Travel is not recommended during the corona pandemic. But let’s dream a little and look to the future. A few months further – with a lot of optimism …
Wondering how to plan a vacation without a flight? Travel by train. With increasing awareness of the ecological footprint that global tourism leaves, train travel in Europe is becoming increasingly popular. An extensive rail network means the continent is easy to get to by train, and the scenic views along the route make for unforgettable journeys.
From cultural centers in the north to sun-kissed destinations in the south, we’ve selected seven amazing cities in Europe that you don’t have to fly to.
For impressive mountain landscapes: Bern
The postcard capital of Switzerland lies on the banks of the crystal clear Aare river and is surrounded by the immense beauty of the snow-capped Alps. There are 6 km of sandstone shopping malls to stroll through – with cellar bars, cafes and handicraft shops.
The best view over the medieval old town is offered by climbing 344 steps to the top of the Bern Minster, which at 101 meters is the highest church tower in the country.
Direct trains run from Paris and Frankfurt to Bern in 4.5 hours. From Brussels and London, the journey takes 7.5 hours with one change.
Plan your trip on myswitzerland.com
For culinary delights: Florence
There are many gourmet hotspots in Europe, but Italy’s enchanting city of Florence is a particularly delicious choice. With the focus on local, sustainable and seasonal foods, Tuscan delicacies such as Schiacciata flatbread and Florentine steak are on the favorite menu of many Italy fans. Try tagliatelle with local truffle and porcini mushrooms or wild boar pappardelle, and they have arguably the best gelato in the country.
Night trains reach Florence from Munich in 10 hours, making the city an ideal destination for a sleeper vacation. From Geneva, the journey takes less than 6.5 hours.
Get inspiration on visitflorence.com
For those interested in culture: Amsterdam
Thanks to famous painters like Van Gogh and Rembrandt, Amsterdam is a city of art. With the works of the Dutch masters in the Rijksmuseum and the equally fascinating modern works in the Stedelijk, it’s easy to see why the Dutch capital is considered one of the cultural centers of Europe. There’s so much more to discover on another exploration, from outdoor sculptures to small independent galleries.
From Frankfurt you can reach Amsterdam by direct train in four hours, from London in just over 3.5 hours and from Paris in three hours.
Schedule your visit under iamsterdam.com
For sun-kissed sightseeing: Seville
Somewhat out of the way, Seville in southern Spain is a vibrant travel destination that generously rewards visitors willing to travel the extra kilometers. It is a city steeped in history with architectural highlights that range from the world’s largest Gothic cathedral to the exquisite Alcázar Royal Palace. A warm, sun-drenched backdrop with winding streets, heavenly tapas and flamenco dances is sure to impress you.
Seville is 2.5 hours from Madrid by direct train. A trip from Paris or Lisbon takes 12 to 13 hours.
Organize your flight-free trip on spain.info
For fascinating architecture: Cologne
The German city of Cologne is a fascinating mix of old Roman walls and medieval churches. The twin towers of Cologne Cathedral determine the skyline, and the view over the city from the south tower is definitely worth the climb up 533 steps. This building also houses the largest free-swinging bell in the world, weighing 24 tons.
From London, Cologne can be reached in 4.5 hours with a change in Brussels. The direct journey from Paris takes three hours, making it an ideal option for your rail holiday in Europe.
Learn more at koeln.de
For lush vineyards: Bordeaux
Bordeaux is arguably the wine capital of France and delights visitors with its well-tended and pretty vineyards. The city is very popular with students. Around Bordeaux you can learn more about the production process and taste fine varieties in many wineries. In the city itself, the ultra-modern Cite du Vin museum is an impressive place dedicated to bringing a younger generation closer to wine and its history.
Bordeaux is two hours from Paris by express train. From London or Amsterdam you can reach the city in around 5.5 hours with one change, and from Brussels in 4.5 hours.
Plan your trip under bordeaux-tourism.de
For imperial grandeur: Vienna
Austria’s capital is known as the city of music thanks to a legacy that includes Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms and Strauss. Visit the world-famous music association where the Vienna Philharmonic plays or explore the interactive exhibits in the innovative House of Music. Or discover the imperial legacy of the Habsburgs in the Hofburg, whose history dates back to the 13th century and is one of the largest palaces in the world.
From Paris you can reach Vienna with one change in 10 hours, from Brussels in 11 hours. A direct journey from Frankfurt takes 6.5 hours.
Schedule your visit wien.info/de
Warning about Covid-19
Some of the fascinating cities are currently hotspots of the coronavirus pandemic. Most restaurants are currently closed. There are travel warnings to contain SARS-CoV-2 – and it is advisable to postpone a visit until the situation has improved.
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