Europe by Train: A Six-Stop Railway Tour Through European History Chris Caggiano August 19, 2024 Arts & History, Europe, general Touring Europe by train offers an unparalleled blend of modern convenience and a direct connection to the past. As the train glides through picturesque landscapes, you can almost feel the echoes of history in every mile. Unlike other modes of travel, the rhythm of the rails allows you to reflect on the centuries of events that shaped each destination. Watching cities emerge on the horizon, you arrive not just at stations but at the crossroads of pivotal moments in history. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, as each leg of the trip connects the past and present, weaving together the rich historical narrative of Europe with an immersive, reflective travel experience. Stop 1 — London, England St Pancras and Kings Cross stations, London, England Starting your historical journey in London allows you to step directly into the heart of British history. Begin at the Tower of London, a fortress that has played multiple roles over its millennium of existence. Famously, it was where Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII, was imprisoned and executed in 1536—a pivotal moment in the English Reformation. From there, travel to Westminster Abbey, where every English and British monarch has been crowned since William the Conqueror in 1066. This Gothic masterpiece houses the tombs of notable figures like Elizabeth I and Charles Darwin, bridging centuries of English heritage. Not far from the Abbey lies Hampton Court Palace, where Henry VIII established the Church of England, breaking from the Catholic Church. Wandering through its grand halls and gardens, you’ll trace the footsteps of a king who fundamentally reshaped the country’s religious and political landscape. When it’s time to leave London, Europe’s rail system provides a transition to your next historical destination. Board the Eurostar from St. Pancras International, where sleek modernity meets Victorian grandeur. In just over two hours, you’ll arrive in Paris, ready to dive into the revolutionary history of France. Stop 2 — Paris, France Conciergerie, Paris, France Once you’re in Paris, you’ll step into a city that has been the stage for some of the most dramatic moments in European history. Begin at the Conciergerie, a former royal palace turned prison, where Marie Antoinette was held during the French Revolution before her execution in 1793. The chilling halls still resonate with the weight of the revolution, giving visitors a sense of the turbulent era that forever altered France’s monarchy. Be sure to also visit Place de la Bastille, where the storming of the Bastille in 1789 marked the beginning of the French Revolution. The energy of the square still reflects the revolutionary fervor that once swept the nation. A short ride away, the grand Palace of Versailles awaits. This opulent symbol of absolute monarchy witnessed the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, officially ending World War I. As you stroll through the Hall of Mirrors, it’s easy to imagine the world leaders who gathered here to reshape the map of Europe after one of the deadliest conflicts in history. When it’s time to leave Paris, the next leg of your journey takes you to Berlin. Boarding a comfortable high-speed train from Gare de l’Est, you’ll be whisked through the French and German countryside, crossing borders seamlessly. In about eight hours, you’ll arrive in Berlin, ready to explore the landmarks of Germany’s recent and far-reaching history. Stop 3 — Berlin, Germany Brandenburg Gate, Berlin, Germany Arriving in Berlin, you’ll find yourself in a city where the weight of 20th-century history is inescapable. Begin your exploration at the Brandenburg Gate, an 18th-century neoclassical monument that became a symbol of division during the Cold War. It was here, in 1989, that Berliners celebrated the fall of the Berlin Wall, marking the reunification of Germany and the end of a divided Europe. The Gate now stands as a monument to peace and unity. Not far from the Brandenburg Gate, visit the Berlin Wall Memorial. This preserved section of the wall, along with a poignant memorial, serves as a reminder of the 28 years during which East and West Berlin were separated by concrete and barbed wire. The stories of those who attempted to escape—and those who lost their lives trying—are woven into the city’s fabric, making it a powerful place to pause and reflect on the human cost of division. Continue to Checkpoint Charlie, the most famous crossing point between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. The small, reconstructed guardhouse and its nearby museum offer insight into the many daring escape attempts and tense standoffs that occurred here. It’s a stark reminder of Berlin’s place at the heart of Cold War geopolitics. When it’s time to leave Berlin, your next destination is Amsterdam. Board a comfortable intercity train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof for the six-hour journey across northern Germany and into the Netherlands. Stop 4 — Amsterdam, Netherlands National Monument, Royal Palace, Amsterdam, Netherlands In Amsterdam, you’ll find a city with a rich history shaped by both art and war. Begin your visit at Dam Square, a central hub since the city’s founding in the 13th century. In 1945, the square became the site of celebration as the Dutch people gathered here to mark their liberation from Nazi occupation at the end of World War II. Today, the square’s National Monument honors those who fought for freedom and serves as a poignant reminder of the city’s resilience. Next, visit the Anne Frank House, where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during the war. Walking