2 Weeks in Europe by Train: The Perfect Eurail Itinerary for First-Time Travelers

Planning 2 weeks in Europe by train is the closest thing I know to real-life magic. One minute you’re sipping coffee beneath the Eiffel Tower; a few tracks later, you’re gliding past Swiss peaks or wandering cobblestone lanes in Prague—all without wrangling airport security or 8-hour bus rides. If that sounds like your dream Eurail itinerary, you’re in the right place.

I’m Addie: solo female traveler, certified travel advisor, and unapologetic rail-geek who has criss-crossed the continent on multiple different Eurail passes (and plenty of point-to-point tickets when it made sense). Over years of train travel, I’ve learned how to build a 2-week Europe itinerary by train that balances bucket-list cities with slower, scenic detours—while keeping costs in check and spontaneity alive.

In this guide you’ll find:

• clear advice on choosing the right Eurail Pass versus individual tickets
• six sample routes—from food-focused France & Belgium to Alpine Italy & Switzerland
• pro tips on reservations, night trains, hostels, and packing light

By the end, you’ll have everything you need to craft a stress-free, memory-filled rail adventure—and maybe even the confidence to book that first-class seat you’ve been eyeing. Ready to roll?

Why Travel Europe by Train?

There’s a reason rail travel is such a classic way to explore Europe—it just works. From the moment you step onto your first platform, the magic of train travel takes over: no airport chaos, no baggage fees, just smooth, scenic rides that let you watch Europe unfold right outside your window.

Traveling Europe by train is especially ideal for first-time travelers, solo adventurers, and anyone trying to cover multiple countries without the stress of constant flights or car rentals. It’s also a budget-friendly option if you know how to plan smart (hello, off-peak routes and scenic regional lines).

On my first solo trip, I used a Eurail Pass to weave through three countries—and while I definitely made some rookie mistakes, it completely changed the way I travel. There’s a rhythm to European train travel that’s both freeing and empowering.

If you’re considering a Eurail itinerary for your next adventure, this post will walk you through exactly what to know, how to choose your route, and whether a Eurail Pass is right for you. I’ll also share real itineraries I’ve taken and loved (or think would be even better than what I did) with links to destination guides, packing tips, and more.

Curious about the pass itself? Keep reading for a quick breakdown—or skip ahead to the sample 2 week Europe itinerary by train ideas below.

What Is a Eurail Pass—and Do You Need One?

If you’ve been Googling around for the best way to get around Europe in 2 weeks, you’ve probably come across something called the Eurail Pass. But what is it, exactly—and is it the right fit for your travel style?

The Eurail Pass is a flexible train ticket that allows non-European travelers to take unlimited train rides across 33 European countries during a set time period. You can choose from different durations—like 4, 7, 10, or 15 travel days within 1 or 2 months—and use those days however you want. That might mean a packed travel day hopping through multiple cities, or a long scenic ride from Switzerland to Italy.

As someone who has used both point-to-point tickets and Eurail Passes, and now works as a certified travel advisor, I’ve seen both the pros and cons up close.

A Eurail Pass is worth it when:

• You’re visiting multiple countries or covering long distances
• You want the flexibility to change your plans last-minute
• You don’t want to stress about buying individual train tickets in advance
• You qualify for the youth (12–27) or senior (60+) discounts
• You’re traveling during a promotion—like the current 20% off deal

That said, it’s not always the cheapest option. Some high-speed trains (especially in France, Italy, and Spain) require paid seat reservations, and those costs can add up. But the ease of booking, freedom to explore, and peace of mind? Often worth every euro.

Looking for more help deciding? I break it all down—costs, routes, tips, and real-life examples—in my full guide: Is the Eurail Pass Worth It? An Honest Review from a Frequent Solo Traveler

Ready to grab one? Eurail is currently offering 20% off their Global Passes through July 3—click here to get the deal.

When Point-to-Point Tickets Might Be a Better Choice

If you’re planning your 2 weeks in Europe by train and wondering whether the Eurail Pass is really the best deal, here’s the truth: sometimes, it’s not.

