 | ➡️ Book Now

Our favorite mountain day trip from Geneva with incredible views is the Chamonix Mont-Blanc Full Day Guided Tour .

This 8-9 hour adventure starts with a scenic one-hour bus ride to Chamonix, a charming village in France.

The highlight is the exhilarating cable car ride up to the Aiguille du Midi, towering at 3,842 meters. At the top are stunning views of the Alps, including the Matterhorn, Grand Jorasses, and Mont Blanc.

We loved exploring the romantic village of Chamonix and tasting local specialties.

In the afternoon, we visited the breathtaking Mer de Glace glacier , taking a historical cogwheel train and hiking down to the ice caves.

This tour is an unforgettable experience of the French Alps!

Powered by GetYourGuide

Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen

⏱Tour Length: 13 hours | ⭐️Rating: 4.7/5 | ➡️ Book Now

Our top day trip from Geneva to an iconic area in Switzerland is the Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen excursion .

This 13-hour adventure takes you into the heart of the Swiss Alps.

Our favorite part is the breathtaking view from Harder Kulm , where you can see the town of Interlaken nestled between Lakes Thun and Brienz.

You also visit the charming village of Lauterbrunnen , home to the impressive 297-meter Staubbach Waterfall.

You’ll enjoy free time in Interlaken to explore, indulge in Swiss fondue, and grab awesome souvenirs.

Picking a reputable company is so important! Below is the company we trust to give you the best experience: Keytours

Swiss Riviera

Our favorite day trip from Geneva along Lake Geneva is the unforgettable 10-hour adventure to Montreux, Chaplin’s World, and Chillon Castle .

This trip through the Swiss Riviera, from Lausanne to Montreux , is packed with highlights.

Our favorite part was the guided tour of Château de Chillon , one of our favorite Swiss Castles.

You’ll also visit Chaplin’s World , dedicated to Charlie Chaplin, and stop for photos at The Olympic Museum in Lausanne .

Enjoy an appetizer at the UNESCO-listed vineyards of Lavaux , and cruise on Lake Geneva aboard the old steamer boat “Belle Epoque.”

Don’t miss the iconic statue of Freddie Mercury in Montreux before heading back to Geneva.

If you’d rather do a private tour and also see Vevey, we recommend the Swiss Riviera Private Tour .

Jungfraujoch

If you’re looking for one of the best day trips from Geneva to see snow , the Jungfraujoch Day Trip is a must.

This 13-hour adventure takes you from Geneva to the Swiss Alps, ending at Europe’s highest railway station at 3,454 meters (11,332 feet).

Our favorite part was exploring the glacier , especially walking through the ice tunnel and experiencing the “Alpine Sensation.”

The Sphinx observation platform offers breathtaking views of famous peaks like Eiger and Mönch.

This day trip provides a spectacular snowy escape and unforgettable mountain scenery.

Riviera Col du Pillon & Glacier 3000

⏱Tour Length: 12 hours | ⭐️Rating: 4.5/5 | ➡️ Book Now

The Riviera Col du Pillon & Glacier 3000 day trip is one of the best day trips from Geneva, offering a full 12-hour adventure in the Swiss Alps .

Travel by prebooked bus, with stops at Lausanne, Vevey, and Montreux.

In Les Diablerets , explore the charming village or head to Glacier 3000 for alpine fun.

Our favorite part was the Peak Walk , the world’s first suspension bridge connecting two peaks. At 108 meters long, it offers stunning views of over 24 peaks.

Enjoy sledding in the fun park or try the thrilling Alpine Coaster in summer .

⏱Tour Length: 4.5 hours | ⭐️Rating: 4.6/5 | ➡️ Book Now

Annecy is the best half-day trip from Geneva, just a 45-minute drive away.

Known as the “Venice of the Alps,” it is a charming old town with colorful streets and lively markets.

Explore stunning mountain landscapes on this 4.5-hour guided excursion . We could not believe the beauty of the River Thiou flowing through the town.

Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour , then explore Annecy at your own pace.

Visit food and flea markets, historic landmarks, and enjoy traditional dishes at cozy restaurants and cafes.

Geneva to Annecy: 5 BEST Options for 2024

Day Trips From Geneva By Train

If you have a Swiss Travel Pass , hopping on a train in Geneva to explore nearby Swiss destinations is a breeze!

Hop on a direct train from Geneva to Montreux, with the trip taking about an hour .

