Train travel across Europe - help

Train travel across Europe - help

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Discussion

Vocal Minority

Original Poster:

8,582 posts

151 months

Monday 28th July 2014
quotequote all
For our honeymoon next year the future Mrs VM and I were hoping to mooch (for want of a better word) around Europe for a couple of weeks. We would like to start by heading down to Venice by train (rather than using a car or getting there as quick as possible, we are looking to enjoy the experience). Therefore taking a couple of days isn't out of the question.

We have looked at the Orient Express, but simply cannot afford £2000 each (or for the pair of us for that matter) for a 24 hour train journey, no matter how lovely!

I know there are a number of options to consider - has anyone done anything like this before, and if so any recommendations?

SimonV8ster

12,543 posts

227 months

Monday 28th July 2014
quotequote all
Have you seen the website - maninseat61 ?
Loads of options for train travel everywhere.

HumbleJim

26,957 posts

182 months

Monday 28th July 2014
quotequote all
As the man said try http://www.seat61.com/ loads of usefull stuff.

I tried a sleeper to Rome, quite good fun but didn't get much sleep so knackered the next day. Everything was basic but clean, don't expect en-suite facilities but you do get a wash basin. Good atmosphere in the restaurant car no choices but good fare and everyone shares tables etc. I think this one and the Venice trains (Orient Express included) leave from Bercy (Paris) I was disappointed in the lack of facilities (no left luggage for instance) I quite enjoy the main Parisian stations, good restaurants and people watching etc.

TGV's are an excellent way to cover ground quickly and comfortably, but the tracks are slow once past Marseille.

Supposed to be a good sleeper going to Barcellona as well, not tried this one.

Put your trust in "The Man in Seat 61"

Vocal Minority

Original Poster:

8,582 posts

151 months

Monday 28th July 2014
quotequote all
Have had a look, and he certainly knows his onions doesn't he?

Or is at least incredibly into his onions, but you seem to trust him so maybe he does know them!

HumbleJim

26,957 posts

182 months

Monday 28th July 2014
quotequote all
I doubt anyone has more experience of European rail travel. smile

Gaz413823

55 posts

122 months

Monday 28th July 2014
quotequote all
Deutschebahns website used to have pretty comprehensive details of all European train schedules , I assume it still does. If you're not set on going the quickest or most direct route , the train from Vienna to Venice goes through some stunning scenery and takes about 14 hours. You can book European rains on http://uk.voyages-sncf.com/en/ .