Point-to-point train tickets—aka individual fares booked for each route—can actually be cheaper and simpler in some situations, especially if you:

• Are only visiting 2–3 cities with longer stays in between
• Can commit to booking trains weeks or months in advance
• Don’t mind being locked into specific departure times
• Are mostly traveling in countries like Spain, France, or the UK (where high-speed train reservations are required even with a pass)

For example, when I backpacked through Portugal and Spain, I realized most of the major routes (like Lisbon to Porto or Madrid to Seville) required expensive seat reservations on top of the Eurail Pass. And since I already knew my exact itinerary, I saved money booking individual tickets early through national rail sites like Comboios de Portugal or Renfe.

Here’s when point-to-point tickets are your best bet:

• Your route is straightforward and doesn’t involve a lot of train travel days
• You’re booking early enough to snag discounted fares
• You don’t need the flexibility to change plans last-minute
• You’re traveling in a single country (like Italy or Portugal)

Pro tip: Use websites like Trainline or Rail Europe to compare prices between passes and individual tickets. Sometimes the savings are surprising.

Still not sure what’s best for your trip? I break it down even more in my [Eurail vs. Point-to-Point comparison post] (coming soon!).

What to Know Before You Go

Planning your 2 weeks in Europe by train doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially if you know a few tricks ahead of time. From choosing the best routes to knowing when to splurge, these tips will help make your Eurail itinerary smoother, cheaper, and way more fun.

Key Train Travel Tips

• Book seat reservations early for high-speed or international trains, especially in France, Italy, and Spain. Some routes fill up fast—don’t leave it to the last minute.
• Use the Rail Planner app to check train times, plan routes, and see which trains are included with your Eurail Pass.
• Mix fast and scenic routes. Sure, zipping between cities on high-speed trains is efficient—but don’t miss out on stunning regional routes like the Bernina Express or Lucerne to Interlaken.
• Try a night train at least once. It can save you money on accommodation and get you across long distances while you sleep. Just be sure to book a bunk (not just a seat).

Budget & Accommodation Tips

• Stay in hostels or budget hotels near train stations to make your travel days easier. If you’re in a group, apartment rentals can also be a great value.
• Splurge strategically. A cozy hotel in the Alps? Worth it. A tasting menu in Paris? Go for it. Save elsewhere so you can say yes to the experiences that matter.
• Grocery stores and market stalls are your budget travel BFFs. Grab picnic supplies and enjoy lunch with a view—whether that’s the Seine or a Swiss lake.

How to Choose the Right 2-Week Eurail Itinerary

Not sure where to begin with your Europe by train adventure? Start by asking yourself one key question: what kind of trip are you dreaming of?

Do you want to stroll through grand European capitals or sip wine in sleepy countryside towns? Are you here for history, art, nature—or all of the above? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but thinking about your travel style can help you narrow down the best Eurail itinerary for your two weeks in Europe.

Here are a few tips to guide your planning:

• Stick to one region (like Central Europe or the Iberian Peninsula) to cut down on long travel days and make the most of your pass.
• Consider the season. Winter is magical in cities with Christmas markets and cozy cafés, while summer is ideal for beach towns and alpine hikes.
• Balance big cities with smaller stops. Some of the best moments happen in between the highlights—like a surprise hike in the Alps or a bakery detour in a Belgian village.
• Look for well-connected routes that make the most of scenic or high-speed trains.

No matter what kind of traveler you are, there’s a 2 week Europe itinerary by train that’ll match your vibe. And if you need inspiration? The next section is packed with options.

Sample 2-Week Eurail Itineraries

To help you plan your perfect two weeks in Europe by train, I’ve put together a few sample Eurail itineraries based on different travel styles, regions, and seasons. These aren’t just dream routes—they’re inspired by my real trips and blog posts you can dive deeper into as you go.

Each itinerary is designed to minimize backtracking, highlight scenic train routes, and include a mix of iconic cities and hidden gems. Whether you’re into castles, cuisine, or coastlines, there’s a route here for you.

1. Classic Central Europe: Austria, Germany & the Czech Republic

Route: Vienna → Salzburg → Munich → Rothenburg ob der Tauber → Nuremberg → Prague

Why this itinerary? This route is a dream for first-timers who want to soak up the storybook charm of Central Europe. With grand palaces, timber-framed towns, and Gothic skylines, it offers the perfect mix of cultural highlights and cozy corners.

