Europe by Train Itinerary: Amsterdam, Belgium, and Paris in 2 Weeks

Planning your first trip to Europe is exciting… and then, very quickly, it can feel like a lot. Too many cities. Too many routes. Too many people telling you what you “can’t miss.”

Add in jet lag, border crossings, and the pressure to make every day count, and it’s easy for a dream trip to start feeling overwhelming before you even pack your bag.

That’s why I’m such a big fan of building a Europe by train itinerary—especially for first-time travelers.

Traveling Europe by train just makes sense. You glide from city center to city center, skip the airport chaos, and actually get to enjoy the journey instead of bracing yourself for it.

No early-morning security lines. No hauling luggage across town. Just easy transitions, scenic rides, and more time to explore once you arrive.

This Europe train itinerary was custom planned for a mother and her adult son traveling together, and the goal was simple: see incredible cities, move at a comfortable pace, and never feel rushed.

The route flows naturally from Amsterdam to Belgium and on to Paris, using efficient train connections and well-timed stays so each destination has room to breathe.

Rather than racing through Europe, this itinerary focuses on depth over distance.

You’ll spend your days wandering canals and museum-lined streets in Amsterdam, soaking up the fairytale charm of Bruges, indulging in chocolate and art in Brussels, and finishing in Paris with enough time for museums, neighborhood walks, and long, unhurried dinners.

It’s also a fantastic Europe itinerary for first timers, especially if you’re nervous about navigating transportation in a new country.

Trains make border crossings feel seamless, reduce travel stress, and keep you right in the heart of each city. And because this trip relies on point-to-point train tickets rather than a high-speed dash across the continent, it’s approachable even if you’ve never taken a European train before.

Whether you’re planning a multi-generational trip, traveling with an adult child, or simply want a smarter, calmer way to experience Europe, this Europe by train itinerary offers a thoughtful alternative to the usual “see it all” mindset.

Below, I’ll walk you through the full route—day by day—along with why each stop works so well, how the train connections fit together, and what makes this journey feel easy from start to finish.

Planning note: This route was custom-planned with pacing in mind—no rushed travel days, no overstuffed schedules. If you want help creating a Europe by train itinerary that fits your travel style, I offer custom travel planning for trips like this.

Why Travel Europe by Train?

If you’ve never traveled internationally by train before, it might not be the first option that comes to mind. But once you do it, it’s hard to imagine traveling Europe any other way.

One of the biggest advantages of building a Europe by train itinerary is how easy it feels.

Trains run city center to city center, which means you step off the platform and you’re already where you want to be—no long airport transfers, no guessing which bus or taxi you need, no losing half a day just trying to get settled.

Train travel also makes multi-country trips feel seamless. Crossing borders by rail is refreshingly low-key: no immigration lines, no repacking liquids, no stress about showing up hours early.

You arrive at the train station, find your seat, and watch the scenery change outside the window as you move from one country to the next.

Then there’s the pace.

A well-planned Europe train itinerary naturally builds in breathing room. Travel time becomes part of the experience rather than something to power through.

You can read, chat, look out the window, or simply enjoy a quiet moment between cities—especially nice on a trip that’s meant to be shared.

From a practical standpoint, trains are also far more forgiving than flights.

Delays are easier to recover from, luggage rules are less restrictive, and stations are generally straightforward to navigate, even for first-time visitors.

When I plan rail trips for clients, I always factor in realistic travel times and buffer space, so no one feels like they’re racing a clock.

And while Europe is famous for scenic train rides, you don’t need a headline-grabbing route to enjoy the experience.

Even standard intercity trains offer a comfortable, efficient way to move between places while staying grounded in the rhythm of daily life—passing small towns, countryside, and neighborhoods you’d never see from the air.

At its core, traveling Europe by train encourages you to slow down just enough to enjoy where you are.

It’s less about checking boxes and more about spending time in each city, arriving relaxed, and feeling confident as you move through your trip.

For first-time travelers, multi-generational trips, or anyone who wants a smoother way to explore multiple countries, a thoughtfully planned train journey can make all the difference.

Is This Europe by Train Itinerary Right for You?

Not every trip is right for every traveler—and honestly, that’s a good thing.

