City breaks by train offer an excellent combination of comfort, sustainability, and efficiency, allowing you to arrive directly in the city centre of your destination and make the most of your travel time. It’s a comfortable way to discover Europe without the stress of airports and with a minimal ecological footprint. Discover how to plan your next travel adventure by rail and why this is an efficient way to explore cities.

Choosing the train is more than just a means of transport; it’s the beginning of the experience. In an era where sustainability and conscious travel are becoming increasingly important, this way of travelling aligns well with the desire for more efficient train holidays. You step in, find your comfortable seat, and watch the landscape glide by. The travel time is part of the holiday, a moment to relax, read a book, or prepare for the city you are about to discover.

Why the Train is a Great Choice for City Breaks

The specific advantages of train travel make it an excellent choice for city breaks. Unlike flying, where you often need to be present hours in advance, with the train you can board shortly before departure. You’re quickly through security, and baggage rules are significantly more flexible. This means less stress and more time for your actual trip. Furthermore, trains offer more legroom and comfortable seats. With amenities like Wi-Fi and power outlets, you can use your travel time productively or enjoy the view. It’s a relaxed way to travel that ensures you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed.

Popular Cities for a Train City Break

With the extensive rail network, you can easily travel through Europe. Whether you’re looking for culture, gastronomy, or history, there’s always a city easily accessible by train. Here are some suggestions:

Paris, France

The classic among city breaks. From Amsterdam, you can travel to the centre of Paris in just over three hours. You disembark at Gare du Nord and can take the Underground directly to sights such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or the charming Montmartre district.

Berlin, Germany

A city full of history, art, and creativity. The journey to Berlin takes approximately six hours and brings you to the impressive Berlin Hauptbahnhof. From here, you can easily explore the remnants of the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, and the vibrant districts.

Antwerp, Belgium

For a short, spontaneous trip, Antwerp is an excellent choice. The city is quickly accessible, and you arrive at an architecturally impressive station: Antwerp Central. Walk straight into the city to shop, visit the Rubens House, or enjoy the Flemish atmosphere.

London, United Kingdom

Thanks to the Eurostar, you’ll be in this dynamic European capital within a few hours. From St. Pancras International station, you have direct access to the Underground, which takes you everywhere in the city. From the Tower of London to the West End theatres, everything is easily accessible.

Journey Duration Classes: From Short Trip to Full-Fledged Holiday

Not every city break requires the same travel time. By categorising destinations based on journey duration, you can easily choose a city that fits the time you have available.

• Up to 3 hours travel: Suitable for a day trip or a spontaneous weekend. Think of cities like Antwerp, Brussels, Lille, or Cologne. You’ll be there quickly and can make the most of your time.
• 3 to 6 hours travel: Suitable for a long weekend. Destinations like Paris, London, Hamburg, and Frankfurt fall into this category. The journey is comfortable and long enough to truly unwind.
• 6+ hours travel: These are destinations for a full-fledged holiday, such as Berlin, Copenhagen, or even Vienna. The journey itself is an experience, and you consciously choose a slower, more relaxed way of travelling.

The Advantage of Centrally Located Stations

One of the main advantages of travelling by train is the location of the stations. Train stations are almost always situated in the city centre. This saves you valuable time and money that you would otherwise spend on transfers to and from a remote airport. You step off the train, and your adventure can begin immediately. This not only makes your trip more efficient but also more enjoyable. You are instantly surrounded by the local atmosphere, with public transport, hotels, and attractions often within walking distance.

The Logic of a Well-Planned Weekend Getaway by Train

To get the most out of a weekend trip, planning is essential. Take an early train on Saturday morning to have the entire day at your destination. Plan your return journey for Sunday evening, so you can still fully enjoy that day. The train journey itself is time well spent. Use the trip to finalise your plans, listen to a podcast, or simply relax. Because check-in times are not necessary, a weekend by train often feels longer and richer than a flight.

Combining Multiple Cities in One Trip

The European rail network is so well connected that you can easily visit multiple cities during one trip. This is a convenient way to see more of a country or region. For example, plan a route from Amsterdam to Cologne, and a few days later travel on to Frankfurt. Or combine a visit to Brussels with a trip to historic Lille in Northern France. By booking your tickets in advance, often through international booking platforms, you can put together a varied and exciting journey without the complexity of multiple flights.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Train City Break

Good preparation is half the battle. With these tips, your train city break is guaranteed to go smoothly:

• Book in advance: Just like with flight tickets, the earlier you book train tickets, the lower the price.
• Compare providers: Compare prices from NS International with those of national railway companies such as Deutsche Bahn or SNCF.
• Be flexible: Travelling on quieter days or at off-peak times can significantly reduce the price.
• Pack practically: Although baggage rules are more flexible, a manageable suitcase or backpack is more practical.
• Download the app: Railway company apps provide real-time travel information and digital tickets.

Accommodation Choice Near the Station or Public Transport

A strategically chosen accommodation can significantly enhance your city break. A hotel or apartment near the central station is a good choice. It saves you lugging luggage around upon arrival and departure. Furthermore, stations are often important public transport hubs, giving you an excellent base from which to explore the entire city. Look for accommodation within walking distance of the station or with a direct Underground or tram connection. This gives you the freedom and flexibility to make the most of your time.

Your Next Adventure Begins on the Rails

A city break by train is a logical choice for the modern traveller who values comfort, efficiency, and sustainability. It brings you relaxed and directly to the heart of vibrant European cities, where the journey itself is already part of the experience. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer tour, the rail offers many possibilities. Pack your suitcase, book your ticket, and let your next adventure begin where it belongs: on the platform.