After discovering that I could fly to Europe for only $350, I booked a one-way ticket to Copenhagen and started an epic two-month journey by train through Europe. I had been to Europe several times before but I had never traveled through multiple countries in Europe by train. Not to mention, it was also on my bucket list to travel long-term by train and I figured a two-month journey through Europe sufficed. There were a few bumps along the way, like getting my phone stolen in Munich or when I accidentally got on the wrong connection on my way from Amsterdam to Brussels.
I ordered a global rail pass from Rail Europe. With this pass, I could travel through nearly any European country for 15 days within a two-month period and in first class! I have to admit that traveling first class is worth the additional cost – especially on longer travels.
Often long-term travel by train is associated with backpackers. However, I wanted to show luxury travelers that is possible to travel through Europe by train in style! I found traveling by train in Europe to be very easy – no passport control to go through or dealing with checking luggage. Hop on and hop off. Arrive about 15 minutes before departure and you are on your way. It is so much easier than traveling by plane!
10 Countries. 15 Cities. Over 2,000 miles!
I planned to start in Copenhagen and make my way south and end in Italy. In a sense, I was chasing the warmer weather. By starting this journey in September and ending in November, I would be traveling through the fall season as winter slowly began approaching. It was a great way to travel through Europe and fall offers vibrant colors as the leaves are changing colors. It’s my favorite time of year in Europe.
All Aboard! Let’s Go on an Adventure through Europe!
Copenhagen, Denmark
WHY GO: I was surprised at how much I enjoyed Copenhagen, especially considering that I had little prior knowledge about the city – other than the it is home to the “World’s Best Restaurant” Noma. There is so much to do and the city is very walkable, although most locals get around by bicycle. Be sure to take a tour of the canals!
STAY HERE: The Andersen Hotel is a lovely boutique hotel located within walking distance to the train station.
KNOW THAT: While Denmark is part of the European Union, they still use their own currency the Danish Krone.
*Check out my 72 Hour Guide to Copenhagen*
Hamburg, Germany
WHY GO: Hamburg has some incredible shopping and countless stores to keep you busy for days. During warmer months, the Alster Lake offers tons of watersports and activities.
STAY HERE: I stayed at three different hotels in Hamburg. I fell in love with the Gastwerk Hotel which is one of the coolest hotels design-wise that I’ve ever stayed. I was equally impressed with 25Hours Hotel Number One which mastered the retro look. I found the British-inspired hotel The George to be the winner with regard to location considering it’s close proximity to the center.
KNOW THAT: Hamburg is home to the world’s largest train set at Miniatur Wunderland with 12,000 meters of track.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
WHY GO: There are few cities in the world quite as picturesque as Amsterdam – and that is just one of the many reasons I fell in love with this city. The canals that wind through the city are downright beautiful and the Dutch are a rather friendly bunch. There is a little something for everyone in Amsterdam and I found my days filled even if it just meant wandering up and down the canals.
STAY HERE: The Hotel Dylan is centrally located along Keizersgracht canal. The hotel has a beautiful garden terrace and High Wine at the hotel restaurant should not be missed.
KNOW THAT: I strongly recommend renting a bike from the moment you arrive. You will be able to see so much more if you are able to get around the city more quickly than if you are walking. Everyone rides a bike in Amsterdam. Public transport is available but bicycles are a much more convenient mode of transport.
*Read about my love affair with Amsterdam*
Bruges, Belgium
WHY GO: Bruges is one of those cities that cannot be missed on a trip to Belgium. Be sure to take a boat ride through the canals. There are several little operators and they are all the same price so just hop on whichever one you stumble upon.
STAY HERE: Instead of staying the night, I’d suggest making it a day trip from Brussels. Bruges is a rather small city and can easily be covered within an afternoon. I would have been bored out of my mind if I stayed for too long in Bruges.
KNOW THAT: Bruges is famous for lace and chocolate. You will see countless lace shops and equally as many chocolate shops. With respect to both chocolate and lace, be sure to keep an eye out for the signs that say “handmade” in the store windows otherwise they are often imported.
*Read about my day trip to Bruges*
Brussels, Belgium
WHY GO: There is a lot of history in Brussels but unfortunately, I wasn’t over the moon with this city. What does make Brussels worth a visit is the food! Moules frites in Brussels is a must as are Belgian waffles!
STAY HERE: The other reason to visit is to experience Sofitel Brussels Le Louise. One of my favorite hotels in the world and mostly due to the incredible staff. The hotel is gorgeous and located in the luxury shopping district of Brussels.
KNOW THAT: Brussels is a bilingual city so the majority of signage is written in French and Dutch.
Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
WHY GO: I loved Luxembourg. It is very green and a rather unique city with the way it is built on a cliff.
STAY HERE: Sofitel Luxembourg Le Grand Ducal is the best hotel to stay. It has impeccable views of the city and is ideally located within close proximity to the train station and the city center.
KNOW THAT: Luxembourg is the country with the highest nominal GDP per capita in the world.
*Click here to read more about my time in Luxembourg*
Heidelberg, Germany
WHY GO: As a university town, Heidelberg has a lively atmosphere and a fun pub scene. What I particularly loved about Heidelberg was that it combined the best of both worlds – a city with nature. I would spend part of the day roaming the Altstadt (the old town) and then the afternoon exploring the forested hills.
STAY HERE: The iconic Der Europäische Hof is a five-star hotel centrally located in the Altstadt. The hotel has a pool, gym and spa on the rooftop. Very coo!
