City Night Line Train at the Train Station.

There are two types of people who take Night Trains in Europe: the type that chooses a sleeping compartment, and the type that chooses a seat. I have been both of those people.

When I chose the seat, I was taking a train for 50 hours across the United States. When I chose a sleeping compartment, I was taking a train for 10 hours between Madrid and Lisbon. In retrospect, I realize that this may have been slightly counter-intuitive.

I enjoyed both trips equally.This is probably because a.) I was prepared for both situations before boarding the trains, and b.) train rides are pretty enjoyable no matter what type of accommodation you choose. The joy is being on the train, getting the chance to travel to a new place.

With that said, the two experiences — while enjoyable — required different types of preparation. Let’s start with the easy one first.

Elipsos Night Train

If You Choose a Sleeping Compartment

Most night trains in Europe have two types of compartments: single or double compartments, and four to six person couchettes. Couchettes are a smaller, simpler type of compartment and are generally the more affordable option for budget travelers. I myself, being a backpacker and therefore on a budget, chose the four person couchette.

Sometimes compartments are divided by gender, but it varies from train to train. My particular couchette was all female, and there were only three of us. We silently agreed — none of us speaking the same language — to use the fourth bed as storage for our luggage, which left us more room in the rest of the compartment.

I’ve never really been an earplugs person, but they were included in the little welcome packet waiting for me on my bed (along with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and what I believed to be mints), so I decided to try them. Aside from ear plugs, here are a few more pieces of advice for anyone planning to book a couchette or sleeping compartment for overnight train travel:

1. There isn’t very much room to move around in couchettes, so digging through luggage to find your pajamas or socks will be difficult. When I was wearing my massive backpacking backpack, I got stuck between the two sets of beds and my roommates had to wedge me out. I recommend either wearing what you plan to sleep in, or packing a little carry-on bag that you can keep on the shelf above your bed or below the bottom bunk. I brought a little carry-on with my valuables in it and slept with it next to my face.
2. Know how to use your rail products. If you’re using a rail pass, make sure you understand the overnight train rule before getting to your compartment. This will save you some stress once you board, and this way you can just relax once you’ve settled into your little bed. The overnight train rule is this: If you travel on a direct overnight train departing after 7:00pm and arriving after 4:00am, it’s only necessary to enter the date of arrival in the travel calendar, thereby using only one travel day. If you travel on an overnight train that departs after 7:00pm but has a change of trains or arrives before 4:00am, you will be required to enter both the date of departure and arrival in the travel calendar, using two travel days of your rail pass. Also note that often, the train conductor will collect all travelers’ passports and rail passes and return them first thing in the morning. A lot of people worry about the safety of this, but I promise it’s normal.
3. Bring a flashlight. Or a cell phone, or an iPod, or something that you can use as a light source should you need to venture out into the halls and find the bathroom at three in the morning. Also helpful if you want to read before falling asleep, since keeping the compartment light turned on really late probably won’t make you very popular amongst your couchette-mates.
4. Toiletries. I usually shower before going to sleep, but since I didn’t have access to one on this train, I brought toiletries that could sort of take the place of a shower — for one night, at least. This is more about comfort than appearance — I find that I am more relaxed and able to enjoy myself when I feel clean and refreshed, and I get somewhat grumpy once my comfort is compromised.
5. Water. It’s easier to just have water with you than it is to wander through the hallways at night trying to find the dining car.  And it can get kind of stuffy in the compartments sometimes, which always makes me thirsty.

Overnight train seat photo courtesy of Renfe

If You Choose a Seat

Many of my tips for the couchettes will work here, too. There are a few tips I would add to the mix — but before I list them I want to preface this by saying that I had a really enjoyable time sitting in a seat for 50 hours, if you can believe it. The tips below may make it seem like it was uncomfortable and difficult — which, at times, it was — but it wasn’t awful by any means. It’s a good option for someone who doesn’t want to — or who can’t — spend a good deal of money on a trip. It’s also better for people-watching as you’re falling asleep.

1. Bring something to use as a pillow and blanket. I’m not saying these things need to be actual pillows and blankets — on my 50 hour trip I used a maxi dress as my blanket and my purse and jacket as my pillow. Not the most comfortable, but I wasn’t really expecting to be comfortable in a seat, anyway. I’m pretty sure I was also a form of entertainment for a few of my fellow passengers.
2. Bring something warm. My train car was very air-conditioned throughout the night, probably because there were so many of us, but I was sitting right near a vent and I got pretty cold a few times. Luckily I’d brought extra socks and clothes that I could layer over my maxi dress blanket. I was traveling in style.
3. Bring a covering for your eyes. Ear plugs are crucial if you are even slightly a light sleeper, because several travelers may exit or board the train during the night. In a compartment, the noise is muted, but out where all of the seats are, you’ll get the full brunt of it. This means that there may also be lights going on and off, so a sleeping mask may be a good addition to the ear plugs.

If you’re traveling in a single or double sleeping compartment for overnight train travel, you’re pretty much set. Maybe I will write a follow up survival guide someday when I decide to splurge on one of these compartments for myself.

In the meantime, I will stick to my couchettes and my reclining seats. I believe that traveling should be full of as many different types of experiences as possible (well, within reason), including the potentially uncomfortable ones. Overnight trains are a great way to skip on spending money on a hostel or hotel for a night, and they are a unique way to get from one place to the next. Europe is probably one of the best places to try them out — whether in a seat, couchette, or sleeping compartment — because the continent boasts some of the highest quality trains in the world. Check out our listing of the most popular night trains in Europe on this page on our site.

And may you be as lucky with couchette roommates as I was on that trip — those girls were passed out in five minutes and did not make a sound until the train arrived the next morning. Sweet dreams indeed!

Railjet high-speed train in Austria. © ÖBB | Christian Auerweck

If you need some travel inspiration for your trip from Vienna to Budapest (aside from traveling by train), we’ve got one piece of advice: EAT. One of the best ways to experience a new culture is to taste it. You don’t have to be a “foodie” to appreciate a really delicious meal, and you don’t have to spend a lot of money in order to indulge in the local cuisine when you’re traveling.

The food isn’t even the most important part of the dining experience in some instances — eating in a foreign restaurant gives you the chance to see locals starting their day with a cup of coffee and a newspaper or ending the evening with a hearty meal after a long day at work. It gives you the chance to listen to conversations between friends and laugh along with the boisterous family celebrating a birthday in the corner. You can practice your language skills when ordering from the menu and try a new dish if you accidentally order something you didn’t mean to.

The sounds, smells, and tastes of a foreign restaurant are like a little bubble of culture all in one place, and spending an hour or two in a little local eatery is an easy way to gain insight into the culture you’re visiting.

If you’re traveling from Vienna to Budapest, you can easily soak up the cuisine of both cultures in one day. The train ride between the two cities is only about 2.5 hours on the OBB Railjet trains, making it easy to start off with breakfast in one city and finish with dinner in another.

Apple Strudel in Cafe Leopold Hawelka, Vienna Austria. Photo © fabulousfabs http://www.flickr.com/photos/14315427@N00/7535073828/in/photolist-ctRdW1-bjQ8h4-e9ZpVX-bCXWvC-bjP9sX-88oyVM

Breakfast in Vienna

It’s appropriate to begin your culinary tour with breakfast in a city that is famous for its pastries — particularly the apple strudel. Have a bite as you sip your traditional Viennese coffee, and people-watch as you sit in one of Vienna’s famous coffeehouses. Vienna, being a city of artists and musicians, has plenty of coffeehouses to inspire work and creativity.

If you’d prefer dinner to breakfast, you’d have the best luck trying one of Vienna’s “beisls,” or bistros. Characterized by simplicity and warmth, usually with a bar in the corner, the bistro is a place full of mixed characters and traditional, hearty food: schnitzel, goulash, and soup with dumplings, to name a few.

To help make your way from coffeeshop to coffeeshop as efficiently as possible, you could try using the Vienna Card for public transportation. The card allows you to hop on and off of public transportation services as often as you’d like within a 72 hour period.

Hungarian Goulash. Photo © Jessica Spengler http://www.flickr.com/photos/97844767@N00/1856670019/in/photolist-3Q4Vj4-4nfja8-4Btgva-6hNXfs-79g98f-7kYdf5-dxEsvV-7Hs6fF-cBMzj5-cbuwob-adZrLp-cXPJDE-brhySi-8g4EsV-8g4EtM-aEFAKj-aJ2Ege-dLsrsx-atj4kp-cbuu57-8wJABd-8wJzPG-cbuxHA-cbuCdm-cbuFgL-cbuH35-cbuDP9-cbuzas-ahPjDa-8UY2wt-dXYPC2

Dinner in Budapest

Budapest is known mostly for hearty, stew-like dishes: paprikas, hot fish soup (Fisherman’s Soup), goulash, and various vegetable stews. Wine is more popular than cocktails, and it will go nicely with the Dobos cake (layered sponge cake) you eat for dessert. Hungarian restaurants often feature live music and are lively places for sharing a meal with friends and family.

Hungarian meals are often served in large portions, and so it’s probably a wise choice to share with friends. These meals always seem to have that warm, comforting feeling that only comes with a really good home-cooked meal.

After all of this delicious (albeit heavy) food, you may feel the urge to walk some of it off. If you’re carrying a Budapest Card, you’ll have access to free walking sightseeing tours, entry into various museums and attractions, and discounts on activities like biking or boating.

How to Travel from Vienna to Budapest by Train

The high-speed Railjet trains have all the characteristics of both Viennese and Hungarian cuisine: somewhat simple in appearance but hearty and comfortable onboard, with plenty of people-watching opportunities no matter which direction you’re headed.

Travel in second class (Economy) and enjoy spacious seats with access to a restaurant or bistro car. These trains are also equipped with digital screens showing the train’s progress along its route. In first class (Comfort) enjoy meals from the Bistro car at your seat and even more room to spread out. Both classes of service include special amenities for travelers with disabilities.

You can either travel with a point to point ticket, or you can travel with a rail pass. These trains do not require a seat reservation, although you can purchase one as a supplement to your rail pass. Your rail pass must include both Hungary and Austria in order for you to use it for this trip.

Since the trip from Vienna to Budapest is such a short one, it’s feasible to wake up and have breakfast in one city, take a train to the other city, wander a little and then have dinner before boarding another train back to where you started. If you are traveling with a rail pass, these two train rides will only use one day on your pass, since they will have occurred in the same 24 hour period.

So what are you waiting for? Treat yourself to a little culinary adventure in two of eastern Europe’s most delicious cities. After all, that goulash isn’t going to eat itself.

TGV high-speed train duples in the French countryside. Photo Copyright SNCF – Mediatheque

Americans are notorious for being in a hurry. We are always on our way to the next errand, the next appointment, the next deadline, the next kid’s soccer game, the next promotion — we are the nation of endless “nexts.” Our main form of long distance transport is the airplane, something that has come to represent stress, fear, and inconvenience rather than excitement or relaxation.

I think that’s probably one reason we idealize the European train ride so much — it emphasizes the actual time spent in transport rather than the need to get somewhere as quickly as possible. A train ride forces us to pause, look outside the window, and appreciate the luxury of taking our time. And it is a luxury — I mean, outside of vacation, when else would we sit on a train for eight hours when we could fly the same distance in one and a half?