Days 1–3: Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a city of grandeur—think palaces, operas, and cakes. Start your trip with a deep dive into its imperial elegance.

Top things to do:

• Visit Schönbrunn Palace and its gardens
• Explore the Hofburg Imperial Palace and Spanish Riding School
• Enjoy art at the Belvedere or Albertina museums
• Grab coffee and cake at Café Central or Demel
• Stroll the Ringstrasse and shop on Kärntner Straße

Train to next stop: ~2.5 hours to Salzburg, direct

Days 4–5: Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is straight out of a storybook, with Baroque spires and mountain views. It’s a must for Mozart lovers and Sound of Music fans.

Top things to do:

• Ride the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress
• Explore the Altstadt and visit Mozart’s Birthplace
• Visit Mirabell Palace and Gardens
• Take a Sound of Music tour
• Hike up Kapuzinerberg for city views

Train to next stop: ~1.5 hours to Munich, direct or via Freilassing

Days 6–7: Munich, Germany

Munich mixes Bavarian tradition with urban cool. Beer gardens, royal palaces, and world-class museums await.

Top things to do:

• Explore Marienplatz and watch the Glockenspiel show
• Tour Nymphenburg Palace
• Visit the Deutsches Museum or BMW Welt
• Relax in the Englischer Garten with a stein
• Optional: Day trip to Dachau Memorial or Neuschwanstein Castle

Train to next stop: ~3–3.5 hours to Rothenburg ob der Tauber (transfer in Nuremberg and/or Steinach)

Day 8: Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

This perfectly preserved medieval town is like walking through a fairytale. A single night here is enough for a magical detour.

Top things to do:

• Walk along the medieval town walls
• Take the famous Night Watchman tour
• Visit the Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas shop
• Snap photos at Plönlein
• Climb the Town Hall tower for sunset views

Train to next stop: ~1.25 hours to Nuremberg (via Steinach)

Days 9–10: Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is rich in both history and charm, from medieval castles to sobering WWII sites.

Top things to do:

• Tour Nuremberg Castle
• Visit the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
• Stroll the Altstadt and cross the Henkersteg bridge
• Try Nürnberger sausages and local beer
• If winter: Don’t miss the Christkindlesmarkt

Train to next stop: ~3.5–4 hours to Prague, direct or with 1 transfer

Days 11–14: Prague, Czech Republic

End your trip in the heart of Bohemia. Prague’s dramatic skyline, rich history, and affordable prices make it a solo traveler’s dream.

Top things to do:

• Visit Prague Castle and Golden Lane
• Watch the Astronomical Clock strike the hour
• Catch sunrise on Charles Bridge
• Take a river cruise or climb Letná Park for views
• Join a local food or beer tour

Recommended Pass

Eurail Global Pass – 5 days in 1 month

This route is perfect for slow-ish travel: you’re hopping between major cities every 2–3 days, and most of the regional trains (especially in Germany and Austria) don’t require seat reservations.

A 5-day pass gives you plenty of coverage without overcommitting. Bonus? The ride from Salzburg to Munich through the Alps is absolutely dreamy.

2. Western Europe for Foodies: France, Belgium & the Netherlands

Route: Paris → Brussels → Bruges → Ghent → Amsterdam

Why this itinerary? A dreamy mix of gourmet delights, iconic cities, and postcard-perfect strolls. This 2-week train itinerary is ideal for food-lovers and first-time travelers who want a delicious intro to Europe—complete with chocolate tastings, canals, and croissants.

Days 1–4: Paris, France

Start your journey in the City of Light—and carbs. Four days gives you time to enjoy both the icons and the little corners of Paris.

Top things to do:

• Visit the Eiffel Tower and picnic on the Champ de Mars
• Explore Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
• Wander the Latin Quarter and see Shakespeare & Company
• Get your art fix at the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay
• Enjoy a food tour or grab fresh baguettes and cheese for a DIY lunch
• Watch the sunset from the steps of Trocadéro or the rooftop at Galeries Lafayette

Train to next stop: ~1.5 hours to Brussels via Thalys (reservation required)

Days 5–6: Brussels, Belgium

Compact and quirky, Brussels is a foodie paradise with a historic core. It’s a great palate cleanser between Paris and the fairytale towns to come.

