We may receive a commission if you make purchases through affiliate links (at no extra cost to you). Read why our approach to travel is different.
In the days before low-cost flights and cheap package holidays, exploring Europe by train was a rite of passage. Be it the celebration of those final high school exams or heading off to find yourself on an extended gap year, Interrailing was the way to go.
In the last few decades, less and less 18 year olds have been embarking on budget adventures through Europe. Admittedly, this isn’t surprising given Europeans can jump on a flight to Bangkok or Manila and set off backpacking through Asia for the same price, but Interrail is very much still a thing. And a thing you should not overlook.
The difference now is that Interrailing is not exclusively for young travelers. That’s not to say it isn’t a great way to explore Europe for the first time, but it means that whether you’re 18 or 68, you won’t be out of place.
The fact is, this 2 week Europe by train itinerary is for everyone. If this is your first time overseas or you’ve spent decades turning left on to an airplane, an extended rail journey through Europe will give you an entirely different perspective on travel.
Skip to...
- Practicalities for a 2 Week Europe by Train Itinerary
- 2 Week Europe by Train Itinerary
- Day 1: Madrid to Barcelona
- Day 2: Barcelona to Marseille
- Day 3: Marseille to Monte Carlo
- Day 4: Monte Carlo to Genoa
- Day 5: Genoa to Rome
- Day 6: Rome to Florence
- Day 7: Florence to Venice
- Day 8: Venice to Rijeka
- Day 9: Rijeka to Graz
- Day 10: Graz to Munich
- Day 11: Munich to Cologne
- Day 12: Cologne to Amsterdam
- Day 13: Amsterdam to Brussels
- Day 14: Brussels to Paris
Practicalities for a 2 Week Europe by Train Itinerary
Train Tickets
When planning a 2 week Europe by train itinerary, it’s important to purchase the best ticket to suit your need. Every train journey included in our itinerary can be booked individually, and in most cases tickets can be purchased at the station on the day, however, booking in advance is always best to guarantee a seat. It’s often cheaper too.
With so many journeys involved in a 2 week Europe by train itinerary, you will almost always save money by purchasing a rail pass. The best option for this journey is a Eurail pass. This comes in two different forms, depending on where you live.
Travelers living in Europe, including all EU countries and the United Kingdom, can purchase an Interrail pass. Those living outside of Europe will need to purchase a Eurail pass.
Both come in two main forms: the Global pass and one-country passes. For this 2 week Europe by train itinerary, you’ll need to go for a Global pass.
These are offered with several different durations. For this itinerary, a 15-day pass works best; if you plan to break up the journey with some days off along the way, you can purchase a pass which is good for 15 days over a two month period. It’s slightly more expensive than a 15 consecutive days pass, but offers that extra bit of flexibility. If you’re thinking off extending your trip, or even reducing it, options range from four days to three months.
Seat Reservations
When traveling through Europe with a Eurail or Interrail pass, some legs of your journey will require a seat reservation. This mainly applies to high-speed trains, overnight trains and those which are particularly popular with tourists. Some of these require payment of a small supplement which is never more than €25.
Once you’ve purchased a pass, you can upload details of your trip on the pass’ website or mobile app. It will tell you which trains require a reservation and allow you to make reservations for other services on which a reservation is not mandatory.
Accommodation
We’ve included our top hotel recommendations to suit all budgets for every night of this 2 week Europe by train itinerary below. Wherever possible, these are within walking distance of the main train station.
Given the amount of travel involved in this trip, we strongly recommend making refundable or amendable reservations. There’s nothing worse than not making a prepaid hotel booking because your train got cancelled or you missed a connection!
The Charm of Train Travel
You can read charm as “charm” or “rigmarole”. Both are equally true depending on your perspective. Most of the world has a love-hate relationship with trains. I’m British; we invented railways, something we’re very proud of as a nation. We also invented the appropriate tut and eye roll for when those railways let us down.
The chances are that at some point during this 2 week Europe by train itinerary, you’ll encounter a spot of disruption or two. The key point to remember is that you’ll always get to where you want to go. It might take a little longer, it might involve a detour, but this is all part of the experience. In fact, I always think it adds to the experience. After all, a journey in which everything goes to plan is a very boring journey indeed.
