Best European city breaks from London by train (2026 guide)

One of the best things about living in London is how easy it is to get abroad without setting foot in an airport. From St Pancras alone, you can be in another country in just over two hours.

Travel a little further, and within a day you can reach cities in Spain, the south of France, Ireland – all by train or ferry.

Every destination in this guide has layers of history built into its streets: medieval old towns, Gothic cathedrals, Renaissance architecture, ancient Roman remains, centuries-old ports and hidden quarters. Whether it’s the Modernista masterpieces of Barcelona, the cobbled lanes of Antwerp’s old town, or the half-timbered houses of Strasbourg, each of these places offers something for anyone who wants more from a trip abroad than just ticking off a checklist.

And getting there by train is half the experience – watching the French countryside roll by with a glass of wine, or crossing the Channel and arriving straight in the heart of a new city.

To put this guide together, I’ve brought in fellow travel writers and experts who know these destinations inside out, many of whom live in or near the places they’re writing about. You’ll find their names and links alongside their recommendations throughout.

Trips to France from London without flying

If you’re planning a trip to Europe from London without flying, France should be top of your list. When it comes to heritage and fascinating cities, it’s hard to beat: within a few hours of London by train are cities with Roman amphitheatres, medieval abbeys, Renaissance châteaux, Gothic cathedrals and Belle Époque grandeur – sometimes all in the same place.

The Eurostar puts Paris just two hours away, and from there, high-speed TGV trains fan out across the country. Here are nine of your best options.

Lille

Travel time and method: 1 hour 20 minutes by direct Eurostar

If it’s pure speed you’re after, there’s no quicker city break from London by train than Lille. Despite this, it gets a fraction of the tourists of many other places on this list – which is a shame, because it’s beautiful, underrated city.

The Vieux-Lille (old town) is the highlight — a web of cobbled streets lined with 17th and 18th-century Flemish townhouses in warm brick and stone, their ornate façades a reminder that this city was once part of the Spanish Netherlands. The Grand-Place (officially Place du Général de Gaulle — he was born here) is a good starting point, home to some of the city’s most stunning buildings.

The Palais des Beaux-Arts is one of the largest fine art museums in France outside Paris, with an impressive collection spanning Old Masters to Impressionism. The Hospice Comtesse, a 13th-century former hospital, is a beautiful smaller museum worth a visit for its medieval and Flemish interiors.

How to get there: Direct Eurostar from London St Pancras to Lille-Europe, taking around 1 hour 20 minutes. Trains run multiple times daily.

Where to stay:

• L’Hermitage Gantois — a luxury hotel in a beautifully restored 15th-century hospice, right in the city centre.
• Hotel Brueghel — a charming, well-priced option near the Gare de Lille Flandres, in a classic Flemish building.

Paris

Travel time and method: About 2 and a half hours by Eurostar

There’s something magical about leaving St Pancras station and, a couple of hours later, finding yourself in the heart of Paris. For architecture and history, there are few cities more perfect in the world – and Paris is also home to some of the best art museums on the plane.

Lisa Garrett of Waves and Cobblestones‘ guide:

Why Paris is worth visiting: You’ll definitely want to visit bucket-list Paris attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Sacré-Cœur, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.  Paris is home to world-class museums such as the Louvre and the Musee d’Orsay, as well as smaller gems like the Rodin Museum and the Orangerie. 

Foodies will love sampling French pastries, cheeses, crêpes, and the iconic steak frites.   Known as the City of Love, Paris will draw you in with its timeless romantic charm.  Enjoy a picnic in the Luxembourg Gardens or a stroll along the banks of the Seine.  Be sure to watch the Eiffel Tower’s nightly lights show!

How to get there: Plan to arrive at the London St. Pancras station at least an hour before your scheduled train, as you will need to go through customs prior to boarding. You’ll arrive in Paris at the Gare du Nord station. Be sure to purchase your Eurostar tickets in advance for the best prices and availability.

Where to stay:

• Hotel Keppler — near the Arc de Triomphe/Champs Élysées.
• La Maison Favart — near the Palais Garnier Opera House.
• Hotel du Cadran — in the Rue Cler neighbourhood.

Strasbourg

Travel time and method: 5 to 6 hours (Eurostar to Paris + TGV train).

Strasbourg is home to one of my favourite buildings in Europe: its astonishing Gothic tower, dominating the old town with one of the finest medieval stained glass windows you’ll find anywhere.

