We’ve got a wild idea—how about hitting up the most stunning cities across seven European countries in one epic trip?
It sounds like a dream, but with Eurail, it’s totally doable.
Let’s break down how to plan this “Superloop” European train adventure to max out on the gorgeous views and fun, all on one ticket.
Image Credit: Getty Images, SCStock. Image Location: Brussels, Belgium
Crafting your grand tour of Europe itinerary: the cities you can’t miss
Our “Superloop” kicks off in Paris, the City of Light, before weaving through Brussels, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Venice, Milan, Chambéry, and Lyon, finally circling back to Paris.
1. Paris to Brussels: from Mona Lisa smiles to Manneken Pis winks
Start in Paris, where croissants melt in your mouth with buttery goodness, and the Eiffel Tower twinkles like a giant disco ball when night falls. Next, make your way to Brussels, a city where chocolate flows freer than water, the Atomium astonishes even the most well-traveled folks, and the streets come alive with the thrilling adventures of Tintin.
Travel time from Paris to Brussels by train: from 1h 19m
2. Brussels to Amsterdam: from Belgian bites to Dutch delights
Wave goodbye to the land of divine chocolate and hello to the world of cheese that dreams are made of. Amsterdam awaits with its arms wide open, canals ready to charm you, and bikes that outnumber people. This leg of your journey is a seamless switch from savoring pralines to pedaling past Van Gogh’s favorite places.
Travel time from Brussels to Amsterdam by train: from 1h 52m
Image Credit: Getty Images, Kryssia Campos. Image Location: Frankfurt, Germany
3. Amsterdam to Frankfurt: from Dutch masters to German markets
Trade those wooden clogs for some comfy sneakers because Frankfurt’s skyline is calling. Here, apple wine is the local potion, and sausages are served with a hearty helping of history. Whether you’re here for the finance or the frankfurters, this city knows how to blend business with pleasure.
Travel time from Amsterdam to Frankfurt by train: from 3h 53m
4. Frankfurt to Berlin: walls down, party up!
Next up, Berlin—where history meets hipsters in a head-on collision. Graffiti is the city’s love language, and the nightclubs are so cool, even the bouncers wear avant-garde thrift finds. It’s a city that tells its tales through bullet holes and beats, so tune in!
Travel time from Frankfurt to Berlin by train: from 4h 13m
Image Credit: Getty Images, Alexander Spatari. Image Location: Prague, Czech Republic
5. Berlin to Prague: castles, Clementinum, and Czech Pilsners
Step into the real-life fairytale that is Prague. This city is like your favorite childhood storybook, but with… ahem… beer. Wander from spire to spire, get lost in the labyrinth of the Old Town, and don’t forget to marvel at Prague Orloj, a striking medieval astronomical clock.
Travel time from Berlin to Prague by train: from 3h 51m
6. Prague to Vienna: from Bohemian Rhapsodies to Imperial Waltzes
Vienna’s up next, with more layers than a Sachertorte. Here, every street corner has got a story, and the coffee houses serve up a slice of culture with their cakes. It’s where you can go from admiring Klimt’s golden phase to feeling like royalty in Schönbrunn Palace.
Travel time from Prague to Vienna by train: from 4h
Image Credit: Getty Images, Buena Vista Images. Image Location: Venice, Italy
7. Vienna to Venice: from Danube blues to Grand Canal views
Say “Auf Wiedersehen” to Vienna and “Buongiorno” to Venice. This city is where maps are useless, and getting lost is part of the charm. Glide through canals, dodge pigeons in St. Mark’s Square, and dive into a fun mission: ranking the best cicchetti spots in town.
Travel time from Vienna to Venice by train: from 8h 18m on the fastest night trains
8. Venice to Milan: from gondolas to glamor
Venice might have the canals, but Milan’s got the catwalks. This fashion powerhouse knows a thing or two about style, and even the Duomo is dressed to impress. Welcome to the city where espresso shots are a prelude to shopping sprees and art isn’t just in the galleries.
Travel time from Venice to Milan by train: from 2h 6m
Image Credit: Getty Images, Borisb17. Image Location: Chambéry, France
9. Milan to Chambéry: from catwalks to cobblestones
Next up is Chambéry in France—a slice of alpine heaven. This hidden gem is snug between lakes and mountains, with a castle that’s straight out of a watercolor painting. It’s the perfect pitstop for those who like their air fresh and their camera full of mind-blowing shots.
Travel time from Milan to Chambéry by train: from 3h 48m
10. Chambéry to Lyon: from alpine air to gastronomic flair
Before looping back to Paris, indulge in Lyon, an underrated city that takes its grub seriously. Here, every meal is a masterpiece, and even the bouchons (that’s local for “bistro”) are UNESCO-worthy.
