Many of us are striving to be more eco-conscious travellers these days, including reducing our carbon emissions, and one of the ways of doing this is by using rail travel where possible. We’ve picked out some of our favourite European journeys made possible by train travel, but if you’re looking for other ways to travel more responsibly, please get in touch with your Travel Counsellor.
0.292 tonnes CO2e saved
Take the Eurostar to Paris, change stations and hop aboard a direct train to the Mediterranean to enjoy the wonders of this seaside city with its Paris-by-the-sea meets North Africa feel about it. Marseille is a place of architectural icons including mucem (the Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean), Le Corbusier’s Cité Radieuse and Zaha Hadid’s CMA CGM, but also of wild nature in the form of sparkling calanques – fjord-like inlets on the nearby coast. Best of all is a stroll around the Vieux-Port with its fishmongers’ stalls arrayed along the boat-lined quay and its brasseries vying to each serve the best bouillabaisse in town.
0.096 tonnes CO2e saved
The French capital is just a quick hop across the Channel, with departures from central London to the heart of Paris meaning there’s no standing or sitting around at airports to be endured. This is one of those cities that always bears a revisit, no matter how many times you’ve been in the past. From the top of the Eiffel Tower to the depths of the spooky Catacombes, from world-class museums and galleries to simply wandering the streets and alleyways of the many charming neighbourhoods with their local markets, Paris never fails to beguile.
0.2 tonnes CO2e saved
Changing trains in Paris and then again in Germany brings you to the living fairytale that is the Black Forest – and specifically to the lively university city of Freiburg im Breisgau with its delightful medieval old town and its bubbling brooks. Sights here include the stirring Gothic cathedral of Freiburg Minster, while a funicular takes you up Schlossberg hill for glorious hiking in the surrounding highlands. You’re also in the heart of the Baden wine-growing region for vineyard visits and wine touring.
0.107 tonnes CO2e saved
Now boasting direct Eurostar connections with the British capital, the Netherlands capital is always a reliable bet for a relaxed city break, with bikes to hire (the Vondelpark is a great spot to explore by pedal power), canals to amble along, and a huge choice of brilliant cultural venues including the mighty Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. But part of the fun is simply people-watching from some of Amsterdam’s cosily beckoning cafés and bakeries with their cakes, stroopwafels and other local treats.
0.058 tonnes CO2e saved
A simple change in Brussels puts this north-west Belgian city and capital of West Flanders within easy reach. Think canals and cobbled streets threaded between fascinating medieval buildings, plus everything from breweries in which to sample local beers to crafts boutiques showcasing the famous local lace and chocolatiers purveying the artisan chocolates for which this city is also well known – two favourites among locals are The Chocolate Line and Café-Tasse.
To book your European rail trip with full financial protection, get in touch today. You’ll benefit from full financial protection and a 24-hour duty office ready to assist you before, during and after your trip.
Imagine gliding across the azure waters, arriving in a new port each morning - your gateway to cultures rich with history, cities bustling with life, quaint villages, and beaches that look like they've been lifted straight from a postcard. This isn't just any travel experience; it's a 2026 European sailing with Princess Cruises, where every sailing has been crafted to show you the best of Europe.
Singapore, a city-state known for its futuristic skyline, lush green spaces, and cultural tapestry, is a treasure trove of experiences for families. Whether you're luxury travellers seeking exclusive experiences or a family looking to make beautiful memories together, Singapore offers an array of attractions that cater to every age and interest. Here’s why Singapore should be your next family holiday destination.
Three thrilling bespoke experiences are included in Hurtigruten’s glorious new Arctic Norway itinerary, which offers something quite distinct from its existing cruises. These are Day to Dusk – Flames and Flavours, an immersion in the polar night around a bonfire with Norwegian snacks at a natural landing site; Into the Night: Dinner at the Museum, an exclusive evening event combining local heritage and cuisine; and Nordic Sauna and Polar Plunge, with the quintessential Scandinavian experience followed by a leap into the icy waters of the Arctic – a fantastic way to get a blast of serotonin.