One of the reasons this Europe itinerary for first timers works so well is because it’s built with a very specific kind of traveler in mind: someone who wants to experience Europe fully, without rushing or second-guessing every move.

Here’s who this itinerary is best suited for:

✔ First-Time Europe Travelers

If this is your first time traveling Europe by train, this route is about as friendly as it gets.

The train connections are straightforward, the cities are easy to navigate, and everything is designed to feel intuitive rather than intimidating.

You’re never juggling complicated transfers or overnight journeys, and each stop gives you enough time to settle in and feel confident before moving on.

✔ Parents Traveling with Adult Children

This itinerary was originally planned for a mother and her son in his 20s, and it’s a great fit for that dynamic.

The pace is balanced—active enough to stay engaging, but relaxed enough to allow for downtime and shared experiences.

Museums, walks, meals, and train rides naturally create space for conversation and connection, without anyone feeling rushed or bored.

✔ Travelers Who Love Museums, Food, and Walking

If your idea of a perfect day includes wandering through museums, strolling historic neighborhoods, lingering over meals, and discovering cities on foot, you’ll feel right at home here.

This Europe train itinerary prioritizes walkable cities, centrally located hotels, and experiences that let you absorb the culture at a comfortable pace rather than hopping endlessly from one highlight to the next.

And just as important—here’s who this itinerary probably isn’t for:

❌ Travelers Who Want Nonstop Nightlife or Ultra-Budget Backpacking

If you’re looking to party every night, bounce between cities every day, or stretch your budget by staying in dorms and overnight trains, this route may feel too calm. The focus here is comfort, quality experiences, and ease of travel—not squeezing in as many destinations as possible for the lowest possible cost.

If you’re craving a Europe trip that feels thoughtful, manageable, and genuinely enjoyable—especially if it’s your first time or a meaningful trip with a family member—this Europe by train itinerary was designed with you in mind.

Not sure where to start? If this itinerary sounds close to what you want but not quite perfect, I work with travelers to customize routes, pacing, and logistics so their Europe trip feels doable—not overwhelming.

Overview: Amsterdam, Belgium & Paris by Train

This Amsterdam, Belgium, and Paris itinerary is a well-paced Europe train itinerary that connects some of Western Europe’s most rewarding cities without overcomplicating the route.

Instead of bouncing between destinations or packing up every other day, this journey follows a logical flow that feels smooth from start to finish.

The focus here is on depth, not distance. Each city earns its time on the itinerary, and every train leg is short enough to keep travel days relaxed.

By moving primarily by train, you stay city-centered the entire trip and avoid the stress that often comes with flights or car rentals in Europe.

Here’s a quick snapshot of how the route comes together:

At a glance:

• Total time: 12-13 days
• Countries visited: 3 (Netherlands, Belgium, France)
• Overnight cities:
  • Amsterdam
  • Bruges
  • Brussels
  • Paris
• Train legs:
  • Amsterdam → Brussels → Bruges
  • Bruges → Brussels
  • Brussels → Paris

This route works especially well for travelers who want their first experience traveling Europe by train to feel intuitive and unhurried.

Distances are manageable, border crossings are seamless, and each stop builds naturally on the last—starting with canal-lined streets and museums, moving through medieval charm and culinary highlights, and finishing with classic Parisian neighborhoods and world-class art.

If you’re looking for a Europe trip that feels thoughtful, efficient, and genuinely enjoyable—without trying to see everything—this Amsterdam to Paris train route strikes that balance beautifully.

Day-by-Day Europe by Train Itinerary

Now let’s get into the heart of the trip.

Below is the full day-by-day Europe by train itinerary, designed to keep travel days easy and sightseeing days enjoyable.

Each leg is timed to minimize stress, every overnight stay allows enough time to settle in, and no day feels like a mad dash from one highlight to the next.

This isn’t about squeezing Europe into the smallest possible window—it’s about creating a trip that flows naturally, with just the right balance of structure and flexibility.

Here’s how the journey unfolds, one city (and one train ride) at a time.

Amsterdam (3 Days): Canals, Museums & Neighborhood Walks

Amsterdam is a fantastic place to start a Europe trip—especially if it’s your first time. It’s friendly, compact, and easy to navigate, which makes those early, jet-lagged days feel far less intimidating. Beginning your itinerary here gives you time to settle in, get your bearings, and ease into the rhythm of the city before hopping on your first train.

