The perfect train trip through Europe: Berlin to Milan

A Must-Visit Destination for History Buffs

Berlin is the capital of Germany and one of Europe's most extensive travel and exciting hubs. It is a city of great diversity, with a large population of immigrants and expatriates. Berlin is well known for its nightlife, eclectic music and art scenes, and a great street food destination. With its unique mix of culture, art, and cutting-edge technology, Berlin is a magnet for creative minds and entrepreneurs.

What to do in Berlin, Germany

• Berlin Wall: Take a tour of the famous Berlin Wall, which once divided the city into East and West. Many excellent tours will take you to the most significant sites, including Checkpoint Charlie and the East Side Gallery.

• Brandenburg Gate: Get a great view of the Brandenburg Gate and its surrounding area. This iconic landmark is an important symbol of German unity and a must-see for anyone visiting Berlin.

• Museum Island: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the city's best museums and galleries, such as the Pergamon Museum and the Neues Museum.

• Reichstag Building: Take a tour of the historic Reichstag Building, home to the German parliament.

• Berliner Fernsehturm: Get a bird's eye view of the city from the top of this iconic tower.

• Alexanderplatz: Explore the bustling square of Alexanderplatz, home to various shops.

• Berlin's parks: Berlin is full of parks and green spaces, like the Tiergarten, Volkspark Friedrichshain, and Treptower Park, where you can relax and enjoy nature.

• Boat Ride on the Spree River: Enjoy a boat ride on the Spree River, which runs through the city center.

• Kurfürstendamm: The famous shopping boulevard in Berlin, shop till you drop.

• Eat Berlin's famous street foods: currywurst and doner kebab.

• Berlin's Nightlife: Berlin is known for its vibrant nightlife scene. Party at some of the city's best clubs, like Berghain and Watergate, or check out some great live music venues.

• Bike around the city: Berlin is one of the most bike-friendly cities in Europe, do not miss the chance to explore the city with a half-day bike tour of your choice.

Great places near Berlin

These are recommended places to visit when you are in Berlin within a 5-hour train ride.

• Magdeburg, 1 hour 30 minutes by train
• Leipzig, 2 hours by train
• Hamburg, 3 hours by train
• Dusseldorf, 4 hours 30 minutes by train

From Berlin, you can travel by train to Prague for approx 4 hours 30 minutes.

Charming City of a Thousand Spires

Prague is the capital city of the Czech Republic and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Prague might not be the most exciting city in the world, but it is definitely one of the top beautiful cities to visit. The city is known for its majestic architecture, picturesque bridges, winding cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the Vltava River. It has a rich history, filled with baroque churches, cobbled lanes, and art nouveau buildings.

What to do in Prague, Czech Republic

• Charles Bridge: Charles Bridge is another iconic landmark of Prague. The bridge is lined with statues and offers beautiful views of the city.

• Prague Castle: Prague Castle is one of the most impressive sights in Prague and a must-visit for any traveler. Take a tour of the castle and its grounds, and explore the many churches and museums inside.

• Old Town Square: The Old Town Square is the best place to take in the sights and sounds of Prague. Here you’ll find the Astronomical Clock, as well as a variety of shops, restaurants, and street performers.

• Petrin Hill: Petrin Hill is a great place to take in some of the most breathtaking views of Prague. Take the funicular to the top of the hill and explore the area’s many gardens and monuments.

• Jewish Quarter: The Jewish Quarter is one of the most interesting parts of Prague. Here you’ll find a variety of synagogues and monuments that commemorate the city’s Jewish history.

• Vltava River: Enjoy a cruise along the Vltava River, one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks. The cruise offers stunning views of the city and its many bridges.

• Czech Beers: Sample some traditional Czech beer, such as Pilsner Urquell or Budvar.

Great places near Prague

These are recommended places to visit when you are in Prague within a 5-hour train ride.

• Plzen, 2 hours by train
• Brno, 2 hours 30 minutes by train

It takes between 7 to 9 hours by train from Prague to Budapest. From Prague, you can go to Vienna, one of the destinations on this route, and it is about 5 hours by train; however, we highly recommend taking a detour from Prague to visit Budapest before reaching Vienna.

Buda and The Pest

Budapest is the capital and the largest city of Hungary. It is situated on the banks of the Danube River and has a unique mix of architectural styles, rich culture and history. The old town of Budapest, known as the Castle District, features cobblestone streets and grand buildings, including the Matthias Church and the Fisherman's Bastion. The city is full of parks and gardens that offer a peaceful respite amidst its hustle and bustle.

There are many museums, galleries, and cultural sites to explore, as well as a lively bar and nightlife scene. Budapest is also well-known for some of the best thermal baths in Europe, which offer a unique and relaxing experience.

