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Our Favourite City Breaks By Train
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There’s just something so romantic about travelling by train. Rather than rushing through airport security, rail travel offers an opportunity to slow down and enjoy the journey. Watch breathtaking landscapes pass by from the comfort of your seat before arriving right in the heart of your destination.
At Marvellous Escapes, we’ve experienced some of Europe’s most captivating cities for ourselves, all by rail. If you’re planning a getaway for two, a cultural escape that’s a little different from the usual beach break, why not explore one of our favourite city breaks by train?
City Breaks In Europe By Train
Vienna
Austria’s capital is a city that blends rich history with contemporary creativity. Upon arrival in Vienna, you’ll be just moments from elegant boulevards, world-famous museums and charming coffee houses that have become such an important part of this city’s identity.
Spend your time leisurely exploring the historic streets of the Innere Stadt, lined with quintessential architecture. Explore Schoenbrunn Palace which exposes a snippet into the lives of the Habsburg dynasty or venture into St. Stephen’s Cathedral, remaining one of Europe’s most impressive Gothic landmarks.
Vienna is celebrated for its café culture, with many cosy eateries to dine in. We recommend ordering a slice of Sachertorte, an Austrian sweet treat dating back to the 19th century. As evening approaches, the city comes alive, with performances at the Vienna State Opera, intimate classical concerts and elegant wine bars offering the perfect way to round up the day.
If exploring hidden gems is more your style, districts like Neubau showcase Vienna’s contemporary side, bursting with boutiques, modern galleries and innovative restaurants that complement the city’s rich heritage.
Paris
Few cities compare to the beautiful city of Paris. Choosing a city break by train to Paris allows you to arrive directly in the heart of the French capital, ready to begin exploring without the delays of airport queues.
The beauty of Paris lies in its neighbourhoods. Wander through the quaint streets of Le Marais, stroll through cosy bookshops along the Left Bank or enjoy a picnic next to the Seine. Every part of Paris has its own distinct personality, so taking a slower approach to exploring this city allows you to discover more than just the major attractions.
World-renowned landmarks including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Notre-Dame remain essential stops, of course. However, a morning coffee at a pavement café , fresh pastries from a local boulangerie or a walk along the riverbank at sunset are moments worth enjoying, too.
In France, you’ll expect to indulge in a wide range of eateries, from Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional, family-run bistros and food markets. Paris continues to set the standard for culinary excellence.
Milan
Often associated with world-famous fashion houses, Milan has quietly become one of Europe’s most exciting city break destinations. Arriving by train into Milano Centrale Station, you’ll instantly be surrounded by the romantic sites of the city, including the station itself, which is one of the most impressive railway terminals in Europe.
The city is home to many impressive sights such as the magnificent Duomo di Milano, an architectural masterpiece that rewards visitors with panoramic views across the city. Nearby, the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping centres is the perfect setting for enjoying a coffee. There are many art galleries and museums to explore, but for a unique experience head to Santa Maria delle Grazie, where Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’ is displayed on the wall.
Beyond Milan’s notable presence in fashion, its cuisine is another major highlight. With restaurants celebrating traditional Italian flavours, you’ll expect to taste the finest dishes like saffron risotto and handmade pasta.
Milan has it all, with artistic treasures, impressive historic features, and an effortlessly chic atmosphere. This is a destination that captures the romance of experiencing city breaks in Europe by train.
Geneva
Geneva offers a refreshing change of pace from the average holiday. Combining the city and lakeside living, and set against a dramatic backdrop, Geneva is a favourite for those who enjoy natural scenery, fascinating history and a lively atmosphere. This is one of our top destinations for a summer rail journey, with plenty of opportunity for outdoor activities.
Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself exploring the Old Town, filled with picturesque cultural attractions lined across the waterfront. Wander through the cobbled streets and peaceful town squares and explore breathtaking cathedrals, all before eating in one of the many excellent restaurants, serving a blend of Swiss and French cuisine.
Located near local idyllic villages, Geneva is the perfect spot for those wanting to venture out by bicycle, with many vineyards surrounding the area. Combining culture, cuisine and unforgettable views, this is the ideal city break by train for travellers looking for an enchanting escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
“I’ve been lucky enough to travel all over the world, but Geneva is still my favorite. There’s something about waking up by the lake with the Alps in the background that never gets old.” – Hayley Norris, Travel Designer
Book your city break by rail now
We’ve been tailoring perfectly curated rail holidays for over 15 years. If you’re ready for a city break by train, please get in touch with us via our contact form. Or, give us a call on 020 8038 2299.
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