There are a few essentials to bring along on this 2 week Europe by train itinerary. Aside from a passport and change of clothes, you’ll want to pack a reliable power bank, plenty of snacks, a good book or two (preferably something by Paul Theroux or Tom Chesshyre) and, most importantly, a sense of humour.
2 Week Europe by Train Itinerary
Day 1: Madrid to Barcelona
Our 2 week Europe by train itinerary starts off with an easy hop between Spain’s biggest cities. If you’re able to spend a day or two in Madrid before setting out, you won’t be disappointed.
Explore the grand Royal Palace and the Prado Museum, take a tapas-centric walking tour and end the day with a live flamenco performance. When the time comes to leave, it’s just a three-hour high speed train ride to Barcelona.
Once you’re off train number one of this 2 week Europe by train itinerary, the Sagrada Familia should be your first stop. Spend the rest of your day wandering aimlessly around La Rambla. When evening falls, take to the water with a sunset cruise on the Med.
Where to Stay in Barcelona
Meeting Point Hostel is right opposite Sants Station, offering shared dorms and private rooms with ensuites. For a little extra space, Limehome Barcelona Rector Triado is a great value aparthotel a couple of blocks away. For luxury, you won’t beat Japanese-inspired Nobu Barcelona.
Day 2: Barcelona to Marseille
Today, you have a choice. Take fast trains via Narbonne, or take the slow road with an extra change in Portbou. Either way, you’ll get plenty of amazing sea views. If you take the slower option, leave time for a fresh seafood lunch at Voramar in Portbou.
Spend the second evening on this 2 week Europe by train itinerary sipping French wine overlooking Vieux Port. If you want to get even closer to the water, set sail on a dinner cruise to the Frioul Islands aboard a grand two-masted yacht.
Where to Stay in Marseille
Marseille Saint Charles Station is right in the heart of the city. Hotel Marseille Centre Gare is just across from the entrance. Terminus Saint Charles is the best budget friendly option nearby, whilst Alex Hotel offers a luxurious alternative.
Day 3: Marseille to Monte Carlo
Spend the morning exploring Marseille. Hop aboard an open top tour bus, or amble through Le Panier, the original Greek village from which Marseille grew. Naturally, you have to visit the Notre-Dame.
Today’s leg of our 2 week Europe by train itinerary is an easy one. Following the Cote D’Azur, a quick change in Nice will see you reach the Principality of Monaco is just over three hours. Spend the evening exploring the Historic Quarter, Le Rocher, before settling in at Brasserie de Monaco for a craft brew.
Where to Stay in Monte Carlo
There’s no denying that cheap hotels and Monte Carlo don’t belong in the same sentence. In my opinion, the Aparthotel Adagio, just across the border in France, is the best budget option.
If staying in Monaco is a must, the Novotel is always a solid option. When it comes to luxury, Monte Carlo has more than its fair share of hotels. Hotel Hermitage is one of the best located for this 2 week Europe by train itinerary.
Day 4: Monte Carlo to Genoa
Kick off your day with a guided walk around Monaco’s famous F1 circuit. If motorsport isn’t your thing, this guided tour of the principality is a great alternative. Leave time to amble around Quartier Du Port, admiring the yachts most can only dream of affording, and grab a photo of the Casino de Monte-Carlo.
When your wallet tells you it’s time to cross the border back to reality, today’s journey is another fast and simple one. After an easy transfer in Ventimiglia, just over the Italian border, you’ll be in Genoa in under 3 hours.
Whenever I arrive in Italy, there’s only one thing on my mind: pizza. Head to Il Ristoro dei Grimaldi for Genoa’s best slice.
Where to Stay in Genoa
Hotel Bellevue is the closest option for Piazza Principe Station, and also one of the best value in Genoa. Ostello Bello is a great middle-of-the-road option, whilst travelers craving comfort will love the Grand Hotel Savoia.
Day 5: Genoa to Rome
Escape this city this morning with a cruise to stunning Portofino. If ever there was a place which needed no introduction, Portofino is it. The image below tells all.
This afternoon, our 2 week Europe by train itinerary pushes south to Italy’s historic capital. High-speed Frecciarossa trains take 5-6 hours to complete the journey.
Travel tip: Rome is a great place to add an extra day or two to your trip. We’ve got plenty of ideas on how to fill 3 days in Rome.