What to do in Budapest, Hungary

• The Parliament Building: This iconic building is the largest one in Hungary and a must-see when visiting Budapest. Take a tour and learn about the Parliament's history, architecture, and inner workings.

• Buda Castle Hill: Climb the hill and take in the breathtaking views of Budapest, or even take a cable car if you're feeling lazy.

• Danube River Cruise: Take a leisurely river cruise along the Danube and admire the stunning views of the city from the water.

• Szechenyi Thermal Baths: Relax in Europe's largest thermal bath complex. Take a dip in the mineral-rich waters and enjoy the therapeutic benefits.

• Margaret Island: Stroll around Margaret Island and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. You'll find plenty of green parks and lovely gardens to explore.

• The Great Market Hall: Explore one of the largest indoor markets in Europe, located in the heart of the city. Budapest is home to a variety of delicious traditional dishes. Sample some goulash, langos, or paprika chicken. Surprisingly, they sell delicious Italian fig cookies at this market.

• Budapest Eye: Take a ride on the Budapest Eye, a giant Ferris wheel located in the city center.

It takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes from Budapest to reach Vienna by train.

Where Music and History Meet

Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria and one of the most liveable cities in the world. It is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful Baroque buildings, quaint cobblestone streets, and is the hub of music.

Vienna is a very green city with many parks and gardens and is also known for its culinary culture and many cafes and restaurants. It is also home to many famous cultural institutions, such as the Vienna State Opera, the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Hofburg Palace, and the Spanish Riding School.

What to do in Vienna, Austria

• Belvedere Palace and Gardens: Take a tour of the Baroque palace and admire the works of Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and other Austrian masters.

• Vienna’s Imperial Palace: Visit the former home of the Habsburgs and walk through its grand galleries, courtyards, and imperial apartments.

• Vienna State Opera: Catch a performance of a classic opera or ballet at this ornate building, considered one of the premier opera houses in the world.

• Schönbrunn Palace Gardens: Take a walk through these beautiful gardens, designed in the 18th century, and explore the zoo and mazes.

• Kunsthistorisches Museum: Explore one of the world’s most impressive art collections, featuring works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and other European masters.

• Vienna’s culinary delights: Indulge in delicious schnitzel, strudel, and other Viennese specialties.

• Tour of the city’s coffeehouses: Stop in a classic coffeehouse to sample a delicious cup of coffee and enjoy some delicious pastries.

Great places near Vienna

These are recommended places to visit when you are in Vienna within a 5-hour train ride.

• Bratislava, 1 hour by train
• Graz, 2 hours 30 minutes by train
• Hallstatt, 4 hours by train

It takes around 5 hours from Vienna to Munich, another must-visit city in Germany.

A Bavarian City of Beers and Festivities

Munich is the capital of Bavaria and the third-largest city in Germany. Munich is known for centuries-old buildings, lush parks, museums, and the Oktoberfest celebration, an annual festival that draws millions of visitors each year.

With a strong beer culture, Munich is the home of one of the world’s biggest beer gardens, the famous Hofbräuhaus. Munich is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant cultural and entertainment scene, offering something for everyone.

What to do in Munich, Germany

• Nymphenburg Palace: This baroque palace was the summer residence of the Bavarian kings and is now open to the public. Explore the gardens and admire the grand architecture.

• Marienplatz: This main square of Munich is the heart of the city. From here you can visit the Old Town Hall and the New Town Hall, and take in the views of the city. There are plenty of nice foods that can be found in this square.

• BMW Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of BMW and is a must-see for car enthusiasts.

• English Garden: This park is one of the largest public parks in the world and is a great place to explore nature.

• The Olympic Tower: This tower was built for the 1972 Olympic Games and offers breathtaking views of the city.

• Promenadeplatz: This picturesque square is a great place to people-watch and admire the architecture.

• Hofbräuhaus: This famous beer hall is a must-visit for beer lovers. Enjoy a pint of beer and soak up the atmosphere.

• Go to a beer garden: Relax in one of Munich’s many beer gardens and sample some of the city’s famous beer.

• Allianz Arena: are you a Bayern Munich football fan? Remember to check out the stadium Allianz Arena and its tour.

Great places near Munich

These are recommended places to visit when you are in Munich within a 5-hour train ride.

• Salzburg, 1 hour 40 minutes by train
• Innsbruck, 1 hour 50 minutes by train
• Stuttgart, 2 hours 10 minutes by train

You can reach Zurich from Munich within a 4-hour train ride.

The city of banks and beautiful landscapes

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and a global center for banking and finance. It is an extremely beautiful and lively city on Lake Zurich's shore and surrounded by the snow-capped Alps.