Europeans seem to have no problem taking their time on an everyday basis. I doubt that this is because they have more free time than we do — most of the Europeans I’ve met have been pretty busy people. I just think that culturally, for whatever reason, they grow up with a different notion of time than we do, one that encourages people to slow down, relax, and appreciate the journey as much as the eventual destination.

Typical French countryside scene via the high-speed TGV train. Photo Copyright SNCF – Mediatheque

The first aspect of my survival list for long day train journeys deals with this mindset of slowing down.

I think people underestimate the importance of maintaining the proper mindset when entering travel situations that will be long or stressful. We worry so much about packing, tickets, delays, and the other physical aspects of the journey that we forget to prepare for the stress that inevitably comes with traveling anywhere.

Things may go wrong at some point. You may feel bored for two of the eight hours of the journey. Maybe there will be a delay. Whenever I begin to feel stressed out because something didn’t go the way it was supposed to, I try to remind myself that I am in Europe — one of my favorite places in the world. I am on vacation! I am riding a high-speed train through the beautiful French countryside! It is a slow, long, quiet way to spend eight hours — but it sure beats a lot of the other things I’ve done in the span of eight hours.

Once you’ve prepared yourself mentally for this trip, you’re going to need to pack.

Train ride photo courtesy of Christopher Hill who entered it in our Picture Perfect Contest.

What to Pack for a Very Long Day Train Ride

I love packing. I especially love packing for unusual situations or time frames. Here is a list of items that I packed into my carry-on for my 50 hour train journey two Christmases ago:

Non-electronic reading material. Most trains have power outlets now, but on the off chance you catch one that doesn’t — or you catch a train in which the power outlets aren’t working, as I once did — it’s important to have non-electronic entertainment at your disposal.

Snacks — and bring extras! Food is almost always available for purchase onboard, however travelers are also permitted to bring outside food and drink items along. I generally try to bring a few pieces of fruit, something salty, and something sweet. And if you bring along extra treats, it’s a great way to start conversations and make a few new friends. People always love the person with extra snacks.

Music and headphones. The headphones are the most important part of this. I use music as a form of entertainment as much as I use it to ward off small talk. While I do enjoy meeting new people on the train, I am not someone who enjoys participating in small talk for eight hours. Whenever I feel like I want some time to myself, I put in the headphones and people generally don’t try to approach me. If they do anyway, I give them snacks.

Valuables. Trains generally do not offer a check in service for luggage like the airlines do. Whatever you bring, you carry with you. There are racks for storing luggage at the end of most train cars, and places to stow smaller bags near the seats. As I do with my plane carry-on, I pack all of my valuable items and an extra day’s worth of clothing into a smaller bag and keep that at my train seat at all times, because I don’t like the idea of putting something valuable in my suitcase and then leaving that suitcase at the end of a train car, out of my sight. I’ve personally never had any problems with theft on the train, but you can never be too safe.

Camera. It’s difficult to get great photos out the train window when you’re speeding by (especially on a high speed train), but I figure it never hurts to try. I also like to take pictures of more than just monuments or scenery when I’m traveling somewhere — depending on the characters in your train car, sometimes the things happening inside the train can be as interesting as anything happening outside the window.

Make-up/toiletries. This is more about comfort and less about looks. By the end of a really long train ride, I always have the urge to wash my face or brush my teeth. Freshening up a little revives me and gets me excited about stepping off the train and re-entering the world.

How to Pass the Time on a Really Long Train Ride

Before my very first long train ride (Cannes to Paris on the TGV — about seven hours, if I recall), I imagined a list of activities I could perform to keep myself entertained with or without my electronic devices, since I didn’t know if I’d be able to charge them onboard. Obviously, if you’re traveling with friends or family, you have it a bit easier. You can entertain each other. Since I was traveling on my own, I needed to be slightly more resourceful. Here are a few of the things I came up with, mostly based on things I saw my fellow travelers doing:

Socializing. If you travel alone, it is inevitable that other lone travelers will approach you. I’ve met some interesting people on these long train rides, and I’ve even made a few friends that I spent some time with once we all got off the train together in a new city. I always carry playing cards, too, and aside from carrying snacks, this is one of the best ways to make new friends.

Being productive. Turns out you can get a lot of work done when shut up in a train for a day. Take advantage of the lack of Facebook and whip out your computer to get that report written up. I wrote blog posts, edited photographs, updated my calendar, organized my computer desktop, and drafted a few emails. If you really can’t bear the lack of Internet, I noticed a few travelers who managed to pick up a Wi-Fi signal while we were passing through certain towns.

Drinking. There was a couple who rode the train for about 15 hours of a 50 hour train ride I once took, and I’m not sure they stopped drinking the entire time they were onboard. They were having a great time with each other and were a riot to talk to. When in Rome, right?

Planning ahead. If you’re the type of person who likes to plan on the fly, this is a good opportunity to take out your guidebook and map out the next leg of your trip. On this same note, you can catch up on photo editing and journal-writing from the most recent leg of your trip, and that way you won’t have to worry about going back through everything at the very end of the trip.

Popular Day Train Routes in Europe

If given the choice, I would take trains from the top of France to the bottom over and over again until someone forced me to stop. But there are several other long day train routes outside of France that are worth the haul, and these are a few of the most popular, along with their high-speed train companies:

Paris to Milan: 7 hours, TGV trains

Berlin to Munich: 6-7 hours, ICE trains

Milan to Salerno: 5.5 hours, Italo trains

Budapest to Salzburg: 6 hours, OBB railjet

Glacier Express Scenic Swiss Train: 7.5 hours, Glacier Express

Inverness to London: 7-8 hours, UK train system

If you plan to travel these distances or any similar routes during your time in Europe, and if you’ve been thinking you should just take a flight or an overnight train to save the time — I recommend taking a day train for at least one of the trips. I know you’re in a hurry to get to the next beautiful place, but you’re in Europe — do as the Europeans do and slow down for a second. I promise the view outside your window will be worth it.

Enjoy!

Rabbit Beach located in Lampedusa – Sicily, Italy

Hop to It: Rabbit Beach – Sicily, Italy

According to a popular travel review website, this is the best beach in the world. And that says a lot, considering how much effort it takes to get there. Blinding white sand. Blues not found in a Crayola box. No one selling paper-thin t-shirts with offensive rabbit sayings. THIS is getting away from it all.

Rabbit Beach is located on the island of Lampedusa, off the south coast of Sicily. Accessible only by boat, this is one of the few places in the Mediterranean where loggerhead sea turtles lay their eggs.

Getting There: Take train from Rome to Palermo, which is an experience in itself. The journey is roughly 12 hours, and ticket prices start at $96.

From there, take a train to Porto Empedocle. This route passes through the center of Sicily, complete with dry fields and abandoned towns. Once you arrive, a boat is waiting to take you to Rabbit Beach. Tickets should be purchased locally for this portion of the trip.

Beach of Golden Sands, Varna Bulgaria

Raising the Bar: Golden Sands, Bulgaria

Um, BULGARIA? Sure, why not? The Golden Sands are Bulgaria’s best seaside resort, with pure sands and crystalline waters. This isn’t a quiet resort for contemplation. No sir – here’s where you’ll try your luck at a casino, cool down at a water park and scream with delight on fairground rides. This resort is an extremely popular summer spot for Bulgarians and those looking for a detour from the standard seaside town.

Getting There: From Sofia to Varna is roughly 7.5 hours by train and is covered by the Eurail Bulgaria Pass. From Varna, buses run about every 20 minutes or so from the Railway Station and can also be picked up across the street from the Dormition Cathedral.

The system for using the buses is simply to get on and the conductor will sell you a ticket which costs about $3, just ask to go to “Golden Sands.” Trying to say it in Bulgarian will likely prove difficult.

Sylt, Germany photo Copyright © ys-fotografie http://www.flickr.com/photos/ys-fotografie/5822480524/

The German Hamptons: Sylt, Germany

The largest German island in the North Sea, with an area of nearly 40 square miles, Sylt is connected to the mainland via the Hindenburgdamm, a rail causeway opened back in 1927. With 750 hours of sunshine per year, you’re sure to find the time to chillax.

Sylt’s nickname is the “German Hamptons” for good reason. Genteel, sophisticated, fabulous and posh, the island beckons the beautiful people with its miles of immaculate beaches, haute restaurants and high-end boutiques.

Getting There: If you prefer leaving your car at home, you can reach Sylt comfortably by train. There are several direct connections from Hamburg as well as inter-city connections from other big cities every day. The train from Hamburg to Westerland (Sylt) takes roughly three ½ hours. Ticket price starts at $70.

Brela, Croatia photo Copyright © generale http://www.flickr.com/photos/generale/1438555050/

Leave the Umbrella at Home: Brela, Croatia

Croatia has miles of coastline and plentiful islands scented with lavender, olive oil and suntan lotion. But let’s forget Dubrovnik and Hvar and Brac and head to tiny Brela. Less touristy and more relaxed, you’ll find private coves fringed with pine trees. On the Makarska Riviera, Brela also features old Dalmatian architecture a midst the beautiful blue sea.

Getting There: You can reach Brela by bus, which departs from the Split bus terminal (next to the main rail station) every 30 minutes. The journey takes one hour. Tickets must be purchased locally. Use a Eurail Croatia Pass to travel by train throughout the country after your beach visit.

Butterfly Valley, Turkey

Monarchs Welcome: Butterfly Valley, Turkey

Butterflies are free – and so are you – to make this difficult journey to Butterfly Valley. With a walk down steep cliffs or by boat, you will find yourself on an undeveloped gem deep in a canyon and framed by dreamlike blue. Between June and September, you will have fluttering company, when butterflies wisp through sultry air. If you want to stay overnight, there are basic wooden huts to fulfill your “get away from it all” dreams.

Getting There: From Istanbul to Izmir, you can use a fast ferry to cross the Sea of Marmara to Bandirma, then connect to Izmir by train and then onward to Denizli.

Train portions are covered using a Balkan Flexiass, Eurail Select including Turkey or Eurail Global Pass. Rail Europe does not sell train tickets for Turkish trains, so if you’re not buying a pass, train tickets can be purchased locally at the station. The ferry portion is NOT covered by any rail pass and tickets would need to be purchased locally at the terminal.

Rhossili Bay, Swansea Wales photo Copyright © Nigel’s Europe http://www.flickr.com/photos/nigel321/7149637725/

#1 in the UK: Rhossili Bay – Swansea, UK

This beach is all about timing. At high tide, you may just stare out at the beautiful sea. But wait. The tide falls, and there it is. A huge expanse of beach. Where it is possible to walk across the bay to Llangennith or even cross onto the Worms head. Watch for the many different birds that nest on the cliffs.

Getting There: Arrive at Swansea High Street Station. Look out for the distinctive two- tone green Gower buses. Take the 118 Gower Explorer from Swansea City Center. Direct Journey time from Swansea to Rhossili is 50-65 minutes.

There are direct rains to Swansea from London, Manchester, Bristol and Cardiff with good connections from the West Midlands, North East, South & South West England. Use the frequent local bus services between the Rail & Bus stations in Swansea for connections to Gower Explorer services.