Arrival & Getting into the City

Getting from Amsterdam’s airport into the city center is refreshingly simple. Trains and private transfers connect directly, so you’ll be at your hotel and unpacking before you know it.

For this itinerary, my clients stayed at Park Centraal Amsterdam, which is a great option for first-time visitors.

Why it works so well:

• Located right next to Vondelpark
• Walkable to the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum
• Easy tram connections to the rest of the city
• Calm, comfortable atmosphere after long travel days

This is the perfect place to spend time adjusting to the time change—grab a coffee nearby, take a gentle walk through the park, and resist the urge to overpack your first day.

Museums + Walking Routes

Amsterdam’s museums are world-class, but what really makes them enjoyable is how easy they are to combine with walking and wandering.

Highlights to build into your days:

• Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, located close together
• Green space around Museumplein for breaks between visits
• Self-guided walks through the Jordaan and along the canals

Instead of racing from attraction to attraction, this approach lets you explore at a comfortable pace—ducking into cafés, wandering past houseboats, and discovering quieter streets along the way.

Canal Cruise + Dining

A canal cruise is one of the best ways to experience Amsterdam, especially early in the trip. It gives you a new perspective on the city while offering a welcome chance to sit and relax.

Evenings are ideal for:

• Casual dinners near the canals
• Cozy neighborhood restaurants close to your hotel
• Lingering meals that don’t feel rushed or overplanned

Amsterdam’s dining scene is relaxed and welcoming—perfect after a full day on your feet.

Why 3 Days Is the Sweet Spot

Three days is just the right amount of time to enjoy Amsterdam without feeling rushed. It allows for:

• Museums without rushing
• Plenty of walking and wandering
• Downtime to rest and reset
• A smooth transition into the rest of your itinerary

By the time it’s time to board your first train, you’ll feel settled, confident, and excited for what’s next—exactly how you want to begin a Europe by train itinerary.

Amsterdam → Bruges by Train

This is where your Europe by train itinerary really starts to shine.

Traveling from Amsterdam to Bruges by train is one of those connections that looks more complicated on paper than it actually is. In reality, it’s smooth, efficient, and very manageable—even if this is your first international train journey.

Why This Connection Is So Easy

The route runs from Amsterdam Centraal train station to Brussels, where you’ll make a short transfer before continuing on to Bruges. Trains on this route are frequent, reliable, and designed for travelers, which takes a lot of the stress out of the day.

What makes it especially approachable:

• Clear signage at each train station
• High-speed trains on the longest leg
• Short, well-timed transfer in Brussels
• No airport-style security or check-in process

You’ll arrive right in Bruges’ city center, making it easy to walk or take a quick taxi to your hotel.

Brussels Transfer

I know “transfer” can sound intimidating, but this one is very straightforward. Brussels Midi is a major hub, and the connection is well marked. You’re simply walking from one platform to another—no changing stations or complicated exits.

Even better, the second leg to Bruges often uses flexible tickets, meaning:

• If you miss your connection, you can hop on the next train
• Trains run frequently, usually every 20-30 minutes

It’s built-in peace of mind, which is exactly what you want early in your trip.

Travel Time, Luggage, and Seating Notes

Here’s what to expect on travel day:

• Total travel time: ~3-3.5 hours, including the Brussels transfer
• Seating: Reserved seats on the high-speed leg; open seating on the regional train
• Luggage: No weight limits or checked bags—just bring what you can comfortably manage

Overhead racks and luggage areas near the doors make storing bags easy, even with suitcases. This is one of the reasons traveling Europe by train feels so much calmer than flying.

Booking Your Tickets

For routes like this, I recommend booking through Rail Europe, which makes it easy to compare schedules, see seat options, and book everything in one place. It’s especially helpful for first-time train travelers who want clear instructions and digital tickets.

By the time you step off the train in Bruges, you’ll already feel more confident navigating Europe by rail—and you’ll be rewarded with one of the most charming arrivals of the entire trip.

Travel planning tip: Choosing the right train times and ticket types makes a huge difference in how a trip feels. This itinerary was planned with seat reservations, realistic transfer windows, and easy arrival times. If you want that same peace of mind, I help clients plan train journeys from start to finish.