Where to Stay in Rome
Roma Termini Station is surrounded by more hotels than you could shake a stick at. For an inexpensive place to rest your head, opt for Funny Palace Hostel; it’s no palace, but fun is guaranteed. Roma Station House is a quirky, welcoming guesthouse, whilst Augusta Lucilla Palace offers all the comforts.
Day 6: Rome to Florence
You’ll be amazed at what you can do with one night in Rome. Start your day with a spot of brunch before jumping aboard a bus tour. You’ll be able to hop off at all the top sights. The Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are worthy of an extended stop, as is the Vatican.
Take a early-evening Frecciarossa from Roma Termini to Florence. One of the quickest journeys on this 2 week Europe by train itinerary, you’ll be there in under two hours, just in time for dinner and drinks.
Where to Stay in Florence
Unusually, the area surrounding Santa Maria Novella Station is populated mainly by upscale hotels. For a bargain, you’ll need to walk a couple of blocks to Hotel Nuova Italia. Right opposite the station, Hotel Lombardia is one of the best value options, whilst for a luxurious place to lay your head, you need look no further than 7Florence.
Day 7: Florence to Venice
For the best ways to spend your morning, don’t miss our detailed guide to Florence. And whatever you do, don’t miss the Uffizi and Duomo Cathedral.
When you’re able to draw yourself away, it’s a two-hour ride to Venice. Dubbed the Waterway Wonder, built atop the Venetian Lagoon and connected by canals, Venice is a city like no other. To get acquainted, take a private gondola journey down the Grand Canal.
Where to Stay in Venice
Budget hotels in Venice are few and far between, and to reach one from the station, you’ll need to walk across Ponte degli Scalzi to Albergo Marin. A little closer to Santa Lucia Station, A La Locanda di Orsaria offers a perfect blend of comfort and value. Hotel Principe is ideal for romantic escapes in La Serenissima.
Day 8: Venice to Rijeka
Dedicate this morning to getting those must-snap Venice photos. Take in the Rialto Bridge, Piazza San Marco with it’s imposing basilica and the Bridge of Sighs.
When the time comes to leave, our 2 week Europe by train itinerary says arrivederci to Italy and crosses into Croatia. This journey is one of the longer legs, with changes required in Trieste and Pivka.
Where to Stay in Rijeka
Rijeka Station is the furthest from the city so far on this 2 week Europe by train itinerary. It’s walkable, though you may want to take a bus or taxi if you have larger suitcases. Teatro Suites & Rooms offers fantastic value, whilst Botel Marina is something a little different, with shared dorms and private rooms available. Grand Hotel Bonavia is the best choice for those in search of a full service hotel.
Day 9: Rijeka to Graz
One of the Adriatic’s most important seaports since its founding in 1281, Rijeka is the real Croatia. It’s beauty is rugged. Take a history-themed walking tour before diving underground to explore Rijeka’s WW2 tunnels.
This afternoon’s journey takes us across three countries. From Croatia, cross into Slovenia to change trains in Ljubljana and Maribor before crossing the Austrian border to Spielfeld and onwards to Graz.
Where to Stay in Graz
a&o Graz Hauptbahnhof is a comfortable and clean chain hostel a couple of minutes’ walk from the station, with private rooms available too. Hotel Daniel, right opposite the Hauptbahnhof offers exceptional value, and Austria Trend Hotel Europa is the place to stay for unparalleled service.
Day 10: Graz to Munich
Graz maybe Austria’s second city, but it’s so overshadowed by Vienna, you might not have heard of it. Laid back and easy-on-the-eye, it deserves to be better known. Start off with a walking tour of the old town and Jewish Quarter. Next, take the funicular to the top of Schlossberg for a picnic accompanied by unparalleled views.
Grab a Weiner Schnitzel and Sacher Torte from Franziskanerkeller before returning to the station. After a change in Woergl, you’ll reach Bavaria’s capital by evening.
Where to Stay in Munich
Munich Hauptbahnhof is surrounded by hotels. Newly opened Stay KooooK is our top pick, offering hotel comfort at hostel prices. Nearby Ruby Rosi comes with a stunning rooftop terrace, whilst Eden Hotel Wolff will satisfy even the most discerning traveler.