Aside from that I loved exploring its remarkably preserved old-town and hybrid French-German culture. Vanessa Morgan from Travelling Cats’ guide:

Why Strasbourg is worth visiting: Strasbourg is one of the cutest cities in Alsace, situated close to the border with Germany. The idyllic centre is filled with colourful, half-timbered houses and cute canals. But the city’s true pride is the Notre-Dame cathedral, which is the second most visited in France, after Notre-Dame in Paris. It’s also one of the most beautiful Gothic buildings in Europe.

For coffee or lunch, stop by Chatperlipopette, the cat café of Strasbourg. Your visit will help cats in need.

The centre is quite small, so 1 or 2 days is enough to see it all. Try visiting around Christmas, because that’s when Strasbourg truly sparks to life.

How to get there: Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord (2 hours 15 minutes). Go to Paris Gare de l’Est (a short walk – the stations are right next to each other). From there, catch the TGV to Strasbourg (roughly 1 hour 50 minutes).

Where to stay:

• Cour du Corbeau Hotel Strasbourg — one of the city’s most iconic boutique stays, set in a Renaissance ensemble right near the cathedral.
• Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa (part of Marriott) — a very stylish hotel with a cosy interior, a spa, excellent breakfast, and a view of the cathedral.

Dieppe

Travel time and method: Just over 5 hours — train to Brighton (56 minutes from London Victoria), train to Newhaven Harbour (36 minutes from Brighton), then ferry to Dieppe (4 hours).

Contributed by Gillian Edwards Enticknap of Secret Sussex

Why visit Dieppe: Dieppe is a charming seaside town, located in Normandy, Northern France. It is famed for its lively harbour, fresh seafood restaurants and rich maritime history.

Dieppe is a wonderful place to visit, especially in the summer. It is great for a weekend break, where you can soak up a relaxed atmosphere, enjoy cultural attractions, savour delicious food, and explore historic sites. Eat the local scallops when dining out and enjoy the pebbled beaches, which offer stretches of lovely, seaside walks.

Marché de Dieppe has been voted one of France’s best markets in 2020. Musee de Dieppe is housed in a historic 14th-century castle, which offers a variety of collections from impressionist paintings, souvenirs and historical maritime objects.

Where to stay:

• Hôtel de la Plage
• Mercure Dieppe La Presidence Hotel
• L’Échappée – Hôtel Casino Dieppe

How to get there:

Get the quick 56-minute train to Brighton from London Victoria, then head to Newhaven Harbour on a 36-minute train from Brighton. Newhaven is where you can catch the ferry to Dieppe, which takes 4 hours in total.

Wider Normandy region & D-Day beaches

Travel time and method: About 5.5 hours by train (Eurostar + change in Paris)

Normandy is one of the most historically significant regions of France, long connected to Britain and with plenty of shared heritage.

This is where William the Conqueror launched his invasion of England in 1066, where the Impressionists painted some of their most famous works, and where the D-Day landings changed the course of the Second World War. Beyond the headline history, it’s a beautiful region of half-timbered villages, medieval abbeys, dramatic coastline and some of the best food in France.

Chelsea from Adventures of Chels shares her guide:

Why visit Normandy: Normandy is a great place to visit for its beauty and rich history. Be sure to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mont-Saint-Michel, which is a beautiful abbey on an island.

A visit to Claude Monet’s home in Giverny is great for enjoying the beauty of his garden which he frequently painted pictures of.

And no trip to Normandy is complete without a visit to the historical D-Day sites. Must see sites include the landing beaches, Pointe du Hoc, and Sainte-Mère-Église.

Where to stay:

• Domaine du Chesney
• Château Saint Gilles – Bayeux

How to get there: The most straightforward route by train is Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord, then metro or RER across to Paris Saint-Lazare, which is the main station for trains into Normandy.

From Saint-Lazare, direct trains run to Rouen (around 1h 20 mins), Caen (around 2–2.5 hours) and Bayeux (around 2.5 hours on the fastest direct services).

For Mont-Saint-Michel, take the TGV from Paris Montparnasse to Rennes or Dol-de-Bretagne, then a shuttle bus. The total journey from London to the main Normandy towns is around 4–6 hours depending on your destination. If you want to explore the region more widely — particularly the D-Day beaches and smaller villages — hiring a car from one of the larger towns is worth considering.

