The 7 best cities in Europe
Easy to get to by train
Visit the most beautiful cities of Europe: Our 7 tips
1. Innsbruck
Hidden behind the snow-capped peaks of Tyrol lies the medieval city of Innsbruck, one of Europe's most beautiful cities. The Austrian city is best known for winter sports, but it is also a great place to be in summer. Stroll along the banks of the River Inn and admire the skyline of colourful houses. Explore the charming medieval streets and visit the Hofburg, the former imperial palace. Then enjoy a drink on a sunny terrace or a cosy Christmas market in the winter months. From € 35 for a one-way ticket, the night train will take you sleepily to Innsbruck.
Travel time from Amsterdam to Innsbruck:
- With Nightjet: within 14.14 hours
- With ICE International: within 9.12 hours
2. Hamburg
Hamburg is the destination for an industrial city break and is definitely one of the most fun cities in Europe. Climb to the top of the Dockland Building for views over the port city, visit museums on ships and in old warehouses, and browse the shopping streets and flea markets for vintage gems. For architecture buffs, visit the Town Hall, St Michael's Church and the warehouses of the Speicherstadt. For a night on the town, head to the red-light district of the Reeperbahn. From € 33 a one-way ticket will get you to Hamburg in comfort.
Travel time form Amsterdam to Hamburg:
- With Intercity Berlin and ICE International: within 5.10 hours
3. Ghent
Ghent is like an open-air museum with its many historic buildings, such as St Bavo's Cathedral, Gravensteen Castle and the Belfry. Ghent is made up of pearls, making it one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. There are also many shops, museums, restaurants and cafes. Lovers of shopping, culture and good food will also find plenty to do here. From € 32 for a one way ticket you can travel to Ghent in comfort.
Travel from Amsterdam to Ghent:
- With Intercity Brussel: within 3.08 hours
- With Eurostar: within 2.25 hours
4. Basel
Basel is situated on the Rhine at the point where Switzerland, France and Germany meet. The city has always been an important trading centre and is still bustling with activity today. You may not find the tranquil atmosphere of other Swiss cities, but this makes Basel one of the most enjoyable European cities to visit. Stroll through the gothic Spalentor, explore the Marktplatz and visit the famous Kunstmuseum. From € 35 for a one-way ticket, the night train will take you to Basel while you sleep.
Tavel time from Amsterdam to Basel:
- With Nightjet: within10.36 hours
- With ICE International: within 8.09 hours
5. Lyon
The French city of Lyon is best known for its historic architecture, including Notre-Dame de Fourvière and Saint-Jean Cathedral. In fact, the historic city centre has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. But did you know that you can also spend days shopping and enjoying French cuisine in Lyon? Highly recommended: discover the hip La Croix-Rousse district with its delicious coffee, inspiring workshops and unusual murals, such as the Mur des Canuts. From € 73 you can travel one-way to Lyon in comfort.
Travel time from Amsterdam to Lyon:
- With Eurostar: within 6.41 hours
6. Luxembourg City
The city of Luxembourg is one of the greenest cities in Europe. Visit the city park Drai Eechelen. The park is located in the upper part of the city. From here, you can enjoy a phenomenal view of the Old Town. With free public transport throughout Luxembourg, you can easily get to the park by bus, on foot or by bike. In the Old Town, you can stroll through the picturesque streets of the medieval Grund or look out over the city from 'Europe's most beautiful balcony', Le Chemin de la Corniche. From € 33 for a one-way ticket, you can travel to Luxembourg City in comfort.
Travel time from Amsterdam to Luxembourg City:
- With regional trains: within 6.11 hours
- With Eurostar: within 5.33 hours
7. London
London is a vibrant city with endless possibilities. Hop aboard an iconic red double-decker to see as much as you can. See the Houses of Parliament with Big Ben, trendy Notting Hill and the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. Famous shopping streets include Oxford Street, Bond Street and Regent Street. Even the most avid shopaholic will never run out of things to do in London. From € 88 you can travel to London and back home again.
Travel time from Amsterdam to London:
- With Eurostar: within 4.13 hours
The earlier you book, the cheaper the train tickets.
Train holidays in Europe
Discover Europe's hidden gems by train: comfort, adventure and unforgettable views await you. As soon as you board, you are truly on vacation.