The train is another way of approaching travel: initially more ecological and comfortable, it also allows us to appreciate the different landscapes we cross on the way to our final destination, and to gain a better understanding of the territories around us. At a time when the way we travel is being called into question, the journey is also part of the journey!
What destinations are accessible by train from Paris? Here are a few ideas to help you plan your next trip.
Summary
Map of destinations accessible by train from Paris
Here’s a map of destinations accessible by train from Paris and the journey time required to get there:
Destinations less than 3 hours from Paris
London, England’s capital 2 hours 20 minutes away
England’s capital, London, is a modern, cosmopolitan city. Iconic landmarks include Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the coronation site of British monarchs, Tower Bridge and the London Eye, a Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the entire city. With its renowned concert halls and theaters, monuments and museums, leafy parks and numerous boutiques, London offers a multitude of activities at just 2h20 from Paris.
2h20 from Paris by Eurostar
Direct route
Brussels, 1h30 to the capital of Belgium
The political capital of the European Union, home to the European Parliament, the European Commission and the European Council, Brussels is a dynamic, cosmopolitan city. It boasts a number of emblematic landmarks, including the Grand-Place, the Atomium and Manneken-Pis. The city is also renowned for its museums, such as the Magritte Museum and the Royal Museum of Art and History, as well as for its culinary specialties, including waffles, chocolate and Belgian beers. Brussels is an ideal destination for a getaway , just 1h30 by train from Paris.
1h30 from Paris by Eurostar
Direct route
Bruges, 2h30 away in Flemish Belgium
Nicknamed the “Venice of the North”, Bruges is an ideal destination 2h30 from Paris for an authentic getaway, with its picturesque bridges, cobbled streets and medieval-style houses. Highlights include the Markt square with its famous belfry, the Lake of Love and the Groeninge museum. Bruges is also renowned for its chocolate stores and craft breweries, offering a memorable gourmet cultural experience.
2h30 from Paris by Eurostar
1 change per Brussels
Ostend, the Belgian seaside resort 3h away
Nicknamed the “Queen of Beaches”, Ostend is a Belgian seaside resort accessible in around 3 hours by train from Paris. In addition to its vast beaches, the town offers cultural attractions such as the Mu.ZEE museum, Fort Napoléon and the Mercator, a three-masted ship worth visiting. Ostend combines seaside relaxation with cultural discoveries, making it an ideal destination for a getaway from Paris.
3h from Paris by Eurostar
1 change per Brussels
Leuven, a charming Belgian city 2h away
Situated east of Brussels in Belgium, just 2 hours from Paris, Leuven offers many tourist attractions: its large square called “Oude Markt”, the town hall adorned with Gothic sculptures, its impressive historic university library, and its botanical garden. The city is also renowned for its gastronomy and lively brasseries, offering visitors a rich cultural and culinary experience.
2h from Paris by Eurostar
1 change per Brussels
Antwerp, Belgium’s 2nd largest city, less than 3h away
Antwerp, Belgium’s second-largest city, is known for its dynamic port and rich cultural and historical heritage. The city seduces visitors from the moment they arrive with its magnificent central station, as well as its historic Renaissance-style center, home to the centuries-old diamond district, the Rubens House, residence of the famous painter, the large medieval “Grote Markt” square, its famous Brabo fountain and the Plantin-Moretus museum. Antwerp is an ideal destination for a few days’ getaway , less than 3 hours from Paris!
2h from Paris by Eurostar
Direct route
Rotterdam, Europe’s 1st port, 2h45 from Paris
A modern city and the second largest in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is a port city that was partially destroyed during the Second World War. Today, it’s known for its pioneering architecture, with landmark buildings such as the Cubic Houses, the Markthal and the Erasmus Bridge. Rotterdam is also renowned for its museums, such as the Boijmans Van Beuningen and the Kunsthal. The city offers attractive green spaces and an impressive port, the largest in Europe. With its dynamic cultural scene, numerous restaurants and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Rotterdam is a captivating destination just 2 hours 45 minutes from Paris!