Bruges (2 Days): Medieval Streets & Slow Evenings

Bruges feels like stepping into a storybook. Cobblestone lanes, stepped-gable houses, quiet canals—it’s one of those places that immediately invites you to slow down. While Bruges is often treated as a day trip from Brussels, spending the night makes all the difference.

Staying overnight lets you experience the old town after the crowds thin out, when the streets are quieter and the city feels especially magical.

Where to Stay: Hotel Ter Brughe

My clients stayed at Hotel Ter Brughe, a charming, traditional hotel tucked along a quiet canal just outside the busiest parts of the old town.

Why it’s a great choice:

• Historic character that fits Bruges perfectly
• Peaceful location, but still walkable to major sights
• Cozy rooms ideal for unwinding after a full day
• Easy access on arrival from the train station

It’s the kind of place that encourages early nights and slow mornings—exactly what Bruges does best.

What to Do in Bruges

With two days, you can explore at an unhurried pace and still hit the highlights.

Don’t miss:

• Boat tour through the canals for a classic first look at the city
• Climbing the Belfry for panoramic views over the rooftops (worth the stairs)
• Sampling Belgian chocolate from small chocolatiers around the old town
• Treating yourself to waffles—whether for dessert or a mid-afternoon break

The real joy of Bruges is wandering without a strict plan. Follow quiet side streets, stop for coffee when something looks inviting, and let the city reveal itself slowly.

Embracing the Slow Evenings

Evenings in Bruges are intentionally low-key. After dinner, it’s common to:

• Take a post-meal stroll along the canals
• Enjoy the glow of lights and reflections on the water
• Head back to your hotel early and rest

This relaxed pace is part of what makes Bruges such a perfect stop on a longer train journey—it gives you space to reset before moving on.

Bruges → Brussels by Train

This is one of the easiest moves in the entire itinerary—and a great example of why traveling Europe by train feels so manageable.

Trains between Bruges and Brussels run frequently throughout the day, usually every 20-30 minutes. That means you don’t need to plan your day around a single departure time or stress if breakfast runs long.

Why this leg is so simple:

• Short travel time: about 1 hour
• Frequent departures: easy to catch the next train if plans shift
• Flexible tickets: no seat reservations required on most regional trains
• Easy stations: straightforward platforms and clear signage

There’s very little pressure here. You finish breakfast, head to the station, and hop on when you’re ready—no rushing or complicated logistics.

Because of that flexibility, this leg requires minimal planning stress, which is especially nice after a relaxed stay in Bruges and before diving into Brussels.

For booking, I recommend Rail Europe, which lets you check schedules, compare options, and buy tickets in advance—or confirm plans closer to travel day if you prefer to stay flexible.

By the time you arrive in Brussels, you’ll feel confident navigating trains—and fully settled into the rhythm of this Europe-by-rail journey.

Brussels (3 Days): Chocolate, Art & Easy Day Pacing

Brussels is one of those cities that tends to get shortchanged—often treated as a quick stop between Amsterdam and Paris. But when you actually spend time here, it quietly wins you over. This part of the itinerary is all about slowing things down just enough to really explore, without ever feeling bored.

With three days, Brussels becomes less of a transit point and more of a destination in its own right.

Where to Stay in Brussels

For this stop, my clients stayed at The Dominican, and it’s a fantastic base for exploring the city.

Why it works so well:

• Central location, walkable to Grand Place
• Elegant but comfortable atmosphere
• Easy access to museums, restaurants, and train stations
• A calm retreat after full sightseeing days

It’s the kind of hotel that makes coming back in the evening feel like a treat, not just a place to sleep.

Selecting hotels that balance location, comfort, and easy arrivals can make or break a trip—especially when you’re traveling by train. All accommodations in this itinerary were chosen intentionally to support a relaxed pace.

Want help choosing the best accommodations for you? I offer custom travel planning services and would love to help you discover the perfect place to lay your head.

Museums Worth Your Time

Brussels punches well above its weight when it comes to museums, and they’re easy to fit into relaxed days rather than rushed schedules.