Top things to do:

• Admire the gilded buildings of Grand Place
• Take a Belgian chocolate tasting tour
• Eat waffles and fries from street vendors
• Explore the surreal Magritte Museum
• Visit the Atomium for retro-futurist fun

Train to next stop: ~1 hour to Bruges, direct

Days 7–8: Bruges, Belgium

Bruges feels like stepping into a storybook. It’s small, scenic, and ideal for slow mornings and canal-side beers.

Top things to do:

• Climb the Belfry of Bruges for views of red rooftops
• Take a guided boat ride through the canals
• Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood
• Tour De Halve Maan Brewery and sample local beer
• Taste fresh chocolate truffles from artisan shops

Train to next stop: ~25 minutes to Ghent, direct

Days 9–10: Ghent, Belgium

Lively, artsy, and slightly off the tourist radar, Ghent is the perfect stop to break up the journey to Amsterdam. Bonus: fewer crowds and just as much beauty.

Top things to do:

• Visit Gravensteen Castle
• See The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb at St. Bavo’s Cathedral
• Discover street art in Werregarenstraat
• Grab a cuberdon (cone-shaped candy) from a market stall
• Enjoy riverside dining on the Graslei

Train to next stop: ~2.5–3 hours to Amsterdam via Antwerp, typically one transfer

Days 11–14: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Round out your foodie journey with four days in the Netherlands’ most photogenic city. Bikes, pancakes, and canal cruises await.

Top things to do:

• Visit the Anne Frank House (book early!)
• Explore the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum
• Try Dutch pancakes and poffertjes
• Cruise the canals at sunset
• Wander Jordaan’s boutiques and cafes
• Take a day trip to Zaanse Schans (windmills) or Haarlem

Recommended Pass

Eurail Global Pass – 4 days in 1 month

This is where it gets a little tricky. Trains like Thalys (Paris → Brussels → Amsterdam) are fast and flashy—but they come with pricey seat reservation fees, even if you have a pass. These routes can also cost a lot for point-to-point tickets, though, so it’s likely you’ll still save some money by getting a Eurail pass.

3. Festive Winter Magic: Denmark, Germany & Austria

Route: Copenhagen → Hamburg → Nuremberg → Regensburg → Vienna → Salzburg

Why this itinerary? Christmas market magic meets cultural charm on this winter-perfect route. You’ll sip glühwein under twinkling lights, shop handmade ornaments, and enjoy classic European cities without the summer crowds.

Days 1–3: Copenhagen, Denmark

Start your winter rail trip in Copenhagen, where hygge isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a lifestyle.

Top things to do:

• Wander the Christmas market at Tivoli Gardens and enjoy the rides
• Explore Nyhavn’s colorful harbor and lights
• Warm up with gløgg at the Højbro Plads or Kongens Nytorv markets
• Visit Rosenborg Castle and see the crown jewels
• Embrace the cozy life in a candlelit café or on a hygge tour
• Take a day trip to Fredriksborg and Kronborg Castles

Train to next stop: ~4.5 hours to Hamburg, direct via EuroCity (no reservation required)

Days 4–5: Hamburg, Germany

Often overlooked, Hamburg dazzles in December with a mix of traditional and modern Christmas markets set against its historic harbor.

Top things to do:

• Visit the historic Rathausmarkt Christmas market
• Stop by the quirky Santa Pauli market in the Reeperbahn
• Cruise the canals in the Speicherstadt warehouse district
• Shop and snack at Mönckebergstraße’s festive stalls
• Try Fischbrötchen (fish sandwich) for a local bite

Train to next stop: ~5 hours to Nuremberg

Days 6–7: Nuremberg, Germany

Home to one of the most famous Christmas markets in the world, Nuremberg is the beating heart of festive travel in Germany.

