Winter getaways in Europe by rail

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Europe offers fantastic destinations to explore all year round. And it's easier, quicker and cheaper to get there from the UK by rail than most people realise.

Why by train?

There are literally thousands of destinations easily reached by train, whether it be a high-speed, overnight or regional train service. High-speed services in Europe connect easily to allow passengers to cover large distances, with door to door travelling times often comparable to or even quicker than flying.

Overnight services mean you can leave the UK after work and wake up in Spain, France, Italy, Germany, Austria or even Scandinavia early the next morning, to really maximise your time on a short break. And regional services enable passengers to go straight to the centre of even the most remote destinations.

Travelling by train is a much more real experience - instead of spending your time queuing to check in bags, sitting 30,000 ft above the scenery or waiting to collect luggage from a baggage carousel, you can sit back, relax and watch the scenery change as you continue your journey.

There are no additional fuel surcharges, much more flexible baggage allowances, and you can keep your luggage with you - so there's little chance of it getting lost or turning up somewhere else. Plus, travelling by train is much better for the environment - there really is no need to fly when going to short-haul European destinations.

Why now?

Travelling off-season to Europe can bring unexpected benefits. Major city break destinations are often less expensive out of season, there is more availability in hotels and restaurants are less crowded. Fewer tourists mean you will get to experience the city more like a local, there are smaller queues for major attractions and less crowds.

Many European destinations pull out all the stops for their Christmas celebrations, and you will find a massive variety of things to do and see in the winter, just as at any other time of year.

Winter fun

During November and December, many towns and cities in France, Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands put on Christmas markets, offering a huge range of locally crafted gifts, local delicacies and plenty of mulled wine. There are funfairs, ice-rinks, carol concerts, ice sculptures, fantastic Christmas trees and decorations, illuminations and light shows, winter festivals, Christmas balls and New Year celebrations.

Once Christmas is over, head to the major European cities for a January sale bargain, or start planning your Valentines getaway - perhaps to a scenic mountain retreat, or a rural hideaway.

Train to the slopes

If you're a winter sports fan, there's even more reason to take the train and cut your carbon emissions. Travel by rail to hundreds of ski resorts in France, Switzerland, Italy, Andorra, Austria and beyond. Many top resorts can be reached by overnight trains, arriving early in the morning to really maximise your time on the slopes. Particularly handy if you are going for a long weekend.

Rail Europe can book connecting trains all over Europe, including Eurostar, the European high-speed rail network, overnight trains, local and scenic trains and the famous Snow Train direct to the Alps.

01 November 2008