Top European Holiday Destinations by Train from London

From Eurostar trips through the Channel to sleeper trains taking you across several countries while you snooze, train travel across the region has never been easier. As summer approaches, take advantage of the railways to reach some of Europe's best destinations.

Here's our guide to some of the best sites in Europe that you can reach within 24 hours by train from London.

Paris, France

The French capital has been a fantastic city to visit by train since the launch of the Eurostar in 1994. Today, trains from St Pancras International will get you there in about two hours and 16 minutes, making it a likely day trip destination as well as a great spot for a weekend break. As a transport hub, it also serves as the gateway to many other cities on this list, with easy travel to the rest of France, Belgium, Spain, and beyond.

From the Louvre to the Eiffel Tower, explore the city's different "arrondissements" for a chance to enjoy world-renowned landmarks, galleries, and museums as you stroll through the city's streets. The 19th-century Haussmann architecture adds to the city's unique style and romance, while its world-class culinary scene offers everything from fine dining to familiar pastries.

How to get to Paris by train

Eurostar operates up to 17 services a day from St Pancras to Gare du Nord. Ticket prices start at £78 return, and offers include hotels and train travel on Eurostar.com.

Berlin, Germany

With the new overnight rail lines launched by the Dutch-Belgian railway company European Sleeper in May 2023, reaching Berlin by train has suddenly become more accessible. The German capital is another trendy European destination, whether you're a party lover or a history buff. Naturally, many visitors choose to experience both during their visit, spending time trying to get into the city's austere nightclubs, or exploring the remaining sections of the Berlin Wall.

While other sites like Checkpoint Charlie or the Brandenburg Gate draw thousands of tourists, it's also enjoyable to simply wander through some of the city's diverse neighborhoods. The Mitte area is at the heart of the city, though Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg are other great options for an afternoon amble.

How to get to Berlin by train

The night sleeper train departs from Brussels, leaving at 7.22 pm local time on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, arriving at 6.48 am the following morning. The company has aligned its schedules with Eurostar arrivals, making the changeover easy enough.

Prague, Czech Republic

The European Sleeper route is adding two stops in 2024: Dresden and Prague. This will make travel from the UK (and certainly Brussels) much easier, but until then, you'll have to travel with Deutsche Bahn from Brussels to Frankfurt, then on to Prague. However you journey, when you arrive, you'll find one of Europe's finest capitals.

The focal point of the city is its stunning old town, filled with winding cobblestone streets and dozens of options for dining and drinking. The Old Town Square lies at the city's heart, while Wenceslas Square is just a five-minute walk away. Across the river, perched on a hill overlooking the city, stands Prague Castle, the world's largest ancient castle.

How to get to Prague by train

Your best bet is to take the Eurostar to Brussels (starting at £78 return), switch and head to Frankfurt. From Frankfurt, you might have to change trains in Nuremberg or Regensburg before reaching Prague, with an average journey time of 14 to 20 hours depending on when you leave London. Ticket prices for the final leg begin at £48 per person.

Barcelona, Spain

With trains running daily from Paris, Barcelona is easily accessible from the UK. TGV operates high-speed trains that take just over six hours, meaning you can easily have breakfast in London and wind down with cocktails opposite the Sagrada Familia. Spain's rebellious second city is a cousin to cosmopolitan Madrid, where European and Spanish influences blend to form a unique and eclectic destination.

Its setting is ideal for holidaymakers, leading you from its sprawling metropolis directly to the coast, where long stretches of golden sands and warm seas meet beachside bars and booming nightlife. There are more sights than you could cover in a weekend—from Gaudi's buildings to the Olympic park at Montjuic—but what sets the city apart from other European destinations is the quality and scope of the activities it offers. Whether it's watching football matches at Camp Nou, or spending an afternoon perusing the Picasso Museum, many of its landmarks and activities are "best in class" across Europe.

How to get to Barcelona by train

One of the easiest routes on this list, doable in a day if you leave early—the journey averages about 12 hours, including waits and transfers. After leaving the Eurostar in Paris at Gare du Nord, cross the city to Gare de Lyon, where trains that take six hours to Barcelona depart three times a day. Ticket prices for the second leg start at £44.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

While the train to Amsterdam takes considerably longer than flying, it's an opportunity to enjoy the picturesque countryside views of northern France and Belgium. You'll arrive at Amsterdam Central Station, where you can step right into the bustling city center.

The Dutch capital's scenic canal network—backed by endless rows of 17th-century houses—steals the spotlight in this exceptionally walkable (and cyclable) city, while its parks, such as Vondelpark and Oosterpark, provide plenty of lovely green areas. The Red Light District attracts hundreds of visitors each day, while its historical sites and museums, including the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum, are among other noteworthy attractions.

How to get to Amsterdam by train

You can reach Amsterdam in just under four hours via Eurostar. Like all other direct Eurostar services, return ticket prices in standard class start at £78. Eurostar.com