Top things to do:

• Stroll the Christkindlesmarkt and try Nürnberger bratwurst
• Sip mulled wine from a decorative boot mug
• Visit the Market of the Sister Cities and Original Regional Market
• Learn about history at the Documentation Center
• Enjoy city views from the Imperial Castle

Train to next stop: ~1.5 hours to Regensburg, direct

Days 8–9: Regensburg, Germany

A UNESCO-listed old town and cozy holiday vibe make Regensburg an underrated winter gem.

Top things to do:

• Explore the Romantic Christmas Market at Thurn and Taxis Palace
• Visit the Lucrezia Craft Market for artisan gifts
• Stroll the medieval stone bridge and old town
• Warm up with gingerbread and hot chocolate in a historic café
• Enjoy the Danube River views dusted in snow

Train to next stop: ~3 hours to Salzburg

Days 10-11: Salzburg, Austria

Finish in Mozart’s hometown, surrounded by alpine views and holiday spirit.

Top things to do:

• Visit the Christkindlmarkt in Cathedral Square
• Explore Hohensalzburg Fortress and its views over snowy rooftops
• Tour Mozart’s Birthplace
• Take a Sound of Music tour (yes, even in winter!)
• Enjoy a snowy walk along the Salzach River

Train to next stop: ~2.5 to Vienna

Days 12-14: Vienna, Austria

Vienna turns into a glittering fairytale in December, with elegant lights, classical music, and festive charm around every corner.

Top things to do:

• Shop at the Viennese Dream Christmas Market outside City Hall
• Explore Schönbrunn Palace and its festive market
• See The Nutcracker or a concert at the Vienna Opera House
• Visit Belvedere Palace or the Albertina for art
• Warm up with a melange and apple strudel in a traditional café

Recommended Pass

Eurail Global Pass – 5 days in 1 month

You’ll cover a lot of ground here—Copenhagen to Vienna is no small stretch—but you’ll mostly ride through countries where reservations are optional or low-cost. That means more flexibility (and fewer surprise fees). Plus, gliding into snow-dusted Christmas markets by train? Pure magic.

4. Iberian Adventure: Portugal & Spain

Route: Lisbon → Óbidos → Aveiro → Porto → Madrid → Seville → Barcelona

Why this itinerary? Sunny cities, colorful azulejos, and Mediterranean charm—this route is perfect for travelers who want a warm-weather escape packed with food, culture, and budget-friendly vibes. Portugal’s laid-back pace meets Spain’s buzzing energy, with easy train rides and plenty of stunning stops along the way.

Days 1–3: Lisbon, Portugal

Kick off your trip in Portugal’s capital, where hills are steep, trams are yellow, and every sunset feels cinematic.

Top things to do:

• Wander the Alfama district and catch a fado performance
• Ride Tram 28 for a scenic city tour
• Visit Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower
• Snack on pastéis de nata at Pastéis de Belém
• Catch the view from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Train to next stop: ~1.5 hours to Óbidos (via Caldas da Rainha, 1 change)

Day 4: Óbidos, Portugal

This charming walled town feels like it’s straight out of a storybook—complete with whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets.

Top things to do:

• Walk the medieval city walls
• Sip ginginha (cherry liqueur) from a chocolate cup
• Visit the Church of Santa Maria
• Browse the village’s quirky bookstores

Train to next stop: ~2.5 hours to Aveiro (via Caldas da Rainha and Coimbra, 2 changes)

Days 5–6: Aveiro, Portugal

Nicknamed the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is full of canals, Art Nouveau buildings, and striped beach houses nearby.

Top things to do:

• Ride a moliceiro boat through the canals
• Visit the Art Nouveau Museum
• Day trip to Costa Nova to see the colorful houses
• Try ovos moles, the city’s iconic egg custard treat

Train to next stop: ~1 hour to Porto, direct

Days 7–8: Porto, Portugal

Gritty, gorgeous, and full of heart—Porto is where azulejo-covered churches meet riverside wine caves.

Top things to do:

• Tour the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia
• Snap a photo at the blue-tiled São Bento Station
• Climb Clerigos Tower for city views
• Browse books at the magical Livraria Lello
• Walk across Dom Luís I Bridge at sunset

Train to next stop: ~3 hours to Madrid (with one change in Vigo or Salamanca depending on the route)

Days 9–10: Madrid, Spain

Spain’s capital is all about art, tapas, and endless energy. It’s a great central base to begin the Spanish leg of your trip.