Travel time from Chambéry to Lyon by train: from 1h 24m
11. Lyon to Paris: because goodbyes are so passé
Back to Paris, because let’s face it, one round was never going to be enough. It’s time for seconds of everything: another Mona Lisa glance, another Seine stroll, another “ooh la la” as you discover a new hidden café. Paris is always a good idea, twice over.
Travel time from Lyon to Paris by train: from 1h 56m
Pro tip: While this whirlwind can whirl by in two weeks, who wants to rush beauty? Extending your journey to three or four weeks lets you truly immerse in each city’s unique splendor—more croissants, more canals, more castles!
Image Credit: Getty Images, Alexander Spatari. Image Location: Paris, France
Train travel across Europe made easy: tips for the Eurail explorer
- Plan smart, not hard. Stick to places that are easy to hop between. Think about hitting up countries like Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg. They’re all snuggled up close, so you get more bang for your travel buck.
- Be ready to roll with it. Stuff happens, plans change. That’s where the Eurail Global Pass comes in clutch. Missed a train? Catch the next one with the same all-access ticket.
- Sleeper trains for the win. Save your cash and snooze while you move. It’s a no-brainer: skip the hotel for a night and wake up fresh in a new spot.
- Pack like a pro. You’re exploring a new continent, not moving house. Bring what you need and nothing more. It makes zipping around so much easier, and you won’t be that person struggling with three suitcases on a crowded railway station.
- Use the Trainline app. It’s like having a travel buddy who's always on the ball. This app keeps you in the loop with train times and updates, so you're always a step ahead.
- Keep a travel diary. Log your train adventures in Eurail’s Travel Diary. It’s handy for hassle-free ticket inspections.
Image Credit: Getty Images, StockByM. Image Location: Lyon, France
FAQs: A grand tour of Europe with the Eurail Global Pass
What’s the Eurail Global Pass, and why should I consider it for traveling through Europe?
The Eurail Global Pass is your golden ticket to exploring Europe by train, offering flexible access to the rail networks of up to 33 countries. It’s perfect for adventurers who want the freedom to hop on and off trains without the hassle of buying individual tickets. Ideal for both short sprints and epic journeys, it's a cost-effective and immersive way to soak in the diverse landscapes and cultures of Europe.
How do I plan a 2-week Europe itinerary by train?
Planning a 2-week Europe itinerary with your Eurail Pass is all about balance. Choose a mix of must-see capitals and hidden gems. A classic route could start in Paris, glide through the Swiss Alps, dip into Italy for a taste of Rome and Venice, then loop back north through Germany, wrapping up in Amsterdam. Remember, it’s not just about the destinations but the scenic journeys in between!
Can I really do a grand tour of Europe by train? How does that work?
Absolutely! The grand tour is all about embracing the breadth of Europe, from the sun-kissed Mediterranean to the rugged landscapes of Scandinavia. With a Eurail Global Pass, you can chart a course that spans multiple countries and regions. Think London to Lisbon, Paris to Prague, and beyond. The key is to prioritize your must-visit spots and ensure you have enough travel days on your pass. Overnight trains are great for covering long distances without losing a day of exploration.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Manchan. Image Location: Belvedere Palace, Vienna, Austria
What’s the best route for traveling Europe by train?
The best route is subjective and depends on your interests. For history buffs, a journey through the heart of old Europe—think Rome or Vienna—is unbeatable. Nature lovers might prefer a route that showcases Europe’s natural beauty, like the fjords in Norway or the Alps. Foodies? Don’t miss out on Barcelona, Bologna, and Bordeaux. The Eurail Pass offers the flexibility to tailor your journey as you go.
How do I travel around Europe by train effectively?
Traveling around Europe by train is all about smart planning and flexibility. Here are some tips:
- Use the Eurail timetable to plan connections.
- Book reservations for popular routes in advance, especially during peak season.
- Pack light for easy mobility.
- Stay near train stations to maximize your sightseeing time.
- Consider night trains to save on accommodation and cover long distances.
What’s the best way to travel around Europe by train?
The best way combines planning with spontaneity. Use your Eurail Pass to its full potential by mixing in advance bookings for must-see spots with impromptu day trips based on local recommendations or your mood. The beauty of train travel is the journey itself, so choose scenic routes when you can, and don’t be afraid to explore lesser-known destinations.
Need more Eurail info? Check out our comprehensive guide to all things Eurail.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Noppasin Wongchum. Image Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands