Experiment with trains on 5 routes in Europe

Traveling by train exudes an air of magic and adventure! Many, from a young age, have let themselves be guided by the railways of Europe, traversing entire landscapes. These journeys are making a strong comeback in popularity, as those who choose them seek not only the experience but also the environmental protection.

1. Paris to Berlin Nightjet, France and Germany

Starting your journey in Paris and finishing it in Berlin, Austrian Railways offer the ÖBB Nightjet service, allowing you to change cities during the night. The Nightjet operates three times a week, providing an excellent opportunity for travelers to explore both capitals comfortably, enjoying a unique sleeping experience on the train. This route is the only direct connection between Paris and Berlin, with departures from the impressive Gare de l’Est station in Paris.

The train departs early in the evening and arrives in Berlin before 9 in the morning, while from the end of 2024, this route will be available daily, also utilizing the modern, next-generation Nightjet carriages. These carriages feature cabins that can accommodate 4 to 6 people, equipped with blankets, sheets, pillows, showers, and toilets. Additionally, there are also mini-capsule cabins for one person, including a breakfast offer.

2. From Munich to Bologna, Germany and Italy

Eurostar offers fast connection between Amsterdam and London, with trains covering the journey in less than four hours. Up to four routes are available daily, making the train a popular choice for travelers who prefer comfort and sustainable travel over air travel. However, from June 2024 until the end of the year, these routes will be suspended due to construction work at Amsterdam's central railway station.

During this period, passengers will need to use the Eurostar service (formerly Thalys) to Brussels, where they will undergo passport control before continuing their journey. The service between Amsterdam and London is expected to resume in early 2025. For travelers planning to visit London, it is recommended to choose the first half of 2024 for their trip in order to avoid disruptions in their travels.

4. The Ionian Railway, Italy

For a unique experience in Italy, choose to travel by the slow train that crosses the southern coastline of the country. Covering a route of 472 kilometers of coastal beauty in seven hours, the train operates two journeys per day from Taranto to Reggio di Calabria. This route connects quiet seaside towns at the edge of Italy, touching the shores of the Ionian Sea during the journey. Despite not connecting popular tourist destinations, the Ionian Railway maintains a relaxed and slightly mysterious atmosphere, even during the summer months.

With a bit of imagination, the Ionian Railway itself can become the base for a few days of exploration along the line, including the ancient Metaponto and peaceful seaside towns such as Crotone and Catanzaro. Alternatively, you can choose the afternoon schedule and enjoy endless sea views until Sicily, where the impressive sunset will welcome you to the Strait of Messina.

Despite being an InterCity service, the Ionian Railway resembles more of a regional train as it makes frequent stops - a total of 23 - and mainly does not provide a buffet or dining car.

 

5.Zaragoza to Canfranc, Spain and France

 

 

Saragossa, the homeland of the artist Francisco Goya and the impressive Aljafería Palace, emerges as a city that has much to offer beyond the obvious. Although it is the fifth largest city in Spain, Saragossa maintains a unique character worth discovering. With historical findings ranging from Roman times to the contemporary art of origami, as well as a variety of gastronomic options, the city offers a rich experience to the visitor. The picturesque alleys of El Tubo host small tapas bars, while the architecturally stunning railway station is an exceptional sight. From there begins one of the most remarkable adventures: the journey towards the Pyrenees. With two daily routes to the impressive Canfranc station at an altitude of 1,040 meters, which was revitalized after the opening of the "Canfranc Estación" hotel, this experience constitutes an unforgettable experience for every visitor, whether they decide to stay there or not.