Top things to do:

• See world-class art at the Prado or Reina Sofía museums
• Stroll through Retiro Park
• Try a bocadillo de calamares at Plaza Mayor
• Explore the Royal Palace
• Eat your way through Mercado de San Miguel

Train to next stop: ~2.5 hours to Seville, direct (high-speed AVE train)

Days 11–12: Seville, Spain

Orange trees, flamenco, and Moorish palaces—Seville brings the heat (literally and figuratively).

Top things to do:

• Visit the Real Alcázar and its lush gardens
• Climb La Giralda at Seville Cathedral
• See a flamenco show in the Triana neighborhood
• Wander the colorful streets of Santa Cruz
• Watch the sunset from Metropol Parasol

Train to next stop: ~5.5 hours to Barcelona, direct on high-speed AVE

Days 13–14: Barcelona, Spain

End your Iberian adventure in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities—Barcelona is bold, beachy, and bursting with architecture and energy.

Top things to do:

• Marvel at Sagrada Familia and Gaudí’s other masterpieces
• Stroll Las Ramblas and explore the Gothic Quarter
• Relax at Barceloneta Beach
• Catch the views from Park Güell or Bunkers del Carmel
• Try tapas and vermouth at a local bodega

Recommended Pass

Eurail Global Pass – 7 days in 1 month

This route is packed with big moves: Lisbon to Porto, then across the border into Spain and down to Seville and Barcelona. The catch? Almost every Spanish train requires a reservation—even the slower ones. That means more upfront planning and extra fees. But if you’re hitting 7 cities in 14 days, the 7-day pass still gives you solid value.

If you hate the idea of planning all your seats ahead of time, point-to-point tickets might be better here.

5. Alpine Escapes: Switzerland & Northern Italy

Route: Zurich → Lucerne → Interlaken → Bern → Trento → Valle di Ledro & Chiese → Verona → Milan

Why this itinerary? This scenic 2-week journey takes you from Switzerland’s serene lakes and soaring mountains to Italy’s romantic cities and alpine valleys. With efficient rail connections, jaw-dropping landscapes, and a balance of adventure and culture, it’s a dream route for nature lovers and slow travel fans.

Days 1–2: Zurich, Switzerland

Begin in Switzerland’s largest city, where you’ll find world-class museums, lake views, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Top things to do:

• Stroll the Old Town and shop along Bahnhofstrasse
• Relax on Lake Zurich or take a boat ride
• Visit the Kunsthaus or Swiss National Museum
• Enjoy trendy cafes in Zurich West

Train to next stop: ~45 minutes to Lucerne, direct

Days 3–4: Lucerne, Switzerland

A postcard-perfect city surrounded by mountains and Lake Lucerne—ideal for a mix of culture and adventure.

Top things to do:

• Walk the iconic Chapel Bridge and explore the Old Town
• Take a boat and cogwheel railway to Mount Rigi or Pilatus
• Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport
• Dine lakeside with views of the Alps

Train to next stop: ~2 hours to Interlaken (scenic Golden Pass route)

Days 5–6: Interlaken, Switzerland

The adventure hub of Switzerland, Interlaken is your base for exploring the Bernese Oberland and Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Top things to do:

• Ride up to Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn
• Visit Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, or Mürren
• Hike or paraglide with views of the Alps
• Enjoy lakes Thun and Brienz

Train to next stop: ~1 hour to Bern, direct

Days 7: Bern, Switzerland

Switzerland’s capital has a quieter pace and medieval charm—perfect for a one-day stopover.

Top things to do:

• Explore the UNESCO Old Town and clock tower
• Climb the Bern Cathedral tower for city views
• Relax in the Rosengarten
• Visit the Einstein Museum

Train to next stop: ~6.5 hours to Trento (Bern → Milan → Trento, with transfer in Milan)

Days 8–9: Trento, Italy

This colorful university town at the foot of the Dolomites makes a great base for easing into Italian alpine life.