Walk along the beautiful Montreux promenade, visit Chillon Castle , a stunning medieval fortress on the lake, and enjoy the local cafes and shops, or take a boat ride on Lake Geneva.

Spend a full day to explore the promenade, visit the castle, and relax by the lake.

Montreux hosts the famous Montreux Jazz Festival in July , so if you visit then, book tickets in advance for concerts.

Take a direct train from Geneva to Bern, with the journey taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Once you arrive, explore the beautiful medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Walk along the cobblestone streets, visit the iconic Zytglogge clock tower , and see the impressive Bern Cathedral and Parliament Building .

Don’t miss the Bear Park , where you can see the city’s symbol, and enjoy a stroll along the River Aare.

We enjoyed our visit to the Einstein Museum at the Bern Historical Museum . The museum provides cool insights into the life of Einstein who lived in Bern.

Spend a full day here to cover the main attractions and enjoy a meal at one of the charming local restaurants. Bern’s compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot , and its efficient public transportation can help you get around if needed.

Zermatt and the Matterhorn

Take a train from Geneva to Zermatt, with a transfer in Visp. The entire journey takes about 3.5 hours.

Zermatt is a charming car-free village – we couldn’t stop taking photos and honestly didn’t do it justice.

Once there, take the Gornergrat Railway to enjoy breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.

If you have time, go up the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise gondola to see the Matterhorn up close as well!

If not, explore the cute village. We recommend walking along the river through the center of town for the best views and picture opportunities.

Be sure to stop by the Matterhorn Museum to learn about the mountain’s history and mountaineering. We thought it was really well done!

Remember to check the weather forecast before heading out, as clear skies offer the best views of the Matterhorn.

Day Trips From Geneva By Car

Renting a car in Geneva gives you the freedom to explore the best day trips from Geneva Switzerland at your own pace.

If you do decide to rent a car, we recommend doing so in Switzerland through DiscoverCars .

You can take a direct train from Geneva to Vevey, with the journey taking about an hour. However, driving gives you the flexibility to also explore the surrounding Lavaux Vineyards ( Domaine Bovy in Chexbres was our favorite).

In Vevey, we recommend visiting the Alimentarium Food Museum and the Charlie Chaplin Museum (a little further on the outskirts of town).

One of the our favorite activities is simply w alking along the lakeside promenade and enjoying the local markets.

We enjoyed taking a boat ride on Lake Geneva out of Vevey-Marché (free with Swiss Travel Pass !!).

A full day in Vevey is perfect to explore museums, vineyards, and enjoy the lakeside views.

To reach Gruyères, the drive takes around 1.5 hours. If you take a train from Geneva, you have to change trains in Montbovon, and the journey takes about 2 hours.

Once you arrive, visit the medieval Gruyères Castle (free with Swiss Travel Pass !!), tour the famous Gruyères cheese factory to see how the cheese is made, and enjoy the local specialty, fondue, in a village restaurant.

There is a large parking lot right outside of town!

The other benefit of driving is that you can scoot quickly over to Broc and visit the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory .

A full day is enough to explore the castle, cheese factory, and chocolate factory in Broc, and have a great meal in Gruyères.

If you have time, the HR Giger Museum near the castle, dedicated to the artist behind the “Alien” movies, is worth a visit ( not recommended for children ).

Taking a day trip from Geneva to Lausanne by car takes about 45 minutes with scenic views along Lake Geneva.

Once in Lausanne, having a car allows you to easily visit both of the two main attractions, the Olympic Museum and Lausanne Cathedral , which are not close to each other.

Parking is generally available near both, making it convenient to move around.

This way, you can maximize your time exploring Lausanne’s highlights without relying on public transportation or walking the many hills in Lausanne.

Half Day Trips From Geneva

There are some fantastic half day trips from Geneva that let you explore cool places even when you only have a few hours to spare.

Annecy, France

Annecy is a charming town just over an hour from Geneva by train or car.

Known as the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy has beautiful canals, a stunning lake, and lovely old town streets.

It’s lovely to stroll along the canals, visit the Château d’Annecy and Le Palais de l’Île , and enjoy the lakeside promenade. You can also rent a paddleboat to explore Lake Annecy.

A half-day trip is perfect for wandering the town and enjoying lunch at one of the many cafes. This easy day trip from Geneva to Annecy provides a taste of French charm without a long journey.