Playa de La Concha – San Sebastian Spain photo Copyright © Mario Antonio Pena Zapatería http://www.flickr.com/photos/oneras/2649680280/

Sand and the City: Playa de La Concha, San Sebastian Spain

Spain has bountiful beaches and coastline. But La Concha (“shell” in English) is smack-dab in a city – and may be the nicest beach near a metropolitan area in all of Europe. And a bonus is the prime Basque location for some of Spain’s tastiest tapas – although here they are called pinxtos.

From the main train station, cross the Maria Cristina Bridge and the magnificent Cathedral will be in front of you. The beach is on your left, with family-friendly Playa de Ondarreta beyond that and the Monte Igueldo a little further. At the near end of Playa de la Concha is a nice promenade with a carousel that’s fun for all ages.

Getting There: Take the train from Madrid to San Sebastian – 5h 20m, fares from $80, train from Barcelona to San Sebastian –5h 30m, fares from $94, train from Burgos to San Sebastian – 3h, fares from $35.

Dune du Pilat, France photo Copyright © Mark Waters http://www.flickr.com/photos/markwaters/152016375/

The Tallest Beach: Dune du Pilat – France

Welcome to the tallest sand dune in Europe. The Great Dune of Pyla or Pilat is located in La Teste-de-Buch in the Arcachon Bay, about 40 miles from Bordeaux. Pyla is the name of the closest town, Pyla-sur-Mer. You’ll have to work to get here. The beach is hidden by a 108-meter high wall of sand so you have to climb up and roll down to get there.

Getting There: Take the TGV or TER to Arcachon, then take the bus for 25 minutes. The train from Paris to Arcachon is roughly four hours, and fares start at $95. Bus tickets should be purchased locally – cost is approximately $3.

Skagen, Denmark photo Copyright © Ben_from_Dk http://www.flickr.com/photos/ben_from_dk/6083530430/

An A+ For Two Seas: Skagen, Denmark

Skagen headland is the tip of one of the world’s largest spits – a 10,000 year-old stretch of sand that keeps on growing. Right at the end of the spit, you can stand with your feet in two seas – the Skagarak Sea and the Kattagat Sea, which is unusual. On the Skagerrak coast, the waves are bigger, the water deeper. It’s exhilarating – but bathers take caution and respect nature. The Kattegat coast is the gentle side, with shallow water perfect for families. There’s also a wealth of shells and conches to collect – and you may even uncover some amber, too.

Getting There: Take private railway from Frederikshavn to Skagen – buy tickets locally. Enjoy a 50% discount with Eurail Denmark Pass or Eurail Scandinavia Pass.

Paradise Beach, Mykonos Greece photo Copyright © iriskh http://www.flickr.com/photos/irisphotos/4174842069/

BUFF BEACH: Paradise Beach (nude beach), Mykonos, Greece

Are you uninhibited? Do you love a party? Are you trying to recapture the free love vibe of the 60s? Well come on down to Paradise. Where according to sources, “you can give in to the true pleasures of life.” Here, the sunshine sparkles across a swath of cerulean blue, and the sand massages your soles and soul. Roughly half the ladies are topless, and 30% of beachgoers shed the full monty. There are two bars on the beach, and once a month during summer, a full-moon party (no pun intended) lights up the night.

Getting There: Mykonos is the most popular island destination in Greece. In the summer it’s crowded and expensive. You reach it by plane or ferry from Athens (Pireaus). Paradise Beach can be reached from Mykonos town by bus, taxi, water taxi or rented car. Buses run every half hour until 4:30 in the morning, water taxis every hour.

Plage de Tahiti – Tahiti Beach in Saint Tropez, France photo copyright © Shruti Muralidhar http://www.flickr.com/photos/polybiotique/5831577897/

Gaughin Would Go: Plage de Tahiti, Saint Tropez, France

While Mykonos is a more hedonistic, non-stop party, St. Tropez is its more elegant – but still nude – counterpart. Just a stretch of this Cote d’Azur is reserved for the birthday suited, so the modest as well as families are welcomed to lie in the sugary sand. If you plan on sipping Champagne with the glitterati along these sophisticated shores, hotel reservations should be made well in advance.

Getting There: Take the four hour, 40 minute train ride from Paris to St. Raphael; fares from $110. Hop on the bus (Varlib line 7601) to St. Tropez. The bus is less than 90 minutes and departs roughly every 2 hours from St. Raphael.

We think you’ll agree, that these are some of the best beaches in Europe and destinations that you’ll want to include in your itinerary. Whichever beach you decide to visit, don’t forget the sunblock!

The wonderful thing about Paris – aside from the art, the museums, the fashion, the cafes, the history, the architecture, the language, the pain au chocolat, the wine, the cheese, the metro, the boulevards, the Seine, and anything mentioned in Midnight in Paris – is that when (or if) you’re ever ready to leave, it’s easy to get to the next place on your list.  It may be true that, as they say, “all roads lead to Rome,” but it could also be said that “all trains lead to Paris.” Several of Europe’s most popular cities are just a quick, high-speed train ride away. For some, Paris is a fairy tale; for others, it’s a Hemingway novel; for more still, it’s a Woody Allen movie. But one thing’s for sure – these European cities are the perfect sequels to any Parisian story, no matter your genre of choice.

1. Paris to Munich

Once in Paris, all that separates you from Munich is about 523 miles and a 6-hour TGV Est train ride. Take in the sights from your roomy window seat while enjoying the classic, efficient service of the TGV train system, as you travel from Paris to Munich.

Choose between Economy (second class), Comfort (first class), or Premier (business class). Economy offers you all the trappings of a comfortable train ride – spacious seats, power outlets, and reading lights. Comfort class adds roomier seats, more legroom, and quieter train cars to the mix. Premier class is for the serious business travelers, with all of these amenities and a meal service at your seat. All travelers are welcome to sample the TGV bar, which offers films on DVD, magazines, games for children, Paris Metro tickets, even USB sticks.

City Night Line – Paris to Munich © DB AG

If you prefer the conveniences of overnight travel, the City Night Line train is your best bet. This is a popular train and it fills up quickly, so advance reservations are required and can be purchased online. Take your pick of 6 person couchettes, 3 or 4 person compartments, or double and single sleeping compartments. With a full service restaurant and bar service on most routes, you might even be able to sneak in dinner or breakfast — or both. Passengers in the deluxe single or double compartments receive a complimentary welcome drink in their compartments, as well.

Jackie’s Travel Tip: I loved taking the overnight trains in Europe! I wouldn’t choose that option every time, because I do also love the feeling of sitting with my nose pressed against the window, watching the landscapes quietly pass in the daylight, but overnight trains can’t be beaten for convenience. The couchettes are a good deal, but I recommend earplugs. And I always try to treat myself to a nicer compartment every now and then, because – I mean, why not?

2. Paris to Berlin

Although Berlin is about 130 miles further from Paris than Munich is, the train route is just as simple. The train from Paris to Berlin combines the TGV and ICE services – TGV Est from Paris to Frankfurt, and ICE from Frankfurt to Berlin. The total travel time is about eight hours. Many travelers like to get a good long day train route crossed off their European to-do lists, and this route would be a scenic one to check off.

When you arrive in Berlin, you’ll be rested – possibly even restless? – and ready to do some exploring. The Berlin City Sightseeing Tour is a good place to start and will give you a thorough overview of the city, from the Berlin Wall to the Brandenburg Gate and even the Zoological Garden Railway Station.

Jackie’s Travel Tip: I used the Malaga City Sightseeing Tour when I visited that city just over a year ago, even though I don’t generally like activities that are blatantly “touristy.” I used it half as a tour service and half as a means of basic transportation – I didn’t have to pay for the public bus system since this sightseeing bus pretty much had a stop at each of the main areas around the city. I was able to use that money for the wonderful food instead! City Sightseeing tours are definitely worth looking into for your trip.

3. Paris to Cologne

Thalys high-speed train. © Thalys

Tired of Germany yet? Us neither. The train route from Paris to Cologne utilizes the sleek Thalys train, TGV’s often overlooked cousin. This 300 mile trip will only set you back about 3 hours, which is the perfect amount of time to whip out your guidebook or journal and plan for your next adventure. The Thalys is known for its streamlined design and gourmet meals — meals are served in first class for every route over 50 minutes long, and the menu changes with the seasons.

Jackie’s Travel Tip: I’ve never personally ridden the Thalys (not yet, I should say), but when I was working in Rail Europe’s contact center I heard plenty of great reviews. Apparently the VIP Thalys lounge in the Cologne railway station is an excellent place to pass a few hours — you’ll have to try it out and report back!

4. Paris to Luxembourg

A lot of people forget about Luxembourg. The TGV didn’t  though, and travel time from Paris to Luxembourg is only about 2 hours — just enough time to take a break from the hustle of traveling and relax with some charming views out the window.

Like Berlin, this city also has a City Sightseeing Tour option. It’ll take you to sights you didn’t even know you wanted to see. Fortress Museum? Luxembourg Casino? Wenceslas Cultural Circular Walk? Yes please. If you’re traveling with a Eurail Pass that includes Benelux, make sure not to miss out on the “lux” portion of that medley.

Jackie’s Travel Tip:  I haven’t heard many stories about Luxembourg, but I’d like to! My tip here is to visit it, take notes, take pictures, and share your stories with us! We need some unique and fun picture submissions for our newly launched Instagram account, @RailEurope.

5. Paris to Milan

If you’re heading down to Italy, Milan is a great place to start. Being the northernmost of the four most popular cities – Milan, Rome, Florence, and Venice – it’s as easy of a jumping off point for Italy as Paris is for the rest of the big European cities. Take a direct TGV train the whole 7 hours from Paris to Milan, or try out the fairly new Thello overnight train.

Thello overnight train from Paris to Milan

The Thello offers both couchettes and sleeping compartments, and attendants are available to assist passengers at all times. Breakfast is included in your ticket whether you travel in Economy or Comfort class, and dinner meals are available for purchase in the restaurant cars.

Jackie’s Travel Tip: I know for a fact that this train sells out in a heartbeat, as do many of the overnight trains. This is because there is usually only one train running per night, whereas during the day you normally have the option of several different departure times. The Thello also requires its own ticket – it isn’t covered by any rail pass. This means you get to save one day on your pass to use for that day trip you just can’t stop thinking about. You know you want to.

6. Paris to Venice

The Paris to Venice train route offers the ultimate night train experience – at just over 13 hours, this trip allows time for a good night’s sleep, a leisurely breakfast, and some morning sightseeing outside your window. This Paris to Venice option is also serviced by the Thello, and it’s the only direct service between the two cities. If you’d like to travel during the day, you’ll need to travel from Paris to Milan and Milan to Venice.

When you arrive in Venice, well-rested and savvy overnight train traveler that you are, you’ll probably want to start exploring the city in its most famous method of transportation: boats! The Venice in 1 Day Tour combines a boat ride with a walking tour and covers all of the main sights.

Jackie’s Travel Tip: When I was working in Rail Europe’s Contact Center, travelers would always ask if they should fly from Paris to Venice rather than taking the train. My vote is to always, always choose a train if you have the option. Often the money you might save with a budget flight will just be spent on baggage fees and transportation to and from the airports. I think a lot of people are worried about losing time with that 13 hour train ride, but when you think about it, you aren’t really losing much time – you’d be sleeping and eating a fabulous Italian breakfast anyway, so why not do it on a train?