Lyon

Travel time and method: Around 5-6 hours from London to Lyon using Eurostar, connecting Parisian metros and a TGV train.

Lyon is one of the best city breaks from London by train. The city was founded by the Romans as Lugdunum in 43 BC, served as the capital of Roman Gaul, and has been adding layers ever since.

Its Renaissance old town, Vieux Lyon, is one of the largest in Europe, with cobbled streets, traboules (hidden passageways between buildings) and silk merchants’ houses. The whole centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its 2,000 years of urban history.

Contribution from Lyon expert Latifah of Lyon trip:

Why Lyon is worth visiting: Known as the capital of French gastronomy, Lyon is a foodie haven with its bouchons and Michelin-starred restaurants (without the Paris crowds).

The Vieux Lyon (old town) has a Renaissance charm with its cobblestones and traboules (secret passageways). For the most magical sunset and view of the city, head to Fourvière hill. There are many things to do in Lyon and it’s a city that tends to win people over quickly.

How to get there: Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord (2h 15 mins). Then transfer from Gare du Nord to Gare de Lyon — a quick metro trip: line 4 to line 14 (20–30 mins). Finally take the TGV train from Paris to Lyon (2 hrs).

Where to stay:

• InterContinental Hotel — situated in the Grand Hôtel-Dieu (a historic landmark), perfectly located in the centre of Presqu’île, with a peaceful courtyard and views of the Rhône river.
• Boscolo Lyon Hotel — a more intimate, centrally located luxury boutique hotel with a spa and Le Petit Prince themed rooms.

Tours

Travel time and method: About 4 and a half hours (Eurostar to Paris, changing stations and TGV train to Tours)

By Ersilia, a travel writer living in Southern France, founder of Explore with Ersilia.

Why Tours Is Worth Visiting: Tours is one of the best towns for visiting the Loire Valley’s legendary châteaux.

Unlike smaller nearby towns, Tours is full of energy.

The town is worth a full day of exploring. It offers character, personality, and hidden stories around every corner.

As a university town, Tours has many cafés, lively markets, and a remarkable collection of Victor Laloux’s Belle Époque architecture, including the train station itself and the palace-like Hôtel de Ville.

The medieval area around Place Plumereau, with its half-timbered houses and terrace restaurants, was named by Lonely Planet as the best place in France for an apéritif.

How to Get There: From London, take the Eurostar to Paris Gare du Nord (2h 20min), then switch to Gare Montparnasse for the TGV to Tours (1h). Tours is well-connected by train, so you can easily visit nearby châteaux like Chenonceau, Amboise, and Villandry. If you want to see more remote castles and villages, renting a car gives you more freedom to explore.

Where to Stay:

• Hôtel Oceania de l’Univers: This boutique hotel is in the center of town, offering classic French charm and modern comforts. It’s perfect for exploring the old town on foot.
• Les Trésorières: This restored 18th-century manor house has elegant rooms in a quiet spot near the historic center.

La Rochelle

Travel time and method: Around 6 hours in total by Eurostar and TGV train.

By Ben Cross of BeyondBothShores

Why La Rochelle is worth visiting: La Rochelle is a relaxed Atlantic port city that combines historic French charm with a laid-back, coastal feel. 

As you stroll around the old town and harbour, guarded by three medieval towers, you can see why the city is such a popular holiday destination for Parisians.  

The old town is compact and flat, with small, beautiful streets, independent shops and plenty of cafés and bars spilling onto the pavements. There are a few small museums and things to do, but it is mainly about relaxing here. Seafood lovers are particularly well catered for, with oysters, mussels and freshly-caught local fish featuring heavily on menus. Although there is a cute little urban beach to enjoy the summer sun, for real relaxation by the sea, take a short trip to nearby Île de Ré.

Overall, La Rochelle feels stylish without being showy, perfect for a few days to enjoy great French cuisine, wine and coffee without needing to tick off any tourist boxes.

How to get there: Take the Eurostar to Paris Gare du Nord, get on the metro (line 4) across the city to Gare Montparnasse, then catch a direct TGV to La Rochelle. 

Where to stay:

• Hôtel Saint Nicolas –  Comfortable, well-located mid-range option near the harbour
• Hôtel La Monnaie Art & Spa – Quieter, more refined stay slightly further from the crowds in a 17th century mansion.