through the secret annex where Anne wrote her famous diary is an intimate and emotional experience, symbolizing the broader tragedy of the Holocaust and the strength of the human spirit under unimaginable circumstances. Another key stop is the Rembrandt House, where the great Dutch painter lived and worked during the Dutch Golden Age. Here, you can explore the world of 17th-century Amsterdam, a time when the city flourished as a center of trade, culture, and art. The preserved home and studio provide insight into Rembrandt’s life and the artistic legacy that continues to shape the city. When it’s time to continue your journey, board a direct train from Amsterdam Centraal to Vienna. This scenic overnight journey, taking about 14 hours, carries you through Germany and Austria, allowing you to wake up in the heart of Vienna. Step 5 — Vienna, Austria Belvedere Palace, Vienna, Austria Often considered the heart of Europe, Vienna welcomes you with its grand imperial history. Begin at the Hofburg Palace, a sprawling complex that has served as the seat of power for the Habsburg dynasty for over 600 years. It was here that the Congress of Vienna took place from 1814 to 1815, redrawing Europe’s borders after the Napoleonic Wars and setting the stage for a century of relative peace. Walking through the palace’s grand halls, you can almost imagine the diplomats and leaders who gathered to reshape the continent’s future. A short walk away is Belvedere Palace, another magnificent Baroque structure. Though famed for housing Gustav Klimt’s iconic painting The Kiss, the palace also played a crucial role in Europe’s political history. In 1955, the Treaty of Vienna was signed here, reestablishing Austria’s sovereignty after years of occupation and solidifying its position as a neutral country during the Cold War. To fully appreciate Vienna’s role as a cultural capital, visit the site of the Kärntnertortheater, where Beethoven’s only opera, Fidelio, premiered in 1821. This performance echoed the city’s deep connection to classical music and its enduring influence on European culture. When it’s time to depart Vienna, board a direct train to Rome. The journey takes about 14 hours, offering spectacular views of the Austrian Alps and Italian countryside. You Might Also Enjoy: Europe by Train: An Artistic and Historic Odyssey Stop 6 — Rome, Italy Capitoline Hill (Campidoglio), Rome, Italy Arriving in Rome, you’ll be stepping into the cradle of Western civilization, where ancient history comes to life around every corner. Begin your exploration at the Roman Forum, the heart of the Roman Republic and later the Empire. It was here, in 44 BCE, that Julius Caesar was assassinated, an event that altered the course of history and led to the rise of the Roman Empire. Walking through the ruins, you can almost feel the weight of political intrigue and power struggles that once dominated the city. Just a short distance away stands the Pantheon, originally built in 27 BCE and later rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian. Its perfectly preserved architecture is a testament to Roman engineering brilliance, with its massive dome inspiring awe even two millennia later. The Pantheon remains a key symbol of Rome’s endurance and cultural legacy. Climb to the Capitoline Hill, or Campidoglio, one of the seven hills of Rome, where the Temple of Jupiter once stood, marking the establishment of the Roman Republic in 509 BCE. Today, Michelangelo’s stunning square and surrounding museums offer a view into the city’s ancient past while providing a panoramic view of the modern city. FAQs: Q: What’s the best way to book train tickets for this itinerary? A: Booking tickets in advance through Europe’s major train operators like Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn, and Trenitalia ensures better rates and seat reservations. For multi-city trips, consider a Eurail pass, which provides flexibility and savings for long journeys across several countries. Q: Do I need visas for traveling between these cities? A: If you’re from the U.S., Canada, or most European countries, you don’t need visas for short stays within the Schengen Area, which includes Austria, France, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. However, check visa requirements for the UK before entering London. Q: Are overnight trains safe? A: Overnight trains are generally safe and a popular way to travel between cities. Choose a couchette or sleeper cabin for added comfort and privacy. Lock your belongings and use luggage storage for peace of mind. Q: How much luggage can I bring on European trains? A: Most European trains have generous luggage allowances, typically allowing two large bags and a carry-on. There are overhead racks for smaller items, and larger suitcases can be stored in designated areas near the doors. Q: Are meals available on long-distance trains? A: Yes, many long-distance trains offer dining cars with meals, snacks, and drinks. Alternatively, you can bring your own food, which is common among European travelers. Check individual train services for menu options. Q: What’s the best time of year to take this train journey? A: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Summer provides longer days for sightseeing, though it can be crowded. Winter travel is less busy, but be prepared for shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures in northern cities. Q: Is there Wi-Fi available on the trains? A: Many European trains offer Wi-Fi, especially on high-speed services like Eurostar and Deutsche Bahn ICE trains. However, connectivity may be spotty in rural areas and on older trains. It’s a good idea to download maps and travel info in advance. Have you ever travelled through Europe by train? Tell us about it in the comments below!