Day 11: Munich to Cologne
Have a leisurely breakfast before setting out to explore the city which gave us Oktoberfest. If it’s a little too early to head for a beerhall, get behind Munich’s dark side with a Third Reich history tour. Football fanatics won’t want to leave without checking out the FC Bayern Museum and getting a glimpse of the stadium.
This afternoon, as our 2 week Europe by train itinerary pushes northwards, hop aboard a comfortable ICE to Cologne. It’s a 4-5 hour journey, but the train runs direct. Riverside Lowenbrau is my go-to for dinner every time.
Where to Stay in Cologne
Doing exactly what it says on the tin, Station Hostel for Backpackers is the best budget option here. For something a little more comfortable, we don’t usually recommend the big-name chain hotels, but having spent many nights at the Hilton Cologne, I can’t recommend it enough. Plus, it’s right across from the Hauptbahnhof. A short walk away, Hotel Domspitzen is a great higher-end option.
Day 12: Cologne to Amsterdam
Aside from being home to some of the world’s best Christmas Markets, Cologne’s biggest draw is its cathedral. Spend what’s left of the morning cruising along the mighty Rhine before sampling a Kolsch or two.
This afternoon’s journey isn’t long, but it does require a couple of changes. Head first to Aachen and then Heerlen before drawing into the city almost as famous for its canals as Venice. This evening, create your very own DIY food tour as you get through our bucket list of Amsterdam’s best street food.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam
Amsterdam Centraal is one of the best located stations on our 2 week Europe by train itinerary. The Flying Pig Downtown Youth Hostel is the best budget option nearby; Hotel The Exchange on Damrak is one of the best located in Amsterdam. For a luxurious alternative, either Park Plaza Victoria or Barbizon Palace won’t let you down.
Day 13: Amsterdam to Brussels
We’ve got no end of top tips for how to spend a day in Amsterdam. The city has so many great museums, you’ll need to choose carefully. The iconic Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House are up there with the best. The Heineken Experience and Red Light Secrets are well worth a visit.
You’ll want to take a canal cruise before returning to the station and embarking on the penultimate leg of this 2 week Europe by train itinerary. Direct high speed trains depart every hour, taking just shy of two hours to complete the journey.
Where to Stay in Brussels
Brussels Midi Station is the main station served by long distance trains. From here, hop on a local train to Brussels Central (Midi is a district, it doesn’t mean the station in the middle of the city). Hotel Mozart is the best value hotel nearby. For a mid-range property, look no further than Hotel le Dixseptieme or, for a luxury stay, check out the Warwick Grand-Place.
Day 14: Brussels to Paris
Our one day in Brussels itinerary has everything you need to plan your stay in the capital of Europe. Don’t miss an awestruck amble around Grand Place, a photo stop at the Manneken Pis statue and your chance to rub shoulders with bureaucrats at the European Parliament. To see it all, take a walking tour with Belgian chocolate and waffle tastings thrown in.
As your 2 week Europe by train itinerary draws to a close, it’s time to embark on your final journey. From Brussels-Midi, it’s just over an hour’s hop on the Eurostar to Paris.
Where to Stay in Paris
Trains from Brussels arrive at Paris Gare du Nord. Hotel Bristol Nord offers unrivalled value. If a cutesy Parisian boutique is what you’re after, Hotel Flanelles, right opposite the station, is a true gem. But if you want to end your 2 week Europe by train itinerary in style, you’ll want to book a room at Hotel Whistler.
Share This Article
Traveling soon? Subscribe to The Insight below and get exclusive access to our personalized travel advice community via WhatsApp so you can ask all your burning travel questions.
Looking for the best comprehensive travel insurance? SafetyWing has you covered.
And for your eSIM in every country, there is only one option we recommend: Airalo.
Read more of our best insights from around the world
- Interrailing For All: Ultimate 2 Week Europe by Train Itinerary (10 Countries)
- Jam-Packed 2 Days in Singapore Itinerary: Food, Culture, Shopping
- 5 Best Brunch Restaurants on the Gold Coast, Australia for 2025
- Best Day Trips From Chiang Mai: Temples, Mountains, Handicrafts & Waterfalls
- 7 Albanian Traditional Foods You Need To Try
- 9 Thai Desserts You Have to Try in Thailand