7. Paris to Barcelona

We’ve saved one of the most popular for last – Paris to Barcelona. Once Paris gets travelers in the mood to play, many feel the urge to frolic to Barcelona to continue the party. When traveling by day, you’ll need to take two trains: Paris to Figueres (6 hours) on a TGV train, and Figueres to Barcelona on an AVE train (1 hour).

Elipsos Train Hotel from Paris to Barcelona

The only direct option for this route is the overnight Elipsos train. This train is nicknamed the “train hotel,” and rightfully so – it’s the most elegant and most expensive of all the night trains we’ve mentioned. But don’t worry, you’ll definitely get the most for your money here: in the most deluxe compartment, you’ll receive a single or double bed, a private shower and toilet, magnetic key cards for your door, complimentary water and toiletries, complimentary breakfast and dinner, and access to the VIP lounges in certain train stations.

Jackie’s Travel Tip: When I traveled to Barcelona, I used the Barcelona Card to get around the city. The card covers public transportation (and the metro system is awesome), plus free entrance or discounts to almost any activity you can think of — even things that aren’t usually tourist activities. I used the card for everything from the famous Casa Batllo to a tiny, semi-hidden spa off one of the main streets. I used it for restaurant discounts and entrance into a bar one night, and it even had discounts for things like bicycle rentals, sports activities, and certain shops.

Paris is the perfect setting for any traveler’s European escapades, but it’s only the beginning of your story. Where will you take it next?

Amsterdam, The Netherlands Photo courtesy of Debbie Durken

Why is Amsterdam one of the Best Cities in Holland?

Amsterdam is considered the Venice of Northern Europe thanks to its beautiful network of canals. The capital of The Netherlands is also a world-class cultural center with an openness and tolerance for alternative lifestyles and coffee shops sans espresso.

Amsterdam Centraal Station (CS) is at the heart of the city and can easily be reached from Schiphol airport within 15 minutes. Miss the train? Not to worry – they run every ten minutes. The Centraal Station’s impressive Neo-Renaissance building has a unique location. Situated on three man-made islands, themselves resting on over 8,000 wooden piles that have been driven deep into the sandy soil. Several canals that have recently been added to the UNESCO Heritage list surround the train station.

Amsterdam Highlights: Consider Amsterdam a life-sized dollhouse. The charming 17^th century historical atmosphere makes the whole city seem intimate. Small-scale buildings, little gathering squares and narrow streets add to the Lilliputian allure.

Yet the city has the highest museum density in the world. Van Gogh is likely Holland’s most famous artistic son, and his eponymous museum here has many famed works from the tortured, earless artiste. The Rijksmuseum ranks as one of the worlds finest, and includes masterpieces from Rembrandt and Vermeer. The Holland Pass provides free entry into the Rijksmuseum.

One can’t leave without visiting the Anne Frank House (even the self-loving Biebs made a recent stop.) Tour the rooms behind the bookcase, where a young Jewish girl spent two years of her life hiding from the Nazis.

There are a few ways to get around this city of tulips: Take a canal bus, which uses a hop-on/hop-off system similar to a tour bus. With 14 stops near top tourist attractions, including the Heineken Brewery, you’ll hear English commentary that offers insight you may not find in a guidebook. If you want to travel more like a local, rent a bicycle and get lost in the city’s maze of culturally diverse neighborhoods.

Top Day Trips from Amsterdam – Hop On-Board!

Delft:  56 minutes by train. Train tickets from Amsterdam to Delft start at $17.

The East Gate of Delft. Photo © NBTC

Delft – a city of blue, of orange, of light. All artistically represented in this charming and historic town. Delft has two train stations, one in the city center and Delft Zuid, about a 20-minute walk from downtown.

A home port of the Dutch East India Company, the town quickly developed in the Dutch Golden Age. This period spanned the 17^th century, when the Dutch became the most acclaimed society in the world thanks to their prowess in trade, science and art.

You can still see this prowess on parade at the Delft Blue Porcelain Factory. This is the last remaining Delftware factory from the 17^th century where the distinctive blue and white earthenware is still produced by skilled craftspeople. The building houses a museum, a factory, a garden and café where you can enjoy high tea served in original Delft cups and saucers. You can view the traditional production process plus paint your own Delft tile under the guidance of a master painter.

While wandering the streets and canals of Delft, you may be struck by the soft light and the interplay of color. Local artist Johannes Vermeer certainly was, and his city provided plenty of inspiration for the few canvases he created during his lifetime.  The Vermeer Centre offers a visual voyage of discovery through the artist’s life, work and city.

The Hague – 30 minutes by train. Train tickets from Amsterdam to The Hague start at $11.

The Peace Palace in The Hague. Photo © NBTC

Compared to Amsterdam, which is known for its liberalism, The Hague is conservative and somewhat sedate. You’ll find lots of green space, great architecture, shopping and a unique location on the water. The old part of the city centers on governmental buildings such as the Binnenhof.

Next door you’ll find The Mauritshuis Museum, located in a 17th-century palace. One of the best art houses in The Netherlands, the building holds the city’s former Royal Picture Gallery, including a collection of paintings by the Dutch Old Masters.  Het Paleis, a former royal townhouse, was recently converted into a museum dedicated to the famous Dutch graphic artist M.C. Escher.

Children and adults alike adore the miniature city of Madurodam. Featuring all the highlights of The Netherlands but on a 1:25 scale, the city is composed of typical Dutch buildings and landmarks around the country.

What can’t be duplicated is The Hague’s prime location on the North Sea. Travelers from all over Holland come to Scheveningen Beach to relax and play. The Pier, the largest in the Netherlands, has a 200-foot lookout tower, bungee jumping, a casino and restaurant.

Lisse: Take train to Schiphol to catch 35-minute bus ride to Lisse.

The Keukenhof (garden of Europe) in Lisse, The Netherlands. Best place to see tulips in Holland. Photo © NBTC

If you’re looking for tulips in Holland, this is where you’ll find them. The most popular attraction in Lisse is Keukenhof – the garden of Europe, open only during spring, when more than 7 million tulips, daffodils and hyacinths, are in bloom. The flower parade Bloemencorso Bollenstreek  is held through the streets of town and is a fragrant fiesta. In August, the fantasy festival Castlefest is held in the gardens of Castle Keukenhof. For a historical overview of the Dutch’s bulb boom, be sure to visit the Museum De Zwarte Tulp (Black Tulip Museum).

Haarlem:  15 minutes by train. Train tickets from Amsterdam to Haarlem start at $6.

The polders of Holland. Haarlem, The Netherlands. Photo © NBTC

Haarlem is Holland’s most Flemish city, and is easily seen by foot. As the town slowly expanded, so did the tulip fields. Today, rail travelers between Amsterdam and Haarlem will see blooming bulb fields in Spring. Since the 1630s, Haarlem has been a major trading center for tulips in Holland, and it was at the epicenter during “tulip mania.”

The Dutch Golden Age also made Haarlem into a center for the arts. You can see the city’s finest works on display at the Frans Hals Museum. With more than a dozen works by Hals himself, the museum also has art from the 15^th century to the present.

Another of Holland’s lesser known museum gems, the Corrie ten Boom Museum is similar in theme to the Anne Frank house, but still furnished, making it easy to see what life was like for those that lived there during the war. Stand in the “hiding place” where Jews were hidden from the Nazis, and see the “all-clear” sign used to indicated when it was safe to come and go. Truly an eye-opening destination.

Rotterdam: 35 minutes from Amsterdam by high-speed Thalys trains. Train tickets from Amsterdam to Rotterdam start at $30.

Rotterdam’s unique Cubic Houses. Photo © NBTC

Rotterdam, until recently, was the world’s largest port. This seaside location helped to grow the city into largest economic center in The Netherlands at the turn of the twentieth century.

The thrust toward modernity is on display in the architecture around the city. The Kijk-Kubis – or Museum House, is a fully furnished showcase house among an unusual collection of cube-shaped homes. The Kunsthal Rotterdam is designed by famed avant-garde architect (and native son) Rem Koolhaas. The museum stages some 25 exhibitions a year in a wide range of disciplines: new art, design, photography, and frequently experiments with themes never seen before. Like lingerie.

For aural art, the annual North Sea Jazz Festival is held every second week of July. Founded by a wealthy businessman and jazz lover, the fest began in 1976 and has grown to 15 stages, 1,200 artists and nearly 25,000 visitors a day, and is known for the many musical styles it presents.

Just east of Rotterdam, the windmills of Kinderdijk are one of the most beloved and best-known Dutch attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accessible by boat, you’ll learn more about their fascinating history while on board.

Utrecht: 32 minutes by train. Train tickets from Amsterdam to Utrecht start at $10.

Canal tour in Utrecht, The Netherlands. Photo © NBTC

Built around the Dom Tower, which you can see from nearly any vantage point in the city, it’s hard to get lost in this attractive, car-free city center. Wharf cellars house cafes and terraces by the beautiful canals, and magnificent monuments frame the scene in this centuries-old university town.

In between the city’s superb shopping that line the canals, you can visit myriad cultural attractions including the Dick Bruna Huis, the beloved creator of Miffy, the sweet little bunny cartoon. An unusual museum is the Speelklok, which presents and restores an internationally renowned array of self-playing mechanical musical instruments. Park Lepelenburg is a calming respite in town with its botanic gardens, as is the Wilhelminapark.

Maastricht: 2 hours and 24 minutes by train. Train tickets from Amsterdam to Maastricht start at $33.

Shopping in Maastricht. Photo © NBTC

A university city at its heart, you can hobnob with the erudite elite as well as fellow travelers at Vrijthof, the city’s main square. Maastricht is an easily walkable city – so put down that guidebook and just wander through the neighborhoods.

Or head below ground to the Casemates, an underground network of tunnels built as shelter for guns and cannons. For centuries, the famous Caves of St. Pieter were used to quarry marl, creating an underground labyrinth with over 20,000 passageways. These turned out to be very handy hiding places for residents during WWII sieges.

Back above ground, shop, eat and wander at the Inner City – Maastricht’s main shopping district. Winner of numerous design awards, the Entre Deux is a recenly-rebuilt center that includes a bookstore located inside a former 13^th century church. The British newspaper The Guardian deemed it the world’s most beautiful bookshop.

Hoorn - Trains run from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Hoorn every 30 minutes. You can purchase tickets locally or use a Eurail Benelux Pass.

Hoorn, The Netherlands photo courtesy of © Elisa Atene. http://www.flickr.com/photos/elisa_atene/8504623816/

Framed by a picturesque port, the town of Hoorn has an historic center paved with cobblestone streets and surrounded by charming antique houses. Hungry? Head to Hoofdtoren, a cozy restaurant in a 500-year-old defense tower. Popular with the locals and tourists alike, you can sample specialties like mussels and ale, plus herring either raw or pickled.

Enkhuizen: 57 minutes by train. Train tickets from Amsterdam to Enkhuizen start at $15.

Enkhuizen, The Netherlands photo courtesy of © die.tine. http://www.flickr.com/photos/die_tine/4961055204/

For a slice of authentic 19^th century sailor life, head to this town’s Zuiderzee Museum. Covering 15 acres, you’ll find authentic dwellings including a fish-curing shed, a mill, a cheese warehouse, a church and much more. Staff and volunteers demonstrate historical crafts from everyday life at the beginning of the previous century.