Highlights include:

• Art museums showcasing both classic and modern works
• The Magritte Museum for a uniquely Belgian take on surrealism
• Smaller, specialized museums that are easy to pair with walking and cafés

Instead of stacking attractions, this itinerary leaves space to enjoy one or two museums at a time—then wander without an agenda.

A DIY Chocolate Walk (Yes, It’s as Good as It Sounds)

One of the most fun ways to experience Brussels is on a self-guided tour of its chocolate shops. The city is compact and walkable, making it easy to sample as you go.

This DIY chocolate walk includes:

• A museum stop for context
• Classic chocolatiers near the Grand Place
• A few indulgent praline tastings along the way

Parks, Comic Murals & Wandering

Between museums and meals, Brussels rewards curiosity. The city is dotted with green spaces perfect for a break, and its famous comic-strip murals turn everyday streets into open-air art galleries.

Don’t miss:

• A stroll through central parks for downtime
• Spotting comic murals tucked into unexpected corners
• Letting yourself wander without a strict plan

These small moments are what make Brussels feel lived-in rather than touristy.

Brussels → Paris by Train

Traveling from Brussels to Paris is one of the most satisfying legs of any Europe train itinerary. It’s fast, comfortable, and refreshingly simple—exactly what you want when moving between two major cities.

This route runs on the Eurostar, which feels more like a lounge-on-rails experience than traditional long-distance travel. You settle into your seat, watch the countryside blur by, and arrive before you’ve even had time to fully finish a podcast or chapter of a book.

Why This Train Ride Works So Well

This stretch of rail travel is a favorite for a reason:

• Quick travel time: around 1 hour 30 minutes
• Comfortable seating: spacious seats, luggage racks, and a smooth ride
• Border checks handled before departure: no mid-journey interruptions
• No airport stress: just arrive, board, and go

Once you’re on the train, it’s all very low-effort—and that’s part of the magic of train travel in Europe.

Arriving Directly Into Paris

One of the biggest perks of this route is where you end up. Instead of landing outside the city and dealing with transfers, you arrive right at Paris Gare du Nord, already inside the city and well connected to metros and taxis.

It makes arrival day feel calm and manageable, even in a city as big as Paris. You step off the train, grab your bags, and head straight to your hotel—no extra logistics required.

Booking Your Tickets

For this route, I recommend booking through Rail Europe, which makes it easy to compare Eurostar schedules, choose seats, and keep all your tickets in one place.

This Brussels-to-Paris ride is a great example of why traveling Europe by train just works. It’s efficient, comfortable, and delivers you straight into the heart of one of the world’s most iconic cities—ready to explore, not recover from the journey.

Planning perspective: Ending a Europe trip well is just as important as starting it strong. This itinerary was designed to build confidence as the trip goes on, not exhaust you by the end. That kind of pacing is something I focus on in every custom itinerary I plan.

Paris (4 Days): Museums, Neighborhoods & a Gentle Finish

Paris is a beautiful place to end a Europe trip—not with a sprint, but with a slow exhale. After moving comfortably through smaller cities by train, arriving in Paris feels exciting rather than overwhelming.

With four full days, this part of the itinerary is all about balance: iconic sights paired with neighborhood time and space to wander.

Where to Stay in Paris

For this stop, my clients stayed at Hôtel Rochechouart, located in the 9th arrondissement near Montmartre.

Why it works especially well:

• Excellent metro connections without being in the thick of tourist crowds
• Easy access to Montmartre for early mornings and quiet evenings
• Comfortable rooms that feel welcoming after full sightseeing days
• A neighborhood vibe that makes Paris feel livable, not overwhelming

It’s a great base for easing into Paris—and easing out of a busy trip.

Louvre + Orsay (Without Museum Burnout)

Paris has some of the world’s best museums, but the key is pacing. Instead of trying to see everything, this itinerary spaces things out so each visit feels enjoyable rather than exhausting.

A rhythm that works well:

• One major museum per day (not back-to-back)
• The Louvre paired with outdoor walks afterward
• Musée d’Orsay balanced with a relaxed lunch or Seine stroll

This approach lets you actually enjoy the art—and still have energy left for the rest of the day.

Montmartre Evenings & Neighborhood Wandering

One of the highlights of staying near Montmartre is how magical the area feels in the evenings. As day-trippers head out, the neighborhood settles into a quieter, more local rhythm.

