The Best Eurostar Routes For A Weekend Away

Even though there is plenty on offer in London, is also worth remembering that thanks to the Eurostar, mainland Europe is virtually on your doorstep. The cross-channel train gets you to Paris in under three hours and connections from the French capital and other cities on the route make a huge variety of destinations across Europe easily accessible. Perfect when you want a break from your London student accommodation.

How far does Eurostar go?

The Eurostar goes as far as the South-East of France on a direct train from London. However stops such as Paris, Lille and Brussels offer connecting trains which can take you further afield.

Where does Eurostar leave from in UK?

Do you need a passport to go on the Eurostar?

Here is the pick of the Eurostar destinations from London you can visit.

Eurostar London to Paris

We’ll start with the most obvious. The charm of Paris is well-known with the city commonly thought of as the most romantic city in the world. As well as world-famous galleries such as the Pompidou and the Louvre, there is a myriad of wonderful restaurants to enjoy as well as the legendary café culture.

Journey length: 2h 22m

Bruges

While the Eurostar will only get you as far as Brussels in Belgium, it is worth taking the additional domestic train to the ancient town of Bruges to see medieval architecture at it’s most enchanting. Bruges is wonderfully preserved and reflects the rich history of this area of Europe.

Journey length: 3h 10m

Geneva

It makes sense to factor in a visit to the home of the European Union while you are on the continent. But there is much more to Geneva than an administration centre. Small in size (a population of 200,000), it is an easily navigable city and one of the greenest in Europe. Geneva’s cultural offer includes some great museums and galleries as well as regular music festivals and similar events.

Journey length: 6h 49m

London to Amsterdam

The picturesque city of Amsterdam is a must-see for anyone thinking of exploring Europe. Enjoy cruising on the beautiful canals, take a walk around the Van Gogh museum or just enjoy some retail therapy in The Nine Streets. The Dutch capital has something for everyone.

Journey length: 4h 38m

Munich

This is another destination which requires a connecting train (change at Brussels), but well-worth the journey. From the beer halls to baroque palaces, Munich has lots to offer all kinds of travellers. The Bavarian capital is also famous for it’s beer, with the Paulaner, Lowenbrau and Hofbrau breweries all based in the city.

Journey length: 2h 1m

Lille

It takes as little as 1h 22m to get the direct train from London to Lille which makes this an easily achievable destination for even a day trip. Lonely Planet describes the Northern French metropolis as ‘France’s most underrated major city’. The city is blessed with fantastic sights such as the Citadelle and the Palais de Beaux Arts and displays the rugged charm which is characteristic of this region of France.

Journey length: 1h 22m

For more information about train times and fares visit the Eurostar website or take a trip to London St Pancras.