With a Eurail Benelux Pass, you can visit not just Amsterdam, but take numerous day trips and visit the top cities in The Netherlands. Think traditional towns filled with tulips and windmills, modern architectural wonders and historical monuments. This pass also covers Belgium and Luxembourg, both filled with bountiful charms. Three countries. One pass. Get on your wooden shoes and walk around the wonder.

Plaza Puerta del Sol Noche in Madrid, Spain.

If Paris is the artsy kid in class, Berlin the rebel, and Rome the classy one, then Madrid is definitely the overachiever. Sometimes it’s all art museums and a quiet glass of wine in the Centro Historico, and then all of a sudden it becomes a blur of tipsy tapas in the Retiro gardens and midnight frolicking in the streets. Madrid is the one that does it all and still manages to get its homework in on time.

You can do it all, too, if you know where to start.  If art museums are what you seek, try the world-famous Prado (housing works by Francisco de Goya, Titian, Peter Paul Rubens, and more) or the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia (Reina Sofia for short) to see Picasso’s Guernica.  For tapas and wine in the evening, head along the bustling Calle Cava Baja, or for coffee try one of the many trendy cafes lining the plazas and Retiro, the massive park in the city center. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the ancient, sacred churches and monasteries of Spain, try the Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales, or Monastery of Barefoot Royals – a 16^th century Franciscan convent.

Once Madrid has worn you out, head south for a more relaxing stay in the hedonistic region of Andalusia, known mostly for its capital city of Seville. It’s all play and no work down here: orange trees line the streets and medieval churches peek out from around the corner. You‘ll notice parks popping up every few blocks and you might hear the quiet Guadalquivir River running through it all – you might even join the locals walking along its bank, lost either in thought or the song playing through their headphones. There’s no doubt that Seville is Madrid’s playful little sister – and Spain’s little garden of delights.

Although these cities can, at times, seem worlds apart from each other, they do have one thing in common: the high-speed AVE trains. Here’s your study-guide for traveling from Madrid to Seville by train – be careful, there may be a pop quiz later.

Distance from Madrid to Seville: 329.5 miles

The AVE Train: second class (economy), first class (comfort), and business class (premier)

Economy class on the AVE train is traveler-friendly in every way – and even friendlier towards travelers’ wallets. With power outlets at your seat and video service offered on most routes, you’ll find plenty to hold your attention while the children occupy themselves with the board games provided in each car.

Comfort class on the AVE train is probably what you imagine when you think of riding the high-speed trains in Europe: bigger windows for better viewing, power outlets at your seat for camera charging, complimentary newspapers and more leg room than you’ll know what to do with. Delicious food and beverages are available for purchase.

Premier class on the AVE train is pure luxury: video, audio, and power outlets at every seat; a welcome drink and complimentary meal, served on your linen-covered table; admission to AVE lounges; larger seats, more legroom, more elbowroom – just more of all the good stuff.

Jackie’s Travel Tip: When you receive your tickets, economy/second class will be listed as” Tourista,” comfort/first class will be listed as “Preferente,” and premier/business class will be listed as “Club class.”

Seville, Spain Photo courtesy of Marilyn Pageau

How to Travel from Madrid to Seville with a Rail Pass

If you’ve purchased a rail pass that includes Spain, the pass will cover the ticket price for any train you’d like to take. You’ll just need to purchase the seat reservation for your specific train once you’ve mapped out your schedule. Reservations can be purchased in advance and should be – any route leading to or from Madrid is a popular one and can sell out quickly.

Jackie’s Travel Tip: Many travelers question the validity of a rail pass – “If I still have to buy a reservation,” they wonder, “is it really even saving me any money?” The short answer: if you’re in Spain, probably! In Spain, the high-speed trains are particularly expensive, more so than in Italy, Germany, and even sometimes France. Therefore, if you’re taking three or more train tips while in Spain, paying for each one individually can really add up. Sometimes the cost of an overnight train, for example, will be more than half the cost of a rail pass by itself.

We always, always recommend that every traveler prices out his or her entire train route before buying either a pass or full-fare tickets. Generally it’s safe to say that with three or more trains, a pass will be a better value, even with the reservation supplements. Just don’t wait until the last minute to buy everything – prices for everything start to go up once the travel date approaches.

How to Travel from Madrid to Seville with a Ticket

The trains between Madrid and Seville use the Madrid Puerta de Atocha station and the Seville Santa Justa station. When you’re purchasing tickets on our website, you’ll be excited to know that we are directly connected to the RENFE ticketing system, and tickets can therefore be issued electronically and prices are the exact same as they are locally, at the stations in Spain.

This means that after you’ve placed your order, you’ll receive an e-mail containing a link that you will click to open up and print out your ticket. Tickets must be printed before arriving at the train station

Jackie’s Travel Tip: If you print out your ticket and lose track of it, don’t fret. You can print out the ticket as many times as you need, using that same link in the e-mail you received. Just make sure that you print it out before heading to the train station, because you won’t be able to print it out once you’re there!

No matter what you do, make sure to take a hint from both Madrid and Seville while you’re in Spain – you’ll need both that over-achieving, multi-tasking attitude and the more playful, more hedonistic tendencies to get the most out of these two truly incredible cities. And the best part? Your only homework is to eat as many tapas as possible.

© Prague Information Service linked to www.praguewelcome.cz.jpg

Every time I’ve ventured off to Europe, I’ve heard travelers raving about Krakow – in fact, they rave about Poland in general. They tell me it’s lively, inexpensive, friendly, and quirky – and it seems to satisfy that craving for the eastern European vibe that’s become more and more alluring to travelers in recent years. It offers travelers the typical European delights: castles, a national park, art galleries, opera houses, theaters, and a couple of Nobel prize winners – and there’s even one of the world’s oldest salt mines right beyond the city limits.

Prague, meanwhile, is old news – old, beautiful, classical, historical news. It’s a city caught between east and west – more eastern in appearance and western in attitude. Even though Prague has become much more heavily visited in the past several years, there are a few quiet corners of the city that’ll get you feeling like you’ve stumbled upon a secret that Europe is still just barely keeping.

Many travelers don’t realize how easy it is to go from Prague into Krakow (a quick 240 miles) until they are already in Europe, and by then it may be difficult to secure tickets on the single direct train, an overnight one, that runs between them. Luckily, tickets can be purchased online about 60 days in advance, giving you plenty of time to secure a spot and research that salt mine.

Sukiennice Krakowie Museum in Krakow, Poland. Photo ©Janusz-Lesniak

How to travel from Prague to Krakow with a ticket

Tickets can (and should!) be purchased online in advance. They are available in both first class (comfort) and second class (economy). When looking at the different prices offered for tickets, click on the “view” button below the price, which will open a dropdown screen that gives details about the types of accommodation offered in each class of service. This train offers both seats and sleeping compartments.

Jackie’s Insider Tip: You can also travel between these cities by daylight, but you’ll need to change trains along the way. Currently the European railways do not offer any direct daytime service for this route. To find tickets for daytime trains, search for a ticket from Prague to Katowice, and then search for one from Katowice to Krakow. The trains within Poland can only be booked up to 30 days in advance.

How to travel from Prague to Krakow with a European East rail pass

Your rail pass will cover the ticket price, but since this is an overnight train, you will also need to purchase a reservation for your seat or sleeping compartment. The reservation for a first class sleeping compartment includes complimentary breakfast. To purchase the reservation in advance on our website, make sure to click “Yes” in the section that asks if you will be traveling with a rail pass. You will see this question right after you enter the departure date and time.

Insider Tip: The European East Pass is one of only three rail passes that includes Poland. If you’re interested in exploring this country and the surrounding region, and if you plan to take more than three trips by train, this pass will probably be a less expensive option than individual point-to-point tickets, even with the reservations you’ll need to purchase for overnight or premier trains.

Got everything planned for your trip between these two cultural gems? Don’t stop there — the European East Pass also covers travel in and between Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary in addition to Poland and the Czech Republic… and I heard there might be another  salt mine in Austria.

So you’ve figured out that on your upcoming trip to Britain, you want to take a train to London. This is a good start. As soon as you begin your search, you realize that there are several different ways you could do this – and several different train companies that all kind of look the same at first glance. Which one is the right choice? Do they all have wifi? Is there luggage storage? Where will you go after London? What if you choose the wrong train?

No worries, we’ve got this. Here’s our list of Britain’s top six railway companies and the different routes that they service, amenities they offer, and fun facts to help tell them apart.

First Great Western Trains in Britain

You might expect a lot from a train company with a superlative in its name – and, well, why shouldn’t you? First Great Western has definitely earned the “first” in its title. It operates the UK’s only high-speed inter-city, commuter, and sleeper train system (meaning it’s probably one of the first to appear in your UK trains search results); the company states that its central mission is to “put customers first; and, of course, it’s the first of the UK trains to be mentioned here on our list.

First Great Western carries one and a half million passengers a week across 9,000 services, covering everything from London and South Wales to Devon and Cornwall. The trains were recently renovated to include environmentally friendly engines, updated seating accommodations, and more efficient on-board facilities. If you’re looking to take any trains to London from a nearby town or the English countryside, First Great Western will probably be among your very first choices. Let Rail Europe be your first option for First Great Western train tickets, search now.

Fact to remember: Widest variety of service.

Britain’s East Midlands Trains

While First Great Western’s most notable feature is its range and variety of service, East Midlands is known for creating the perfect user experience. These trains reduce the stress of traveling in almost every single way: the atmosphere onboard mimics the comfort of home with the lighting, tables, and curtains tailored precisely for relaxation. The schedules are flexible and trains run frequently, meaning you’ll probably have a few to choose from no matter which time of day you decide to set out.

This company operates trains to and from London and around the East Midlands region, the most popular destinations being Liverpool, Derby, Crewe, Nottingham, and Leicester. If you’re planning to take a train to London and then heading onwards via the Eurostar, there are East Midlands trains leaving from Leicester, Wellingborough, and Kettering early enough to arrive in London before the first Eurostar train leaves.

Search Rail Europe’s offering of East Midlands Trains.

Fact to remember: Use these trains to connect to Eurostar bright and early, before everyone else wakes up!

Traveling on Virgin Trains in Britain

Along with First Great Western, Virgin Trains are probably among the better-known British railway companies. These high-speed trains, traveling up to 125 miles per hour, give travelers a taste of the classic, luxurious high-speed train experience that brought many of them to Britain in the first place. First class offers complimentary wifi (it’s pay-as-you-go in second class), meal service at your seat Monday-Friday, power outlets for your electronic devices, and a Quietzone for getting some work done – or for a bit of procrastination in the form of window-gazing before breaking out the work

Virgin trains to London leave from Manchester, Liverpool, and Birmingham every hour, and the Virgin-run West Coast Main Line connects England, Scotland, and Wales. You’ll experience either the electric Pendolino trains or the diesel Super Voyager trains, depending on your route. Virgin hopes to increase West Coast Main Line speeds to 135 miles per hour in the near future. Virgin train tickets are available from Rail Europe, get fares and schedules now.

Fact to remember: If you hear mention of the terms “Quietzone” or “Pendolino,” it’s probably a Virgin train.