2h45 from Paris by Eurostar
Direct route
Destinations more than 3h from Paris
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, 3h30 away
Renowned for its charming canals, narrow gabled houses and numerous bicycle paths, Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is less than 3 hours 30 by train from Paris. Highlights include the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House and the Vondelpark. The city is also known for its lively Jordaan and De Pijp districts, inviting cafés and parks. Amsterdam offers a unique experience combining culture and history in a quiet and charming environment.
3h30 from Paris by Eurostar
Direct route
Geneva, the most French of Swiss cities, 3h15 away
Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by the Jura and Alpine mountains, Geneva offers breathtaking views. A cosmopolitan city and world diplomatic center, it is home to the headquarters of numerous international organizations. Between nature and cultural heritage, there’s plenty to do here : the Jet d’Eau, Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the Geneva Islands, the English Gardens, the Patek Philippe Museum and much more. Geneva is an ideal destination for a getaway combining natural beauty and cultural discoveries, just 3h15 by train from Paris.
3h15 from Paris by Lyria
Direct route
Lausanne, on the shores of Lake Geneva, 4h from Paris
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland, Lausanne can be reached in around 4 hours by train from Paris. Known for its idyllic setting, lush green valleys and medieval streets, the city is also home to the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee. Lausanne is an ideal destination that combines culture, nature and sporting activities: visit the Olympic Museum, discover Lausanne’s famous Gothic cathedral, stroll along the lake, go canoeing on the lake, hike in the heart of nature…
4h from Paris by Lyria
Direct route
Berne, the Swiss capital 5h from Paris
The Swiss capital of medieval charm, with its cobblestone streets lined with arcades and the River Aare, Berne can be reached in around 5 hours by train from Paris. Highlights include the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center, the famous “Zytglogge” clock tower, Berne Cathedral, the Federal Palace, the magnificent “Rosengarten” rose garden offering an incredible view of the old town, and the Berne History Museum. A trip to this city promises a tranquil and enriching experience. Numerous nature walks are accessible from the town!
5h from Paris by Lyria
1 change per Lausanne
Zurich, the perfect balance of historic charm and nature at 4h45 from Paris
Zurich is an ideal destination for mountain and nature lovers. The city is renowned for its picturesque lake and well-preserved medieval old town. What’s more, it offers easy access to the Swiss Alps, perfect for day trips. Whether you’re drawn to natural landscapes or historic architecture, Zurich combines urban charm with outdoor adventure in a 4h45 train ride from Paris.
4h from Paris by Lyria
Trajet direct
Milan: Italy just a train ride away
Milan, Italy’s economic capital, can be reached in 7 hours by train from Paris. The city offers architectural treasures such as the Duomo of Milan, its majestic Gothic cathedral, the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the Sforza castle, the La Scala theater, one of the world’s most famous opera houses, and the Basilica of Saint Ambrose. Milan is also the world capital of fashion and design, making it a city rich in history, culture and modernity. Museums include the Triennale di Milano and the Pinacoteca di Brera, the city’s largest art museum. Milan can also be the starting point for a more extensive train journey across Italy, where the rail network is highly developed.
7h from Paris by Trenitalia
1 change per Genève (other alternatives are possible)
Vienna, a baroque plunge 12h from Paris
It will take a little longer to reach the Austrian capital by train from Paris: with an overnight train, it takes around 12 hours. Vienna is an impressive city in terms of its historical and cultural heritage. Baroque architecture can be admired throughout the city, and must-see sites such as Schönbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral are not to be missed. There’s plenty to do: visit a museum, stroll along the Danube, take a break in one of Vienna’s charming cafés, go to the opera… Vienna offers an unforgettable experience every time.
12h from Paris by Lyria
1 change per Zurich
Madrid, Spanish sunshine 10h from Paris
The Spanish capital can be reached in 10 hours by train from Paris. Madrid is a city rich in history, with many emblematic landmarks such as the Royal Palace, the Plaza Mayor, the Palacio de Cristal, the Royal Botanical Gardens and Retiro Park. Madrid is also renowned for its prestigious museums, such as the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofía Museum, home to artistic masterpieces. The city is also known for its warm atmosphere, lively nightlife and tasty tapas!