Top things to do:

• Visit Buonconsiglio Castle and the MUSE science museum
• Stroll Piazza Duomo and enjoy aperitivo at a terrace café
• Ride the funicular to Sardagna for valley views
• Try local specialties like speck, canederli, and Trentino wines

Train to next stop: ~2 hours to Valle di Ledro/Valle del Chiese (via Rovereto + bus)

Days 10–11: Valle di Ledro & Valle del Chiese, Italy

Tucked between Lake Garda and the Dolomites, these hidden valleys are rich in nature, culture, and peace.

Top things to do:

• Hike in the Ledro Alps and swim in Lake Ledro
• Visit the prehistoric pile-dwelling museum (UNESCO)
• Explore quiet mountain villages and eco farms
• Go canyoning, biking, or relax with local spa treatments

Bus/train to next stop: ~2–2.5 hours to Verona (via Storo → Rovereto → Verona)

Days 11–12: Verona, Italy

A romantic city rich with Roman history and cozy piazzas.

Top things to do:

• Tour the Verona Arena and Juliet’s balcony
• Wander the Old Town and climb Torre dei Lamberti
• Sip wine in Piazza delle Erbe
• Cross the Adige River to Castel San Pietro

Train to next stop: ~1.5 hours to Milan, direct

Days 13–14: Milan, Italy

Wrap up your trip in Milan, where Italian fashion, food, and history collide.

Top things to do:

• Explore the modern side of Milan in Porta Nuova
• Admire the Duomo and walk its rooftop
• Book tickets to see The Last Supper
• Shop and dine at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Recommended Pass

Eurail Global Pass – 7 days in 1 month

Switzerland is where the Eurail Pass really shines. Trains run like clockwork, scenery is next-level, and you don’t need seat reservations on most routes. Add in a few splurge-worthy rides in Italy (like Milan to Trento or Verona), and you’ll easily get your money’s worth.

6. Island & Highland Escape: England and Scotland

Route: London → Lake District → Edinburgh → St. Andrews → Aviemore → Inverness → Isle of Skye → Glasgow

Why this itinerary? This route blends the best of the UK’s cities, coastlines, and countryside. You’ll sip tea in London, hike Highland trails, explore medieval university towns, and end on the rugged, windswept Isle of Skye. Ideal for nature lovers, cozy pub seekers, and travelers who want moody magic without the rush.

Days 1–2: London, England

Start your adventure in the bustling capital, packed with history, culture, and iconic sights.

Top things to do:

• See Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace
• Ride the London Eye or explore Borough Market
• Tour the British Museum or Tate Modern
• Enjoy a West End show or drinks in Soho

Train to next stop: ~3 hours to Oxenholme, then ~30 min to Windermere (Lake District)

Days 3–4: Lake District, England

England’s most romantic landscape offers scenic hikes, charming villages, and poetic inspiration.

Top things to do:

• Hike around Lake Windermere or Grasmere
• Visit Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top farm
• Enjoy sticky toffee pudding in a local pub
• Take a boat cruise or rent bikes for a lakeside ride

Train to next stop: ~2.5 hours to Edinburgh (via Oxenholme → Edinburgh Waverley)

Days 5–6: Edinburgh, Scotland

Scotland’s capital is a gothic beauty filled with stories, castles, and cobbled streets.

Top things to do:

• Tour Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile
• Hike up Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill for views
• Visit the National Museum of Scotland
• Experience ghost tours or Scotch tastings by night

Train to next stop: ~1.5 hours to Leuchars, then ~15 min bus to St. Andrews

Days 7–8: St. Andrews, Scotland

A coastal gem and university town known for golf, history, and sea breezes.

Top things to do:

• Explore the ruins of St. Andrews Castle and Cathedral
• Walk along West Sands Beach (Chariots of Fire style)
• Grab coffee on Market Street or visit local shops
• Check out the University of St. Andrews quad and gardens (my Alma Mater!)

Train to next stop: ~3.5 hours to Aviemore (bus to Leuchars → train to Perth → Aviemore)

Days 9–10: Aviemore, Scotland

Gateway to Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore is made for hikers and nature lovers.

