Train Basel → Brussels

The Olympics of the art World Located on the banks of the Rhine, at the border between Switzerland, France and Germany, Basel is Switzerland’s third largest city. It’s also world-renowned for THE premier international art show for modern and contemporary works. But more on that in just a pointillist dot. Basel should also be well known for its main train station, which is practically a city in its own right. You can enter through the “French” side, go through a winding hall and exit through the “Swiss” side. Up the stairs, you’ll find a bank, grocery store and wine shop (sure, get money, buy wine and cheese, and start living the Swiss way). Downstairs, you’ll find the oddly named McClean area. For a few Swiss Francs you can use these shower facilities that includes a towel, soap and shampoo. This is great for someone who arrives by overnight train and wants to freshen up before heading out into the city. Learn more about Basel

Political capital, cartoon crazy and rich in chocolate Creamy chocolates, warm waffles, briny mussels. And of course, cartoons. The capital of the European Union offers these pleasures in addition to politics. In Le Grand place, one of the most beautiful squares in all of Europe, you can take part in important debates, too. Like, “Which truffle is better ? Godiva or Leonidas ?” This city has its share of quirky sights. Belgians love their cartoons, and you can see many on display at the Belgian centre of the comic strip. You probably won’t get the jokes, but that’s almost part of the fun. The Atomium, built for a 1958 fair and recently remodeled, is really a giant atom. Have a bite in the restaurant that sits at the top. Perhaps the tourist attraction with the most folly is a little boy that can’t hold it in. The Mannekin Pis fountain is three blocks from the Grand place, and stands not-quite-fully-dressed. What is covered of the little pisser is usually a silly costume – many of which are sent to him from fans the world over. Cases of his outfits are on display at the city Museum and are also worth the trip. Just as Le Grand place is the center of Brussels, the main rail stations are also at the heart of the city. This is a big advantage over airports. When you fly to your destination, forgo the cab ride and rental car – most places have frequent service to and from the airport by local commuter train. From Brussels airport, there are commuter trains that run every15 to 30 minutes into the city’s main stations, which include Nord, Midi/Zuid, and Central. The Midi station is the largest hub of the three. Get a Brussels Card before leaving home so you’ll have access to the extensive local public transit network as well as entrance to museums. And Brussels has some of Europe’s unheralded best. Learn more about Brussels