4 European Cities to Discover by Train

Stockholm

Stockholm is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and stunning scenery, and getting to Copenhagen is a breeze with a direct train that takes roughly about 5 hours. It’s a smooth scenic ride, offering the perfect opportunity to explore both iconic cities. While in Stockholm, be sure to wander through Gamla Stan, the beautiful Old Town which is home to the Stockholm Cathedral, Royal Palace and so many cosy cafes and boutiques where you might find a hidden gem or two!

Don’t miss the Gamla Stan Christmas Market in the Old Town. It’s one of the oldest in Stockholm, with charming stalls selling traditional Swedish treats, handmade crafts, and mulled wine. It’s the perfect spot to experience the magic of a Scandinavian Christmas. If you want to take a bunch of cute photos, make sure to take them in Stortorget (the main square of Gamla Stan with the colourful buildings) or Mårten Trotzigs Gränd for a cool photo in Stockholm’s narrowest street!
 

Copenhagen

When taking the train to Copenhagen from Stockholm, it will most likely be in the morning, allowing you to have the late afternoon set aside just for settling in and exploring! When doing short trips or weekend getaways, cities like Copenhagen are perfect as you can pretty much walk everywhere on foot. Or if you wish to do it in the true Danish style – you can cycle! Whoever visits Copenhagen knows that you must hit up Tivoli Gardens and stroll along Nyhavn, the harbour with the colorful buildings and vibrant atmosphere.

Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market is an absolute must during the holiday season. With twinkling lights, festive decorations, and plenty of Christmas stalls, it’s a winter wonderland where you can sip on hot chocolate and enjoy Danish pastries. You’ll also find Scandinavian gifts, decorations, and seasonal treats like æbleskiver (fried dough balls filled with jam) and gløgg (mulled wine). To get a taste of the local delicacies like fresh fish and smørrebrød, visit Torvehallerne Food Market, you won’t be disappointed!
 
Once your adventure in Copenhagen has come to an end, it’s time to explore Hamburg!
 

Hamburg

Known as Germany’s vibrant port city, Hamburg is just a quick and scenic train ride from Copenhagen. With a direct connection, the journey only takes around 4 and a half hours.
Hamburg’s Historic Christmas Market is one of the oldest and largest in Germany. Located in front of the Town Hall, it offers traditional wooden stalls selling Christmas decorations, toys, and delicious local treats like marzipan and roasted chestnuts. The market also features a beautiful ice rink and a magical atmosphere perfect for holiday shopping.
 
When in Hamburg you should spend some time by the Alster lakes, either by taking a boat tour or simply enjoying the views while walking around the area. You can finish off the tour by heading to a local café, perhaps Café du Passage to relax and get a hot drink! End the day off at Reeperbahn, Hamburg’s nightlife and entertainment district, full of bars, clubs, and quirky shops!
 
End the trip off at Germany’s capital Berlin, also known for its culture and history.
 

Berlin

The direct train from Hamburg to Berlin is only just around 2 and a half hours, making it easy to explore both cities in one day if you want to. This dynamic has so much to offer, from the vibrant art scene to nightlife, to its rich history and eclectic neighbourhoods, there is never a dull moment in Berlin. Some of the best museums to go to are the Berlin Wall Memorial & Documentation Center and Berlin’s Jewish Museum. If you want to experience a traditional German fare, head to Prater Garten, Berlin’s oldest beer garden, serving up German classics like potato salads, and schnitzels paired with local craft beers!
 
Berlin’s Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market is one of the most beautiful in the city, set against the stunning backdrop of the Konzerthaus and the French and German Cathedrals. Here, you can enjoy delicious, mulled wine, shop for unique gifts, and admire local crafts. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
 
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or just someone who loves discovering new places, this week-long journey has it all. It’s about embracing the energy of each city, enjoying the little moments, and making memories along the way—because that’s what travel is all about.