Traditional East Coast Trains

The East Coast Trains are for the traveler who ventures a little further off the well-worn path, and who appreciates the traditional train rides of old as opposed to a modern, high-speed vessel. Running from north to south along the eastern side of Britain, each East Coast Train’s quick jaunt to and from London allows travelers a chance to see a more local, routine side of Britain.

The 300+ miles of railway lines link cities such as London, Peterborough, Leeds, Newcastle, Edinburgh, and beyond. Hopping on one of these trains to London after stepping off a modern Virgin or regal First Great Western train will give you an appreciation for the more traditional, classic trains of Britain’s past. Get your East Coast Train tickets from Rail Europe.

Fact to remember: For the far-venturing, nostalgic train traveler.

British Grand Central Trains – Let the Games Begin!

The Grand Central trains operate a bit differently than all of the other British railway companies mentioned here: they are not part of a government franchise, and therefore they receive no public subsidy. This means that – while all British train companies strive to please the customer above all else – these trains depend on it for their livelihood. In both first and second class, you’ll have access to power outlets and complimentary wifi, more windows than you’ll know what to do with, a bit of extra legroom for good measure, and – for the kids – game boards available on every table in Standard class! Choose from chess, Monopoly, and Cluedo. And when we say “kids,” we mean “the kids inside all of us.”

Trains to London arrive at Kings Cross Station, and if you’re taking the train out from London you can head towards Yorkshire or the Northeast. Either way, make sure to bring your Monopoly playing pieces and your best game face. Search for the Grand Central Train that best fits your itinerary.

Fact to remember: The games, of course. And the incredible customer service!

The Extensive Rail System of Britain’s CrossCountry Trains

For travelers looking for more than just trains to London, there is the CrossCountry network. From Aberdeen to Penzance and Stansted to Cardiff, this is Britain’s most extensive rail system. And you’ll find that the interior of these trains is pretty extensive as well, with 35% more seating and 25% more luggage space. You won’t even need to vacate that space to go find snacks, as the train staff will provide food and beverages for purchase directly at your seat. This is one of the simpler routes as far as train features and amenities go – but there’s a reason they say that less is more, after all. And on these trains, you definitely get more of the important stuff – more traveling distance, more personal space, and more relaxation. Find your CrossCountry train tickets now.

Fact to remember: Britain’s most extensive rail system – and your most extensive legroom.

There you go, that concludes our list of top UK trains – your only problem now will be constructing a route that allows you to ride each of these trains at least once!

The Rail Europe website can help you plan your trip on British trains. Offering a direct connection to the British train inventory and e-tickets, Rail Europe can make your trip aboard UK trains in Britain, well, great! Buy your British train tickets today.

Austrian landscape

Spring is a great time to travel from Austria to Hungary – and it’s so easy to see it all by train with a Eurail Austria-Hungary Pass. This pass gives you unlimited train travel on the national rail networks of Austria and Hungary. There may be borders now, but the efficient rail system makes your travel boundless.

To quote the Von Trapps: These are a few of our favorite things. Art, architecture, castles and even caves. Here are some of the top sights in Austria.

Austria: From Museums to Caves to Cafés, What to See First!

The Albertina in Vienna

In the Innere Stadt (First District), the Albertina is home to one of the the largest print rooms in the world. Explore over 50,000 drawings and one-million old master prints, dating from the late Gothic period all the way to the present. Works span the greats that go by just one name: Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Rembrandt, Rubens, Warhol, Rauschenberg and Klimt.

Newly renovated in the original Louis XI decor, the 21 Habsburg State Rooms including the magnificent Hall of the Muses is now open to the public. Spread out over two floors, you can see how the 1% of the past used to live.

After admiring all of the works. Enjoy a coffee break at the DO&CO Albertina, a café located on the ground floor, which overlooks the relaxing Burggarten.

See more cultural classics with a Vienna Card

With the Vienna Card you’ll enjoy 72-hours of free public transport, plus discounts to museums, guided tours and much more. It’s a deal worth singing about – but we’ll leave that to the Vienna Boys Choir.

Eisriesenwelt – Ice Caves in Werfen Austria

Werfen: World of Ice Giants

High above the village of Werfen, you’ll find the find the entrance to the Earth’s biggest labyrinth of ice caves, the Eisriesenwelt. Nearly 30 miles long, this wondrous world was discovered way back in 1879 and features formations and sculptures frozen in time.

Before you head into the caves for your 1¼ hour tour, lamps are handed out to visitors. The first stop is the Poselt Hall, with the magnificent Poselt Tower stalagmite (those are the ones on the bottom.) Marvel at the greatest area of ice growth, the Great Ice Embankment, a massive formation rising up over 75 feet. Stalactites (from the ceiling) in Hymir’s Castle created the so-called ice organ.  For an even more stunning effect, the ice formations are sometimes lighted.

The caves are open May to October and you will need to be dressed for the cold, even during summer months.

Salzburg: Café Tomaselli: Mozart’s Favorite

Let’s say you’re a composer with a bit of writers block. Where to go? If you’re Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, it was Das Tomaselli. This café is nothing short of an institution in the baroque city of Salzburg.

Founded in 1705, the café is still the place in town to see and be seen, especially during the time of the Salzburg Festival. Local dignitaries, celebrities of stage and screen and tourists all convene at this coffeehouse of old world charm. Man (and woman) cannot live by coffee alone, so make sure to try the homemade cakes and strudels. But it won’t be a waiter or waitress who serves you a slice. Here, the sweets are presented by the “cake-maid.”

In the warmer months try and score a coveted seat on the terrace, one of the most sought-after relaxation spots in the city. Additional seating is also offered at the pretty Tomaselli-Kiosk on the Square starting in spring.

See More with a Salzburg Card

With a Salzburg Card, you’ll enjoy public transportation as well as travel on the Hohensalzburg Fortress funicular railway, which leads from the heart of Old Town up to the city’s most visible landmark. Your card also includes a free ride on the Untersberg cableway, plus over 20 cultural attractions. See everything from the Residenz to the World of Beer.

Graz: Arms, Arts & Armor

Imagine warriors clad in iron, rushing to defend their borders. Today’s armies rely on modern materials for protection, but 400 years ago, war uniforms were much different.

The Landeszeughaus, also known as the Styrian Armory in Graz, is the largest original armory in the world. It holds over 30,000 pieces of weaponry, tools and suits of armor for both battle and parades. Built in the mid-1600s, this war chest of weapons was enough to arm 5000 soldiers against the invading Ottoman Empire.

What makes the armory unique today is that all items are still organized and stored the way they were 400 years ago.  To truly appreciate the Zeughaus, take the guided tour, where you will learn about the regions’ history, discover how ammunition for the first gunpowder weapons was made, and marvel at heavy, full body armor which rendered fighters unable to move if they fell off their horses.

View of Budapest, Hungary

Budapest Sightseeing: Above, and Below the Surface

With a Budapest Sightseeing Card, you can see much more of this historical city. Budapest is vast and broken into two parts. Don’t get stuck walking up and down hills. With this card, enjoy travel on buses, trams, the metro, cogwheel railway, trolleys and the Millennium Underground Railway. Also included, a free walking sightseeing tour in English, and entrance into the Budapest History Museum, Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Ethnography.

Budapest is known for thermal spas, café culture, goulash and paprika. But below the capital of Hungary is a labyrinth of caves – over 200 both big and small. Only nine are strictly protected by the city, and three are open to the public.

Pálvölgyi Cave

While extracting stones, speleologists discovered this cave back with its long passages and stunning stalagmite formations in 1904. The search for new passages is continuous; and since 1980 the length has exceeded by over seven miles. In 2001, the connection with the neighboring Mátyáshegyi cave was discovered and as a result of this today this cave-system is the second longest in Hungary. There are guided tours every hour, and the temperature hovers in the 50s year round. Like most caves – bring a warm jacket!

Szemlőhegyi Cave – photo © Szemlő-hegyi-barlang http://www.szemlohegyi.atw.hu/

Szemlőhegyi Cave

For a totally different take on a cave, Szemlőhegyi features steep and hill walls decorated with minerals that take on forms like cauliflower and grape bunches. Discovered in 1930, some refer to this cave as an underground flower garden thanks to its beautiful structures.  Nearly 1.5 miles in length, the cave is open to all – including the disabled – thanks to a recent renovation. There are organized tours every hour – and yes, it’s chilly!

The Castle Cave

Formed by the dissolution of natural springs after the cementation of rock, the Castle Cave is only a natural formation in parts. Residents of the Castle district continued to build out passages and cellars to use as storage and shelter. Today, it’s used simply as a tourist attraction.

Speaking of Castles: Egri Vár

Inside this mammoth palace, you’ll find an art gallery, including a display of wax figures based on characters from the book “Eclipse of the Crescent Moon” by Géza Gardonyi. There’s a weapon exhibition, a minting museum and plenty of historical artifacts. But it may be what lies below that’s most fascinating.

Take a tour of the Underground Passageways. Start at Heroes’ Hall, with a replica of the tomb of István Dobó. The passages themselves contain several examples of archaeological finds, as well as reenactments of events from the Turkish siege. The passages can only be visited by tour, which are available in English at an extra cost.

From the Lowest to the Highest: Minaret of Eger

The northernmost medieval minaret in Europe and the tallest in Hungary, the minaret is nearly 140 feet tall, and a symbol of the Turkish occupation. It is only 97 steps to the top, but be warned, the steps are slippery and the quarters are tight. Open for visitors from April to November.

Travel by Train From Austria to Hungary

Have our top sights in Austria and Hungary inspired you to take a trip? You can see it all traveling by train.

From Austria, trains travel regularly from Vienna to Budapest. The travel time is approximately 2h 46m by ÖBB Railjet high-speed trains. Reservations are required for Railjet trains and can be purchased on the Rail Europe website. If you’re traveling with a Eurail Austria-Hungary Pass the cost for the reservation is only $13. If you do not have a pass, ticket prices from Vienna to Budapest (including the reservation) start at $66.

These two countries may no longer be part of the Hapsburg Empire, but you can still rule over your vacation – travel from Austria to Hungary with a Eurail Austria-Hungary Pass from Rail Europe.

Photo by Cowin, Andrew, courtesy of German National Tourist Board

There might be this misconception that Germans have no sense of humor (although their musical choices would indicate otherwise.) But these charming, silly and touching travelers’ stories prove Germany not only has a funny side, but there’s a warmth to be found where an iron curtain once stood.

Have a travel story to tell? We all do. Share with us! Now on to the geschichte (stories).

Many of our stories from all over Europe end up in the toilet. Here are a few more that rely on potty humor. For instance, why are women in the men’s room?

Twice, in Germany, I was in a public rest room standing at the urinal minding my own business and a female attendant came in to flush all the toilets! She came right up to me, looked in the urinal next to me and flushed. First time in Nurernberg and the second time while on a tour of Neuschwanstein.- Chris Kaelin, Florida

All over Europe, you may encounter pay toilets. On the plus side, that money usually means a clean facility and a napkin to dry your hands. But when handing over that spare change, make sure it’s the right currency, or this could happen to you.