Yvoire, France

Yvoire is a picturesque medieval village located on the French shores of Lake Geneva , about an hour’s drive or a boat ride from Geneva.

The town is famous for its well-preserved medieval buildings and beautiful gardens.

We spent a couple of hours walking through the cobblestone streets, visiting the Garden of Five Senses , and exploring the castle.

After exploring the village, you’ll be ready to relax with a meal at a lakeside restaurant.

The quick trip back to Geneva makes Yvoire an ideal half-day trip, offering a glimpse into the region’s history and charm.

Nyon, Switzerland

Nyon is a historic town just 15 minutes from Geneva by train . It’s a great spot for a quick getaway.

We really enjoyed our visit to Nyon Castle ; the views over Lake Geneva were fantastic. If you’re into history like us, the Roman Museum is worth a stop .

Wandering through the old town was one of our favorite parts. We loved browsing the small shops and found some great spots to relax by the lake. Don’t miss out on a lakeside walk ; it’s the perfect way to soak in the scenery!

A few hours in Nyon is enough to see the main sights and have a relaxing break from the city. It’s one of the easiest day trips from Geneva.

Carouge, Switzerland

Carouge is just a quick 15-minute tram ride from Geneva , and we found it to be a charming escape with a cool Italian-inspired vibe.

We loved the bustling markets, quaint streets, and artisan shops.

The lively market at Place du Marché is a must-visit for fresh produce and local crafts. One of our favorite highlights is the Carouge Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays , where the lively atmosphere and fresh goods create an unforgettable experience.

Carouge’s relaxed pace and distinct character make it an ideal half-day trip, providing a refreshing contrast to Geneva’s bustling city life.

Where To Stay In Geneva

If you’re planning to take day trips from Geneva, staying near the train station is key to making your travel easy and convenient.

💎 LUXURY: Hotel d’Angleterre

This five-star boutique hotel offers elegant rooms with stunning views of Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc, perfect for a luxurious stay. Its central location makes it ideal for accessing the best day trips from Geneva.

🌟 VERY NICE: Hotel Bernina

Hotel Bernina offers comfortable, modern accommodations right next to Geneva’s main train station, making day trips from Geneva by train incredibly convenient. The stylish rooms and friendly service ensure a pleasant stay.

👌 MODERATE: Hotel Les Arcades

Located right across from the Gare de Genève , Hotel Les Arcades provides clean, affordable rooms with easy access to Geneva’s top attractions and day trip options. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious travelers who want comfort and convenience.

🛏️ BUDGET: Geneva Hostel

Geneva Hostel offers budget-friendly dormitory and private rooms in a central location, perfect for travelers looking to explore Geneva and beyond without breaking the bank. The hostel’s proximity to public transport makes it easy to embark on day trips from Geneva.

FAQs for Best Day Trips From Geneva, Switzerland

What is the best day trip from geneva .

The best day trip from Geneva is to Montreux . This charming town on Lake Geneva’s shores offers stunning views, the famous Château de Chillon, and the lively Montreux Jazz Festival. It’s easily accessible by train, making it a convenient and memorable getaway.

How many days are enough for Geneva?

Three to four days are enough to explore Geneva’s top attractions, enjoy its beautiful parks, museums, and the iconic Jet d’Eau. This timeframe also allows for some short day trips from Geneva to nearby destinations.

What are the best mountains to visit from Geneva?

The best mountains to visit from Geneva include Mont Blanc for its stunning views, the Jura Mountains for hiking , and Chamonix for skiing. These spots are perfect for easy day trips from Geneva by train or car.

In Conclusion: Best Day Trips From Geneva, Switzerland

We hope our guide has helped you pick the perfect day trips from Geneva that suit your travel style.

Enjoy your time in this beautiful region, and may your adventures be as wonderful as you’ve imagined. We wish you an unforgettable experience on your day trips from Geneva!

We wish you the best travels and don’t forget to set your “ Out of Office !” 