Grenoble

Travel time and method: Around 7 hours by Eurostar and high-speed train

Grenoble is an interesting choice for a city break by train from London, but worth the effort if you’re after mountains and a city that feels properly French rather than touristy.

It was founded by the Romans as Cularo, sits at the meeting point of three Alpine valleys, and has a compact old town backed by some of the most dramatic scenery of anywhere on this list.

Grenoble local Ulysse Verguin’s guide:

Why Grenoble is worth visiting: If you’re exploring France from London without taking a plane, Grenoble is an unusual yet interesting stop to add.

As a Grenoble local, I’m biased — but I’ll do my best to explain what makes this city worth the journey. This human-sized city is surrounded by one of the most magical landscapes in France, making it perfect for all nature lovers. People are open-minded, smiling, and there is a strong attachment to the local culture, including gastronomy, history, and outdoor sports.

Among my top things to do in Grenoble are climbing to the Bastille to enjoy the view, trying the local delicacies, wandering the beautiful Saint Laurent neighbourhood, or hiking in the mountains.

How to get there: Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord (2h15), then cross to Paris Gare de Lyon by Metro (around 30 minutes) and catch a TGV to Grenoble – the fastest direct services take just under 3 hours.

Total journey time is around 6 hours. There are roughly 20 services a day from Paris to Grenoble, so it’s easy to find a connection that works. You can also do the Paris–Grenoble leg overnight by Flixbus from Bercy if you’d rather not lose a day to travel.

Where to stay:

• Hotel Gloria — A family-run two-star hotel with a warm welcome and a vintage feel. Nothing fancy, but comfortable for the price — and the staff are full of local tips.
• Residhotel Grenette — perfectly located downtown with great facilities, including a small kitchen. The staff are also very kind and helpful.

Belgium from London by train

Belgium might be small, and it’s often the butt of the joke for being boring. But it punches well above its weight – especially if you like medieval cities, architecture, chocolate or beer (or, like me, all four).

The obvious spot is Bruges, one of Europe’s most stunning medieval cities – but Belgium has plenty of other destinations worth considering from London by train.

Bruges

Travel time and method: Around 3-4 hours (Eurostar to Brussels + connecting train to Bruges, about 1 hour).

Why visit Bruges: Bruges is, quite simply, one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. The entire historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site – if you’re interested in medieval architecture, it’s essential.

The Markt square is the obvious starting point, dominated by the Belfry of Bruges. Climb the 366 steps for views across the rooftops. Nearby, the Basilica of the Holy Blood is a fascinating double chapel — a sombre Romanesque lower chapel dating from the 12th century, topped by a much more ornate Gothic upper chapel.

The Groeningemuseum houses an outstanding collection of Flemish Primitive paintings, including works by Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling. And a boat trip along the canals — touristy, yes — is genuinely worth it for the perspective it gives you on the city’s medieval architecture from water level.

Bruges can feel crowded during the day, especially in summer. If you can, stay overnight — the city takes on a completely different character once the day-trippers leave, and the quiet, canal-side streets at dusk are something special.

How to get there: Eurostar to Brussels-Midi, then a direct train to Bruges (about 1 hour, running frequently).

Where to stay:

• Hotel Dukes’ Palace — a 5-star hotel in a 15th-century ducal residence, right in the historic centre.
• Hotel Jan Brito — a charming mid-range option in a medieval building near the Markt.

Antwerp

Travel time and method: 3 hours total, by Eurostar and a connecting train

For centuries, Antwerp was one of Europe’s commercial capitals, and one of the richest cities north of the Alps.

It was especially famous for its diamond trade, and that wealth is still written across the old town in its guild halls, its enormous Cathedral of Our Lady (which took nearly two centuries to finish), and the townhouses along the Grote Markt.

Guide from Tim Shaw of Travels Off The Cuff:

Why visit Antwerp: Antwerp is a historical yet modern city. It’s filled with bars, restaurants and pubs, and small enough to explore on foot – a perfect getaway by train from London.

We loved wandering the cobbled streets of its beautiful old town, stopping at some of the centuries-old pubs and sampling more than a few Belgian beers. Its more modern neighbourhoods offer some great places to eat and drink, as well as art galleries and museums.

There are a few unique things to do here too — travel under the Scheldt river on one of the world’s few remaining wooden escalators, or get a boat trip up the river Scheldt through Antwerp’s huge port. Or, go on a tour of the city’s drainage system, which runs below the streets and used to be used both for sewage and transport.

