When I posted a TikTok about my interrail route I got SO MANY questions about the route I took. So I decided to write about it. To be completely honest the route I took was a bit unconventional, as I was trying to see a friend last minute. Therefore, a interrail ticket was cheaper than flying. I started in Geneva and has several 12 hour train journeys all the way to Warsaw. But not to worry! I will add 5 different interrail routes as I have done interrail multiple times and have a lot of experience traveling within the eu by train. From the “mainstream” routes, to the budget and underrated ones.
1. Classic Interrail Route
- Countries: United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland
- This route takes you through the heart of Western Europe, starting in the UK and moving through some of Europe’s most iconic cities. It’s perfect for first-time travelers wanting to experience a mix of historic landmarks, beautiful cities, and scenic landscapes
- Highlights:
- London: Start in the UK with the city’s major landmarks, colorful street art in Shoreditch, and spend the night in Soho and Camden.
- Paris: Beyond the Eiffel Tower, check out vintage shops, explore Montmartre, and grab a croissant picnic by the Seine.
- Brussels: Try famous waffles and Belgian chocolate, visit the Atomium, and explore the quirky street art.
- Amsterdam: Enjoy the canals, visit the Van Gogh Museum, and explore the neighberhoods
- Berlin: Embrace the art scene with its graffiti, underground clubs, and iconic landmarks like the Berlin Wall.
- Zurich: A beautiful spot to wrap things up—eat Swiss chocolate, enjoy the lakeside views, and maybe even a quick day trip to the Alps.
- Time Needed: 2-3 weeks to fully soak up each city.
- Why You’ll Love It: Europe’s most iconic citiest—combining classic sights with street art, local food, and buzzing neighborhoods.
2. Mediterranean Interrail Route
Countries: Spain, France, Italy, Portugal
This sunny route through the Mediterranean is perfect for travelers who want beaches, stunning coastal cities, and warm sunsets.
Highlights:
- Barcelona: Discover Gaudí’s art, chill at Barceloneta Beach, and enjoy the nightlife in El Raval.
- Nice: French Riviera vibes with beaches, beautiful views, and a quick trip to Monaco.
- Rome: Wander through ancient ruins like the Colosseum, try delicious street food, and enjoy the charm of Trastevere.
- Florence: Explore Renaissance art, enjoy the Tuscan countryside, and wander the romantic streets.
- Lisbon: Ride a tram through Alfama, catch rooftop sunsets, and check out local street art and markets.
Time Needed: 3-4 weeks for a mix of relaxed beach days and city explorations.
Why You’ll Love It: This route combines epic beach days, Mediterranean sunsets, and vibrant nightlife—perfect for social media-worthy views.
3. Eastern European Adventure
Countries: Hungary, Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Austria
This route is all about discovering hidden gems, affordable travel, and a mix of history and nightlife in Eastern Europe.
Highlights:
- Budapest: Relax in thermal baths, explore ruin bars, and take in the views from Fisherman’s Bastion.
- Prague: Walk through Old Town, snap photos on Charles Bridge, and experience Prague’s buzzing nightlife.
- Krakow: Visit Wawel Castle, explore the Jewish Quarter, and enjoy the local food and lively pubs.
- Vienna: Check out grand palaces, iconic coffeehouses, and the art scene.
- Bratislava: Wander the charming old streets and enjoy riverside views.
Time Needed: 2-3 weeks
Why You’ll Love It: A budget-friendly route through Eastern Europe’s historic cities, offering beautiful architecture, local food, and rich history. In less-travelled spots.
4. Scandinavian Loop
Countries: Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland
This loop showcases the best of Northern Europe’s cities and natural landscapes. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a combination of urban design, cultural sites, and natural beauty.
Highlights:
- Copenhagen: Capture the colorful buildings at Nyhavn, explore eco-friendly neighborhoods, and enjoy Danish cuisine.
- Stockholm: Visit the historic district of Gamla Stan, take a boat tour through the archipelago, and explore local cafes and shops.
- Oslo: Experience stunning fjord views, walk through peaceful parks, and visit the city’s modern art and culture attractions.
- Helsinki: Embrace Finnish sauna culture, explore the design district, and enjoy the scenic coastline.
Time Needed: 2-3 weeks for a balanced itinerary of city life and nature.
Why You’ll Love It: This route blends modern cities and natural landscapes, with impressive architecture, scenic views, and relaxed atmospheres, especially appealing in the summer.
5. Orient Express Route
- Countries: UK, France, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, Turkey
Inspired by the legendary Orient Express, this route takes travelers from London to Istanbul, crossing a range of cultural landscapes and offering a journey through Europe’s diverse history.
- Highlights:
- London: Begin with the city’s iconic landmarks, explore vibrant neighborhoods, and enjoy the famous nightlife.
- Paris: Experience the romantic city, stroll along the Seine, and explore neighborhoods like Le Marais.
- Munich: Visit traditional beer gardens, explore historic castles, and enjoy Bavarian hospitality.
- Vienna: Indulge in Vienna’s coffee culture, admire grand palaces, and enjoy its rich artistic heritage.
- Budapest: Discover the famous thermal baths, explore the lively ruin bars, and enjoy views along the Danube.
- Belgrade: Known for its nightlife, Belgrade offers riverside hangouts, local art, and a vibrant cultural scene.
- Sofia: A beautiful city with impressive architecture, nearby mountain views, and laid-back cafes.
- Istanbul: End in Istanbul, where East meets West. Visit the Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, and enjoy the unique fusion of cultures.
Time Needed: 3-4 weeks
Why You’ll Love It: This route offers an incredible journey through Europe’s historic and cultural centers, ending with the vibrant city of Istanbul.
6. My own unconventional route
@yearsabroad Summer will be here soon! here is the interrail route i did last year. I’m very tempted to go again! 🌟 #interrailing #interrailingeurope #interrailroute #train #europeantrains #interrail2024 #interraileurope #interrailpass
- Countries: Switzerland, Austria, Poland, Czech Republic, Germany, The Netherlands
Inspired by visiting my friend in Poland I took the train from Geneva to Warsaw.
- Highlights:
- Geneva:
- Vienna:
- Warsaw:
- Prague:
- Berlin:
- Amsterdam:
Time Needed: 2 weeks
Why You’ll Love It: This route offers an incredible journey through Europe’s historic and cultural centers, ending with the vibrant city of Istanbul.