🌟 Loving our content? Support the journey — buy us a coffee! ☕️

Read More About Switzerland

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• 3 Days in Basel, Switzerland: GREAT Itinerary and Tips
• Basel Old Town Guide: 23 Best Things To Do, Where To Stay + More!
• Basel Zoo: The Complete Guide to Visiting
• 2 Days in Basel, Switzerland: GREAT Itinerary and Tips 2024
• 21 BEST Day Trips from Basel, Switzerland
• 11 BEST Hotels in Basel, Switzerland Near Train Station (Basel SBB)
• 1 Day in Basel, Switzerland: GREAT Itinerary and Tips
• Is Geneva Worth Visiting? Honest Review & GREAT 2024 Guide
• The BEST Way to Spend 3 Days in Geneva, Switzerland
• 13 BEST Day Trips From Geneva You Can’t Miss
• The BEST Way to Spend One Day in Geneva, Switzerland
• BEST Hiking in Geneva, Switzerland 2024 (Map Included)
• How Many Days in Geneva, Switzerland: 15 Tips for a GREAT Trip!
• The BEST Way to Spend 2 Days in Geneva, Switzerland 2024
• Geneva to Annecy: 5 BEST Options
• The BEST Way to Spend a Half Day in Geneva, Switzerland

Switzerland Travel Planning Guide

🚙🚄  Is renting a car or public transportation better in Switzerland ?

For traveling in Switzerland, we recommend using public transportation . Switzerland’s train system and other public transportation options are some of the best in the world.

We always buy the Swiss Travel Pass , which provides access to trains, funiculars, boats, lifts, and buses. It also gives you free access to over 500 museums.

Renting a car in Switzerland has its pros and cons. Pro: You get the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit remote areas. Con: Parking can be expensive and challenging in cities. When we rent a car, we always use Discover Cars for reliable service.

📲  Will my phone work in Switzerland ?

Maybe, but it will be expensive — Depending on your provider, plans can charge you $10 per day while in Europe.

To use your phone in Switzerland and save money, we recommend an eSim with Airalo . Airalo simplifies the steps and provides you with all the necessary data for convenient travel.

There is not a lot of free WIFI in Switzerland, so you’ll need your phone for navigating.

🌐 Do I need a VPN when on the internet in Switzerland ?

While abroad, we consistently prioritize our online security by using a VPN to appear as if we’re streaming from the US and protect ourselves from cybercrime.

NordVPN serves as an incredibly convenient solution for both mobile phones and laptops, effortlessly ensuring our safety while browsing or streaming.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Switzerland accommodations?

Our go-to for Switzerland hotels is  Booking.com . They offer the widest range of choices, and their filtering system simplifies the process of discovering the perfect accommodation for your needs.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy f lights to Switzerland ?

For finding cheap flights to Switzerland, we recommend  Kayak . Their awesome multi-city flight search and handy price notifications help us save big, allowing us to splurge on other adventures once we arrive.

Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) is usually our airline of choice while in Switzerland.

🚐 Should I book tours in Switzerland? Do the guides speak English?

We LOVE taking tours in Switzerland.

We prefer to book our tours on Viator and GetYourGuide for easy searching, trusted reviews, and transparent pricing. We always filter for the tours that are offered in English.

For free walking tours in English, we always book through GuruWalk .

🚑  Should I buy Switzerland travel insurance?

100% YES!  — Switzerland has a publicly funded healthcare system known as the LAMal (L’Assurance Maladie Obligatoire), also known as the Swiss Health Insurance Law, which provides basic health insurance to all Swiss citizens and legal residents!

Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. We recommend  Safety Wing  – they provide general travel coverage as well as medical !

💧 Can you drink the water in Switzerland ?

Drinking water in Switzerland is exceptionally safe and clean. You can drink tap water anywhere, and it’s often better than bottled water.

There are many public fountains in cities and towns where you can fill your water bottle. If a fountain is not safe to drink from, there will be a sign indicating this. Generally, no sign means the water is safe to drink.

For an extra layer of protection, we recommend always using a  LifeStraw Go Series to stay safe and hydrated.

🎫  Do I need a visa for Switzerland ?

Citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries do not need a visa for short stays.

For travelers from many other countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, no visa is required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, always check the latest visa requirements before you travel, as rules can change.

💸 What currency is used in Switzerland?

Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash for smaller purchases.

🗣️ What languages are spoken in Switzerland?

Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Meet Kelsea and Nicholas, the dynamic team behind Out of Office Mindset. They're on a thrilling quest to visit all 7 continents in 5 years, traveling non-stop. So far, they've had an epic year-long US road trip and visited 20 countries (and counting!). They're all about diving into different cultures and learning from their experiences. As avid explorers, they know how a well-planned trip can change you. Their mission? Helping every visitor to Out of Office Mindset plan their next awesome adventure with ease.