Being one of the happiest cities in the world, Zurich is famous for its quality of life, with plenty of parks and green spaces, and efficient public transport system. It is a clean, safe, and friendly city and an ideal destination for visitors of all ages. We highly recommend anyone to visit Zurich even though it is one of the most expensive cities in the world.

What to do in Zurich, Switzerland

• Swiss National Museum: Located in central Zurich, the Swiss National Museum traces the history of the country from its prehistory to the present day. The museum features a range of activities, including interactive displays, multimedia exhibits, and guided tours.

• Old Town: Old Town (Altstadt) is the heart of Zurich, with its cobblestone streets lined with shops, restaurants, and historical sites. Explore the narrow alleys, admire the architecture, and enjoy the views of Lake Zurich.

• Uetliberg Mountain: Uetliberg is the highest peak in the Zurich region and offers stunning views of the city and the Alps. The easiest way to reach the summit is by taking the Uetliberg Railway from Zurich Central Station.

• Lake Cruise: Take a lake cruise on Lake Zurich and admire the city's skyline, the nearby mountain peaks, and the quaint villages along the lake's shores.

• Grossmünster: The Grossmünster is one of Zurich's most iconic churches, located on the banks of the Limmat River. Climb the church's tower for panoramic views of the city and the lake.

• Chinese Garden: The Chinese Garden is an oasis in the heart of the city, with winding paths, bridges, and ponds filled with koi carp. It's a tranquil spot for a stroll or a picnic.

• Relax in a Park: Take a break and relax in one of Zurich's many parks, including the Belvoirpark, the Zurichhorn, and the Mythenquai.

Great places near Zurich

These are recommended places to visit when you are in Zurich within a 5-hour train ride.

• Lucerne, 1 hour by train
• Basel, 1 hour 10 minutes by train
• The Bernina Express: It is a scenic train journey that travels from Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy, through the Swiss Alps. The journey takes passengers through a variety of stunning mountain landscapes, over the Bernina Pass, and past glaciers, lakes and waterfalls. Along the way, the train stops at several stations, allowing passengers to disembark and explore the local area. The Bernina Express is one of the most famous and popular railway routes in Europe and has been featured in several Hollywood films. It takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to travel by train from Zurich to Chur.

There are very frequent trains within 3 hours and 30 minutes from Zurich to Milan.

Have a pizza, and drink a Negroni while wearing a piece of Versace

Milan is the largest city and the capital of Lombardy in northern Italy. It is well known as the global capital of fashion and design, home to some of the world's most iconic fashion houses, luxury brands, and the renowned Milan Fashion Week.

Milan has a strong economy, focusing on finance, banking, manufacturing, and services. Milan is a major tourist destination with numerous historic sites, monuments, and cultural attractions. Are you a fashion and food lover, don't miss Milan.

What to do in Milan, Italy

• Duomo di Milano: The iconic Duomo di Milano is Italy's largest and most recognizable cathedral. Explore its stunning architecture and take in the breathtaking views of the city from its rooftop.

• Pinacoteca di Brera: This art gallery houses the world's most extensive collection of Italian paintings, including works by Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio.

• Pinacoteca Ambrosiana: This museum houses one of the world's finest collections of Renaissance art, including works by Leonardo da Vinci.

• Castello Sforzesco: The 14th-century castle houses many art and artifacts, including Michelangelo's Rondanini Pietà.

• Quadrilatero della Moda: Milan's fashion district is home to some of the world's most famous designer boutiques. From Prada to Versace, you'll find it all here.

• Giardini Pubblici: This large park is the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy the lush green spaces and beautiful sculptures.

• Parco Sempione: Enjoy a peaceful afternoon walk in this beautiful park.

• La Scala: Located in the heart of the city, La Scala is one of the world's most iconic opera houses. Experience a performance here and you'll never forget it.

• Navigli: Enjoy a boat ride along the city's canals and admire the unique architecture.

• Brera: Wander the cobbled streets of this lively neighborhood and visit its many bars, restaurants, and boutique stores.

• Enjoy aperitivo: This Italian tradition involves meeting up for a pre-dinner drink, accompanied by an array of snacks. It's the perfect way to relax and watch the world go by.

• Sample some gelato: No trip to Milan would be complete without trying the city's iconic gelato. Pick your favorite flavor and enjoy it while strolling through the streets.

• Enjoy a meal at a traditional trattoria: Taste authentic Italian cuisine and experience a true Milanese meal.

Great places near Milan

These are recommended places to visit when you are in Milan within a 5-hour train ride.

• Lake Como, 50 minutes by train
• Turin, 1 hour 10 minutes by train
• Bologna, 1 hour 15 minutes by train
• Parma, 1 hour 40 minutes by train
• Florence, 1 hour 40 minutes by train
• Venice, 3 hours by train
• Rome, 3 hours 10 minutes by train