Antwerp has over 26 museums such as the house of Rubens and the MAS museum, which covers Antwerp’s history from when it was one of the most important cities in the world. For more, check out our guide to the best things to do in Antwerp.

How to get there: Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels-Midi (2 hours), then take a train to Antwerp Central (30 minutes). You can make the connection in 15 minutes and trains come regularly. Eurostar sells tickets to cover both trains, or buy tickets separately online or in Brussels.

Where to stay:

• Hotel Julien — a beautiful 21-room boutique in a 16th century building, with a rooftop terrace overlooking the cathedral.
• Hotel ‘t Sandt — a modern hotel in a historical building. We loved its spacious, light-filled rooms and its central location.

Brussels

Travel time and method: Under 2 hours by direct Eurostar.

Better known for its bureaucracy than its tourism, Brussels is nonetheless one of the quickest European city breaks from London by train – and there’s a lot to it.

The Grand-Place (pictured above) is one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by ornate baroque guild halls, all gilded and glowing, especially when lit up at night.

Beyond the main square, Brussels rewards wandering. The narrow lanes around the Îlot Sacré are packed with restaurants and cafés, while the Royal Quarter has grand neoclassical buildings.

Brussels is also home to some incredible museums – not least the excellent Magritte Museum and the Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts.

Art Nouveau fans should seek out the Horta Museum. Victor Horta helped to invent the style here, and his former home is a masterpiece of flowing, organic design.

And then there’s the House of European History, an excellent, engaging and very modern-feeling museum exploring the history of the continent.

How to get there: Direct Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels-Midi, departing multiple times daily. You arrive in under two hours, right in the city.

Where to stay:

• Hotel Amigo — a luxury hotel steps from the Grand-Place, in a building with 16th-century origins.
• 9Hotel Central — a stylish mid-range option right in the city centre.

Leuven

Travel time and method: Around 2 hours 50 minutes by train (Eurostar to Brussels + connecting train to Leuven)

Guide from Annelies at Travelers and Dreamers

If you’re looking for a great city to visit in Belgium without the hordes of tourists you find in places like Bruges and Antwerp, Leuven is a great choice. Known as Belgium’s “student city,” Leuven is one of the liveliest places to visit in this small country, yet it’s not too big, which makes it an ideal destination for a weekend trip from London.

Leuven is home to many historic buildings, and they don’t pale in comparison to those in Bruges. While you’re there, don’t miss the Grote Markt, the historic Town Hall, and the Groot Begijnhof, the latter being a UNESCO-protected medieval district filled with pretty little houses and quiet lanes.

Leuven is also one of the best places to visit if you’re a beer fanatic. As the birthplace of Stella Artois, Belgium’s most famous pilsner, the city is home to the original brewery, which you can visit on a guided tour.

Lastly, Leuven is full of cozy restaurants. Whether you’re a vegan visiting Leuven or want to indulge in Belgian classics, head to the Parijsstraat (my favorite street for food), pick a cozy terrace, and watch small-city life pass by.

How to get there: The Eurostar leaves London St Pancras multiple times a day and takes you to Brussels-South in about two hours. From Brussels-South, change to a Leuven-bound train. There are three connections every hour during the weekend.

Where to stay:

• Radisson Park Inn — right next to the train station, making it easy to drop off your suitcase and head straight into town.
• Martin’s Klooster — a great choice if you prefer to stay in the city centre.

The Netherlands from London by train

Top of the list is, of course, Amsterdam – the Netherlands’ magnificent capital. But beyond this, the country is home to some excellent cities, perfect for breaks from London without flying.

Amsterdam

Travel time and method: 4 hours by Eurostar from London St Pancras to Amsterdam Centraal.

Contributed by Matt from Matt’s Next Steps

Amsterdam is one of the easiest and most rewarding city breaks you can do without flying. This forward-thinking city has something for everyone and blends postcard-worthy canals with world-class museums, awesome cafes, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes wandering just as enjoyable as sightseeing.

You can spend your days cycling along the canals (wear a helmet!), exploring the city’s world-class art collections like Rijksmuseum and then Van Gogh Museum, browsing independent shops in Jordaan, or hopping between brown cafes for a beer or coffee. D

espite its obvious popularity, Amsterdam still feels surprisingly local once you step away from the busiest streets, especially in the evenings when the canals light up and the city slows down. Though, it also has crazy nightlife for those seeking it.

