From the Highlands of Scotland to the Cotswold countryside, there’s far more to explore in the United Kingdom than simply London. In Great Britain alone, there are more than 2,500 rail stations serving England, Scotland, and Wales.
Book a train from London to Edinburgh and from there head to Inverness, the Isle of Skye, and beyond in the Scottish Highlands — the West Highland Line offers the most stunning views of this seemingly otherworldly landscape. If you’re looking to stay closer to London, then the Cotswolds are the perfect rural getaway. Animal lovers and families will enjoy visiting Cotswold Farm Park or you can explore the gardens of King Charles’ private Highgrove home.
Bon Voyage a Paris!
Of all the countries in Europe to explore by train, France is undoubtedly a must-see for new and seasoned travelers alike. There are more than 1,000 miles of high-speed train lines all over France and the trains visit nearly every city. Plus, Paris
is a central location to start your trip around Europe, with convenient lines to London, Brussels, Milan, Bordeaux, Nice, and more all there. The breathtaking scenery on the journey from Paris to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, or Paris to Côte d’Azur, is especially magnifique.
If you’re looking to tour Paris on a budget, be sure to review all the activities that are available for free and grab a Paris Pass to save on even more experiences like exploring the Sacré Couer in Montmartre and wandering the iconic Père Lachaise Cemetery (the resting place for Oscar Wilde
and Jim Morrison). Other simple yet memorable activities include grabbing a warm baguette from a boulangerie, some cheese and eating on the banks of the Seine, or shopping the numerous stands and antique vendors at the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen.
Living La Dolce Vita in Italy
Yes, Italian cities like Rome and Venice are popular, but don’t forget the unexpected regions to be discovered. Consider the Dolomites for an Alpine ski trip or hit the beach at Capalbio in Tuscany for a change of pace — all of which, of course, are easily navigated via the Trainline app.
Italy continues to be a top destination for Americans and there’s no better way to explore the varied and beautiful Italian
countryside than by train. Plus, with tourism to the country increasing again this year, the ease and convenience of train travel is more appealing than ever. Whether you’re headed north to Lake Como or south to the Amalfi Coast, there are innumerable hidden gems to be found along the way.
Three must-have Italian items to bring home: 1, 2, 3
- Lake Como is famous for its silk, and travelers should be sure to return home with an Italian silk scarf after visiting the gorgeous region in northern Italy. Brands to look out for include Mantero, Ratti, Clerici, and Frey.
- Capri is famous for its ceramic shops, and the Seagull Capri, centrally located in Via Roma, has some of the finest selections of handmade Italian ceramics.
- Head to Vibi Venezia in Milan for the iconic velvet “Furlane” Venetian slippers that every chic Milanese person wears once springtime rolls around. And, given Milan’s status as the nation’s fashion capital, you will want to trust their taste.
The Magic of Midnight Trains
Embrace the sublime serenity of sleeper trains, the most magical way of discovering a new city. What other method of travel allows you to fall asleep in the City of Light only to wake up in Nice?
Sleeper trains have been making a comeback in recent years, especially in Europe where you can watch charming villages, gorgeous rolling hills, and undulating vineyards pass by your window. There’s no better way to see it all – just book your ticket, pack your best pajama set and prepare to travel the lesser-known corridors of Europe. Bon voyage et bonne nuit!
Source: https://www.thetrainline.com