Top things to do:

• Hike in Cairngorms National Park
• Ride the funicular to the top of Cairn Gorm Mountain
• Visit Loch Morlich for kayaking or picnicking
• Try local whisky at a nearby distillery

Train to next stop: ~45 min to Inverness

Day 11: Inverness, Scotland

Scotland’s northern capital makes a good base before heading to the islands.

Top things to do:

• Walk along the River Ness to Inverness Castle
• Visit Leakey’s Bookshop and the Victorian Market
• Take a Loch Ness cruise to Urquhart Castle

Train + bus to next stop: Train to Kyle of Lochalsh, then bus to Portree, Isle of Skye

Days 12–13: Isle of Skye, Scotland

Finish your trip surrounded by dramatic cliffs, fairy pools, and coastal hikes.

Top things to do:

• Enjoy seafood in Portree and spot Highland cows
• Hike the Old Man of Storr and Quiraing
• Visit Dunvegan Castle and Coral Beach
• See the Fairy Pools or Fairy Glen

Bus + train to next stop: Bus back to Kyle of Lochalsh or Armadale ferry (seasonal), then onward to Glasgow via train through Mallaig or Inverness.

Day 14: Glasgow, Scotland

Wrap up your journey in Scotland’s largest city—brimming with creativity, music, and character.

Top things to do:

• Tour the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Riverside Museum
• Stroll through the West End and Glasgow Botanic Gardens
• Grab a drink in Merchant City or catch live music
• Fly out of Glasgow International Airport

Recommended Pass

Eurail Global Pass – 7 days in 1 month

Train travel in the UK is pricey without a pass, especially if you’re booking last-minute. With this itinerary, you’ll cover long distances—London to Edinburgh, the Highlands to the Isle of Skye—and the pass covers it all.

Use your travel days strategically and you’ll come out ahead.

What to Pack for 2 Weeks in Europe by Train

One of the biggest perks of traveling Europe by train? No liquid restrictions and no baggage fees. But with limited luggage space (and lots of train station stairs), packing light is still key.

I’ve done multi-country Eurail trips with just a carry-on backpack, and trust me—having less to lug around makes the journey way more enjoyable.

Essentials for a 2-Week Train Trip:

• Backpack or small rolling suitcase: Opt for something lightweight and easy to carry up train steps or across cobblestones.
• Daypack or tote: For sightseeing, snacks, and train travel essentials.
• Train comfort kit: Eye mask, travel pillow, noise-canceling headphones, and a refillable water bottle.
• Layers, always layers: Europe’s weather can change fast—especially across countries. A packable rain jacket is a lifesaver.
• Shoes you can walk miles in: Think stylish sneakers or broken-in boots.
• Travel adapter + power bank: Many trains have outlets, but not all. Keep your phone charged for tickets and maps.

Quick Tip: Use packing cubes to stay organized and keep clean and dirty clothes separate as you move from city to city.

FAQs About Eurail & Train Travel in Europe

If you’re new to European train travel, you probably have a lot of questions—I know I did before my first trip! Here are the most common ones I get asked, with honest answers based on personal experience and my work as a travel advisor.

Conclusion: Why Train Travel Is the Best Way to See Europe

Whether you’re dreaming of sipping coffee at a Parisian café, hiking through the Swiss Alps, or riding a funicular in Lisbon, there’s something uniquely magical about seeing Europe by train. It’s not just the views (though wow, the views)—it’s the ease, the rhythm, the joy of watching the continent unfold outside your window.

After years of solo adventures, I can honestly say that a Eurail itinerary is one of the most rewarding ways to explore Europe. It’s flexible, romantic, efficient, and perfect for both first-time travelers and seasoned backpackers alike.

No matter which of the sample 2-week routes you choose—or whether you dream up your own—I hope this post has given you the tools, confidence, and inspiration to make it happen.

Still feeling overwhelmed? That’s what I’m here for.

Need help planning your perfect Eurail trip? I offer personalized travel planning services tailored to your travel style, goals, and budget. Let’s make your dream itinerary a reality.

And if you’re not quite ready to book, no worries—download my free Solo Female Travel Guide for more empowering tips, destination recs, and stories from the road.