Europe is a captivating destination that offers a wide range of experiences, from historical landmarks to modern cities and stunning landscapes. London, being one of the world’s major travel hubs, provides an excellent starting point for exploring Europe.
Whether you’re planning a short weekend getaway or a longer European vacation, traveling from London is a convenient and scenic option.
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Why Start Your European Trip from London?
London is a prime starting point for a European trip due to its extensive connectivity and accessibility.
With multiple daily flights, extensive train services, and the iconic Eurostar, reaching Europe from London is both easy and efficient. Moreover, London’s transportation infrastructure, including airports, train stations, and bus services, ensures smooth transitions between different modes of travel.
Additionally, the city’s diverse culture, historical landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere make it a great place to begin your journey.
How to Get from London to Europe
While trains offer a truly unique travel experience, Europe boasts a variety of ways to get around. Here’s a quick overview:
1. Train Travel
Traveling by train is one of the most popular and scenic ways to reach Europe from London. Key train services include:
- Eurostar:The Eurostar connects London with major cities like Paris (2.5 hours), Brussels (2 hours), and Amsterdam (4 hours) and beyond. Departing from St Pancras International, it offers a fast and comfortable journey through the Channel Tunnel.
- SNCF TGV:France’s high-speed TGV trains can take you from Paris to various destinations across France and into neighboring countries.
- ICE (InterCity Express): Germany’s high-speed trains that can be boarded in Brussels for connections deeper into Germany and neighboring countries.
2. Flights
Flying is a quicker option, with London’s airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and London City Airport) offering numerous flights to European destinations. Budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet provide affordable options, while full-service carriers offer more comfort and flexibility.
3. Car Trips
Driving from London to Europe involves crossing the Channel by ferry or the Eurotunnel Shuttle. This option provides the freedom to explore less accessible regions and travel at your own pace. It’s ideal for those planning to visit multiple destinations or rural areas.
4. Guided Tours
For a hassle-free experience, guided tours are an excellent choice. Companies offer various packages that start in London and cover multiple European destinations. These tours often include transportation, accommodation, and guided sightseeing.
Tours4fun Recommendations
⭐5-Day Europe Tour from London (From USD $962.55 $914.42 /person)
Route: London – Belgium – Germany – Switzerland – France
Highlights:
• Breakfasts, Vegetarian lunches and Indian dinners included
• Entrance and sightseeing included
• Tips and service charge included
• Excursion to Mt. Titlis
⭐9-Day Europe Tour from London (From USD $2,147.63 $2040.24 /person)
Route: London – Belgium – Germany – Switzerland – Italy – France
Highlights:
- This tour offers delicious Indian food, and vegetarian options
- Travel to the enchanting Black Forest and learn how cuckoo clocks are made
- See Rhine Falls, the largest and most powerful waterfall in Europe
- Experience amazing views on a scenic cable car to the top of Mount Titlis
- Relax on a scenic cruise through Paris along the River Seine
Top Train Trips from London to Europe
Europe is home to countless amazing cities, and many of them are easily accessible from London. Here are some of the top train routes that are perfect as weekend getaways:
London 🚅 Paris, France
Just a short train ride away, Paris is perfect for both short and extended stays. It’s an ideal destination for experiencing iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and charming neighborhoods.
Distance: Approx. 214 miles (344 km)
Journey Time: Around 2 hours 20 minutes
Highlight: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral
London 🚅 Brussels, Belgium
Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is famous for its medieval architecture and vibrant food scene. Visitors can enjoy rich chocolates, delicious waffles, and famous Belgian beers while exploring historic squares and modern attractions.
Distance: Approx. 198 miles (319 km)
Journey Time: Around 2 hours
Highlight: Grand Place, Atomium, Manneken Pis
London 🚅 Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam‘s picturesque canals, historic homes, and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination. The city’s renowned museums and relaxed atmosphere provide a perfect mix of education and entertainment.