14h from Paris by Renfe
2 changes per Lyon and Barcelone (other alternatives are possible)
Barcelona, culture and beaches 7h30 by train
Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of the Spanish region of Catalonia, is renowned for its art and architecture. The city’s landmarks include Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Família, Parc Güell and the lively Ramblas. Barcelona is also renowned for its sunny beaches, Gothic Quarter and museums, such as the Joan Miró Foundation and MUHBA (Barcelona History Museum). The city offers a unique fusion of culture, architecture and gastronomy, making it an ideal destination for a sunny getaway, just 7h30 by train from Paris.
7h from Paris by Ouigo & Renfe
1 change per Lyon (other alternatives are possible)
Frankfurt, heterogeneous architecture 5h by train
Located in central Germany, Frankfurt is a major financial center and home to the European Central Bank (ECB). Partly destroyed during the Second World War, the town has seen the construction of many ultra-modern buildings since the war. Its historic medieval center features cobblestone streets, typical half-timbered houses and colorful facades. The city is also home to a host of world-famous museums: the Städelmuseum, one of Germany’s most famous, the Schirn Kunsthalle, the museum of contemporary art, and the MMK, the museum of modern art. Between modernity and tradition, Frankfurt offers a captivating mix, ideal for a getaway less than 5 hours from Paris!
4h45 from Paris by Deutsche Bahn
1 change per Mannheim Hbf (other alternatives are possible)
Berlin, Germany’s capital 8h by train
Germany’s vibrant capital, Berlin offers a wealth of cultural and historical activities. Highlights include the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall, the UNESCO World Heritage Museum Island, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and the Reichstag Palace. Berlin is also renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, trendy districts such as Kreuzberg and Mitte, and lively nightlife. With its museums, art galleries and green spaces such as Tiergarten Park and the former Tempelhof airport area, Berlin offers a rich and diverse experience, accessible in just 8 hours by train from Paris. In addition, the Paris-Berlin night trains reopened at the end of 2023.
8h from Paris by Deutsche Bahn
1 change per Amsterdam (other alternatives are possible)
Cologne, the 2,000-year-old city just 3.5 hours from Paris
Located on the banks of the Rhine in Germany, Cologne is a 2,000-year-old city. A landmark of Gothic architecture, the majestic Cologne Cathedral has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. The city is also renowned for its authentic old town with cobbled streets, traditional breweries and world-renowned museums, such as the Ludwig Museum and the Chocolate Museum. Cologne offers a great cultural and historical experience, ideal for a getaway less than 3h30 from Paris.
3h30 from Paris by Eurostar
Direct route
Travelling in Europe by train: tips and tricks
The Interrail pass : the freedom to travel
The Interrail pass allows free travel throughout Europe over a given period, offering travelers flexibility. The pass gives access to over 30,000 destinations in 33 European countries, for periods ranging from 3 days to 3 months.
There are 2 types of pass:
- The global pass: unlimited travel across the 33 participating countries.
- 1-country pass: unlimited travel in a single country chosen from a list of participating countries.
Both passes work in the same way: you choose a number of travel days over a given period of time. Ex: 5 days of travel valid over 1 month
1 day’s travel = unlimited access to trains throughout the day
Journeys can be booked via a dedicated “Rail Planner” mobile application. However, some trains require advance booking, especially during the high season.
Switzerland by train: travel guide
If you’re planning to visit Switzerland by train, this guide provides practical information to help you prepare for your trip, as well as tips on how to travel more economically:
Austria by train: instructions for use
Austria can also be discovered by train: the nightjet allows you to leave Paris in the evening and arrive in Vienna the next morning. Once you’re here, it’s easy to get from one city to the next by train.
This travel guide gives you lots of tips and advice to prepare your stay in Austria:
Now there’s no reason not take the train: Europe has so much to explore. It’s possible to travel less far to travel better – you just have to remember that the journey is also part of the trip!
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