Perfect evenings in this part of the city might include:

• A slow walk up to Sacré-Cœur at sunset
• Dinner at a small neighborhood bistro
• Wandering side streets without a strict plan

It’s Paris at its most charming—unrushed and atmospheric.

A Seine Cruise to Slow Things Down

A Seine cruise is a lovely way to experience Paris from a different perspective, especially after several active days. It’s a chance to sit, relax, and watch the city glide past—bridges, landmarks, and everyday life all unfolding along the river.

It’s also a wonderful reminder that not every experience has to be fast-paced to be memorable.

Why Paris Works Best at the End of a Train Trip

Ending your Europe journey in Paris just makes sense. By this point, you’re confident navigating trains, metros, and new neighborhoods. You’re no longer adjusting—you’re enjoying.

Paris rewards that confidence. With four days, you have time to:

• See the highlights without rushing
• Wander without an agenda
• Enjoy meals, museums, and moments in between

As the final stop on a Europe-by-train adventure, Paris offers the perfect mix of culture, beauty, and calm—a gentle, satisfying finish to a thoughtfully paced trip.

Behind the scenes: This entire route—from train connections to hotel locations—was planned around how the trip should feel, not just where it goes. If that approach resonates with you, I’d love to help plan something similar for your own travels.

Do You Need a Eurail Pass for This Europe Train Itinerary?

Short answer: not for this trip—and that’s actually a good thing.

For this Europe by train itinerary, point-to-point tickets made more sense than using a Eurail pass or Europe rail pass. The route is very linear, the travel days are limited, and most of the major train legs benefit from reserved seating. Buying individual tickets kept things simple, predictable, and stress-free.

Why Point-to-Point Tickets Works Better Here

This itinerary includes only a handful of train journeys, spaced out over nearly two weeks. That means there’s no need to “maximize” a pass or feel pressure to travel on specific days.

Point-to-point tickets offer a few clear advantages:

• Guaranteed seat reservations on high-speed trains
• Clear departure times with no guesswork
• No daily travel limits to track
• Often better value when you’re only taking a few longer rides

For first-time travelers, this approach also removes a lot of mental load. You know exactly which train you’re taking, where you’re sitting, and when you’ll arrive.

When a Eurail Pass Would Make Sense

A Eurail pass can be a great option if your trip looks very different from this one.

You might want to consider a pass if:

• You’re moving cities every 1-2 days
• You plan to take lots of regional trains
• Your route isn’t locked in ahead of time
• You want maximum flexibility to change plans on the fly

For longer, faster-paced trips—or for travelers who love spontaneity—a Europe rail pass can be worth it.

If you want to dig deeper into the pros and cons, I’ve broken it all down in my post Is the Eurail Pass Worth It? I share when a pass truly makes sense, when it doesn’t, and the mistakes I see first-time travelers make—so you can decide what’s right for your trip, not just follow the most popular advice.

A Quick Note on Reservations

One thing many travelers don’t realize is that a Eurail pass doesn’t automatically include seat reservations. High-speed trains like the Eurostar often require reservations on top of the pass, which can add cost and complexity.

With point-to-point tickets, reservations are built in. You show up, board your train, and go—no extra steps required.

For this specific route, keeping things simple was the priority. Point-to-point tickets allowed the trip to flow smoothly from city to city without overthinking the logistics—exactly what you want on a well-paced Europe train journey.

How Much Time Do You Need for This Route?

This is one of the most common questions I get when planning train trips through Europe—and the answer really comes down to how you want the trip to feel.

Could you do this route in one week? Technically, yes. But it would be rushed, heavy on travel days, and light on the parts that actually make the experience enjoyable.

For this Amsterdam-Belgium-Paris itinerary, 12-14 days is the sweet spot.

Why 12-14 Days Works Best

Giving yourself close to two weeks allows the trip to unfold at a comfortable pace instead of feeling like a checklist.

With 12-14 days, you have time to:

• Spend 3-4 nights in each major city
• Enjoy full sightseeing days without stacking too much into one day
• Keep train travel relaxed rather than back-to-back
• Build in slower mornings and flexible evenings

Most importantly, it gives you breathing room. Travel days don’t eat up your sightseeing time, and you’re not constantly packing and unpacking.