There are so many things to do here, so with the ease you can access it from London, you can keep coming back to explore more areas!

How to get there: The direct Eurostar service runs multiple times per day from London St Pancras to Amsterdam Centraal. You clear border control before departure in London, then arrive right in the city centre, walking distance from many major sights and hopefully your accommodation depending where you choose.

Where to stay:

• The Hoxton Amsterdam — a solid mid-range option right on the canal offering a stylish and comfortable base.
• Hotel Estheréa — a more classic, boutique feel with a central location near Dam Square.
• Hotel V Fizeaustraat — a great-value boutique hotel with easy tram access into the centre, if you want something slightly quieter but still well-connected.

---

Maastricht

Travel time and method: Around 5 hours by train, Eurostar to Brussels followed by 2 changes

Contributed by Juan from planetofadventures.com 

Located in the south of the Netherlands right by the border with Belgium, this beautiful city quickly is an underrated European destination that hasn’t yet been discovered by the masses.

Maastricht is a beautiful walkable city. Its medieval old town has 1,677 national heritage buildings, with stunning architecture everywhere you go.

Some places you cannot miss during your visit include the St. Servatius Bridge, the 13th-century Helpoort Gate and the Basilica of Our Lady. Don’t forget to visit the Dominicanen Book Store which is one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world!

It’s an easy city to wander on your own but there are also walking tours where you will also see the impressive city hall and the beautiful Jekerkwartier district with its cobbled narrow streets and plenty of places to sit for a coffee or lunch.

Where to stay:

• Mabi Hotel — art-deco style.
• Social Hub Maastricht — in the location of an old factory right in the city centre.
• Kruisherenhotel Maastricht — set in an old Gothic monastery, if you want a hotel you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

---

Rotterdam

Travel time and method: Around 3.5 hours by Eurostar (direct services run from London to Rotterdam Centraal).

Rotterdam is a bit of an outlier on this list, which is mostly made up of immaculately preserved medieval centres.

The city centre was almost entirely destroyed by German bombing in 1940, and rather than rebuild it, Rotterdam reinvented itself. The result is one of Europe’s most exciting cities for modern architecture, and a fascinating counterpoint to the historic centres elsewhere in this guide.

The Cube Houses are the most famous landmark – Piet Blom’s bright yellow, 45-degree-tilted cubes from 1984. You can visit one as a museum. Right next door, the Markthal is a horseshoe-shaped indoor market with 228 apartments arched over 96 food stalls, and a ceiling covered in one of the largest artworks in the Netherlands.

Rotterdam Centraal station itself is a striking piece of contemporary design. The Erasmus Bridge – known locally as “The Swan” – connects the north and south of the city across the Maas river. Rem Koolhaas’s De Rotterdam is a vertical city in three interconnected towers. And the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, opened in 2021, is the world’s first publicly accessible art storage facility, housed in a mirror-clad bowl with a rooftop garden.

For those who prefer their architecture with a bit more age, the Witte Huis (1898) near the Old Harbour is one of the few pre-war buildings that survived the bombing, and there are some gorgeous Modernist houses from the 1930s in the museum park area.

How to get there: Direct Eurostar services run from London St Pancras to Rotterdam Centraal. The journey takes around 3 hours 20 minutes.

Where to stay:

• Hotel New York — housed in the former headquarters of the Holland-America shipping line, a beautiful Art Nouveau building on the south bank of the Maas.
• citizenM Rotterdam — a modern, design-led hotel right next to the Erasmus Bridge.

Germany from London by train

Germany is further than France, Belgium or the Netherlands, but the train connections are better than you might expect. The ICE high-speed network links straight into the Eurostar at Brussels, so cities like Cologne and Aachen are surprisingly quick to reach. And even Munich is doable in a day. For heritage and architecture, few countries in Europe can match it.

Here are three excellent city breaks in Germany from London by train.

Cologne

Travel time and method: Around 4–5 hours (Eurostar to Brussels-Midi, then a high-speed ICE or Eurostar train to Cologne Hauptbahnhof). You change at Brussels but stay in the same station.

Cologne hits you the moment you step off the train. The cathedral – the Kölner Dom – is right there, towering above the station, its twin Gothic spires reaching 157 metres. It took over 600 years to complete, and it’s one of the finest Gothic buildings in the world.