Four of us traveled across Germany a few years ago. At the Austrian border, we had to change trains. Desperate to use the restroom, we finally located it on one side of the Austrian train station. We climbed the few steps and opened the door. There stood a very tall, sturdily-built woman with a broom in her right hand, and her left hand outstretched. Seems it was a pay toilet and she wanted money — a first for us Oklahomans! We produced the only coins we had – German – and held them up to her. At that she became enraged and began screaming at us. With help from others, we learned that she was telling us that we were NOT to put that DIRTY GERMAN MONEY into HER hand! We tried to convey that we’d just entered Austria and as yet had no Austrian money and that we really needed access to a toilet. Continuing to scream at us, she raised the broom to a horizontal position and effectively blocked the door to “her” restroom. As we turned to leave and started down the stairs in defeat, we felt the sting of her triumphant final salvo. Yes, she actually swept her pile of accumulated dirt directly into our retreating backsides! Thank goodness our Austrian train came fairly soon for our attempt to complain resulted only in the shrugging of the ticket agent’s shoulders. One can only hope the introduction of the Euro has brought her peace. – Sally Burr of Kansas

Saarbrücken, Germany photo courtesy of © Adam Sporka. http://www.flickr.com/photos/adam_sporka/436825301/

Before traveling to a foreign country, it’s best to learn some basic words: Hello, thank you and most importantly…bathroom.

My future husband and I met in Kaiserslautern, Germany in 1978. He and my family were stationed there as members of the USAF. On one of our first dates we traveled to Saarbrucken to see a Queen Concert and needed to go to the bathroom. I thought I tried every way to say bathroom in German and the entire staff and most of the patrons were, by now, actively involved in trying to help me. Finally a young hostess understood what I was asking for and yelled “ah, toiletten” from her station all the way across the room. The crowd erupted in applause for her and I, quite red-faced with embarrassment by now, was shown downstairs to the facilities to the head-nodding and smiles of all. I thought my future husband would never stop laughing. Although I thought I would die of embarrassment at the time, now it is one of my most cherished memories. the concert we stopped for dinner at a nice gasthause (restaurant). Midway through our meal I realized I needed to use the restroom. Embarrassed, I wandered around the restaurant hoping to see the picture of a woman on a door. No such luck. I finally attempted to ask our waitress, but couldn’t seem to translate. – Karen Lasen Washington

And then, there is the universal language: Beer.

While visiting East Germany alone, I became really intimidated with the hustle and bustle of Leipzig. I don’t speak any German and found it hard to get around. I did, however, manage to find a pub full of Leipzig locals and decided I needed a drink. No one spoke English, but the names of different alcohols are universal. 4 hours and too many drinks to count later, the locals were teaching me German words with a newspaper and we all sang American songs that they happened to know. What a great time! – Gary Harkrader of Virginia

We love this story best. It just showcases the best of humanity. No matter where you are, where you’re from, kindness is always kaiser.

On my first trip to Europe, I traveled with my Eurail Pass. I was alone and recovering from a broken foot four months earlier, so I had a bit of a limp and a little trouble negotiating the aisles and platforms with my suitcase and duffel. I was very exciting and a bit nervous my whole journey but enjoyed every minute meeting wonderful families and people along the way. I had never been on a train before and learned all the “rules” of travel by watching others. I always tried to be at the door when the train stopped so I wouldn’t be in the way of other hurried travelers. One stop as I waited for the train to slow, the doors opened and suddenly I was picked up under my arms and gently placed on the platform. I was a little shocked and when I turned around there were two very good looking young men with beautiful smiles. One had picked me up and the other got my bags off the train. They told me in their cute German accent that they noticed I was having trouble at the last stop (they had been on the same train before) and wanted to help. I was in awe! That strangers would notice and take it upon themselves to act and help out another stranger on a train. I thanked them and they wished me a safe trip and went on their way. This was the most unexpected and kind gesture anyone has ever done for me! – Theresa Kennewick of Washington

Virgin Pendo exterior scenic traveling through the British countryside.

Train travel offers countless benefits for travelers and even for the environment. Generally, when there are plans to add in a new train line somewhere, everyone is pretty excited about it. But there are two sides to every story and where there are pro’s there are at least one or two con’s, and some of those con’s have been getting a little extra spotlight recently. While engineers continue to improve the existing railway lines that already make our lives much easier and our trips more enjoyable, they are now also taking a closer look at the way these trains affect the towns and environments through which they pass. In these articles, Germany and Mexico demonstrate the obvious benefits of rail development while England takes a step back to debate the bigger picture.

Germany is Transforming the Kinetic Energy that is Normally Lost During Train Travel

Train travel is already the most environmentally sound means of long-distance travel, beating out planes and automobiles by a long shot. However, as Germany is showing us, there is always room for improvement – and often the answer is an almost ridiculously simple one. German engineers at MTU Friedrichshafen have found that they can transform the kinetic energy that’s normally lost when the train is braking and store that energy as electricity in a battery. The train will be a hybrid vehicle, it can operate using either the diesel engine, the battery, or a combination of both. Sometimes the easiest answers are right under our noses.

Mexico is Restoring Passenger Rail Service

Here’s a part of the world that doesn’t get much attention as far as railway news goes. One thing that does come up often in discussions about Mexican transportation is the growing vehicle traffic and pollution in the country, particularly in Mexico City. Buses and automobiles are the main form of transportation between and within the crowded cities. In an effort to remedy the growing congestion, President Enrique Pena Nieto has announced plans to restore passenger rail service in Mexico. The two major routes to be affected are Mexico City to Queretaro and Merida to Punta Venada, which will target businessmen and tourists alike. It’s refreshing to see developments in train travel in areas of the world other than Europe, the United States, and Asia, and it will be interesting to see if the developments increase in regularity from here.

England is Working on a Faster Connection Between London and Birmingham

Train travel is generally so efficient and enjoyable that it’s become rare to focus on any of its potential downsides. We often center in on all of the positive ways that trains take us from point A to point B, but a certain railway plan in England is showing us that we cannot forget about the people and places that are affected by railway construction between those two points. The new HS2 train track would span the lakes at Swillington Farm, continuing on from a recently planned track that will provide a faster connection between London and Birmingham. It will be running within hundreds of yards of farmland and schools, and as the project’s completion date is estimated at 2026 at the earliest, the construction will be affecting these areas for a long time. While I think we can all agree that train travel is one of the most efficient means of transport, I think we can also agree that a continuing effort to improve the means by which people and towns are affected is as essential and inevitable as the effort to improve the trains and railway routes themselves.

In this post, we’re going to tell you about two of the best things that Europe and Britain have to offer: London and Brussels. But we’re not just going to tell you how to travel from London to Brussels by train – although that’s a pretty crucial part and we’ll definitely give you the lowdown. But more than that, we’re going to tell you about London and Brussels. We’re going to give you a proper visual. We’re hoping that if you see all of the wonderful, magical, quirky things we love about these two cities, you’ll want to head straight over there and love them as much as we do.

Travel to London – Here’s a Few Reasons Why

Parliament Square, London © British Tourist Authority

It’s amazing that we aren’t tired of London yet, isn’t it? It’s all over the movies, it’s in the books we had to read in high school, it’s where William and Kate hang out. It seems like we should be thinking, “Ok, we get it, London is pretty cool, let’s move on,” but for some reason, we aren’t saying that. Something about this city keeps us hooked.

As the capital of the United Kingdom, London is home to some of the UK’s most significant attractions. The British Museum is located right in the heart of the city, and a quick visit to this museum is like a quick visit back in time – on display you’ll find works ranging from prehistoric times to the modern day. The best part? It’s free, as are most of the major museums in London.

After you’re done viewing the historical treasures of Britain, you’ll probably want a look at its architectural wonders – and the London Eye can help you out with that. Part ferris wheel, part observatory, the London Eye is the world’s highest observation wheel. This 30-minute ride will give you plenty of photo opportunities for London’s most famous landmarks. If you’ve ever wanted to conquer your fear of heights, this is a pretty memorable way to do it. A flight on the London Eye is included with our Total London Experience tour.

Another worthwhile stop is, of course, Buckingham Palace. It’s no surprise that palaces and castles rank fairly high on many Americans’ itineraries when they head abroad – we don’t have many of our own to admire back home. And with all of the buzz surrounding the royal family both this year and last year, this would be the perfect time to stop by. If you don’t catch a glimpse of any royal family members, you can at least find entertainment in the traditional changing of the guards.

All of this sightseeing is well and good, but at some point you’ll probably need to eat something, and you might also want to find a few souvenirs. London’s answer for both of these needs can be found in the various gardens and marketplaces. Covent Garden is probably the most well known, though it’s more of a shopping area now with more modern, casual food options. Borough Market is the place for foodies – it’s London’s most renowned food market and is a source for exceptional British and international produce. Brick Lane Market is a more artistic scene, located at the northern end of Brick Lane along Cheshire Street in east London. It’s open every Sunday from around 8am to 2pm.

Once you’ve had a nap and recovered from exploring the city all day, you might get the urge to head out for a night on the town. Should this urge arise, you could catch one of the incredible West End theater shows, or you could opt for a comedy show in the fantastic Jongleurs. If you’d rather hop from bar to restaurant and people-watch while you’re at it, the vibrant Soho district is probably more your speed. Choose between jazz bars, karaoke venues, and lively little restaurants.

JACKIE’S TRAVEL TIP: A lot of people forget about the city transportation cards or city tours that are available for some of Europe and Britain’s most popular destinations. If you’re planning to hop on the Tube, the Oyster Card  will make your life so much easier. It’s a pay-as-you-go smart card that will save you from having to buy those little paper tickets for the Tube over and over again.

The London Pass is another good one – not only does it cover public transportation, but it also offers discounts at over 70 of London’s main attractions. You’ll even get what the information pamphlet calls “VIP entry” at many of these attractions, meaning no waiting in line. Fancy!

What Can You See & Do When You Travel to Brussels?

Grand-Place Grote Markt, Brussels © Mario, http://visitbrussels.be

Brussels is smaller than London and its landmarks are slightly lesser known. While London is famous for any number of things – Parliament, Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, the Thames – Brussels is famous for smaller, quirkier delights: a fountain statue called “Manneken Pis,” all of the waffles you could ever dream of, and several of the world’s most beloved cartoons.

Let’s start with the fountain. Mannekin Pis is the sculpture of a boy urinating into the remainder of the fountain below him, and he’s located on the corner of rue de Chene and rue de l’Etuve. This sight will probably delight the kids and shock your grandma, but either way, everyone can probably agree that it’s an amusing break from the museums and historical sites. To check out the many outfits Mannekin Pis has modeled over the years, head over to La Maison du Roi (King’s House), where the collection is housed.

For a more traditional sightseeing excursion, head two blocks north of this statue to visit the Grand-Place, which is Brussels’ version of a main square. This site is fairly central within the city and is framed by four structures that represent the partially Gothic, partially classical architectural style that is found throughout the city. South of the park is the Royal Palace, the highlight of which is the Mirror Room. Adorned from floor to ceiling in mirrors and outfitted with eleven luminous chandeliers, this room might just give the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles a run for its money.

Of course, Brussels doesn’t really have a Versailles. Nor can it boast a Louvre or a British Royal Museum. It has, however, made a few significant contributions to the world of museums with its Royal Museum (containing the “Rubens Room,” which houses more than 20 works by classical artist Peter Paul Rubens), the Musical Instruments Museum (visitors are given infrared headphones to listen to some of the 8,000 instruments that are on display), the Magritte Museum (the world’s largest collection of the surrealist’s work), and the Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate (the calories don’t count if consumed while in a museum, right?).

