European train tours may cost more than flying, but their luxury, slowness, and immersive journey make up for it. Sleeping cars used in luxury train journeys Europe offers come with plush fabrics and art deco details; these rail trips Europe is known for harken back to an earlier golden age of travel.
Luxury train holidays across Europe often stop in lesser-known cities that would otherwise go unnoticed. Here are five lesser-known cities you’ll visit through some of the train journeys Europe routes:
1. Venice
Veneto’s capital city, Venice is renowned for its architectural gems. Comprised of hundreds of small islands connected by canals – such as the Grand Canal thoroughfare – lined by Renaissance and Gothic palaces, Venice remains one of the world’s most beloved cities.
Venice was an important maritime power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance due to its strategic position on the Adriatic Sea, boasting longstanding trade relations with Asia and the Far East that helped fuel a golden age of prosperity, evident through magnificent art, architecture and cancel systems throughout its city walls.
An unforgettable luxury train Europe journey from London to Venice on the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express will transport you back in time, providing comfort and elegance combined with vintage carriages reminiscent of 1920s glamour – not to mention white-glove service and an endless supply of champagne!
2. Budapest
Budapest is an exquisite and lively city situated in the centre of Hungary, which can only be appreciated when you tour Europe by train. An excursion into its heart will immerse you in Hungarian culture while offering you the comforts of train holidays Europe luxury carriage featuring delicious cuisine.
Budapest, with its sprawling hills and ravines, is one of the oldest cities in Central Europe. A vibrant mix of Ottoman, Austro-European, Russian architecture adorns its skyline; including Ottoman-influenced Parliament Building and State Opera House buildings as well as Hosok Tere (Heroes’ Square) where you’ll find the Millenary Monument honouring Hungary’s founders atop its grand square – two prominent features not unlike many of Central Europe’s other historic cities!
Szechenyi Medicinal Baths should be on your train holiday Europe itinerary during your stay, offering curative mineral waters from hot thermal springs. Meanwhile, Budapest boasts an exciting nightlife scene that ranges from street-food pods and dive bars to speakeasy-style joints and wine bars offering local varietals.
3. Sarajevo
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is an impressively resilient city that continues to bounce back from the trauma caused by a bloody civil war. Home to numerous historic landmarks – including Sacred Heart Cathedral’s statue of Pope John Paul II as an invitation for peace and reconciliation – Sarajevo stands as an admirable testimony.
Bascarsija, an oriental-style market in Istanbul, remains an integral part of local life today. Come discover its bustling streets and shop for souvenirs like long-necked copper coffee pots like the Dzezva.
Sarajevo City Hall stands out as something out of a fairy tale and was painstakingly restored to look exactly as it did during its prime. Meanwhile, Avaz Twist Tower’s glass facade provides an eye-catching contrast against its concrete surroundings.
4. Malacca
Malacca’s Dutch Square, along its riverfront, is one of its main draws. A mix of reminders from Malaysia’s colonial past – all uniformly painted in an earthy red shade – excite guests with both beauty and historical significance.
Jonker Street is another premier attraction, boasting an atmospheric thoroughfare bursting with character-filled homes. Situated between Chinatown and Old Town, this area showcases another aspect of New York City’s cultural diversity.
St Paul’s Church Ruins offer another highlight. Climb the steps up St Paul’s Hill for breathtaking panoramic city views from this roofless sanctuary; afterwards, explore other historical structures like Sultanate Palace – Traveloka offers advance ticket purchase!
5. Istanbul
Europe train tours offer some amazing sights and experiences at an unbeatably reasonable cost. You may want to make sure this is included in the train holiday packages in Europe you would be choosing if you want to experience the scenic rides through breathtaking countrysides at your own leisure. Travel time may take longer when you explore Europe by rail tours, but you’ll appreciate its intimate nature as you soak in breathtaking sights along your route.
Beyoglu district of Istanbul was known as Pera during Ottoman times, and today boasts an abundance of restaurants, shops and art galleries. Start off at Taksim Square’s new Ataturk Cultural Center before strolling Istiklal Avenue formerly known as Grand Rue de Pera to experience historic culture and social history celebrated through museums including SALT Galata.
Some European rail tours packages allow you to stop by Dolmabahce Palace to admire its neoclassical architecture, then wander past Akaretler – 19th-century row houses used to house its employees – before having lunch or dessert in one of many century-old restaurants offering hearty stews and desserts or visiting one with modern Turkish flavours blended in with Breaking Bad theme coffee shops.
It may be overwhelming to plan everything for an unforgettable European holiday, but you don’t have to trouble yourself too much. There’s an easier way; tour Europe by train packages. Contact a travel company near you or find a reputable one online, and ask about European rail tours packages.