Haunt The Woods, League Of Lights, Beardfish and more announced as support acts for Big Big Train tour

UK prog acts Stuckfish, Storm Deva and Peter Jones will also play one-off support slots with the band

UK prog rockers  Big Big Train  have announced the support acts who will be performing with them on some of the dates of their European and UK tour for September and October.

Cornish alt.prog quartet Haunt The Woods will support the headliners at Newport's Riverfront on September 18 and at Manchester The Stoller Hall on September 25. League Of Lights , the collaboration between  Threshold  keyboard player Richard West and his wife Farrah, will appear with the band at Swindon's Wyvern Theatre on September 17 and at Edinburgh's Queen's Hall on September 21.

“Last year I did double duty on BBT’s tour, opening the show with my other band Dim Gray ," says BBT keyboard player Oskar Holldorff. "We received a wonderful response from the Big Big Train fans, who I hope will enjoy the various acts we’ve lined up to play alongside us this year and give them a similarly warm reaction.”

A reformed Beardfish , featuring current BBT guitarist, keyboard player and singer Rikard Sjöblom, will support in Oslo at the Cosmopolite.

“For the shows in continental Europe we’re going to mix things up too," adds drummer Nick D'Virgilio. "We’ve got our very own Rikard Sjöblom opening the show in Norway with his awesome band Beardfish, while Melanie Mau and Martin Schnella will be doing a very cool acoustic set in Germany."

UK prog acts Stuckfish, Peter Jones (of Tiger Moth Tales ) and Stom Deva will all also appear at one show each on the UK run, while Big Big Train themselves will support in various solo capacities at some shows.

"For the other shows on this tour we decided to have some fun ourselves and keep the support side of things ‘in-house’," says singer Aberto Bravin. "So one or maybe two members of the band will do a solo opening performance to start the shows in Copenhagen, Zoetermeer and London. You’ll find out on the night who is playing the opening set!"

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You can see all the dates and support acts below.

Big Big Train will release a new live album and Blu-ray,  A Flare On The Lens , through InsideOutMusic on September 13 .

Big Big Train The Likes Of Us 2024 Tour Dates

Sep 17: Swindon Wyvern Theatre, UK Sep 18: Newport The Riverfront, UK Sep 19: Whitley Bay Playhouse Theatre, UK Sep 21: Edinburgh Queens Hall, UK Sep 22: Newark  Palace Theatre, UK Sep 24: Milton Keynes Stables Theatre, UK Sep 25: Manchester The Stoller Hall, UK Sep 27: Weinham Stadthalle, Germany Sep 28: Zotertemeer De Boerderij, The Netherlands Sep 29: Zotertemeer De Boerderij, The Netherlands Oct 01: Oslo Cosmopolite, Norway Oct 02: Copenhagen Viften, Denmark

Get tickets .

Writer and broadcaster Jerry Ewing is the Editor of Prog Magazine which he founded for Future Publishing in 2009. He grew up in Sydney and began his writing career in London for Metal Forces magazine in 1989. He has since written for Metal Hammer, Maxim, Vox, Stuff and Bizarre magazines, among others. He created and edited Classic Rock Magazine for Dennis Publishing in 1998 and is the author of a variety of books on both music and sport, including Wonderous Stories; A Journey Through The Landscape Of Progressive Rock.

“I remember dissecting YYZ and learning all his different techniques… I use that stuff all the time with Dream Theater”: John Petrucci wouldn’t be John Petrucci without Rush’s Alex Lifeson

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The Top 12 Things to Do in Omsk

Feel the love in the very heart of Russia

In Russia, all roads lead to Moscow , on account of the city's status as the national capital and its importance throughout history. If geography were the deciding factor, however, the Siberian city of Omsk would be the point where all Russia's roads converge—it's located literally in the heart of the country, approximately as far from Vladivostok as it is from the Belarusian border. Omsk boasts a spate of exciting attractions, even if you simply make a stop here as you ride the Trans-Siberian Railway eastward or westward.

Marvel at Assumption Cathedral

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Orthodox architecture never gets old, even if you've been traveling in Russia for a long time. This is particularly the case when it comes to the Assumption Cathedral of Omsk, whose gold-and-turquoise domes look resplendent under the blue skies that bless Omsk during the warmer months of the year. The cathedral was built in 1891 under the orders Nicholas, the last Tsar of Russia.