More quirky sites include the Belgian Comic Strip Museum, which was designed by artist Victor Horta and features the beloved cartoon character Tintin, among others; Mini-Europe, which showcases more than 300 tiny replicas of famous sites located throughout the European union; the Cantillon, which is the last surviving family-run brewery in Brussels and produces traditional Gueuze, a type of lambic Belgian beer; and the Place du Jeu de Balle, a flea market offering shoppers artifacts that are often strange, very retro, and always a bargain.

As for Brussels’ nightlife, it’s a much quieter scene than London for the most part. Since Belgium is generally recognized for its beer production, a good place to start might be a Belgium Beer Tour. If you’re traveling with kids or just feel like doing something playful, you could also catch a puppet show. There is also an English-language magazine called The Bulletin that can point you in the right direction once you’re there.

JACKIE’S TRAVEL TIP: Brussels is small enough that you can ride a bus around all the main areas in one leisurely afternoon. A good way to get acquainted with the city and to map out your route for the rest of your visit is to hop on one of those Brussels City Sightseeing Buses. If you’re wary of looking too much like a tourist, just keep this in mind: if you buy a ticket for this bus, you won’t have to buy tickets for the regular city buses, and you won’t have to worry if the bus is headed towards your desired location.

Taking Eurostar from London to Brussels

Eurostar train exiting tunnel. Photo courtesy of and © Eurostar International Ltd.

Why Eurostar? The best way to travel between the heart of London to Brussels, Eurostar trains carry more travelers between its destinations than all airlines traveling these routes combined. This isn’t surprising when you consider that the train takes you from the center of London to the center of Brussels (via the Chunnel) instead of an airport out in the middle of nowhere. Bonus: you will be able to say that you’ve ridden a train through an underwater tunnel.

Travel time: 1 hour, 51 minutes (the ride through the tunnel is only about 20 minutes long)

Travel Speed: Top speeds of up to 186mph, keeping journey times at about 2 hours. This means you could technically do a day trip between the cities if you’re short on time.

Classes of Service: Economy/Standard (second class); Comfort/Standard Premier (first class); Premier/Business Premier (business class).

Rail Passholder Rates: The Eurostar train is not covered by any rail pass, but travelers holding certain rail passes may be entitled to discounted ticket prices when purchasing tickets on our website. Make sure to enter the rail pass you’ve purchased when you’re searching for your London to Brussels ticket, and if there is a discount available, you will see those prices appear once you click ‘search.’ Even if you purchase one of these discounted tickets, you will not have to mark a day off your rail pass. Check for Eurostar passholder rates here.

JACKIE’S TRAVEL TIP: There’s a sale going on! Book by April 1, 2013 and get 20% off select Standard Premier (first class) tickets, plus a 10% discount on the London Pass. Click here for the full details and to book your tickets before they run out.

Millions of travelers each year enjoy visiting London, and with Eurostar,  getting to Brussels by train is so easy, why would you not want to experience both? Start planning your next vacation today.

Railway sign for Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious Has NOTHING on This Town’s Name

Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch is a city in Wales with 58 letters making up its name, it is the longest city in Great Britain. The English translation of the name is: St Mary’s Church in the Hollow of the White Hazel Near to the Rapid Whirlpool of Llantysilio of the Red Cave. Think spelling it is hard?  Try saying it! (Here’s a nice sound file to help you.)

Separated from the Welch mainland by the Menai Straits, Llanfairpwll (for short) is on the island of Anglesey (called Ynys Môn in Welsh). A world away, but easily accessible by Virgin Trains, you’ll find golf, wildlife tours, boating excursions, beaches and semi-wild Carneddau mountain ponies that graze the clifftops. More than 120,000 visitors come to Anglesey thanks to the ease of British train travel, no doubt in part to visit Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch.

Where Did this Wacky Name Come From?

The townspeople wanted a unique way to get tourists to come and visit Llanfair Pwllgwyngyll after a railway was built between Chester and Holyhead. A committee was formed, and it’s believed a cobbler from Menai Bridge came up with this mouthful of a moniker. This cobbler is credited for coming up with one of the best and most successful tourist marketing plans of all time.

History of the Railway Station

Construction began on the railway track in 1845, and the station at Llanfairpwll opened three years later. A fire destroyed the Brittania Bridge in 1966, but was rebuilt less than ten years later. In 1995, the station was restored to its full, former glory.

What’s There to do Around Town?

The famed James Pringle Weavers boasts Welsh crafts and gifts, cashmere sweaters, tweed ties, tartans and an ancestry center with a database containing more than 50,000 family names. The shop is one of Llanfairpwll’s main tourist attractions. Inside, find two steam locomotives built more than 65 years ago, as well as an area to have your passport stamped with the full Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch name (we think the font is either extremely small or the stamp takes up an entire page!)

Finish your visit to James Pringle Weavers with a stop at the Sidings Restaurant for bara brith, the famous Welsh speckled bread.

The village of Llanfairpwll is also famous for a great pillar of moelfre limestone that stands nearly 90 feet tall. Crafted in 1816, the Marquess of Anglesey’s Column is a tribute to Henry Paget who lost a leg at Waterloo. For a small fee you can climb the 115 steps where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the beautiful Anglesey countryside.

How to Get to Llanfairpwll by Train

Reaching Llanfairpwll is fairly easy by train. There’s hourly train service from London to Chester on Virgin trains, offered in Economy (2nd) or Comfort (1st) class. From Chester you connect to Llanfairpwll on an Arriva Train Wales train, offered in just one class of service. The total journey is approximately 3.5 hours long.

Insider Tip: You MUST tell the conductor on-board what station you are getting off at. The train will NOT automatically stop at Llanfairpwll, it is a request stop only, about eight minutes past Bangor. If you cannot pronounce name of station, no worries, you can simply advise the conductor you are going to LPG.

Traveling to Llanfairpwll with Train Tickets

Train tickets for London – Llanfairpwll can be purchased online through Rail Europe. These tickets are offered as e-tickets that you print at the station using a self-service kiosk. You can find detailed information on printing your e-tickets on our Rail Help pages.

The price for this route starts at $67 in Economy and goes up from there. The pricing our the site reflects a mixed class of service since the Chester – Llanfairpwll route is only offered in one class of service. Train tickets for British trains can be purchased 60-days in advance of the date you wish to travel.

How to Travel with a BritRail Pass to Llanfairpwll

If you are visiting more than three cities, a rail pass typically works out be best for you. You can use a valid BritRail Pass for travel between London and Llanfairpwll. Reservations are not required to travel on these trains with a rail pass, you can simply hop on-board and find an empty seat. Reservations can be obtained locally at the station for an additional fee, if you choose to have a dedicated seat on the train.

Virgin Trains – © RMB

What to Expect On-Board High-Speed Virgin Trains

Traveling second-class aboard the Virgin train, doesn’t mean traveling second fiddle. Economy travel provides generous legroom in a comfy seat with in-seat audio, an on-board shop offering a wide range of hot, cold and alcoholic drinks as well as tasty sandwiches and snacks, magazines and more for purchase. Wifi is available for a small fee.

First class coaches provide plenty of room to work or relax. First class travelers will enjoy complimentary food served at their seat Monday- Friday, enhanced mobile phone reception, power outlets, complimentary WiFi, a QuietZone, restrooms at the end of most cars and an on-board shop.

On all Virgin trains You’ll find baby-changing areas, disabled travelers and wheelchair facilities and luggage storage in each coach with overhead space for additional bags.

Traveling with your family? Children ages  3-6 receive a VKids bag including books, games, activity sheets, crayons, a fun magazine, and a traveler’s log to record favorite memories of seeing Britain by rail. The VKids bags can be picked up at the on-board shop.

If you’re the traveler who seeks the wonderful and wacky, this is a must stop on any UK itinerary. Now get practicing how to say Great Britain’s longest town name. Llan…

The Art Pavilion in Zagreb, Croatia © Robert Rajtić

Croatia seems to be caught somewhere between the big, heavily trodden European countries like France and Spain and the lesser-traveled, outlying countries like Romania and Budapest. Like the western countries, it has thriving cities and beautiful monuments to offer tourists. Like the eastern ones, it still has that off-the-beaten path feel to it, seeming somehow more foreign and undiscovered.

Around Zagreb

Arguably the most well known destination in Croatia, Zagreb is definitely the political, economic, and cultural capital of the country. When you step off the train in Zagreb, you step into a thriving metropolis with old-world charm. History and art lovers take note: Zagreb has more museums per square foot than any other European city! A good starting off point would be the Museum of the City of Zagreb, which houses an impressive display of weaponry, religious articles, furniture, costumes, and a large collection of historical photographs. It’s a good way to brush up on the city’s fast facts before hitting the streets to explore.

If museums aren’t exactly your thing, head towards the Trg Bana Jelacica (translated Jelacic Square), which is a scenic place to begin your exploration of the city. Peruse the little shops and cafes, give a nod to the recently restored Ban’s statue, and enjoy a good dose of people-watching as the locals make their way around town.

If you can’t head to Europe without visiting a church, stop by the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. This church is a dominating attraction in Zagreb, literally – its 345-foot twin spires rise above everything else in the city. Having been built in the 13^th century it has of course undergone several renovations, but, like so many cathedrals throughout this continent, it’s still standing tall to greet visitors another day.

Around Split

Split harbor depicting Diocletian’s palace, by night, Croatia

Located just a quick 6.5 hour train ride south of Zagreb, Split will provide you with the one thing that Zagreb cannot: a stunning experience of nature along the coast. The city is often a starting off point for travelers headed further on to Dalmatia’s numerous summer resorts, but recently more and more visitors have chosen to pause for a moment and see what Split has to offer before moving on.

The most well known attraction, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the Palace of Diocletian. The oldest hub of Split is located within the walls of this palace – according to its dimensions and level of preservation, the Palace represents the most valuable example of Roman architecture on the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea.

In addition to this man-made wonder, check out one of Mother Nature’s finer accomplishments in Marjan Forest Park, a green oasis whose grounds have been carefully maintained and cherished by citizens for generations. The park includes promenades, solariums, nature paths, playgrounds, and the Split Zoo. There is a marvelous view of the city from the top of Marjan for those wiling to make the hike.

How to Travel from Zagreb to Split With a Rail Pass

The Eurail Croatia Pass will cover the ticket price of the train, but since this is a longer journey, you will need to purchase a seat reservation supplement to make sure that you have a specific place to sit on the train.

Insider Rail Tip: There is an overnight train available for those who don’t want to spend a good portion of the day in transit. The overnight train is slower than the day train to allow for a quieter journey and more time to rest before starting your day off in a new city.

How to Travel from Zagreb to Split with a Ticket

If you’d prefer a point to point ticket to a rail pass, we recommend booking in advance when possible, as with all point to point tickets in Europe. This is particularly important for the overnight train, which tends to fill up rather quickly.

Onboard Accommodations on the Zagreb to Split Train

The overnight train carries single compartments, double compartments, triple compartments, and 2^nd class seats. The day train offers both first and second class seats, both of which require seat reservations. The 1^st class seat reservations can only be booked locally at the ticket counter in the train station, as the railways have not given us access to offer those particular reservations for international sale.