Updated 19/11/2024
All aboard for the ultimate European train adventure! From Amsterdam’s canals to Bucharest’s charm, this trip is a whirlwind of waffles, castles and jaw-dropping views. Pack light—these cities are best explored with endless energy and a camera!
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Start Here: Amsterdam is a well-connected international hub, making it an ideal starting point. I would suggest staying in Amsterdam at least 2 days to enjoy the city and see the major attractions. Anne Frank House: Visit the historic site where Anne Frank wrote her diary during World War II. Van Gogh Museum: Explore the largest collection of Van Gogh’s artworks.
Leonardo Royal Hotel Amsterdam: Modern and stylish with a touch of Dutch flair, this hotel offers spacious rooms and easy access to the city center. Perfect for mixing business with canalside leisure. Leonadro Royal Hotel Amsterdam with TUI
Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam: Housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building, this luxurious hotel boasts high ceilings, lavish decor and a spa that’s the perfect antidote to a day of exploring Amsterdam’s charming streets. Grand Hotel Amrath Amsterdam with TUI
Brussels, Belgium
Travel to Brussels: Take a direct Thalys or Eurostar train from Amsterdam to Brussels, a journey of about 2 hours. I would recommend staying in Brussels for at least 2 days, 3 days if possible! Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, Grand Place, with its stunning architecture. Visit Atomium, an iconic structure and to enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Hotel Avenue Louise Brussels – Trademark Collection by Wyndham: Chic and centrally located, this hotel offers comfort with a contemporary twist. Ideal for shopping on Avenue Louise or indulging in Brussels’ best chocolates. Hotel Avenue Louise Brussels – Trademark Collection by Wyndham with TUI
Hotel Le Plaza, Brussels: Classic elegance meets modern comfort in this grand hotel. With stunning interiors and a prime location, it’s your perfect base for exploring Brussels in style. Hotel Le Plaza with TUI
Prague, Czech Republic
Travel to Prague: Take a direct train from Brussels to Prague. The journey takes about 8 hours, with beautiful scenery along the way. It is recommended to spend at least 2 days in Prague, but it will be more rushed to see the city’s highlights. Walk across the iconic Charles Bridge, decorated with statues and offering beautiful views of the Vltava River. Visit Prague Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in the world, including St. Vitus Cathedral.
Iron Gate Hotel & Suites, Prague: Nestled in the heart of Old Town, this boutique gem combines historic charm with luxurious suites. Just steps from Prague’s top sights—perfect for romantic strolls and fairytale vibes. Iron Gate Hotel & Suites with TUI
Alchymist Prague Castle Suites: A baroque masterpiece, this boutique hotel offers a magical stay with lavish rooms, a serene spa and stunning views of Prague Castle. Pure enchantment in the heart of the city. Alchymist Prague Castle Suites with TUI
Vienna, Austria
Travel to Vienna: Take a direct train from Prague to Vienna. The journey takes about 4 hours. I would recommend staying at least 2-3 days in Vienna to experience all it has to offer. Visit the former imperial summer residence, Schönbrunn Palace, with its beautiful gardens and stunning architecture. Climb the south tower of St. Stephen’s Cathedral for panoramic views of Vienna.
Almanac Vienna: Modern luxury meets classic Viennese charm at this sleek hotel. With stylish rooms and a prime location near the Ringstrasse, it’s the perfect blend of history and contemporary comfort. Almanac Vienna with TUI
NH Wien Belvedere, Vienna: Located near the stunning Belvedere Palace, this hotel offers a blend of comfort and convenience. Perfect for art lovers and those who enjoy a stroll through history. NH Wien Belvedere with TUI
Bratislava, Slovakia
Travel to Bratislava: Take a short train ride from Vienna to Bratislava, which takes about 1 hour. It is recommended to spend 2 days here to experience the city. Enjoy the view from the historic Bratislava Castle, overlooking the Danube River. Stroll through Bratislava’s charming Old Town, with its medieval streets, squares and lively cafes.
Falkensteiner Hotel Bratislava: Trendy and modern, Falkensteiner offers chic rooms, a rooftop spa and a prime location. It’s your urban escape in the heart of Bratislava. Falkensteiner Hotel Bratislava with TUI
Danubia Gate, Bratislava: Cosy, contemporary and tech-savvy, this hotel puts you close to Bratislava’s top spots. A friendly and modern hideaway for both business and leisure travelers. Danubia Gate with TUI
Budapest, Hungary
Travel to Budapest: Take a direct train from Bratislava to Budapest. The journey takes about 2.5 hours. I would recommend staying in Budapest for 3-4 days if feasible. It is such a beautiful city with so much to do and see. Explore the historic Buda Castle complex offering stunning views of the Danube River and the city. Relax in one of Europe’s largest spa complexes, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, featuring outdoor and indoor pools.
Grand Jules – Boat Hotel, Budapest: Stay afloat at this unique boat hotel on the Danube. With stunning views of Parliament, it’s a quirky and unforgettable way to experience Budapest. Grand Jules – Boat Hotel with TUI
Mera Hotel, Budapest: Sleek and modern, Mera offers comfort and style in the heart of Budapest. Ideal for travelers who want a contemporary retreat with easy access to the city’s best sights. Mera Hotel with TUI
Bucharest, Romania
Travel to Bucharest: Take a sleeper train from Budapest to Bucharest, which takes about 16 hours. You can book different cabins or just a seat for a reasonable price. If this is not for you, then consider flying for a quicker option. This will take around 1 hour 45 minutes and prices start from £40. It is recommended to spend at least 2-3 days in Bucharest. Explore the world’s second-largest administrative building, showcasing opulent architecture, the Palace of the Parliament. Wander through the Old Town (Lipscani District), historic streets filled with lively bars, restaurants and shops.
Hotels in Bucharest, LateRooms
Peakture Hotel Bucharest: Trendy, vibrant and right in the city center, Peakture Hotel blends modern design with Romanian hospitality. Peakture Hotel Bucharest, LateRooms
Scala Boutique Hotel, Bucharest: Elegant and intimate, Scala offers a taste of old-world charm with personalised service. A perfect retreat in the heart of Bucharest, where every detail is designed for comfort. Scala Boutique Hotel, LateRooms
Top Tips For Travelling By Train:
Pack Light: Remember, you will have to take your luggage with you from place to place so only pack the essentials. Remember to wear comfortable footwear as you will do a lot of walking!
Plan Ahead: Book your accommodations and train tickets in advance to make sure you get the best deals and to stop any last-minute hassles of trying to get something sorted. Research your train routes to see what works best for you and look out for Europe train passes to make it cheaper!
Have A Plan for Each Place: Know what you want to see and do in each place, especially if pushed for time so you don’t end up missing out!
Keep Important Documents In A Safe Place: Whilst travelling, make sure all your important belongings are in a safe place, especially if having a sleep on a train!At some point in your journey, probably multiple times, you will be asked to show your passport/ID and tickets when entering different countries on the train. Make sure you are prepared for this.
Seven cities, countless memories and one incredible journey. European train trips aren’t just about destinations—they’re a ride through history, culture, and the best pastries of your life. Ready to book your ticket back? We thought so!