The medieval stained glass, the Shrine of the Three Kings, and the sheer scale of the interior are all extraordinary. Climb the south tower for panoramic views across the Rhine.

But Cologne’s heritage goes much deeper than the cathedral. The city was founded by the Romans as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium around 50 AD, and traces of its Roman past are everywhere.

The Romano-Germanic Museum has one of the world’s finest collections of Roman glass, built around a stunning 3rd-century Dionysus mosaic that was discovered during wartime construction.

Then there are the twelve Romanesque churches, built between the 10th and 13th centuries and scattered across the old town.

The Altstadt (old town) along the Rhine was heavily bombed in the Second World War but has been carefully reconstructed. It’s a colourful, bustling area with traditional beer halls.

Museum Ludwig, right next to the cathedral, is also worth your time. It has one of Europe’s best collections of modern and contemporary art, including a significant Pop Art collection.

How to get there: Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels-Midi (under 2 hours), then a high-speed ICE or Eurostar train from Brussels to Cologne Hauptbahnhof (around 1 hour 50 minutes). You change at Brussels-Midi but don’t need to switch stations. A direct London-to-Cologne Eurostar service is also expected to launch in the coming years.

Where to stay:

• Excelsior Hotel Ernst — a grand, historic hotel directly opposite the cathedral. It’s been welcoming guests since 1863.
• The QVEST — a design hotel in a neo-Gothic building from 1897 (a former city archive), furnished with mid-century design classics. In a quiet courtyard setting between the old town and the Belgian Quarter.

Aachen

Travel time and method: 3-4 hours by train: Eurostar to Brussels + high speed train to Aachen

Aachen is one of the most historically significant cities in Europe, and one of the easiest German cities to reach from London.

This was Charlemagne’s capital – the seat of the man who united most of Western Europe for the first time since the fall of Rome. His Palatine Chapel, built around 800 AD and modelled on San Vitale in Ravenna, still stands at the heart of Aachen Cathedral.

It’s an extraordinary building: an octagonal domed chapel with marble columns brought from Rome and Ravenna, golden mosaics, and the stone throne where over 30 Holy Roman Emperors were crowned between 936 and 1531.

In 1978 it became one of the first 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites — and the first in Germany. Beyond the cathedral, there’s the medieval Rathaus (built for the coronation of Charles IV in 1349), the cathedral treasury (one of the finest in northern Europe), and a compact old town built around thermal springs the Romans used two thousand years ago.

Aachen is a university city, so the old town has a lively café culture and the whole centre is compact and walkable. The thermal baths are still going too: the Carolus Thermen spa complex is fed by the same hot springs the Romans came for.

You can also pick up some Aachener Printen, the local spiced biscuits that have been made here since the 15th century, from bakeries across the old town.

Overall, it makes for a lovely historic city break from London.

How to get there: Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels (2 hours), then a direct ICE or Eurostar train to Aachen — around 1 hour 10 minutes. Total journey time is roughly 3.5 to 4 hours with the connection, making it one of the quickest German cities to reach from London.

Aachen:

• Pullman Aachen Quellenhof — a grand neoclassical hotel from 1914 surrounded by parkland, with a spa and indoor pool. It was largely destroyed in the war and fully restored, which feels fitting for the city. About a 15-minute walk from the cathedral.
• Hotel am Hühnerdieb — a small, central guesthouse right on one of the old town squares near the cathedral. Nothing fancy, but well-located and good value.

Frankfurt

Travel time and method: Around 5-6 hours by train (Eurostar + high speed train)

Frankfurt isn’t the most obvious city break. It’s better known for banking towers than half-timbered houses.

But as well as being one of the quickest German cities to reach by train, it has a fascinating heritage story, and some of the country’s best museum.

The centrepiece is the DomRömer Quarter, a section of the medieval old town between the cathedral and the Römerberg that was almost completely destroyed by Allied bombing in 1944. Between 2012 and 2018, the city painstakingly reconstructed 15 historic buildings and built 20 new ones in a sympathetic style, bringing back the old streets and the Coronation Path – the route Holy Roman Emperors walked from Frankfurt Cathedral to their coronation celebrations at the Römer town hall.