Time Travel at Omsk Fortress

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The bad news? Much of what was once Omsk Fortress is now a residential area, with the only notable landmark that still stands being Tobolsk Gate (think Paris' Arc de Triomphe , but yellow and smaller). The good news? There's essentially no reason for a military fortification to exist in today's peaceful Omsk, which means you can stroll amid parks and cafés and imagine the area being war-torn—a small sacrifice to make in exchange for not being blown to bits.

Go Green at Ptich'ya Gavan'

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Or white, as it were: Omsk is covered with snow several months of the year, which means that its prized Ptich'ya Gavan' central park is often more of a winter wonderland than the green reprieve you experience in summer. The park is popular with local families, to whom you can say "Privet" (Hello) as you walk past.

Walk on Omsk's Artsy Side

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Although the building that houses Omsk District Museum of Visual Arts is unmistakably Russian, the collection you find inside is surprisingly eclectic for a city deep in Russia's interior. Recent collections have included a revival of Van Gogh's great works, among others. This is a particularly enjoyable Omsk attraction on cold winter days, when temperatures can drop far below freezing and sunshine can be rare.

Shoot for the Moon

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Though Omsk is a relatively large city, the skies over it become dark enough in the evening for stargazing. While visitors are not permitted to use the expensive telescopes housed inside, exhibits inside the museum provide a fascinating look into the cosmos, narrated by expert astronomical guides.

Shop on Lenin Street

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Lenin Street's name is appropriate: Although it's the high street of a city thousands of miles from Moscow, the European-style architecture and cosmopolitan vibe you feel as you stroll past its boutique and cafés evokes the capital of Russia more than its forlorn interior. Local specialties you can purchase here include rustic jams made from local berries (and even, in some shops, cedar cones), as well as handmade rugs from Kazakhstan, which sits just south of Omsk.

Sample Siberian Cuisine

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Speaking of unique Siberian food, it's not just preserves made from the fruits of evergreen trees. Omsk is a great place to discover the flavors of Russia's wild interior, whether you eat zagutai and stroganini (Siberia's take on sushi) or classic Russian plmeni dumplings filled with decidedly Siberian ingredients, such as bear and rabbit meat. Vkusno ! (That's Russian for "delicious"!)

Enjoy Historical Houses—While You Still Can

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The wooden houses that line Nikolskiy Prospekt aren't protected, but they should be. Historical structures that are unfortunately in a state of disrepair, these houses are slated for demolition at some unspecific point in the future. Be sure to catch a glimpse of these historical house before they're gone. There will, however, be at least one left standing for a long time. The Omsk State Art Museum is in a traditional wooden house.

Go to the Circus

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Omsk State Circus is a popular spot for local families, whose children love the opportunity to see acrobatic performances and animals that wouldn't otherwise make appearance in Siberia. If you do attend a show here, keep in mind that ethics with regard to animal treatment might not match up with those in North America or Western Europe, to say nothing of the smell that can pervade the auditorium during and even after a show.

Be a Drama Queen

While there's no guarantee that any shows will be playing at Omsk Drama Theater at the time of your trip, a visit to this 19th century building is a spectacle in and of itself. While not as huge, say, as Moscow's Bolshoi Theatre, it's nonetheless an ornate architectural wonder that hearkens back to a glorious time in history. The interior of the theater is even open during the daytime; ask the person who's inside if any tours are available when you turn up.

Explore Cities Deeper in Siberia

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Siberia starts in Omsk, even if you can't continue far into it. If you don't plan to travel on the Trans-Siberian Railway, take one of two day trips from Omsk. Travel to Tobolsk, whose hilltop Kremlin is one of the most picturesque in all of Russia, and whose beauty inspired a photo by Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev that ended up winning several awards. Or visit Tomsk, where you'll find a botanical garden dedicated to Siberian flora, and a museum that celebrates wooden architecture.

Ride the Trans-Siberian Railway

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The idea of leaving Omsk behind can seem difficult, especially now that you've gotten to know this city in the heart of Siberia as well as you have. The mint-colored facade of Omsk Railway Station will make you smile, however, even if you're crying inside as you depart. Though it's not quite on the mid-line of the Trans-Siberian route between Moscow and Beijing , Omsk is a worthy starting place to begin a journey to either. If you head east make sure to stop in Irkutsk , the home of Lake Baikal and another underrated Siberian city.

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