London, Paris & Switzerland: A 14-Day European Rail Adventure
Embark on a 14-day journey through three iconic European destinations. Begin with the historic charm of London, then experience the romantic allure of Paris, and conclude with the breathtaking alpine landscapes of Switzerland, all connected by scenic train travel.
- 1London
- 2Paris
- 3Interlaken
- 4Lucerne
Day 1: Arrive in London
Settle into London and begin your exploration of the vibrant city center.
Highlights
- Arrive at London Heathrow Airport (LHR), well-connected to central London via Piccadilly Line, Elizabeth Line, or Heathrow Express.
- Alternatively, consider London Gatwick Airport (LGW) with Gatwick Express to London Victoria, or London Stansted Airport (STN) with Stansted Express to London Liverpool Street.
- London City Airport (LCY) is the closest to central London. If arriving by train, London St Pancras International is a major hub.
Day 2: London's Royal Heritage
Immerse yourself in London's royal history and iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey.
Highlights
- Witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, a key symbol of the British monarchy.
- Explore Westminster Abbey, a Gothic church famed for coronations and royal tombs.
- Stroll along the lively South Bank, linking major landmarks and cultural venues.
Day 3: London's Cultural Gems
Discover world-class museums and vibrant culture at the British Museum and National Gallery.
Highlights
- Delve into history at The British Museum, home to the Rosetta Stone and global antiquities.
- Admire masterpieces from Van Gogh and da Vinci at The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square.
- Visit the Tower of London, a royal fortress famed for the Crown Jewels and medieval history.
Day 4: Day Trip to Historic Windsor
Take a train to Windsor for a day exploring Windsor Castle and the charming historic town.
Highlights
- Travel by train from London to Windsor, with tickets starting from €7. The journey takes around 37 minutes.
- Explore Windsor Castle, a royal residence with State Apartments and St George's Chapel.
- Walk along The Long Walk, a grand tree-lined avenue offering regal views into Great Park. Trains depart London as early as 00:02, with the latest return from Windsor at 23:57.
Day 5: High-Speed Journey to Paris
Enjoy a high-speed train journey from London to Paris, followed by an evening stroll in the City of Lights.
Highlights
- Board a Eurostar train from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 18 minutes, with tickets starting from €179.
- Enjoy a classic Parisian Croque-Monsieur, a staple of French brasseries.
Day 6: Parisian Art and Icons
Experience iconic Parisian sights and world-renowned art, including the Louvre Museum and the Eiffel Tower.
Highlights
- Marvel at the Mona Lisa and vast collections spanning ancient civilizations at the Louvre Museum.
- Ascend the Eiffel Tower for sweeping city views and Paris's most recognizable landmark.
- Discover Impressionist masterpieces at the Musée d'Orsay, housed in a magnificent former railway station.
Day 7: Charming Parisian Neighborhoods
Explore charming neighborhoods and historical monuments like Montmartre and the Notre-Dame area.
Highlights
- Wander through the artistic streets of Montmartre, offering a distinctive Paris atmosphere and major viewpoints.
- Visit the historic Île de la Cité, the city's heart, ideal for walking between Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle.
- Explore the Arc de Triomphe, a triumphal monument honoring French armies, with a rooftop panorama.
Day 8: Grand Avenues and Seine Views
Enjoy grand avenues, shopping, and a relaxing Seine river cruise to see Paris from a different perspective.
Highlights
- Stroll along the Champs-Élysées, a grand avenue famous for ceremonial views and shops.
- Consider a relaxing Seine river cruise for picturesque views of Parisian landmarks.
- Savor Boeuf Bourguignon, a beloved traditional French comfort dish.
Day 9: Scenic Train to Interlaken
Embark on a scenic train journey from Paris to Interlaken, followed by an initial exploration of the Swiss town.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Paris Gare de l'Est to Interlaken West, with tickets starting from €241. The journey takes around 5 hours 27 minutes.
- Upon arrival, explore Höhematte, a large open meadow in central Interlaken with classic Jungfrau views.
- Consider a traditional Swiss Cheese Fondue, a classic Alpine meal popular in the Bernese Oberland.
Day 10: Interlaken's Alpine Panoramas
Discover panoramic views from Harder Kulm and immerse yourself in Interlaken's natural beauty.
Highlights
- Take the funicular or hike to Harder Kulm for unforgettable panoramic views over both lakes and peaks.
- Explore Unterseen Old Town, with its historic arcades and painted facades, showcasing local character.
- Try Rösti, a Bernese potato dish fried until crisp and golden, often served plain or topped.
Day 11: Day Trip to Lauterbrunnen Valley
Journey to Lauterbrunnen Valley to witness stunning waterfalls and charming alpine villages.
Highlights
- Take a train from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen, with tickets starting from €9. The journey takes around 27 minutes.
- Marvel at Staubbachfall, an iconic 297m waterfall, one of Lauterbrunnen's signature natural landmarks.
- Visit Trümmelbach Falls, a glacier waterfall viewed through mountain tunnels. Trains depart Interlaken as early as 00:28, with the latest return from Lauterbrunnen at 23:57.
Day 12: Lakeside Charm in Lucerne
Enjoy a scenic train journey to Lucerne, followed by exploration of its picturesque lakeside and historic center.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Interlaken West to Luzern Bhf, with tickets starting from €21. The journey takes around 1 hour 51 minutes.
- Stroll along the Rathausquai, a car-free riverside promenade ideal for walking between old town sights.
- Savor a traditional Raclette, melted cheese scraped over potatoes and pickles, a hearty mountain dish.
Day 13: Lucerne's Historic Landmarks
Discover Lucerne's iconic Chapel Bridge, the moving Lion Monument, and the fascinating Swiss Museum of Transport.
Highlights
- Walk across the iconic 14th-century Chapel Bridge with its interior paintings, Lucerne’s best-known symbol.
- Visit the poignant Lion Monument, a rock-cut lion commemorating Swiss Guards.
- Explore the Swiss Museum of Transport, Lucerne’s top family-friendly museum with trains, planes, and cars.
Day 14: Depart from Lucerne
Enjoy a final morning exploring Lucerne before your onward departure from Switzerland.
Highlights
- Depart from Luzern Bhf, a major rail hub in the city center.
- Zurich Airport (ZRH) is the most practical international gateway, with direct trains taking 1h-1h17m.
- Alternatively, EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL) is accessible via bus to Basel SBB and then train (1h 20m - 1h 40m total). Geneva Airport (GVA) offers direct trains to Lucerne in about 3 hours 10-16 minutes.