KNOW THAT: Heidelberg is home to Germany’s oldest university, Heidelberg’s Ruprecht-Karls-Universität, which was established in 1386 and is to this day one of Germany’s most prestigious universities.
Munich, Germany
WHY GO: I visited Munich for Oktoberfest and it was an experience unlike any other! I strongly suggest experiencing the Oktoberfest at least once in your life.
STAY HERE: Located right out front of the main train station, Sofitel Munich Bayerpost is an excellent choice.
KNOW THAT: Despite the name Oktoberfest, the beer festival does not start in October but rather in September.
*Read about my experience at Oktoberfest*
Vienna, Austria
WHY GO: Horse-drawn carriages and quaint sidewalk cafés are just two of the many reasons to visit Vienna. I found the Imperial city to be magical. Schonbrunn Palace is beautiful and should not be missed.
STAY HERE: I stayed at Hotel Das Tigra which was conveniently located in the city center. Hotel staff was friendly and the breakfast was great.
KNOW THAT: Vienna has a great public transport system. Taxis can be rather expensive so opt for the metro or tram when getting from the train station to the city center.
Budapest, Hungary
WHY GO: I love, love, love Budapest and everyone should put this city on their list of places to visit in Europe. Budapest is a truly incredible city that has undergone so much turmoil. There is so much to do in Budapest but be sure to talk the free communism tour. It will open your eyes as you hear firsthand accounts from Hungarians who lived through the communist era.
STAY HERE: Stay at Mercure Budapest Korona Hotel or Mercure Budapest Museum Hotel. Search through this link for the best rates.
KNOW THAT: Communism came to an end in Hungary in 1989. The country still has several struggles resultant from the aftermath of communist rule but the people of Hungary, despite all the turmoil they endured, are warm and welcoming. If you bring up politics with a Hungarian, expect a heated conversation!
Zagreb, Croatia
WHY GO: Zagreb is a great city with lots of small museums to visit. I liked the Museum of Broken Relationships. It was unique and unlike anything I had ever visited. I found Zagreb to be a great city for enjoying passing the time at outside cafés, exploring open-air markets and shopping in the center.
STAY HERE: I opted to stay at an Airbnb and you can stay there too! It is an official B&B and I loved it! The owners are a family and they are so friendly. I strongly recommend staying there.
KNOW THAT: Croatia joined the European Union in 2013 but still uses it’s own currency the Kuna.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
WHY GO: It is gorgeous! Factor in how friendly the people are and I consider Ljubljana to be one of my favorite cities. A day trip to Lake Bled is a must!
STAY HERE: I stayed at an Airbnb in Ljubljana with a mother and daughter and it was an incredible experience. I can’t give suggestions on hotel but I can advise staying near the center.
KNOW THAT: Ljubljana is often cited as one of the safest cities in the world with the only common crime being bicycle theft. Highly unlikely for a visitor. Don’t worry about being pick-pocketed or as a solo female traveler wandering around late a night by yourself. It is 100% safe.
Verona, Italy
WHY GO: Verona is a romantic city, after all it is the city of Romeo and Juliet! Verona is a must for couples but solo travelers will also find the city enjoyable. If you love gardens, don’t miss exploring Giardino Giusti. It was a highlight on my visit to Verona.
STAY HERE: I stayed at a small bed and breakfast called Heritage B&B which was slightly outside the city. It was a great value and I would recommend it to travelers looking for a budget option.
KNOW THAT: Buy a Verona Card for the amount of time that you plan to spend in the city and take advantage of the free transportation included with the card.
Florence, Italy
WHY GO: Florence is one of my favorite cities in Italy. I will have to admit that I prefer Florence over Rome. (Bold statement!) I find Florence to be slightly smaller and more manageable. Be sure to walk up to San Miniato al Monte which is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful basilicas in Florence. It also overlooks the entire city of Florence.
STAY HERE: I recommend staying at The Westin Excelsior. It is located along the Arno and has spectacular views.
KNOW THAT: Florence was the first city in all of Europe to have paved roads. The first roads were built in 1339.
Rome, Italy
WHY GO: It’s Rome! Be sure to explore the Vatican Museum, wander around Palentine Hill and get transported back in time in at the Colosseum.
STAY HERE: I loved my stay at Hotel Mozart, a small luxury boutique hotel situated off the main shopping street Via del Corso.
KNOW THAT: Rome is a bustling city and pick-pocketing is a problem. When you are in the main tourist areas, mind your belongings! Also, the Trevi Fountain is closed from November to March for renovations.
The End!
It was an incredible adventure and I have had the time of my life. I encourage all travelers to hop on a train and explore Europe.
You’ve got me really excited to organise a trip around Europe! It’s been a few years since I last went, and considering booking flights later next year. But first, off to China in January 🙂
Ps. Really glad I stumbled upon your blog!! Expect to see more of me.
Chalsie | The Workshop Co. x
Thanks Chalsie! So happy you stumbled upon it too! Europe is such a fun place to travel around and the train makes it so easy! China will be amazing and will live vicariously through your pictures until I make it there myself 🙂
This post has given me so much energy and excitement to do a road trip across Europe next year. Im based in London so I’m already mentally organising my starting point lol.
Has to be one of the best posts I’ve read since i started taking my blogging seriously..
Thanks girl! That’s a HUGE compliment!! I had the time of my life and I’m sure you will too! Can’t wait to read all about your adventures!
Wow what an amazing trip! planning to make a little trip by train on my own, this was a great inspiration 🙂
Thanks girl! I love traveling Europe by train. When traveling short distances, it is so much easier than flying. Happy travels and I’ll be sure to check out your blog 🙂