Beyond the old town are a couple of world-class museums. Most notable is the Stadel Museum, one of Germany’s best art collections. Then there’s an excellent museum of the history of Frankfurt (Historical Museum Frankfurt), plus the stunning Deutsches Romantik-Museum (German Romanticism Museum), which opened in 2021 right next door to Goethe’s birthplace and is the world’s first museum dedicated entirely to the Romantic era.

How to get there: Eurostar to Brussels (2 hours), then a direct ICE high-speed train to Frankfurt — around 3 hours. Total journey time is about 5.5 hours with the connection at Brussels-Midi, which is often as simple as walking across the platform. One of the most straightforward train trips from London to Germany.

Frankfurt:

• Libertine Lindenberg — a boutique hotel in a cluster of converted townhouses in Sachsenhausen, with an eclectic, slightly arty feel. Close to the Museumsufer and the Eiserner Steg footbridge.
• Motel One Frankfurt-Römer — a well-designed budget hotel right next to the Römerberg and the DomRömer Quarter, with the cathedral and Eiserner Steg footbridge on your doorstep.

Final options from London without flying

Barcelona

Travel method and time: Around 10 hours by train

Yes, you can visit Barcelona from London without flying!

It’s a long day, but the journey itself is part of the experience. The TGV south from Paris takes you through the Rhône valley, past pretty villages and picturesque churches, along the southern French coast with flamingos on the étangs, before tunnelling through the Pyrenees into Catalonia.

Breakfast in London, lunch in Paris, dinner in Barcelona. If you’d rather not do it in one go, breaking the journey in Paris or Lyon makes it even better.

I’ve always found Barcelona to be overly touristy (and of course, this has been a major complaint of locals in recent years). But there’s no getting around it: it’s one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Gaudi’s Modernista masterpieces, the medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter, quieter neighbourhoods like Gràcia and El Born, and its proud Catalan heritage. It’s somewhere you have to visit at least once.

How to get there: Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord (2h 15 mins). Cross Paris to Gare de Lyon by metro (RER D, or metro lines — allow 30–40 minutes). Then take the TGV to Barcelona Sants (around 6h 30 mins). Direct TGV trains run two to four times daily, with more in summer. You can also break the journey with a stop in Paris or Lyon.

Where to stay:

• Hotel Barcelona Catedral — beautifully designed and centrally located in the Gothic Quarter, with a rooftop pool.
• Hotel Neri — a boutique hotel in a medieval palace on a quiet square in the Barri Gòtic. Hard to beat for location and atmosphere.

Dublin

Travel time and method: 8-9 hours, train and ferry

By Nofar Ronen at Traveling outside to box (https://www.trvbox.com)

If you want to explore a vibrant European city without flying from London, Dublin is an ideal destination. Full of history, lively streets, green spaces, and cultural gems, it offers something for every type of traveler.

Ireland’s capital perfectly combines history, culture, and a welcoming atmosphere. Start your visit with a free walking tour by Sandemans to explore the city’s landmarks with a funny and engaging guide.

Food lovers can enjoy affordable Japanese lunch options at Musashi Noodle & Sushi Bar or traditional Irish dishes at O’Sheas Restaurant. Whiskey enthusiasts will appreciate the Irish Whiskey Museum, which offers tastings and interactive experiences.

The city is also home to beautiful parks, such as St Stephen’s Green and Iveagh Gardens, perfect for relaxing walks or picnics. Dublin’s lively pubs, including spots with live music like Oliver St. John Gogarty, add to the cheerful local vibe. The city also serves as a great base for day trips to attractions like the Cliffs of Moher, the village of Doolin, the Burren, and Galway.

How to get there: From London, you can take a train to Holyhead (about 4–5 hours), and from there, catch a ferry to Dublin Port (around 3–4 hours). Once you arrive in Dublin, it’s a short bus or taxi ride to the city center.

Where to stay

We stayed at Blooms Hotel, which we highly recommend, stylish, comfortable, and right in the heart of Dublin, making it easy to explore the city on foot. Other options include:

• The Alex Dublin: Modern boutique hotel in the city center with great amenities.
• Trinity City Hotel: Comfortable mid‑range option near St. Stephen’s Green.

---

FAQs about holidays from London without flying

Thanks for visiting my blog! This post may contain affiliate links - which means if you make a purchase, I'll receive a small commission, at no extra cost to yourself. This helps me keep this site running for free.

Share this:

• X
• Facebook

Like this:

Like Loading...

Latest posts