Trains link some of the coolest cities in the world, dropping travellers on the doorstep of unlimited culture. You could eat breakfast in London, have lunch by the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and stop for dinner alongside the canals of Amsterdam, all in a single day.
Though rail trip adventures aren't a new concept–the iconic Interrail Pass was launched more than 50 years ago–concerns about climate change and our individual carbon footprint means more people are choosing trains over planes than ever before. Rail travel across Europe is no longer just a clever hack for student backpackers during the summer, it has something to offer everyone, all year round.
Whether you're in the early stages of planning a long weekend, or dreaming of a multi-week escape across the continent, the Collins Rail Map of Europe is the ultimate trip planning tool to guide you on where to go and what to do when you get there. Better yet, with the handy calendar of cultural events, you’ll be able to choose when the best time to go is too.
Here are five epic European rail adventures to start plotting on your map…
The Grand Tour
Duration: Multi-week
Covers: London - Paris - Florence - Rome - Venice - Vienna - Budapest - Prague - Berlin - Amsterdam
This iconic rail route takes you through some of Europe's most inspiring cities and makes for quite the adventure. London is your launch pad – take a boat tour on the River Thames and a spin on the London Eye. Hop on the Eurostar to Paris and visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. The Renaissance splendour of Florence is next, then the ancient city of Rome – the Colosseum is a must. After the romantic canals of Venice, the route travels to Vienna's imperial elegance, then to Budapest's thermal baths and historic charm. Next, Prague's astounding architectural beauty leads on to Berlin's vibrant mix of history and modernity. Finish your tour in Amsterdam, walking canal-side and soaking up the rich artistic heritage.
The Med
Duration: Long weekend
Covers: Marseille - Nice - Monte-Carlo
For a luxurious long-weekend, travel along the Mediterranean coast from France to Monaco, starting in the vibrant port city of Marseille. Teaming with 2,500 years of history, an abundance of local culture and charm, Marseille has something to offer every traveller. Feast on fresh seafood at a waterfront café before exploring Le Panier, the city’s oldest neighbourhood, known for its striking street art. From here, head to Nice, where you can spend an afternoon relaxing on the stunning shingle coastline with its crystal-clear waters. Finally, opulent Monte-Carlo awaits, sparkling like a jewel on the Med this glamourous district of Monaco may be best-known for attracting luxury holidaymakers, but it can still be enjoyed on a budget. Why not wander through Jardin Exotique before digging into a picnic lunch at Larvotto Beach?
Northern Europe
Duration: Multi-week
Covers: Amsterdam - Bremen - Hamburg - Berlin - Szczecin - Gdańsk
The Dutch capital of Amsterdam is one of the world's best cities for exploring on foot or by bicycle – wander along picturesque canals and charming streets. The Rijksmuseum is an absolute must. Bremen in northwest Germany is a beautiful Renaissance town known for its Market Square and gothic St Peter's Cathedral – try a walking tour with a local guide. Next up is Hamburg, a sprawling city on the Elbe river with a famous maritime past. Don't miss Landungsbrücken, Speicherstadt and St Michael's Church. Berlin is Germany's vibrant capital and it packs a cultural punch – check out its world-class restaurants, museums and parks, and of course the historic remains of the Berlin Wall. Cross the border eastwards into Poland to Szczecin, where historic churches contrast with tall Soviet-era buildings. Finish your tour in Gdańsk, a historic port city with architecture reminiscent of Amsterdam's canal houses.
Danube Big 3
Duration: Long weekend
Covers: Vienna - Bratislava - Budapest
All aboard in Vienna, Austria’s elegant capital as you follow the winding path of the great Danube river. Explore the sprawling gardens and lavish bedrooms of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Schönbrunn Palace; take in breathtaking views over the city from the North Tower of St. Stephen’s Cathedral; and for something a bit different… you can even tour the fascinating underground sewers made famous in the 1949 film The Third Man. From here, head to Bratislava in Slovakia, a laid-back city that invites exploration off the beaten track. For panoramic views of the Danube River, pay a visit to Bratislava Castle, or to the UFO observation deck where you can see more than 100 km in any direction. Your trip comes to an end in Budapest, with its world-famous fairytale-esque architecture. Why not see the city by sunset on an evening river cruise or soak in the Szechenyi Baths – one of the best and largest spa baths in Europe?
The Emerald Isle
Duration: Multi-week
Belfast - Dublin - Kilkenny - Cork - Limerick - Galway
Belfast in Northern Ireland has plenty for history buffs to enjoy: see where the RMS Titanic was built, or for a change of pace, Game of Thrones fans can enjoy a studio tour. Head south to Dublin, capital of Ireland, and visit the famous Guinness brewery. Be sure to also check out the musicians in Temple Bar and the world-renowned Trinity College. In Kilkenny you can visit the castle and explore the impressive Dunmore Cave before taking a worthwhile trip to see Kells Priory. In Cork, learn some dark history on the City Gaol tour, or check out the eighteenth-century English Market. Limerick offers you the brooding majesty of King John's Castle, before your tour concludes in Galway, where the wild Atlantic lashes the landscape.
Use the Collins Rail Map of Europe to plan your next European adventure by train. Featuring all the essential railways from high-speed to main lines, suggested itineraries, a country-by-country station finder, top train travel tips and more, this must-have map will help you at every stage of your journey. And better yet, it's the perfect size to slip into your backpack for on-the-go use.
Collins Rail Map of Europe is out now and available wherever you buy your books. RRP £12.99.