What Happens If You Only Have One Week?

If you’re limited on time, you’ll need to be selective.

To shorten this route:

• Skip either Bruges or Brussels
• Reduce Paris to 2-3 days
• Accept that museum time will be more limited

A one-week version works best if you focus on fewer cities and treat this as a teaser trip rather than a deep dive.

How to Extend the Itinerary

If you have more time, this route is easy to stretch without disrupting the flow.

You could:

• Add extra nights in Amsterdam or Paris
• Take a slower pace in Brussels with additional museum visits
• Include a nearby side trip (like a day trip from Paris or Brussels)
• Build in rest days to balance sightseeing

Because the train connections are efficient, extending the itinerary doesn’t add stress—it just adds options.

When it comes to Europe by train, more days doesn’t mean more exhaustion—it usually means a better experience. If you can, give this route the time it deserves. You’ll see more, enjoy more, and return home feeling energized instead of wiped out.

Planning Tips for Traveling Europe by Train

If you’re new to train travel in Europe, a little preparation goes a long way. The good news? Once you understand a few basics, navigating European train itineraries is far easier than most people expect.

Here are the tips I share most often with first-time train travelers.

Book Trains the Smart Way

For trips like this, I recommend booking tickets through Rail Europe. It’s especially helpful if you’re traveling across multiple countries.

Why it works well:

• Clear schedules and route comparisons
• Easy booking for international trains
• Digital tickets you can keep on your phone
• Seat reservations shown upfront

Booking in advance also gives you more choice when it comes to departure hours and seating.

Pack with Train Travel in Mind

European trains don’t have strict luggage rules like airlines, but you’ll be responsible for handling your own bags.

A few helpful guidelines:

• Pack light enough to lift your suitcase onto racks
• Use luggage with wheels that handle cobblestones well
• Keep valuables in a small day bag near your seat
• Store larger bags in overhead racks or luggage areas by the doors

If you can comfortably manage your bags on stairs, you’ll be just fine.

Understand Seat Reservations

Some trains require seat reservations, while others don’t—it depends on the route.

What to know:

• High-speed and international trains usually include seat reservations
• Regional trains often have open seating
• Your ticket will clearly show if a seat is assigned

If you have a reserved seat, boarding is relaxed—you know exactly where you’re going.

Know When to Arrive at Train Stations

You don’t need to arrive hours early like at an airport.

A good rule of thumb:

• Arrive 15-30 minutes early for most trains
• Allow a bit more time at large stations or for international departures
• Head straight to the platform once it’s posted

Stations are well signed, and boarding is usually quick and orderly.

Once you’ve taken a couple of trains, the process starts to feel second nature. With the right planning, traveling Europe by train becomes one of the easiest—and most enjoyable—parts of the journey.

If you want a deeper, step-by-step breakdown, I’ve put together a full guide on how to travel Europe by train that walks through everything in more detail—from choosing the right tickets to navigating big stations with confidence. It’s perfect if this is your first time traveling by rail or if you want to feel extra prepared before you go.

FAQs: Europe by Train Itinerary

Final Thoughts: A Europe Train Itinerary That Actually Feels Enjoyable

One of the biggest myths about traveling Europe is that you need to move fast to see a lot. More cities. More countries. More boxes checked. But the truth is, the trips that linger with you the longest are usually the ones that feel easy.

This Europe by train itinerary works because it respects your time and energy. The train journey itself becomes part of the experience—not something to endure. You arrive in each city rested, centered, and ready to explore, instead of rushing straight from one highlight to the next.

This route was custom planned for a mother and her adult son with exactly that goal in mind: a pace that felt thoughtful, flexible, and genuinely enjoyable. No overstuffed days. No complicated logistics. Just beautiful cities, smooth connections, and space to actually be present.

If you’ve been dreaming about a Europe trip but feel overwhelmed by planning—or if you know you want a similar route and pace, but not necessarily this exact itinerary—I’d love to help. Thoughtful planning can turn a good trip into one that feels calm, connected, and truly memorable.

Europe by train doesn’t have to be complicated. When it’s planned well, it can be one of the most relaxed and rewarding ways to travel—and a trip you remember for how it felt, not just where you went.