Discover Spain and beyond: The Times' top train journeys across Europe
The prestigious British media has chosen Spain as one of the best countries to explore by train
Thanks to countless films and books, long train trips have taken on something of a romantic quality, evoking thoughts of exotic destinations and meetings with mysterious strangers. In recent years though, this kind of holiday has been marketed mostly to younger people, leading many to believe that an Interrail trip is best left to the kiddies.
Well, according to prestigious British newspaper The Times, this is not the case. The media outlet has just revealed three essential train trips that everyone should consider taking around Europe, whatever their age, and Spain has made the list.
According to rail expert and journalist Andrew Eames, “two weeks will be enough with the flexibility of an Interrail pass and one of the following multi-national adventure itineraries."
Want to know what destinations he's talking about? Here are three routes he recommends for you to explore:
Central Europe: with stops in Germany, Czech Republic, Austria and Hungary
One of the most exciting routes takes travellers through Central Europe, linking the cultural and historical gems of Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria and Hungary. The journey begins in Brussels before heading to Cologne, where a stay in this charming German city sets the tone.
From there, it’s on to Berlin to admire iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the Holocaust Memorial. Train travellers then head to Prague, a city steeped in fairytale charm, before moving on to Vienna, where breathtaking architecture and legendary cafés await. The adventure culminates in Budapest, where history and modern vibrancy collide.
Trains through Spain: this is the route recommended by The Times
Spain takes centre stage in another of the recommended itineraries. This journey starts in Paris, where travellers can marvel at the newly restored Notre Dame and enjoy the post-Olympic buzz. A high-speed train then whisks them to Lyon, followed by a brief stop in Avignon before crossing into Spain.
The Spanish leg begins in the capital of Madrid, offering the perfect opportunity to shop along Gran Vía and relax in the serene Retiro Park. The route then heads south to Málaga, a coastal treasure steeped in Andalucían charm, before concluding in Barcelona.
The coastal journey back to Paris provides the perfect finale, blending stunning views with vibrant culture.
This exciting trip will take two weeks and set adventurers back around 378 euros each.
The Times' latest journey: from the Alps to the Mediterranean
If breathtaking landscapes are your thing, then the Alps-to-Mediterranean route is for you as it offers an unparalleled experience. Beginning in Paris, the journey takes travellers through the vineyards of Reims, the medieval beauty of Strasbourg and the Swiss city of Basel before reaching Lucerne, renowned as one of Switzerland’s most scenic locations.
From there, the iconic red Bernina Express carries passengers across the Alps, eventually reaching Tirano in Italy. The Italian portion of the journey includes stops in Milan, Genoa and Levanto, before ending in La Spezia, a picturesque port city.
All three trips are designed to be flexible, allowing travellers to begin their adventure from Paris rather than the UK, which can save time and money.
Image: Interrail
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