Distance: Approx. 331 miles (533 km)
Journey Time: Around 4 hours
Highlight: Canals, Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum
London 🚅 Cologne, Germany
Cologne, a cultural hub in Germany, is known for its stunning Gothic cathedral and vibrant arts scene. The city’s riverside location and historic architecture provide a scenic backdrop for exploring museums and enjoying local cuisine.
Distance: Approx. 308 miles (496 km)
Journey Time: Around 4 hours 30 minutes
Highlight: Cologne Cathedral, Museum Ludwig, Rhine River
London 🚅 Lyon, France
Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a rich history and a reputation as the culinary capital of France. Visitors can explore its Roman ruins, Renaissance architecture, and enjoy a gastronomic experience in traditional bouchons.
Distance: Approx. 456 miles (734 km)
Journey Time: Around 5 hours
Highlight: Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, Parc de la Tête d’Or, Old Lyon
These are just a few examples, and the possibilities are nearly endless. From the fairy-tale castles of Germany to the gondola rides in Venice, countless European gems are within easy reach from London by train.
Routes & Itineraries for a Europe Trip from London
When planning your Europe trip from London, consider the following routes for a memorable journey:
Classic London-Paris-Rome Trip
Day 1-3: London to Paris
- Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord.
- Spend 3 days exploring Paris.
Day 4-6: Paris to Rome
- Travel from Paris to Rome via high-speed train or flight.
- Spend 3 days in Rome visiting iconic sites like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain.
Day 7: Rome to London
- Return to London by flight or consider extending your trip by visiting other Italian cities.
7-Day Europe Tour Package from London
Day 1-2: London to Brussels
- Eurostar from London to Brussels.
- Explore Brussels for a day and a half.
Day 3-4: Brussels to Amsterdam
- Eurostar from Brussels to Amsterdam.
- Spend two days enjoying Amsterdam’s cultural and historical sites.
Day 5-6: Amsterdam to Cologne
- ICE train from Amsterdam to Cologne.
- Two days in Cologne, visiting the cathedral and museums.
Day 7: Cologne to London
- Travel back to London via Brussels or by a direct flight.
10-Day Europe Tour: London, Paris, Zurich, and Milan
Day 1-2: London to Paris
- Eurostar from London to Paris.
- Two days in Paris exploring major attractions.
Day 3-4: Paris to Zurich
- TGV Lyria from Paris to Zurich.
- Enjoy Zurich’s lakeside views and Old Town charm.
Day 5-6: Zurich to Milan
- Travel from Zurich to Milan by train.
- Two days in Milan, visiting the Duomo and shopping districts.
Day 7-10: Milan to London
- Spend two more days in Milan or visit nearby Lake Como.
- Return to London by flight or train.
14-Day Grand European Tour from London
Day 1-2: London to Amsterdam
- Eurostar from London to Amsterdam.
- Two days exploring Amsterdam.
Day 3-4: Amsterdam to Berlin
- Train from Amsterdam to Berlin.
- Discover Berlin’s history and nightlife.
Day 5-6: Berlin to Prague
- Train from Berlin to Prague.
- Enjoy Prague’s medieval architecture and vibrant culture.
Day 7-8: Prague to Vienna
- Train from Prague to Vienna.
- Explore Vienna’s imperial palaces and classical music scene.
Day 9-14: Vienna to London
- Spend a couple of extra days in Vienna or take side trips to nearby cities like Bratislava.
- Return to London by flight or train.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How far is Europe from London?
The distance from London to continental Europe varies by destination. For example, London to Paris by train is approximately 344 kilometers (214 miles).
How to travel Europe from London?
The most popular ways to travel from London to Europe are by train (Eurostar), flights, and car trips through the Channel Tunnel.
Where is cheap to fly to in Europe from London?
Budget airlines frequently offer cheap flights to various European cities from London. Some of the most affordable destinations include Dublin, Barcelona, Berlin, and Milan, depending on the time of year and availability. It’s best to compare prices and book in advance for the best deals.
Where can I go from London by train?
You can reach several major cities, including Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, Lyon, and Geneva. Train travel offers a scenic and comfortable way to explore Europe.
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