Western Europe: Eurail train itinerary

Sacré Cœur, Paris, France

Paris is a city loved the world over and for very good reason. The capital of France has a multitude of must-sees, and as cliché as it may be, the Eiffel Tower (tour Eiffel) is top of the list. Dedicate half a day to roaming around the Louvre, the most visited art museum in the world and set eyes on Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. Once you’ve had your artistic fill, find a spot along the Seine and absorb the charisma that dances through this beautiful city.

Escape the hustle and bustle of Paris in the peaceful grounds of the Père Lachaise Cemetery (Cimetière du Père-Lachaise). Many renowned artists and authors were laid to rest here, including The Doors’ singer Jim Morrison and celebrated writer Oscar Wilde. Montmartre – the highest point in the city – is another place of calm offering spectacular views over Paris. Drop into the Sacré Cœur (Basilique du Sacré-Cœur) while you’re there.

Lake Geneva, Switzerland

Welcome to Geneva, one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan cities and home to international bodies the United Nations and International Red Cross, the offices of which can be visited. Do a spot of retail therapy on the Rue de Marché where Switzerland’s best-loved brands may tempt you to part with your money. Catch breath-taking views of Western Europe’s tallest mountain Mount Blanc (15770ft / 4807m) –  visible from the city center.

Most special of all is the French-styled old town with its winding roads and café terraces laid out. And let’s not forget that Geneva is home to Europe’s largest glacial lake with the French and Swiss Alps punctuating this stunning backdrop. The scenic train route around the lake offers fantastic views of this spectacular part of Switzerland. Eurail pass holders save 50% on boat rides around Lake Geneva with CGN boat services – just show your pass.

Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken is Switzerland’s (and perhaps Europe’s) adventure-sport mecca, where anything goes from snowboarding and skiing world-class pistes to paragliding and skydiving above the sparkling Brien and Thun lakes, to plunging through white rapids aboard a raft. The mountain town is named after its geographical location, “between lakes” and has gleaming bodies of alpine water straddling both sides.

One of the big draws to Interlaken is the Jungfrau mountain which dramatically towers over the town. The Jungfrau Railway* – an extraordinary feat in rail engineering completed in 1912 – chugs its way to Europe’s highest altitude train station (11332ft / 3454m) and rewards you with mind-blowing views of the mountain giants Jungfrau, Eiger and Mönch.
*This private railway attraction is not included in the Eurail pass.

Innsbruck, Austria

The first thing you’ll notice on stepping out of Innsbruck train station is the mountain vista that surrounds the entire Austrian town. The old town is the city’s beloved center, dressed in bright-coloured medieval buildings and home to the Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof) – an intricately-detailed gothic balcony.

For great views of the Tyrolean capital you’ve got plenty of options – take the Hungerburg Funicular up the mountain side, or visit the Bergisel Ski Jump Stadium where you can also take in views of the jump used in the 1976 Winter Olympics. Alternatively take the sightseeing bus to Ambras Castle perched up on the Innsbruck mountainside. For the adrenaline junkies there are heaps of adventure sports to partake in, come snow or shine.

Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg, Austria’s gem of a city was the birthplace and home to Mozart. Check out the 2 fascinating museums dedicated to the city’s prodigy, both of which he once lived in. Wander aimlessly through the old town and step back to a period of magnificent architecture and riches. From atop the Hohensalzburg Fortress enjoy enchanting views of the city and the Salzach river as it radiates through the city.

A trip to Salzburg wouldn’t be the same without joining the Sound of Music Tour, taking you on a whistle-stop tour of the film’s key locations, passing the snow-capped mountains, sprawling green meadows and crystal blue lakes of Salzburg’s Lake District. You’ll also be let into the facts and fiction of the Von Trapp family as portrayed in the Hollywood movie.

Marienplatz, Munich, Germany

Munich, set in the heart of Bavaria, is Germany’s third largest city. Visit during Oktoberfest and you’ll be in for a treat during this traditional Bavarian beer drinking festival. Held annually this is Germany's most famous festival attracting more than 5 million people. The city itself is centered around Marienplatz, the main square and the life and soul of the city.

Visit the Munich Residence (Münchner Residenz), once the royal palace to the Bavarian monarch. Marvel at the renaissance, baroque, rococo and neoclassical styles of decoration. Once you’ve fed your artistic taste buds, it’s time to join the locals at the Hofbrauhaus – one of Munich’s oldest breweries. This famous beer drinking hall can hold up to 3,500 revelers. Try not to be intimidated by the 1-liter glasses – known as a maß.

Brandenburg Gate, Berlin, Germany

Perhaps Europe’s coolest capital, Germany's Berlin is famous for its underground subcultures and alternative attitude, while being surrounded by remnants of an altogether dramatic past. To get your head around Berlin’s part in the Cold War, visit Checkpoint Charlie – once the official crossing point between East and West. There are also a number of World War II bunker tours including detailed accounts of the events that unfolded there.

Berlin is home to an eclectic bunch of artists, musicians and many on a journey of experimentation and discovery. There’s an array of art galleries and exhibitions across the city, including the Berlinsche Gallery with a permanent collection from local artists dating back to 1870, covering a broad spectrum of themes and periods. Come night, decadence and hedonism is in full flow throughout Berlin’s underground scene.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Amsterdam may be small for a capital but there’s plenty of reason to stop there. Visit the Van Gogh Museum and journey through the works of the famous Dutch painter or drop by the Rijks Museum with its display of Dutch art from the Golden Age. Another must-see is the Anne Frank Museum – step inside the Secret Annex that was the home and hiding place to the Jewish girl and her family for over 2 years during World War II.

It’s a city famous for its seedy Red Light District lined with coffee shops, but don't be tricked into thinking that Amsterdam is one-dimensional. Wander through the cobbled canal-side lanes and stop off at one of the traditional Amsterdam brown cafés (bruin café) for a local beer or head to the Nine Streets (Negen Straatjes) for a spot of retail therapy in the hip and trendy stores. The city is best explored on foot or by hiring a bicycle.

Bruges, Belgium

If you’ve got just a short time in Belgium then the medieval town of Bruges should be your main focus. The location of movie hit, In Bruges, the city is every bit as enchanting as it appeared on screen, minus all the drama that unfolded of course! Ascend the 366 steps of the Belfry – the medieval bell tower – an iconic symbol of the city.

The well-preserved centre of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s easy to see why, once you take a stroll through quaint narrow lanes and alongside romantic waterways. Once you’ve seen all there is to see, reward yourself with a Belgian beer on a sunny terrace or stop off to buy some hand-made Belgian chocolates to take back with you.